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Masked robber ‘wanted money for baby milk’

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LIFE

100 72 0 32 The underwater life and times of Mermaid Kat

SPORT 0 100 100 0 0 35 100 0 Moorabbin Rams win Rugby 10s

Life page 2

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BERSERKER AUSTRALIANS SUFFER ROUGH JUSTICE > PAGE 3

DRAMA ON HIGH SEAS 100 100 40 50

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With the passengers evacuated, crew of the 140-seat ferry Peuan Foong 2 strap flotation devices to the stern to try to ensure the boat does not sink. Photo: Friendship Sea Tour

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Know this guy?

Police have issued new CCTV video that may show the man who robbed a gold shop and killed a customer > 5

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100 rescued from ferry Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@classactmedia.co.th

A Ambassador Guan Mu: A litany of complaints, many of them on familiar topics.

Chinese Ambassador sends blunt message Naraporn Tuarob reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

IN A MEETING THAT LASTed most of Wednesday afternoon, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, Guan Mu, bluntly laid out complaints that his embassy has collected from Chinese tourists and suggested some solutions.

High on his agenda at the meeting at the Graceland Resort in Patong was the behaviour of some police and immigration officers. “Some of them behave badly and are corrupt, abusing their powers,” he said, though without citing cases.

“Others do not have the skills to investigate cases and justice takes too long.”

He complained that there is a shortage of transport for all tourists. About 1.5 million Chinese tourists came into Thailand from January to April this year, he said, and the lack of transport meant many were kept waiting and were other-

wise inconvenienced.

He cited one case of tourist group kept waiting for three hours for a van and guide to collect them.

He was scathing about the quality of Thai tour guides whose Chinese language skills are not good enough to explain culture and history in depth and in a respectful way, so that tourists can appreciate Thai culture and want to return.

Part of the problem, he said, was the sheer numbers of tourists. He understood that it would be difficult to reduce the numbers of “zero-dollar tourists”, but Thailand should try to do so, he said, because this was not good for tourism in the long run.

There are other issues he believed should be addressed, such as safety, including theft, food poisoning, road accidents and in particular signage.

“In Bangkok there are Chinese signs and information, but in Phuket there are very few.

For example, tourists don’t

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

know what red flags [at the beach] mean.

“When Chinese tourists call 1155 [the Tourist Police hot line], officers cannot speak Chinese, and the recorded messages in Chinese are complicated and difficult to understand.”

Replying to some of the ambassador’s complaints, Dr Prajied Aksornthammakul, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Office, said “We have been talking with colleges in Phuket to get them to persuade young people to become guides in Chinese and Russian. We are also trying to increase signage in Chinese language.”

Pol Col Pirayut Karachedi, Deputy Police Chief of Phuket, stressed that police were not ignoring cases involving Chinese tourists and their problems with jetskis, motorcycle and car rental people, tuk tuk and taxi drivers.

He did not address the accusations of unfairness and corruption.

round 100 tourists – mostly foreigners but including 11 Thais – had to be rescued on Tuesday evening from a sinking ferry.

The ferry, the 19-year-old Peuan Foong 2, set off shortly before 4pm from Phi Phi, heading for Rassada Pier in Phuket.

Not long after, it began to take on water through a crack in the hull.

As the crack widened, the ferry captain, 54-year-old Som­mai Sanguansap, realised there was a very real chance of the ferry sinking so he headed for the nearest piece of land, tiny Koh Kiew (Green Island), where he managed to put the bow of the ferry on the rocks.

In the meantime he had put out a distress call which was heard by the Marine Police, who sent a fast patrol boat hurrying to the scene.

Closer, however, was another ferry, the Phichamon, on its way from Rassada to Phi Phi. It diverted to Koh Kiew.

Peecha Chuleam, 39, the captain of the Phichamon, told The Phuket News, “I was already carrying 60 passengers.

The weather was not too bad; wave heights were about two metres.

“I came up alongside and we took about 20 minutes transferring the passengers from the Peuan Foong 2.

“I went on to Phi Phi and dropped my 60 passengers first and then went back to Rassada Pier [with the Peuan Foong 2’s

Jatuporn Iyara: The incident was caused by nature. passengers]. We arrived around 7:20 pm.” No one was injured.

Mr Peecha said conditions were not extreme, or even particularly dangerous.

Phuriphat Theerakulpisut, Director of the Marine Office – which has overall official responsibility for the safety of passenger boats – told The Phuket News on Wednesday, “This accident was caused by nature.

“I was very impressed with the captain [of the Peuan Foong 2]. He was able to deal with an emergency skilfully, by stopping at Koh Kiew.”

Preparations were being made to recover the ferry, he said. “[The owners] want a barge to carry 80 air tanks to the site. The tanks will be strapped to the ferry to stop it sinking so that they can repair the hull.”

At a press conference on Wednesday, one of the owners of the ferry, Jatuporn Iyara, said, “The captain and crew had

already checked the weather forecast beforehand and were told the weather was okay. But the boat was hit by two very large waves that damaged the hull, allowing water to come into the engine compartment.

“The captain, who has more than 20 years’ experience, decided to head for Koh Kiew and put the boat on the rocks there.”

Ms Jatuporn said the vessel which is licensed to carry up to 150 passengers, was worth B25 million. She acquired the boat after the 2004 Asian Tsunami, and had to employ a carpenter to repair it.

She added that the boat would be repaired again, and she expected it to be back in service within a month.

Internationally qualified ship surveyor Jeroen Deknatel was not surprised by the Peuan Foong 2’s problems.

“I do not believe local tour and dive operators knowingly take their clients to sea in boats that are not seaworthy.

“I think these operators are simply not aware that their vessels are not up to the task of safely transporting their passengers and crew during all weather conditions that one might expect in these waters.

“The Andaman Sea is not exactly the North Atlantic [and] vessels operating in this area should be capable of withstanding monsoon sea conditions or stay in port when such weather can be expected.

“You can’t blame ‘freak storms’ when all that happened was a typical monsoon squall.”

2 held for attack on royal guard POLICE ON THURSDAY (May 30) caught two Thais suspected of attacking a personal bodyguard of the Crown Prince of Malaysia’s Kedah state, who was attacked in his five-star hotel room in Patong early on Wednesday morning, police have confirmed.

The two were caught at Sadao in Songkhla, attempting to cross to Kedah.

Kathu police responded early on Wednesday to reports that “a tourist” was attacked by four men in a room of the

Millennium Resort Patong Hotel.

The man, later identified as a personal bodyguard to the Crown Prince HRH Tunku Annuar Ibni Sultan Badlishah, the younger brother of the current Malaysian King or Yang di-Pertuan Agong, HRH Tunku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, was rushed to hospital with two wounds on his head and bruises on his body.

He told police that the attackers waited inside his room and assaulted him when

he entered, hitting him on the head with hard objects.

On his personal visit to Phuket, the Crown Prince of Kedah and his party reserved more than 10 rooms at the hotel. Thai police were informed of the visit.

After the incident, the group moved to another hotel, and are going home today.

Police say they suspect a personal conflict involving the bodyguard was behind the attack. Bangkok Post/ The Phuket News

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PHUKET NEWS

3

IN THE NICK OF TIME One-month deal keeps lifeguards on the beaches Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@classactmedia.co.th

T Berserker Aussies suffer rough justice TWO OUT-OF-CONTROL Australians received rough justice in the early hours of May 23, after they attacked an American in a bar on Bangla Rd and started a brawl.

The Australians, named as Peter John Maynard, 28, and Craig Bradly Lenard True, 29, were beaten up by the mob of people after they went wild and attacked people in a bar and passersby in the street.

Pol Lt Col Akanit Danpitaksart, Deputy Superintendent of Kathu Police Station said he was informed that two drunk tourists were attacking people in Bangla Road and people were trying to restrain them.

“After collecting statements we learned that True and Maynard were on the first night of their first trip to Thailand, staying in an apartment in Soi Nanai.

“T hey became ver y drunk and were behaving in a disorderly manner. They tried to get into the Hollywood Disco but were barred by security guards,” said Lt Col Akanit.

Apparently this made the duo angry. They went into the Kangaroo Bar across the road “and acted angrily” towards other foreigners. One threw an ashtray which hit American John Hentsch, 28, in the face, cutting his right

eyebrow.

They were also said to have used barstools to hit other people and slapped a Thai woman working in the bar.

They also attacked people walking along Bangla Rd. Not unnaturally, there was a reaction. A growing mob of both Thais and foreigners gave them a good beating, leaving Maynard with a broken leg and True with a severe eye injury.

They and the American were taken to Patong Hospital. Mr Hentsch was released after receiving stitches but the two Australians are still in the hospital.

Initially, the Australians are charged with assault and with being drunk and disorderly in a public place.

While the assault charge carries a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment and/or a fine, the drunk and disorderly offence leaves the offender liable only to a small fine. In the case of foreigners they may be thrown out of the country and possibly declared persona non grata.

Australian Honorary Consul Larry Cunningham said the following morning that neither had requested consular assistance. He added that he was trying to get more information from police but that this was proving difficult.

hirty-eight locations on Phuket’s beaches will be covered by lifeguards in June following the signing on Sunday (May 26) of a special one-month contract between the Provincial Administration Organisation (OrBorJor) and the Phuket Lifeguard Club (PLC).

PLC President Prathaiyut “Nut” Chuayuan told The Phuket News, “We have signed the [one-month] contract.”

The deal is a last-minute stopgap measure after it was revealed in The Phuket News on May 10 that, with the existing contract due to expire on Tuesday (May 27), little had been done by OrBorJor officials to organise a new one.

Officials admitted earlier this month that it would take until the beginning of July before the bidding process for a new one-year contract could be completed, leaving Phuket with no lifeguards in June, one of the most dangerous months of the year along the island’s beaches.

A call for tenders has now been issued by the OrBorJor,

MAS boosts Phuket flights F ROM T OMOR ROW (June 1) Malaysia Airlines will increase flights between Phuket and Kuala Lumpur to four a day.

The additional flight will leave Phuket at 06:15 and arrive in Kuala Lumpur at 08:45.

The three existing flights take off at 10:25, 14:05 and 18:05.

The airline said the additional flight will help passengers to transfer to morning flights destined for Brisbane, London, Melbourne, Bali as well as Langkawi.

Shot fired at funeral

POLICE WERE CALLED to Wat Mongkolnimitr on Monday night (May 27) after receiving a report about a fight and a gun being fired in the temple grounds during a funeral.

When the police got to the temple on Dibuk Rd, Phuket Town, people were still in shock. They spoke to a Chinese man, named by officers as Mr Dong, aged 40.

He told them, “I was attending my friend’s funeral when Mr Hao [also Chinese] whom I knew, came over to

me and asked, ‘You think you’re really cool, don’t you?

Trying to compete with me?’

I replied, ‘No, I’m not in the Buddhist amulets business.’

“After that, he punched me and kicked me, and one of his sidekicks punched me in the face, too. Luckily, my friend saved me.

“But then Hao ran to his car, took out a gun and aimed it at me. Somebody who saw this went to stop him and he handed the gun to his sidekick who fired it in the air before they both left in a

black Hyundai car.”

The police are now looking for Mr Hao and his “sidekicks” so that they can get their side of the story.

Pol Col Sermpan Sirikong, Superintendent of Phuket City Police Station, said, “We have to collect evidence first. But I believe [the dispute] had more to do with tour business than with amulets. But we need to call the people involved, along with witnesses to the incident.”

It is understood that Mr Hao is a businessman with powerful connections.

Lifeguards will be on duty throughout July. After that, the OrBorJor has promised, a new 11-month contract will be signed to cover the rest of the year. which has promised that a service provider will be chosen and signed up by June 28 for the following 11 months.

The OrBorJor is offering an 11-month contract that will pay B20 million for the salaries of 108 lifeguards and the equipment they need to rescue people from the sea.

This may seem like a large amount, but after the equipment is paid for, the lifeguards will get salaries of B11,000 to B25,000 a month, depending on experience.

It seems unlikely that any organisation apart from the PLC will make a bid, and even the PLC is unhappy about the idea of a one-year contract.

“Honestly, I am worried about this,” said Mr Prathaiyut. “It is not easy to find people to do this job and a one-year contract [in this case 11 months] does not offer job security.

“I have been telling the OrBorJor since last year that we need a three-year contract.”

Paiboon Upatising, presi-

dent of the OrBorJor, told The Phuket News, “For now, we have signed a short-term contact for lifeguard coverage for a month. I can confirm that Phuket’s beaches will have lifeguards for sure.”

But, he added, “The OrBorJor cannot hire a lifeguard provider for three years because we are obliged by law to make plans and budgets that run from year to year.”

An official explained that in some cases, longer service contracts can be signed.

For example, the contract for running the OrBorJor hospital is for five years.

But for multi-year contracts the OrBorJor must apply for parliamentary approval, and success will depend on whether MPs regard the service as essential.

Mr Paiboon added that he was reluctant to award a contract of longer than one year because he worried that inflation might have a bad impact on lifeguards tied to a fixed salary for three years.

Between May 28 last year and the end of April this year, 882 people were saved by the lifeguards – an average of 80 a month.

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PHUKET NEWS

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hirty meter taxis from the Phuket Limousine & Business Services cooperative (PBC) convened a mob at Phuket International Airport on the evening of May 22, blocking one of the two roads into the airport.

The 30 are all members of PBC, but have yet to receive permission to operate from the airport, so they decided to apply a little pressure to make their point. They also represented other members of PBC, who want a second booking centre inside the departure terminal.

A meter taxi driver from another group, the Phuket Taxi Metre Service (PTM), speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Phuket News, “I worry that when they come in it may damage my income. In my opinion these new guys guys should be behind us in the queue for

The shiny exteriors of these 'meter' taxis hide grim rivalry. passengers.

“PBC wants to add 30 more meters taxis now – I have no idea what’s going to happen to me in the future.”

Pratueng Sornkham, Phuket director of Airports of Thailand later came out to talk with the PBC mob and told them that their demands would be considered next month.

Meanwhile, the previous evening (May 21) members of the Mook Andaman Club, which represents black taxis and some of those recently

converted to green-plate taxis, also formed a protest, but instead held theirs outside Phuket Governor Maitree Intusut’s mansion in Phuket Town.

They parked on the road outside the mansion at 8:30 pm and stayed there until morning.

A deal was agreed on April 25 whereby 25 of Mook Andaman’s drivers would be allowed to operate from the airport. But on May 10, the club went to see the Governor to complain that some of their members had been beaten up

when they tried to pick up passengers from the airport.

They are still being blocked from working at the airport, hence the vigil outside the Governor’s Mansion, led

by Sontam Metmanee, the President of Mook Andaman and the group’s secretary Ithipon Metthanee.

They told media that they wanted to meet with the Governor. He did not, however, emerge during the night, though in the morning he sent out a representative to hear their complaints and deliver a message from him.

Mr Ithipon said today, “We went there because we still could not get into the airport, and we wanted to tell the Governor this. But he could not see us.”

Phuket’s airport taxi scene has always been a Byzantine affair, with existing groups always blocking any newcomers, sometimes with violence, in an attempt to defend their turf.

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A G RO U P O F K E E N stand-up paddlers (SUPs) will take part in a 10-kilometre paddle from Ao Po Pier to Koh Naka Noi tomorrow (June 1), to raise awareness for the worldwide event Paddle for the Planet.

Paddle for the Planet (paddlefortheplanet.org) is held to boost awareness about marine conservation in the run-up to World Environment Day on June 5. Paddlers from around the world will join various events on the same day.

Organised by Skyla’s Surf & SUP Club and Longtail, the Phuket event will start at 8am.

Paddlers will leave from Ao Po Pier, arrive at Naka Noi, where they will have lunch, then return to Phuket.

“It’s a fun and relaxing paddle with some spectacular

Can you stand the pace? Stand up paddlers out on the waters off Phuket. scenery to raise awareness for the Paddle for the Planet,” says organiser Tim Campbell.

“The event is bringing together paddlers from around the world, hopefully to raise money but mainly to raise

awareness of the importance of keeping our waterways clean.

This is also supporting World Environment Day.” “We are representing Thailand and anyone is welcome to come and join. You can use any

sort of paddling craft as long as you can go the distance.”

There will also be a support boat, and if anyone needs to borrow a board or wants more information they can contact Tim at info@skylaphuket.com.

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MUCH OF THE POLLUTED KLONG Bangtao has been dredged in order to improve flow and reduce bottlenecks that cause stagnation, a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall was told on May 23.

Ma-Ann Samran, President of Cherng Talay OrBorTor, said that dredging work continues to deepen and widen 1.6 kilo-

metres of the klong. This work is now about 80 per cent complete.

Phuket Provincial authorities have allocated B15 million to reinforce the banks of the klong with stone walls to prevent scouring. This is now in the process of going through the Thalang District Office, which will be responsible for ensuring it

is properly spent.

A meeting will be held in June with 47 business and home owners along the klong, at which they will be informed off the laws on dumping sewage – which will be enforced, said Vice-Governor Somkiet Sangkhaosutthirak, who chaired the May 23 meeting.

Instructor Kaye Smith.

33: special Zumba number for Kaye T H IS Y E A R PH U K ET expat Kaye Smith is having a birthday celebration with a difference.

On Monday (June 3), on her 33rd birthday, she will hold a charity event at the Yaowawit School in Phang Nga to collect items and funds for the school, and to raise awareness of the work it does to help underprivileged children in Thailand.

Kaye, a Zumba instructor in Phuket, will hold a special Zumba class for volunteers and around 50 of the school’s 112 children from 5 to 6pm in the school hall. Accommodation is also available at the school’s lodge.

Kaye said that when she was living in Khao Lak in 2011, “Yaowawit really affected me as it was such an amazing place for the children to grow up in, and considering their backgrounds they were all so amazing, kind and full of life.

“I could see that it was an fantastic project that I wanted to support.”

Founded in the wake of the 2004 tsunami, the school in Kapong Village, Phang Nga, was set up to help children who had lost parents and relatives in the tsunami. Over the years, the school expanded and now accepts children from poor families and those whose parents are unable to support them.

The school is now home to 112 children who live full time on the school grounds.

Kaye is hoping to collect unwanted items from Phuketians to take to the school, such as clothing, sports equipment (hula hoops, skateboards, table tennis and badminton racquets), electronics such as MP3 players, games consoles and DVDs, and board games and Lego sets.

People who wish to donate items or cash can contact Kaye at kaye66@gmail.com or on 086 955 6169.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

PHUKET NEWS

5

SEEN HIM? Vid may show gold shop killer-robber Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter4@classactmedia.co.th

P The American aircraft carrier USS Nimitz is one of the largest warships in the world.

Giant carrier in Phuket

THE MASSIVE AMERICAN aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, one of the world’s largest warships, dropped anchor off the Deep Sea Port on Tuesday morning (May 28).

Soon after, members of the 5,500-strong crew began streaming off the ship lugging large suitcases for an extended stay ashore – the warship doesn’t leave again until tomorrow (June 1).

While many of them will head for the beaches and

the rowdy entertainment in Patong, more than 300 crew have put their names down for one or other of 11 Community Relations, or “Comrel” activities, most of which involve painting dilapidated public buildings, particularly schools.

The Comrels include upgrading the playground facilities at the Bang Jo Learning Centre, which caters to Burmese children, and completing a river bank reinforcement at

the Home & Life orphanage in Phang Nga, a job begun by crew from the USS Boxer and USS Ford on their visits in 2011.

Bhurrit Matwongsa of the Phuket Tourist Association estimated that with purchases of supplies for the ship and crew, along with crew spending onshore, Phuket is likely to garner a windfall boost to its economy of B450 million during the Nimitz’s stay.

Masked robber ‘wanted money for baby milk’ A ROBBER WHO WORE A black skeleton mask and used a fake gun to rob staff of a 7-Eleven minimart of B1,900 at 3 am 11 days ago was arrested on Monday morning (May 27).

At a police press conference in the evening chaired by Phuket Deputy Police Chief Col Arun Keawwati, the robber said, “I robbed them because I did not have money to buy milk for my baby.”

Looking sad and guilty he added, “I didn’t want to do this. I knew that it was wrong.”

The robber was tracked down using CCTV footage.

Looking at the footage, the Kathu police investigators identified the fake gun, a knife, clothing and the mask the robber wore as being items that could all be bought in Patong.

This included the robber’s sweatshirt, a grey-and-whitestriped JJ brand top that went out of production two or three years ago and could be found only in shops in Patong, meaning that the robber had likely been staying in Patong.

Crucially, they saw him leaving the scene on a red Yamaha Fino scooter and turning into Soi Nanai.

From there, they found

Piyawut was presented to the press wearing the monster mask he put on for the B1,900 robbery. footage on other security cameras that allowed them to follow the track of the scooter all the way to a house in Baan Mon. Police visited that house and learned the robber was 32-year-old Piyawut Darakai, originally from Nakhon Sri Thammarat.

Piyawut, they also learned, had left the scooter with his friend as security against a loan.

A witness supplied additional information: that Piyawut had a drug habit, and worked as an odd-job man but had found work hard to get as business in Patong slowed down after the end of the high season.

They also found he had a Facebook page, in which was a picture of his wife and their two-year-old child.

On May 23 a warrant was issued for his arrest. On Monday he was found and arrested at his father’s home in Baan Na-kien, Nakhon Sri Thammarat Province, then brought back to Phuket.

He was charged with robbery in the hours of darkness, using a vehicle to commit a crime or to escape, having a knife in a public place and possession of ammunition (after bullets were found in his room in Patong).

He is currently locked up in Kathu Police Station as more evidence is amassed.

olice have found footage they believe may show the man who robbed the CP Goldmaster Shop at Tesco Lotus on April 8, fatally shooting a customer who tried to persuade him to stop.

Phuket Deputy Police Chief Col Arun Keawwati said on Monday evening (May 27) that the video footage was from April 7, the day before the robbery took place, and appears to show a man “casing” the shop.

“The video shows a suspect walking and looking at the gold shop at around 7pm.

His gait [with a slight limp] looks like that of the robber in footage taken at the time of the robbery in the gold shop.

“He can be seen watching the shop for about a minute while smoking a cigarette.

“Now we have more evidence, I believe. If anyone knows this man I think they will recognise him.

“I hope we will arrest the gold robber as soon as possible.”

The robber, wearing a motorcycle helmet and a surgical

The man in the CCTV footage above appears to be ‘casing’ the gold shop the day before the deadly robbery. mask, walked into the shop on April 8 and herded staff behind the counter into one corner before starting to grab gold jewellery.

When customer Apichet Chuklieng, a senior bartender at the Novotel resort in Patong, approached him and tried to

persuade him to give up his robbery, the helmeted man coolly shot him in the chest with a .22 handgun. Mr Apichet died soon after.

CP Goldmaster has offered a reward of B400,000 for information leading to the murderer-robber’s arrest.

6

PHUKET FOCUS

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FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

A GUIDE TO TOURISM CHAOS

Who’s to blame for illegal foreign guides ‘stealing’ Thai jobs?

T

he tourism boom in Phuket over the past decade has seen a dramatic increase in Russian and Chinese visitors and also growing resentment from local tour guides who say illegal foreign workers are stealing their jobs.

“It’s been about 10 years since we first faced the problem of foreigners stealing our jobs,’’ Suphachai Wattanaparintorn, vice-president of the Phuket Professional Guide Association, says angrily. “The Koreans came first, now it is the Russians and Chinese.’’

The number of foreign tourists visiting Phuket has more than quadrupled since 2005, from 2.5 million to 11 million last year, according to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) statistics.

According to the Provincial Office of Commercial Affairs, the top foreign arrivals direct into Phuket airport in the first quarter of last year were Russians (130,000) followed by Chinese (121,000), Swedes (62,000), Australians (57,000) and South Koreans (47,000).

While local tour guides and operators are crying foul over their jobs being stolen, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) which is cracking down on the illegal foreign workers says many of the financial wounds are selfinflicted, the result of foreigners’ fears of being cheated.

“It is true that the problem affects local business operators,’’ said Pol Col Yanapol Yungyuen, deputy directorgeneral of the DSI. “However, they have to ask themselves if they are partly the cause of the problem.

“If they try to overcharge tourists or cheat them to get more money, the tourists turn to other services they think are better and more trustworthy.’’

On April 25 the issue was highlighted when Pol Col Yanapol arrived from Bangkok to

Comfort food: Chinese tourists climb aboard their bus after a meal at a Chinese restaurant in Phuket Town. They also feel more comfortable with tour guides from their own countries, rather than Chinese-speaking Thai guides. lead a series of raids on foreign guides and illegal tour guide companies in Thalang district.

He gave no numbers, but said the majority of those arrested were Russian and Chinese.

The DSI was acting on complaints from Phuket businesses and locals about “foreigners working without a work permit or working in occupations reserved for Thais’’.

The majority of those arrested in the raid were working as taxi drivers or tour guides – both jobs reserved for Thais.

In the past two months raids by local police, authorised by the DSI, have netted 17 foreign nationals from Russia, Kyrgyzstan and the UK. Yaowapa Piboonpol, chief of the Phuket Provincial Employment Office, has joined the raids on foreign-owned businesses in Phuket’s Thalang, Muang and Kathu districts.

“We check the workplace address and the type of work cited in their work permits,’’

she said. “The businesses we are especially concerned about are tour van operations, tour counter services, guide services and time-share sales.’’

Ann, 27, from Surat Thani, has worked for three years for one of the leading Russian tour companies and is fully aware of the tricks employed by foreigners working illegally to avoid detection by police and immigration officers.

She has no affection for her Russian workmates who, she claims, take a superior attitude to Thais, treating them like second-class staff.

However, she is more than happy to take the B38,000 a month salary, including commissions, to sit in the office or accompany a tour as a “sitting guide’’ to give the appearance a local is looking after the tourists.

“I feel like we were hired just to stop the Russian guides from being caught by officials,’’ she said. “Although they do not

treat me well, the job is well paid. It is the only reason I still work with them.’’

Foreign tour guides lie low when they visit a popular tourist attraction. “The Russian guide will not get out of the tour bus because an officer in the area might notice them,’’ Ann said. “The Thai guide will take care of the guests instead.’

“When we take the guests out of Phuket to the islands or to less popular tourist spots, the Russian guides will openly do their job because they are out of sight of the officers. We [Thai guides] just sit and wait until the tour is finished.’’

Julia, a 26-year-old tour guide from Nizhny Novgorod in western Russia, says she gets around the work permit problem by having her work classified as translator.

She has worked for a Russian tour guide company in Phuket for two years. Before coming to Thailand she was a tour guide in her hometown.

“The tour company manager agreed to hire me as a translator,’’ Julia said. “That’s what it says on my work permit, which is totally different from what I actually do. Most of my Russian friends who work as tour guides have a work permit, but the type of work cited in their work permit does not match what they are working as.’’

Other Russian friends working illegally had simply entered on a tourist visa and overstayed, hoping they would never be caught.

“The Russian guide who does not have a work permit will work on trips to the islands

or upcountry where officials rarely visit,’’ Julia said.

Ann said the company is usually notified by SMS before immigration officers and police launch a raid.

“Of course, the manager knows about the raids because some official has told him,’’ she said.

Alexandra, 28, a tourist from St Petersburg in Russia, said she and her boyfriend felt more comfortable communicating with native Russian speakers.

“My boyfriend and I have been to Phuket twice. On our first visit, we were a little scared since we heard some negative news about crime so we decided to buy a tour package. That way we could be sure we would not get lost and it’s safer than travelling alone.’’

She said the Russian tour company they chose offered a good service at a reasonable price with a friendly Russian tour guide. “We felt more secure speaking with a guide from our country. She could understand us completely.’’

Liwei, a 32-year-old Chinese tourist from Xi’an also preferred being shown around Phuket by one of his countrymen, saying it was “more fun’’ and he could visit the places he wanted to go to rather than being shown around by a local guide.

“My friends recommended this tour company because the service is good,’’ said Liwei, who was on his first visit to Thailand.

“The tour guide, who is Chinese, knows a lot about the

places. It made the trips more enjoyable since I did not have a problem understanding what she said. I learned more about places and I really enjoyed the trips.’’

The director of the TAT’s Phuket off ice, Chanchai Duangjit, said Thais had to take responsibility for their complicity in the dubious operations.

“The problem of foreigners stealing jobs from Thais, using Thai nominees to open businesses is not a problem that can be solved by just one department,’’ he said. “It needs government coordination and local people have to act to protect themselves.

“If someone inside the country opens the door and welcomes foreigners into the country to do illegal things, no matter how hard government officers try to solve the problem, it will never fade away.’’

He said charges should be laid against Thai nominees involved in the illegal tour guide business as well as the foreigners.

“Phuket is growing and has become an ideal place for business,’’ he said. “That is why foreign business operators try to find loopholes to conduct illegal business on the island.’’

Mr Chanchai believes that the crackdown is starting to work and many illegal foreign businesses are being driven out of Phuket. However, he warned that the illegal operators would probably return if the raids stop.

With the number of foreign tourists to Phuket projected to top 12 million by 2015, he said the island’s image does not appear to have been tarnished by the tour guide problem.

“It does not affect the image of tourism, but money that should go to local people is being taken away by illegal foreign investors, or is flowing back to countries abroad.”

Bhuritt Maswongssa, vicepresident of the Phuket Tourism Association, agreed that Thais were as much to blame as foreigners for the illegal businesses flourishing.

“The arrest of illegal foreign business owners is dealing with the symptoms, not the root cause. Officers should start with how they get into the country, who helps them start their illegal businesses and who supports them.’’

He also said that if the crackdowns weren’t fair and transparent, one group arrested and deported would simply be replaced by another.

Bangkok Post

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OPINION

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Opinion

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

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EDITORIAL

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JODY HOUTON

Remembering the now

T

he Chalermraja Cultural Centre, also known as the Baba museum, will close its doors on its latest exhibition ‘Peranakan: From Phuket to Singapore’ tomorrow.

Doors are unlikely to open to the public again for at least another year or so.

The good news is that this is because it was awarded a B20 million budget to be restored, renovated and then reopened as a Phuket town museum to be properly proud of.

It will retain the same name and maintain the same aim – to educate locals and visitors alike of the rich and diverse heritage of the Phuket Baba people.

Great news indeed, especially for the island’s Baba community, as it promises to show recognition of the contributions that their people have made to the culture and coffers of the town.

Many were rightly overjoyed with the news. But some, especially from among the artistic community, are likely to be less pleased.

Many artists on the island believe that Phuket and especially Phuket Town, as it is home to many exceptionally talented individuals, should have a proper arts museum.

Some believe that the Baba community are already well represented, what with a rather large section dedicated to them and the Chinese community in the Thai Hua museum on Krabi Road.

Meanwhile, ar tists in Phuket often struggle to get their work the exposure it so rightly deserves. They have to resort to putting on exhibitions themselves, even paying for artists to come to the island, much like next weekend’s ‘50-50 So Everything is 5050’ event due to be held at the Phuket Art Village.

A public event at a private venue seems to be the way for the art community. For art enthusiasts, they must seek events out in a variety of everchanging, sporadically placed spots around the island. A few days in a hotel here, a night at a restaurant there.

There are already many museums around the island, such as the Tin Mine and Thalang National museums.

Add to these the new Baba museum and Thai Hua museum means Phuket is already full of venues that celebrate the past successes and significance of Phuket history. But there is very little to celebrate what is being done by the current generation of Thai people on the island.

In lieu of sufficient governmental support, The Phuket News will continue to support these and many more art events in the future.

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OPINION

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

9

I know who burned CentralWorld Voranai Vanijaka voranaiv@bangkokpost.co.th

G

ive me my B10 million – I know exactly who the arsonist that torched CentralWorld back on May 19, 2010 is. This dude is notorious. He has struck before and no doubt he will strike again. Hi name is Ai Puad.

He was first identified by Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung as the man who in October 2001 executed an undercover police officer at a nightclub. The crime was wrongly blamed on his son Mr Duang, now a police captain, who back then went on the run and became a fugitive, then surrendered to the authorities and later was acquitted of all charges.

While most of Thai society falsely pointed the finger at Mr Duang, Mr Chalerm knew exactly who the culprit was.

He announced it to the entire nation and vowed to lead a manhunt, never stopping until he caught Ai Puad. But alas, Ai Puad has proven elusive.

Nine years later, he torched CentralWorld. It would not surprise me if he was the lone man in black who shot at security personnel, protesters and bystanders too. He may have

also stolen my mobile phone back in 2007.

I have his description. He’s between 170-175cm tall, has brown skin and black hair.

That may be the description of half the male population in Thailand, including me, but Ai Puad has one unique feature: His hands are invisible. Hence his second nickname: “the invisible hand”.

But here’s where things get a bit complicated. Rumour has it that there are many invisible hands in Thailand.

What’s more, there are video recordings of who might have ordered the arson attack.

I’m not saying that there’s a direct link. I’m not saying the videos prove anything. I know it’s merely circumstantial. But Nattawut Saikuar and Arisman Pongruangrong were both caught on tape urging the burning of Bangkok. It’s worth an investigation.

Furthermore, and again, this might not be a direct link, it might not prove anything and it might be merely circumstantial. But word on the street is that both Mr Nattawut and Mr Arisman work for Thaksin Shinawatra. Again, it’s worth an investigation. Now where’s my B10 million? A brother could use a new car.

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Phuket’s most wanted?

[Re. The face of the Phuket gold shop killer-robber?]

This sounds really pretty desperate.

I wonder how many other people stop outside the shop for a cigarette, during the course of a normal day?

The shopping centre is nonsmoking.

Agogohome It may match and he seems to also have a shiny watch. This sure looks suspicious.

When they smoke people stay in the entrance but not walk along.

Guest What about other CCTV footage from shops close by or in the car park?

If it was possible to follow a man who stole from 7/11 recently, from the shop to his home, by using cameras in the streets, it would be easy to follow a guy with dark clothes, helmet, and bag.

The man wouldn’t dare to go too far with the same motorbike anyway. nico phuphu

We can work it out [Re. Invasion of the job snatchers – Phuket’s illegal foreign workers] I really don’t understand something.

Being from Russia, I remember, when going around the Kremlin and seeing groups of German tourists with a Russian tour guide speaking fluent German, or a Chinese group with a Chinese guide, I never thought that this Chinese guide had stolen a job from somebody. It is ridiculous.

If there is a Russian guide who speaks Chinese well, then hire him. If there isn’t, hire a guide from China. What’s the problem?

If you can’t provide services in a tourist’s native language, you have to close your country to tourism.

No tourist should have to speak English if he is ready to pay money to get a service in his native language wherever he spends holidays.

Stranger Even in the UK or US you have quotas and restrictions on foreign workers.

I can promise you that a

Sarcasm aside, this is about as much as we know – the names of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) leaders who urged it all on and who they work for. But this is hardly proof beyond a reasonable doubt, far from it.

We also know that two red shirt protesters suspected of torching CentralWorld have been acquitted by the Criminal Court due to insufficient evidence. Then on Wednesday the Metropolitan Police Bureau released photographs of two men they suspect of carrying out the arson attack. The police said they also have photographs of six other individuals.

We also know that after the arson attack, the Democrat Party was in control of the government for 13 months, and the Pheu Thai Party has now been in control for about 21 months.

Yet we are no closer to finding out the truth, those released photographs notwithstanding.

But it would be unfair to put the entire blame on either or both governments. After all, it’s not the prime minister, ministers and MPs who were responsible for conducting an investigation. The responsibility lies with the Royal Thai Police in general and

the Department of Special Investigation in particular.

But is this naive? It assumes that the police force is an agency that operates independently and without political interference, manipulation or direct demands. On top of which, politics itself is also subjected to interference, manipulation and direct demands, whether from some invisible hand here in Thailand or some visible hand in Dubai.

The tangled web of how things work in Thailand is quite complicated – layers upon layers, twisting and intertwining.

It is also a matter of everyone knowing exactly who’s guilty, but no one being able to offer any convincing proof. There are those who insist the red shirts did it, those who are adamant that government troops in disguise did it and those who point the finger at the mysterious men in black.

But no one, no matter how vehemently certain they are of their opinion masquerading as fact, can offer any convincing evidence, if any proof at all.

The matter was complicated to begin with.

Where is the truth? There are three layers of complexity here. First, in a time of chaos and anarchy it’s difficult, al-

HAVE YOUR SAY Thai person with an official Thai Guide License in international tourism is unable to work in Europe, or will have to pass national tests about language, culture, history and geography, which is absolutely right.

Singapore allows foreigners to work as tour guides, but they enter Singapore with the tour group and then return to their home country with the tour group.

Whistle-Blower

Someone put the brakes on [Re. Brakeless truck crashes on Patong Hill] You know, the brakes can be checked to see if they work after a crash. I wonder if that’s ever done?

Brakes don’t fail as often as one might think. It’s rare in fact.

I suspect this is just the standard excuse for poor driving, speeding, and so on.

Dave Williams Ah, the old brake failure story.

Well, that means a failure of three systems: 1) Rear

brakes; 2) Front brakes (front and rear are on separated circuits); 3) The mechanical hand brake.

Let’s not forget, why didn’t he change to a lower gear and use the motor’s compression to slow down? I’m guessing none of these “failed,” the only failure was the loose nut driving.

Oh, on another news site, the driver has been charged with careless driving (hell, there’s another few thousand that could be charged) and will have to foot the bill for the power pole.

Laurie Howells

Life should always come first [Re. Phuket beach lifeguard deal signed in the nick of time] “Mr Paiboon added that he was reluctant to award a contract of longer than one year because he worried that inflation might have a bad impact on lifeguards tied to a fixed salary for three years.”

Three years guaranteed employment is definitely better than 11 months, maybe a job

though not impossible, to grasp what went on and who actually did what.

Second, that problem becomes a near impossibility after being subject to heavy political manipulation from both sides of the political divide, and the workings of government agencies and supposedly independent branches. There’s little transparency and accountability in anything that we do to begin with, so why would it be any different in the investigation of the burning of CentralWorld?

Third, the problems posed by a chaotic situation and the added complications of manipulation together must be run through the threads that make up the fabric of the tribal patronage system. Each needle is held by the hands – visible and invisible – of the priests and priestesses of the various cults of personality.

How can the truth be found, when the democratic process of seeking it is at the mercy feudal allegiances? Add all of this together and “this is Thailand”. The truth may be out there, but it’s not likely to be unearthed and made public, because culturally we would sacrifice the truth to save face.

We would bend and break the rule of law to serve our

tribe, our patronage network.

We would lie, cheat and kill to serve our cult master. We would tell the world that this is done in the name of democracy and justice.

Truth and justice cannot be found, because we value them less than our face, our tribe and our master. Democracy cannot be had, because we value tribal victory over the principles that ought to be the foundation of a nation.

Everyone will pin the blame on someone else, but when the clock strikes at midnight, everyone knows to agree that it’s best to blame Ai Puad.

The reason I harp on tribal patronage like a broken record week after week is that if we don’t change our cultural thinking, our social norms, then we have what we have today - the tangled web we weave when first we practise to be corrupt.

Hence in “big incidents” involving “big people”, as in 2001 and in 2010 as well as all those that came in between and all that came before and will follow the tangled web will swallow up the truth, while Ai Puad cries, “Why me? Why is it always me?”

Voranai Vanijaka is Political and Social Commentator for the Bangkok Post.

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after that, maybe not.

Three years’ steady employment allows people and families to plan a future to some degree, just stop with the ridiculously transparent excuses and get it done.

Since when did anyone with half a brain have to contemplate whether saving another person’s life should be regarded as an essential service or not? chalongresident

Nightmare in the Kata hills [Re. Poll: Energy Minister Pongsak blamed for Phuket blackout] For the unfortunate inhabitants of Soi Plukjae in the Nakkard Hills above Kata the nightmare continued the following evening with another 4-hour blackout.

But wait... it wasn’t over!

The next evening at about 5.30pm another blackout occurred, which lasted until 10.30am the next morning!

That’s right... 15 hours. I shall really enjoy paying my electricity bill next month.

Raymond Vaillancourt

Have an opinion? Comment on stories at thephuketnews.com

Make them all use the meter [Re. Taxis, taxis, taxis – a week of fever in Phuket] If they get what they want every time they blockade, and if officials always ask their permission to organise public transport, they will not stop.

Many people come to Phuket to drive taxis as they have heard that here it is easy to make money, with fares two to three times higher than in the rest of Thailand.

These taxi prices have been fixed by themselves but agreed by officials.

What we need in Phuket is decent and fair public transport, and taxi meters with fixed prices – just like they have in Bangkok. tourist

We need to clean up all canals [Re. Improvement of polluted Phuket canal ‘underway’] Only one canal will be fixed?

What about all the other dirty canals with black water?

Hakan Ekholm

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Italian arrested in Thailand over B300 million swindle T

hai authorities have arrested an Italian man wanted over alleged links to a human trafficking ring which swindled around US$10 million (B300 million) from European taxpayers and banks, immigration officials said on May 23.

Stefano Raccagni, 38, is wanted in Italy on suspicion of being part of a 12-strong Milan-based gang that smuggled people into the country to defraud tax authorities and banks, according to a Thai immigration statement.

“The Italian embassy accused him being a core member of an organised crime gang... and falsifying documents for illegal immigrants to get money from authorities and banks,” the statement added, without providing further details.

The man was arrested in Chiang Mai where he had settled with a Thai girlfriend

since arriving in the kingdom in 2009, police said.

“Italian authorities say he has around US$10 million in his bank account,” an immigration police officer said, requesting anonymity, adding the man was running a small loans business in the Thai city.

He will be extradited soon, the official added.

Thailand is a prime destination in Asia for people on the run from authorities in their own countries.

In December a Thai court ordered the extradition of a former banker and Italian mafia boss accused of laundering money for two Sicilian godfathers.

Vito Roberto Palazzolo, arrested in Thailand in March 2012 after investigators tracked him down through Facebook, is considered to be a leading member of the Cosa Nostra Sicilian mafia. AFP

Coach arrested after alleged sexual assault Police officers arrested a former Thai sailboat national team coach under suspicion of sexually assaulting two underage girls at a luxurious villa in Pattaya on Tuesday (May 28). Pattaya Daily News

A group of three locals are believed to have died in a pursuit of metal charms in a cave in Mukdaharn Province on Monday (May 27). They disappeared soon after they left, prompting their families to ask local monks to help find the three men. The bodies of two were found but one is still missing. PDN

Addict arrested after allegedly raping 12 year-old Suspected fraudster, Raccagni Stefano of Italy (centre), 38, is escorted by Thai police during a press conference in Bangkok. Photo: AFP/Pornchai Kittiwongsakul

Thai police have placed a bounty on missing German Carlo Konstantin Kohl. Photo: Royal Thai Police of the Immigration Bureau at the airport.

Meanwhile, the Airports of Thailand (AoT) has raised concerns over Kohl’s getaway.

“The incident is an important

IN BRIEF

Three men die pursuing charms in Mukdaharn

German fled Bangkok airport as Australian escort slept A MAN BEING TAKEN back to Germany to face charges after completing a jail sentence in Australia fled from a transit lounge at Suvarnabhumi airport through a fire exit while his Australian police escort was asleep, Thai authorities said on Monday (May 27).

Airports of Thailand (AoT) chairman Sita Divari confirmed after talks with Immigration Bureau police on Monday morning that the man – the accused leader of a gang of thieves in Germany – escaped from custody and disappeared into greater Bangkok after arriving on May 15.

Kohl remains at large, and is believed to be hiding somewhere in greater Bangkok.

“What we know now is that Kohl has left the airport,” said Suvitchpol Imjairat, chief

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

lesson for us that requires serious checks for possible security flaws,” Mr Sita said Monday.

The investigation found Kohl had disconnected the electricity supply at an emer-

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gency exit in a restricted area in the G concourse.

The fugitive was identified as Carlo Konstantin Kohl by Pol Maj Gen Suvitchpol, after a meeting at Suvarnabhumi several hours hours later.

Pol Maj Gen Suvitchpol said Kohl illegally left the airport after managing to bypass immigration.

The Australian police accompanying him had gone to sleep in a transit room at the airport after arriving on May 15. Their connecting flight to Germany had been delayed.

When they awoke, they discovered he was no longer in their custody, he said.

It remains unclear whether Mr Kohl fled on the night of May 15 or the early hours of May 16.

Kohl was being taken from Brisbane to Frankfurt via

Bangkok on Thai Airways International flights.

The flight from Brisbane arrived at Suvarnabhumi about 8pm on May 15. The connecting flight was supposed to leave for Germany at 11pm, but was delayed because of bad weather in Europe and rescheduled for 8am on May 16. Kohl’s Australian police escort went to sleep in the transit lounge.

“Mr Kohl has left the airport. He did not pass through the immigration desks,” the airport immigration police chief said.

“He faces a charge of illegally entering the country and investigators of the Immigration Bureau are trying to locate him.”

Kohl became eligible for parole in January because of the time he had already served.

Bangkok Post

Nong Prue police arrested a drug addict alleged to have raped a 12-year-old child on May 26. He claimed that the child’s mother owed him money, so he raped her child instead. PDN

Foreigner arrested after reselling rented car A foreigner claimed that he had contacts with police commanders and other high ranked police when he asked to rent a Toyota Camry car on May 24. As soon as he rented out the car, he fled and never came back with the car. PDN

Alleged Kuwaiti ladyboy thief arrested Tourist Police arrested a transsexual on May 22 for stealing money worth more than B300,000 from a Kuwaiti man in Pattaya on May 15. PDN

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

ASIA NEWS 11

South Korea’s new surgery fad S

outh Korea’s obsession with plastic surgery is moving on from standard eye and nose jobs to embrace a radical surgical procedure that requires months of often painful recovery.

A stream of celebrities boast on TV shows how it gave them a “new life,” while advertisements extolling its cosmetic benefits are everywhere from street billboards to subway stations, magazines and popular internet sites.

But there’s nothing really “cosmetic” about double-jaw surgery.

A radical solution to congenital facial deformities or for people unable to chew properly due to excessive over or underbite, the operation involves realigning the upper and lower jaws.

One result of the bone-cutting procedure is often a slimmer jawline – and that’s what caught the attention of South Korea’s booming beauty industry.

A small face with a “V-shaped” chin and jawline is considered a mark of feminine beauty in much of East Asia, along with a high-bridged nose and big eyes.

“This surgery alters your look far more dramatically than, say, Botox or a nose job because it changes your entire facial bone structure,” said Choi Jin-Young, a professor in dentistry at Seoul National University.

“But it’s a very complex, potentially dangerous surgery ... it’s disturbing to see people with no real

This picture taken on May 22 shows a South Korean woman walking past a street billboard advertising double-jaw surgery at a subway station in Seoul. Photo: AFP/Jung Yeon-Je dental flaws daring to go through it just to have a small, pretty face,” Choi told AFP. The procedure, which involves general anaesthesia and takes months to recover from, carries the risk of various complications including permanent facial numbness or even paralysis. Data from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons suggests South Korea has one of the highest per-capita rates of plastic surgery procedures in the world.

Cut throat competition among the growing number of plastic surgeons has driven some to promote more

radical procedures that others might not offer.

A number of celebrities, some reportedly paid by doctors, underwent double-jaw surgery and later appeared on TV talk shows saying it had provided a “turning point” in their career and personal lives.

There is no official data on how many double jaw surgeries are performed. One recent study estimated the annual figure at 5,000, but it did not differentiate between cosmetic and medically prescribed procedures.

Some 52 per cent of those who had taken the surgery suffered sensory

problems such as facial numbness, the study said.

Seoul’s consumer protection agency saw the number of registered complaints surge from 29 in 2010 to 89 last year, though many more cases of post-operative problems are believed to go unreported.

“My mouth keeps moving leftward and the jaw area has gone numb,” wrote one user of a medical consumer online forum, showing photos of her skewed mouth.

“I can’t even feel when saliva keeps dripping out of my mouth.”

Last August, a 23-year-old college

who underwent double-jaw surgery killed herself. She left a suicide note explaining her desperation after the surgery left her unable to chew food or stop crying due to nerve damage in a tear duct.

Shin Hyon-Ho, a medical malpractice lawyer in Seoul, said he had seen cases where the surgery had resulted in chronic jaw pain, a skewed mouth, misaligned teeth and an inability to chew or smile.

“The number of plastic surgeryrelated cases is growing ... with complications becoming more serious,” Shin said.

A doctor with the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons said the procedure took off around four years ago when a Seoul dental clinic ran a major ad campaign promoting the cosmetic benefits.

As it became popular, plastic surgeons began offering the surgery, causing the price to fall and making it more affordable to more people.

“If we are seeing more complications, that’s largely because the sheer number of people getting the surgery has increased rapidly in such a short period of time,” said the doctor, who declined to be identified.

“Yes, it was originally invented to correct a dental deformity, but you can’t blame someone for getting the surgery to look good, especially in a place like the South where beauty, especially for women, pretty much trumps it all,” the doctor said. AFP

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12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Obesity weighs down on top soda guzzler Mexico A

rtemio Martinez balanced his corpulent frame on a stool in a Mexico City street taco stand, downing a sweet soda and eating a final pork-filled corn tortilla.

“Can you give me another soft drink to quickly wash down the fifth taco? And the bill please,” Martinez, a 42-year-old accountant weighing in at 140 kilograms, asked the cook.

The damage for his wallet is relatively light: 40 pesos (B90) for five meat tortillas and 18 pesos (B42) for two sodas.

But Mexico is paying a heavy price for its diet, giving it the dubious distinction of being the world’s top consumer of sodas and home of the world’s second most obese population after its giant northern neighbour, the United States.

Latin America’s second biggest economy after Brazil has lived through lean times in the past, with a damag-

ing peso crisis in 1994 and the global financial debacle in 2009. But it has enjoyed periods of growth.

And Alejandro Calvillo, director of the Consumer Power non-governmental organisation, said the free trade pacts credited with helping Mexico’s economy grow have stuffed the country with less healthy foods.

“There has been a change in eating habits that has sharply increased in the past 20 years, with a bigger infiltration of the processed foods industry like bubbly soft drinks,” Calvillo, whose NGO lobbies for the regulation of such foods, told AFP. With trade pacts, Mexico has “surrendered to the commercial values of transnational companies that displaced the traditional Mexican diet,” he said, blaming also the “relentless” advertising for such products.

Mexico’s obesity rate soared from 9.5 per cent in 1988 to 32 per cent last year

A woman with obesity sits on the sidewalk in Mexico City on May 20. Photo: AFP in the nation of 112 million people, according to the National Medical Academy. And a staggering 70 per cent of the population is overweight – even though almost half the population lives in poverty.

Mexico guzzles down 163 litres of soda per capita per year, according to a Yale University study.

The country accounts for 22,000 of the 180,000 annual deaths worldwide associated with sugary drink consumption, a Harvard University

study found.

This makes sodas, which come in cola, grape, orange and lemon flavours, a bigger killer than the nation’s drug war, which left 10,000 people dead last year.

In late 2012, a bill was introduced in Mexico’s Congress to impose a tax on sweet fizzy drinks and regulate advertising for them, but the initiatives fizzled out.

Historically, Mexicans have consumed foods derived from corn – cultivated by their

Aztec ancestors – as well as a wealth of fruits, vegetables and herbs.

But the sidewalks of this oversized city of 20 million people are dotted with taco and sandwich stands selling tortillas or bread stuffed with an array of greasy meats – from sliced beef to chicken and even pig snout.

Compounding the problem: scarce drinking water in impoverished communities drives people to consume soft drinks, Yuritzin Flores of the Oxfam international charity group told AFP. Given the choice between bottled water or a can of soda, “people prefer the drink that gives them more energy and status,” Flores said.

Several factors contribute to making a nation obese, including genes, but bad habits adopted by modern societies are mostly to blame, said David Garner, founder of the US-based River Centre Clinic, which treats eating disorders.

“It’s due to the fact that

society is changing rapidly and what is happening is that food is always available and food that is high in fat and sugar is available,” Garner said.

“We k now that soda drinks, whether they’re diet or regular, they contribute to obesity and heart disease.

“But we don’t in any way try to influence this,” he added, noting that the soft drink lobby is “extremely powerful”.

The Mexican government recently announced it would implement a strategy to combat obesity, without providing much details.

The country’s weight problem is becoming a heavy burden on the overstretched public health system, estimated by itself to cost the country US$11.7 billion (B351 billion) by 2017.

The most common reasons for hospitalisations in Mexico are heart attacks, high blood pressure and diabetes, a disease that affects 14 per cent of the population and kills 80,000 people per year. AFP

Parents patrolling streets help to reduce Stockholm unrest

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PARENTS AND VOLUNteers have been patrolling the streets of Stockholm’s immigrant-heavy suburbs to help quell riots that have raged for almost a week, serving as a successful deterrent to troublemakers and winning praise from police.

“They have helped a lot in reducing the unrest,” Stockholm police spokeswoman Karin Solberg told Swedish news agency TT. Sweden has since the 1980s had a network of volunteers called “Nightwalkers”, usually made up of parents who walk the streets of their own suburbs in groups on weekend nights, talking to youngsters and simply making their presence known.

With their distinctive neon yellow windbreakers, their presence is aimed at deterring neighbourhood kids from getting into trouble.

They have no special authority to intervene if trouble arises, are armed only with flashlights and wear no uniform other than their colourful jackets.

In the six nights of riots that have left cars and buildings torched in Stockholm’s

immigrant-dominated suburbs, the volunteers’ mission has been to protect schools, libraries and youth centres.

“We have changed our strategy. In the beginning, we would walk around in the neighbourhood.

“Now we stay put,” explained Aleks Sakala, a 44-year-old IT consultant from Kista who was on Nightwalker duty on Friday night.

Kista is a mixed suburb, known as Stockholm’s Silicon Valley for its high-tech industry, where telecoms giant Ericsson has its headquarters. But it is also home to a large low-income immigrant population.

It also borders Husby, where the riots broke out on May 19, triggered by the fatal police shooting of a 69-yearold resident after the man wielded a machete in public.

Local activists said the shooting sparked anger among youths who claim to have suffered from police brutality and racism.

Sakala spent the night between Friday and Saturday outdoors in the courtyard of a Kista nursery school, keeping an eye out for troublemakers

under the moonlight.

The nursery school is “an ideal target”, he said.

“There are bushes around where you can hide, places where you can’t be seen from any dwelling, and wood in the structure that will burn easily,” he said.

About 100 Nightwalkers were out in Kista, easily visible in the dark with their neon jackets.

Meanwhile no police officers were to be seen, despite an announcement of police reinforcements brought in from other parts of the country. Police have from the beginning tried to avoid confrontation and clashes with the rioters.

David, a 46 -year- old Nightwalker, said residents needed to take responsibility for their neighbourhoods.

“Police are not here to guard buildings. They don’t have the means, and it’s not their role,” he said.

“I’d rather live in a society where citizens protect themselves, rather than in a society that needs police for everything.

“That is democracy and freedom,” added Sakala. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

BUSINESS NEWS 13

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

TAT appoints POWERFUL OPPOSITION new governor Minister ‘to listen to locals’ on new Krabi power station TOURISM AUTHORITY of Thailand’s board last week selected Thawatchai Arunyik, the current deputy governor for domestic marketing, as the organisation’s next governor.

He will replace Suraphon Svetasreni whose contract will end December 21.

TAT board chairperson, Pensuda Prai-aram, said the board agreed to appoint Mr Thawatchai as the TAT’s ninth governor.

“Mr Thawatchai is the most qualified person for the post… his vision and ability will help move TAT forward in a changing tourism industry,” she said.

There were just two candidates for the post. The other was Juthaporn Rerngronasa, TAT’s deputy governor for international marketing for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.

The candidates each had to present their vision to a five-member selection committee, chaired by Ministry of Tourism and Sports Permanent Secretary Suwat Sidthilaw.

Their confidence, leadership, crisis management and ability to cooperate with the private and government sectors were also considered.

F

Thawatchai Arunyik. Photo: TTR Weekly Mr Suwat said Mr Thawatchai had won nomination because he had convinced the panel of his leadership qualities and confidence. He also proposed a practical plan on cooperation with other players in the tourism industry.

However, as he is already almost 58 years old, he will not be able to complete a full fouryear term before he reaches the mandatory retirement at 60 in the second year of his contract.

Some industry critics will argue that the new governor will have at the most two years to achieve his objectives before retiring. They may suggest the board should have appointed a person who could complete a full four-year term to provide continuity and stability. TTR Weekly

ollowing Thailand’s biggest ever blackout last week, Energy Minister Pongsak Raktaphongpaisarn will travel to Krabi province to “receive information and listen to opinions of the locals on a new coal-fired power plant before considering its construction”, government news organisation NNT reports.

It quotes Mr Pongsak as saying that he will visit Krabi in June to collect information on the project to build the new “clean coal” power plant, expected to have the capacity of 800 megawatts.

He said he would ask the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) to conduct a public hearing in Krabi in order to take the locals’ opinions into consideration.

The power station plan has met with considerable opposition, which has held up its inception.

An energy activist told the Bangkok Post last week that he will oppose any move to build new fossil-fuel power plants in the south, despite the south-wide blackout on May 21.

Pakpoom Withantirawat, secretary-general of the Save

People in Krabi fear that the planned new coal-fired power station may emulate this one in China, spewing pollution. Photo: AFP/Frederic J Brown Andaman Network Foundation, said authorities should not cite the blackout as an excuse to push for new power plants fuelled by coal, oil or gas in the south.

There was suspicion among some in Krabi that Egat staged the blackout to reinforce its message that the Krabi plant is badly needed. Egat has denied the accusation.

Mr Pakpoom, however, noted that the power outage was caused by technical problems, and that it could not be inferred from this that there was not enough power

for the south.

In fact, he argued, any increase in electricity generation would not be needed for at least a decade. By that time, renewable energies such as solar, wind and hydropower will be advanced enough and cheap enough to provide a practical alternative to fossil fuels.

He rejected the government’s conclusion that fossilfuel-based power generation is the best solution for future generations.

“Electricity authorities should not discuss plans to

build coal-fired power plants in Trang or other southern provinces for the time being.

“Opponents will not listen to [the authorities] because [coal-fired plants] are not relevant to the cause of the blackout in the south and are not the right solution.

“If coal-fired power plants are really good and do not cause any environmental impact – as many parties claim – why are they not built in Bangkok or next to the Chao Phraya River, where the lion’s share of electricity in the country is consumed?

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TOUR FOR CURE Big drive for more medical tourists T ravel agents are calling for Thailand to improve its medical tourism by adding new services and maintaining its high treatment standards.

The information was gathered from a recent Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) survey of 22 medical travel agents from the US, Australia, the Middle East and Europe.

The agents said foreigners are still looking for experienced doctors, advanced technologies and high-quality facilities and staff when they come to Thailand.

Medicine is a strong revenue generator among tourism services.

Last year, 2.4 million foreign visitors came to Thailand for health services, generating revenue of B14 billion.

The TAT expects that num-

ber to rise to 3 million over the next three years, resulting in doubled revenue.

Deputy Governor Wilaiwan Tawitsri said the TAT plans to promote new advances in plastic surgery, fertility, anti-ageing and cell therapy.

Markets such as Australia, the Middle East, Russia and the US are targets, and the TAT will invite agents from those areas to come and look at services in Thailand.

Ms Wilaiwan said Thailand’s medical tourism ranks top in Asean, especially for skin treatment.

Spending on skin treatment comes to about B50,000 for a two-day trip, while plastic surgery can cost up to B100,000 and needs a longer stay, usually three days.

Ms Wilaiwan said 600,000 high-income Chinese travelled

to Switzerland and Singapore last year for anti-ageing and cell treatments, with average expenses of about B2 million a trip for each person.

Chinese customers are a big market this year, as are US and Australian clients seeking plastic surgery and fertility help.

To take advantage of rising demand, the TAT will host the Medical & Wellness Tourism Trade Familiarisation Trip 2013 in August.

Some 50 tourism groups and agents worldwide are expected to join the event in Bangkok.

To understand the needs of upper-class Chinese better, the TAT will host a seminar and workshop on June 25, the main speaker being Pierre Gervois, chief executive of China Elite Focus Ltd. Bangkok Post

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

The Naka Island resort and its views of Phang Nga Bay.

Naka resort receives awards TH E NA K A ISLA N D resort just off Phuket has won two accolades in the International Hotel Awards 2013-14, for Best Resort Hotel in Thailand and Best Spa Hotel in Thailand.

The two awards come on top of three more accolades

the boutique resort received in Starwood’s 2013 Member Favorite Resorts list – being named as one of the world’s Best Island Paradises, Best Small Wonders and Most Romantic Retreats.

Selected by members of the Starwood Preferred Guest

(SPG) programme in the third annual survey, 71 destinations from Dubai to Singapore made the lists.

The W Retreat & Spa in the Maldives earned the most votes to appear in five categories. The W Retreat Koh Samui was placed in four categories.

Structured investment hazards Thailand sees Clive Moore editor@classactmedia.co.th

THE PAST FEW YEARS have seen an explosion in the number of structured investment products launched by banks worldwide and aimed at expatriates and other international investors in the region.

This is principally a response to demand from investors for steady returns in difficult market conditions, but also a function of the willingness on the part of some investment banks to launch products for pretty much any structured product promoter.

Readers won’t be surprised to learn that some investment banks are less scrupulous than they might be when it comes to choosing the products they get involved with.

For this reason, it is important to have a working level of knowledge of structured products, and how to evaluate them.

Here are the five most important things to look for when determining whether a structured product is suitable for consideration: Counterparty Risk: Pretty much every structured investment you’ll see will rely on a single financial institution delivering the returns offered, in just the same way as a fixed-rate deposit does.

What this means is that seeking a higher return from a riskier bank may mean you lose some – or even all – of the money you invest.

Always be clear about who the counterparty is and what the risks are. Product promoters should be able – and cheerfully willing – to supply you with a sensible commentary on this, including credit ratings and CDS levels (ask for an explanation if you’re not sure how credit default swaps work) and general financial strength.

Is the pay-off suitable?

Most investors seem to want 100 per cent capital protection and a minimum return of 3 per cent to 4 per cent per annum, plus the chance of making another 5 per cent to 10 per cent on top. But with interest rates at historic lows – normally less than 1 per cent a year, something has to give.

If anyone offers you this kind of return, be very wary indeed.

Higher returns come with either a lower probability of achieving them, or more risk to capital, or both, and this is needs to be fully understood.

Based on underlying interest rates, a 7-per-cent return today over five years is equivalent to a return of around 25 per cent five or six years ago with regard to the level of risk and the probability of achieving it.

Scrutinise the risk level: A lot of structured products are designed with one aim in mind: to make as much money as possible for the bank.

To achieve this, a product’s creator must strike a balance between making the product attractive enough to sell, while also building in as big a profit margin as possible.

In the rush for higher head-

line rates, some products link to the worst of a basket of underlying shares, rather than to an index. These products can be incredibly risky; we can all think of large companies that have disappeared completely, or seen massive drops in their share price.

It is important that you are clear about the level of risk you’re taking on. If an investor is unlikely to make a large investment directly into the shares of one company, it would be inappropriate for them to invest in the shares of the worst-performing company out of five.

Liquidity is paramount: Any investment is worth only what it can be sold for. Recent years have shown the importance of investing in assets that are priced on a “mark to market” basis rather than a “mark to model” basis.

What this means is that the bid price of an investment reflects the price it can be sold for – either because it’s listed and market makers will offer a price, or because this is a firm price that will be paid by the issuing bank (in the case of most structured products).

Mark to model pricing involves the investment manager, promoter or administrator making assumptions about the value of assets, and converting this into a price for investors.

This can be a useful way of valuing property assets, for example, but valuation methods vary considerably.

Pretty much every structured product should be valued on a mark to market basis, and

should offer regular liquidity to investors. There should be no restrictions on sales and no lock-in periods. If there are, it’s worth checking a bit further.

Reputation counts: If you’re still reading this, you’ll be familiar with a number of investments that have failed, sometimes spectacularly. Remember traded endowment funds, geared with-profit funds, life settlement funds? Certain forestry timber funds, mortgage funds, property development funds?

What’s surprising is that some product developers and promoters seem to move from one investment that looks great, but collapses in chaos, to another that does the same.

If you buy a structured product from a bank (or its distributor) that has a track record of promoting disappointing investments, don’t be surprised if your purchase, too, turns out to be a poor investment.

Clive Moore is managing di­rector of Investment Design and Distribution.

Article supplied through Jerry Dingley of Property Portfolio Services. Dingley and business partner Tim Whiteley have a combined 50 years of experience advising expatriates & international investors both onshore UK and in the Asia Pacific region. info@ qropspensioncentre.com Note: This article contains general information only and is not intended to be taken as financial advisory, investment, or tax advice.

record income from movies

THAILAND EARNED A record B671.43 million from on-location film shoots in January to April this year, according to a Ministry of Tourism and Sports’ Thailand Film Office Department.

For the first four months of the year, 283 documentaries, advertising slots, TV series, and music videos were filmed on location in Thailand, generating B671.43 million in tourism-related revenue.

Of the 283, 43 were documentaries, 168 were advertising spots, 39 were for television programmes, 14 were music videos and 19 were shoots for feature films.

Japan filmmakers topped the list for the first four months with 60 productions followed by 53 from India, 40 from Europe, 20 from Hong Kong, 18 from South Korea, 15 from the United States, 14 from China, nine from Australia, three from Taiwan, and 51 from others.

In April, 60 productions generated B130.70 million compared with 45 productions and B109.99 million during the same month last year.

Of the 60 productions, 14 were documentaries, 33 advertising spots, eight TV programmes, two feature films, and three music videos.

India led the field in April with 13 productions followed by 10 each from Japan and Europe, four each from the US and Hong Kong, three

The movie Lost in Thailand pulled in thousands of tourists from mainland China. from China, two each from Australia and Taiwan, and 12 from others.

Promoting film shoots comes under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports because it is believed that films provide positive tourism awareness that encourages travel without requiring a major investment in media or advertising.

A prime example of this was the number of Chinese tourists attracted to Thailand after seeing the Chinese movie Lost in Thailand, many wanting to see the places depicted in the movie.

While revenue earned from film crews is substantial, the bigger picture, it is argued, is the positive awareness of Thailand once the films are circulated. TTR Weekly

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

BIG ATTRACTION

BUSINESS NEWS 15

Bangkok ‘is top city for travel’ Political stability, AEC, ‘spur foreign property buyers’

P

olitical stabilit y, a healthy economy, a rising market and Thailand’s geographical potential to be the centre of the Asean Economic Community have spurred foreign demand for Thai property despite pressure from the strong baht, say developers and consultants.

“There were no questions about the Thai political situation from buyers in Hong Kong during the company’s roadshow there early this month,” said Thanawan Chaiwatana, managing director of developer Magnolia Finest Corp.

“Hong Kong buyers are quite positive about buying Thai properties. The situation is much better than in the past few years, when our country faced political problems.”

During the three-day roadshow, Magnolia sold 19 units worth B335 million. Most were two-bedroom units of 80 square metres.

Even on May 19, when the red shirts rallied at the Ratchaprasong intersection some 200 metres from the luxury Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard condominium complex, two units were bought

by Hong Kong buyers.

“Political demonstrations in Bangkok are more acceptable to foreigners now, as there’s no more bloodshed. Most foreign buyers of Bangkok properties also make frequent visits and are familiar with Thailand,” said Mr Thanawan.

Another factor is that property prices in Hong Kong

The Magnolias Ratchadamri: selling even as Red Shirts gathered in the street below. have become exorbitant. A luxury unit is priced as high as B2 million a square metre compared with a tenth of that in Bangkok.

Matthew Lin, director of the Chiang Mai-based Summit Global Developments Co, said it is a well-known fact that Singaporeans love buying property.

Thailand has always been a choice country for them, given its proximity and good value. Meanwhile, politics in Malaysia and Indonesia have been fairly unstable, and their property costs are now relatively high.

“The relatively low land and construction costs allow properties in Thailand to be priced at an affordable level.

Thailand as a country is also well known as the Land Of Smiles. It may be chaotic, but it is an ordered chaos,” Mr Lin said.

Law firm backs property awards THAI LAW FIRM HUGHES Krupica has signed on to sponsor the Thailand Property Awards, which reaches its climax with the gala dinner and awards presentation taking place on September 19.

“I have been involved in supporting the Property Awards for many years, including as a judge in Thailand and for the Southeast Asia Property Awards, and I look forward to Hughes Krupica providing sponsor support for 2013,” senior partner Desmond Hughes said.

“I have represented a number of the key developers who will be present at the awards ceremony and I believe that support for the industry manifests from a

rounded approach to involvement, networking, promotion of the positives of real estate in Thailand, and co-operation between industry players amidst healthy competition.”

Terry Blackburn, CEO of event organiser Ensign Media said, “We are delighted to welcome Hughes Krupica as a key co-sponsor at this year’s Thailand Property Awards.

“The conf idence of leading legal firms such as Hughes Krupica in the awards is a clear sign that Ensign continues to succeed in its goal of delivering fair, credible and stringently judged awards for the Kingdom’s real estate industry.”

Thailand’s economy remains on an upward curve, and many foreigners are trying to ride that wave. The country also stands to benefit the most when the AEC comes into being due to the number of borders it shares.

Negative factors exist, Mr Lin admitted, particularly high interest rates and the difficulty of obtaining bank loans.

About 30 per cent of buyers of Summit’s condo units are foreigners. Of those, 80 per cent are Singaporean, 10 per cent Malaysian and 10 per cent American or European.

Asean economic integration is another key factor driving demand, while Thailand is in a hub-like location from which foreign investors can expand to Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia.

Aliwassa Pathnadabutr, managing director of the property consultant CB Richard El-

lis (Thailand), said foreigners see Thailand as Asean’s centre.

Even though the baht has strengthened, property prices remain lower than in many other countries.

Most foreign buyers are from Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Japan and South Korea; the number of European buyers had shrunk since the global financial crisis of 2008.

Singaporean and Hong Kong buyers account for 15 per cent and 13 per cent, respectively, followed by Taiwanese and British at 11 per cent each. Chinese buyers have grown to fifth place at 8 per cent since being reassured by stable politics.

Other nationalities include Australians (7 per cent), Japanese (5 per cent) and Americans, Cambodians and Maldivians at 4 per cent each.

Bangkok Post

Big Three launching brand smartphones THE COUNTRY’S THREE leading mobile phone operators are gearing up to roll out their own low-cost branded handsets in a move to accelerate thirdgeneration (3G) migration.

Number three, True Move, kicked off its TrueBeyond brand last week, with a selection of smartphones and tablets retailing from B4,900 and an ad campaign featuring South Korean girlband Girls’ Generation.

Mobile leader Advanced Info Service (AIS) has confirmed that it will launch its own brand in the next two months. It will sell smartphones at prices starting from B3,000 and feature phones from B1,500.

Second-ranked DTAC said the official launch of its own handsets is due next week, with

retail prices starting at B3,000.

The move by the big three has the potential to intensify competition significantly within the handset industry and slash prices, industry observers said.

Jarit Sidhu, market analyst for research firm IDC Thailand, said the readiness of operators’ 3G networks is spurring the transition from 2G. “Local mobile operators are not tying their customers down with contracts; there is no law that states users cannot terminate the service before the end of the contract,” Mr Jarit said.

Meanwhile, IDC has revised its earlier forecasts, now predicting that local smartphone sales will outsell feature phones by 2016 instead of 2017.

Bangkok Post

BANGKOK IS THIS YEAR’S top city for travel, according to MasterCard’s Global Destination Cities Index.

The study looked at the highest international visitor numbers in 2013, with Bangkok just pushing London into second place, followed by Paris, Singapore and New York.

London occupied top spot in 2012, with Bangkok third, but it was edged out this year by the slimmest of margins with only 25,000 visitors separating it from Bangkok.

Thawatchai Arunyik, deputy governor for the domestic market at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said, “The Thailand tourism slogan ‘Amazing Thailand Always Amazes You’ is certainly apt as its capital, Bangkok, has emerged at the top of this year’s index.”

Dr Yuwa Hedrick-Wong, global economic adviser for MasterCard Worldwide and author of the report, said, “Bangkok brought with it great momentum from last year. Its ascent to number one is not only a first for Asia, it’s emblematic of the rise of the Global South, which encompasses much of Africa and Asia as well as South America.”

A noticeable trend in this year’s report was the dominance of the Asia-Pacific region. Of the 132 cities ranked, 42 are in Asian countries.

“With the rise of the AsiaPacific region, this year’s index reflects the rebalance that the globe is undergoing in large part because of the rise of emerging markets,” said Ann

Cairns, president of international markets, MasterCard Worldwide.

Eight of the top 20 cities are in East Asia; Bangkok is followed by Singapore (4), Kuala Lumpur (8), Hong Kong (9), Seoul (11), Shanghai (14), Tokyo (16) and Taipei (18).

Like so many sets of statistics, the MasterCard list does contain its oddities. For example, in 19th place with 5.05 million visitors – and ahead of Los Angeles – is the Saudi capital Riyadh, hardly yet a tourist hotspot.

Another set of numbers came this week from Tripadvisor, which published the results of a survey that placed Bangkok at the top of its Travellers’ Choice Asia Destinations list of 25 cities.

But although Bangkok was top in Asia, it ranked only 13th in the Top 25 Travellers’ Choice World Destinations.

The survey also showed Thailand’s top 10 destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Town, Pattaya, Patong, Hua Hin, Phuket Town, Khao Lak, Karon, and Bophut.

TripAdvisor chief marketing officer, Barbara Messing said: “Based on insights from millions of travellers worldwide, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards help identify the most highly rated and loved vacation spots.

“The awards highlight 412 winners worldwide; these impressive destinations offer something special for every traveller to help them plan their next trip.” The Phuket News/ TTR Weekly

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

The good, bad and science of sex selection

DJ Jeremy Healy brings style and beats to Xana

05

14

QUEEN OF THE SEA

Jody Houton meets professional mermaid Katrin Felton > page 2

Photo: Jana McGeachy

2 PEOPLE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

The makings of a mermaid Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

There are only five really good mermaids in the world and I am one of them. The others are no good. Good mermaids care for the environment and go deep sea diving, but there are hundreds around the world who just put on a fin, go into a pool and pinch their noses to have photographs taken

Photo credits clockwise from top: Adriano Trapani; Adriano Trapani; f-photography; f-photography; Andrei Goldobenko.

T

here are many things a young woman might do after winning a beauty pageant; she could become the face of a cosmetic brand, seek world peace or, in the case of Katrin Felton, become a mermaid.

“I am a professional mermaid,” begins the former Miss Germany International 2006, whilst sipping on a tonic water in a Patong cafe.

For Mermaid Kat, as she is also known, being a mythological creature is a perfectly natural profession, “Boys have Transformers and girls have mermaids.

“It all started for me when I first saw Disney’s Little Mermaid movie when I was about five years old, I knew then I wanted to become a mermaid.”

At that time however, Katrin’s father warned her that if she tied her legs together – as she wanted to do – she would drown.

Despite this warning though, five-year-old Kat persisted, “I would always sit with my legs together and, when swimming, move my legs with the motion of a dolphin.”

Such style of swimming, now enhanced by her use of a specially-made mono-fin, is , for Katrin, much more natural, “The movement of the legs in a unified motion just works.”

Although she fell in love with mermaids as a little girl, it is only recently that Katrin took the plunge and became a fully fledged professional mermaid, of which she believes there are only a few.

“There are only five really good mermaids in the world and I am one of them. The others are no good.

“Good mermaids care for the environment and go deep sea diving, but there are hundreds around the world who just put on a fin, go into a pool and pinch their noses to have their photographs taken.”

For Katrin, this kind of behavior just doesn’t float. She believes that in order to be a professional mermaid, one needs to be able to do at least two things: “The first is to be a good free diver. I go down and swim underwater with the sea creatures without any equipment, just my monofin.”

The second part is underwater modelling, which is apparently much more difficult than it looks, “I have to still look good without a mask on and with saltwater going up the nose. It’s quite hard.”

Desipite the difficulty, her experience as a model meant that she took to it like, well a mermaid to water.

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

Her dream of becoming a professional mermaid began around two years ago, “I thought that I’m not getting any younger so I started looking for something else [to do].

“I became a scuba diving instructor in Australia, and I suppose my love of mermaids all came flooding back to me then, and I thought ‘hey, maybe there is something I can do here.’”

Working as a scuba diving instructor allowed Katrin to perfect the fluid ‘mermaid’ style of free diving. Now she teaches others how to follow in her stream.

“I am the first mermaid teacher in the world,” she says. “I have given workshops in Phuket and Bali and next year when I return to Germany I will be giving workshops there – to teach how to become a mermaid, how to swim with a monofin, and care for the environment.

“As well as swimming in the sea, being a mermaid means I also do lots of [environmental] campaigns. I am like a bridge between sea creatures and people.”

“I can show people the problems in the ocean – over-fishing, the shark fin industry, and pollution.”

In fact this is what she is currently doing right now. Up until June 4, she is in Bali par-

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

PEOPLE 3

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

ticipating in an environmental meeting organised by non-profit group Project Aware.

Although Katrin is more commonly seen on Phuket land and waters, she resorts to taking aspiring mermaids elsewhere. “Unfortunately most diving sites in Phuket have been ruined over the years.

“Five years ago, a dive in Phuket waters would have probably yielded a matinee sighting or something. Now the waters are empty, so many of my dives and photoshoots are in Racha Yai, Similan and Phi Phi.” Now an accomplished free diver, she says that swimming with marine life, unimpeded by breathing appartus and diving equipment, is the best feeling in the world.

“The feeling is amazing. I sometimes dive right down to the sea bottom where other people have all the scuba diving equipment on and say ‘Hi’, wearing just my monofin and bikini, it feels so awesome.”

A sad part of this tale is that unfortunately Katrin’s father never saw his daughter achieve her dream.

“I gave up my dream because my father forbade it, and he died when I was 16 years old and so never got the chance to see how far I took it, and how I swim, sometimes 20 metres deep and with matinees.”

Katrin’s husband however, although initially a skeptic, is now wholly supportive of his wife’s rather unusual chosen line of work.

“When I first said to my husband, I want to be a mermaid, he just said okay... Now he is more like my full time manager,” she says.

It’s a job that keeps them both busy, and at times having her husband never too far away brings great comfort to Mermaid Kat. “Many in the ‘mermaid community’ are freaks,” says Mermaid Kat, with particular reference to a visit she paid to the Las Vegas Mermaid Competition in 2011, which she found, “strange” to say the least.

“Yes a lot of them were ‘out there’. Many came up to me to ask to touch my fin and things like that.”

Mermaid Kat thinks that for many enthusiasts an

interest in mermaids borders on fetishism and even perversion, but for her, being a mermaid is not about sexuality, though she understands the attraction.

“Mermaids are very beautiful, very mysterious and they’re just outside of this world. They’re sexy sure... it’s a fantasy.”

For more information on Mermaid Kat or her training sessions, visit mermaid-kat.com, for all manner of mermaid merchandise including fins, bras and bikinis, visit her online store at mermaid-kat-shop.de

4 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

PIADS announces opening of new facilities ADVERTORIAL

This year is the year of the arts for the school, and a purpose-built performing arts centre is due to be opened this summer that will give students exceptional facilities

Above and right: Building is already well underway at the Phuket International Day School.

P

urpose built facilities, including the use of facilities at the world famous Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Centre, currently enable the Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS), which is a not-for-profit Thanyapura affiliate, situated in the beautiful northern part of Phuket, to have world class facilities for subject areas such as physical education and science.

But this year is the year of the arts for the school, and a purpose-built performing arts centre is due to be opened this summer that will give students exceptional facilities both for curricular and enrichment activities in the areas of music and drama.

Top class professionals will teach within the programme, and enrichment activities of all kinds will be offered after school, at weekends and during school breaks through the school’s partnership with the wellknown Legend Music company.

It is planned that the music programme will include early music for three to seven year olds, choir, jam sessions and bands, as well as private lessons in singing, guitar, piano, violin and the drums.

The new three- storey facility will consist of the following levels: The Basement Floor will be the new music and drama department with specialised music and recording studios. There will

be three large classrooms and five acoustically sound practice/private lesson rooms.

Each classroom and practice room will be equipped with the finest music equipment available.

The Ground Floor will be the new cafeteria.

The First Floor will be a 600 square metre multipurpose hall. It will have stage equipment with top quality surround sound for performances, presentations, assemblies and school productions.

This hall will also be used as an additional gymnasium with cushioned flooring for badminton, netball, gymnastics, PE classes, dance classes and martial arts.

Surrounding the new complex will be a new playground, which will include a climbing wall, sliders, a learning zone, a pirate ship, a water play area and much more.

It has been designed by the teachers at

the school after taking into account up to date research in good playground design around the world.

It is a hugely exciting development that will see the state of the art new building surrounded by a modern, up to date playground.

The head of the school, Dennison MacKinnon said, “In its commitment to building and completing this new facility, PIADS is taking its programmes forward and offering a genuinely liberal and progressive educational opportunity to all internationallyminded parents in Phuket who seek an education for their children, which is based not on any national programme but on the programmes of the International Baccalaureate.”

For more information, call 076 336 076, email kasanan.s@pia.ac.th or visit www. phuketinternationalacademy.com

S. Korean cram schools probed over US test scandal

S

outh Korean officials on Monday launched an investigation into cram schools after a cheating scandal that led to the nationwide cancellation of US college entrance exams earlier this month.

The education office in Seoul has started the special probe into a number of private academies suspected of illegally obtaining questions for the SAT test and offering them to pupils.

The administrator of the SAT – the most widely used test for

applying to US colleges – scrapped the scheduled May 4 exams after discovering questions were already circulating among some test-prep schools.

The College Board also cancelled subject tests in biology scheduled for next month.

“The moral hazard prevalent among some SAT prep schools has reached a serious level,” the Seoul education office said in a statement, criticising school operators for “tarnishing the national reputation and harming

innocent applicants”.

Those cram schools discovered to have leaked questions will face closure as well as special tax audits, with the owners banned from opening new schools for a certain period, it added.

According to the Institute of International Education, South Korea sent 72,295 students to study in the US in the 2011-12 school year – the third largest provider of foreign students to US colleges after China and India.

Cram schools for global tests

– not to mention domestic college exams – are a lucrative industry in education-obsessed South Korea, where qualifications from top colleges are crucial for careers and even marriage prospects.

For nearly all their school lives, South Korean students study late into the night – often at costly, private cram schools – to stay ahead in the race for admission to top universities.

The entire nation holds its breath on the day of the domestic college entrance exam in Novem-

ber, when military training is suspended and flights rescheduled to ensure the test is conducted quietly and smoothly.

The cancellation of the SAT exam at the beginning of May prompted a flood of soul-searching editorials in the national press.

“This incident reveals the dark side of our education culture that has no qualms about cheating even at an international level,” said the Kookmin daily, which called the scandal a ‘national shame.’ AFP

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HEALTH 5

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Choosing your baby’s sex Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Regardless of the term used, the aim of the procedure is giving parents the option to choose the sex of their baby. What’s the big deal you may say? After all it’s their baby, they should be able to choose

Above right: Dr Manop at the Women’s Clinic at Phuket International Hospi� tal. Above: A poster adver� tising the perfect family.

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re-selecting the sex of your baby as opposed to letting nature take its course is a controversial subject. So much so that Dr Manop Janthanathan, infertility specialist at Phuket International Hospital (PIH), prefers to call the practice of choosing the sex of babies, ‘screening of the eggs’.

In fact ‘sex selection’ is just one aspect of the procedures performed during the pre-implementation genetic diagnosis and screening process for couples seeking help to have children.

Standard in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment at PIH costs around B200,000, with sex selection costing an additional B80,000 to B120,000.

The hospital has about 10 IVF cases a month, 20 per cent of which are couples who request to have the screening or ‘sex selection’ option.

“We have many different services for infertile couples,” explains Dr Manop.

“Firstly we have the screening process to find out what the problem might be. Then we have a secondary test to find out if [the couple] can have children through insemination, and we also have IVF, of which there are many types.”

In attempting to explain the legality of choosing the sex of your child, Dr Manop says, “In Thailand it’s not illegal to have sex selection surgery, but it has not been approved by the medical council yet.”

However, the practice is most definitely illegal in many countries around the world, including Australia, China and India. This has contributed to vast numbers of parents-to-be from those countries travelling to Thailand and Phuket every year to have the controversial procedure performed.

Regardless of the term used, the aim of the procedure is giving parents the option to choose the sex of their baby. What’s the big deal you may say? After all it’s their baby, they should be able to choose.

“Most of the couples who use the technology are international [visitors] from India, China and Australia. They want to level out the family and get a boy,” says Dr Manop.

For many, the problem doesn’t lie in the fact that such technology exists, but more why it is being used.

Besides the moral dilemma of recognising and thus legitimising the desire for parents to seek male children and ultimately profit from the offering of a solution, the full repercussions of this multi-billion baht business are yet to be seen.

As it stands, the current global sex ratio at birth stands at 107 boys to 100 girls, but sex selection has skewed this ratio in many countries – for example in India there are 112 boys born for every 100 girls, while in China it is a whopping 121 to 100.

HELPING PHUKET FAMILIES Phuket Provincial Hospital Director Dr Anan �������� Lonapat� tanabamrung opened a new Family Ties Multi-purpose hall in Moo 4 and Moo 7 Ratsadanupradit Road in Phuket Town on May 27. The centre will help educate local mothers and mothers-to-be.

There have been various studies conducted exploring the ramifications of gender imbalance in a population, with many finding that serious problems arise when there are insufficient women to marry: crime, an increase in prostitution, and ‘woman poaching’ from poorer countries are just three examples.

Regardless of your opinion on sex selection, being able to choose the sex of the baby before pregnancy, is obviously better than parents aborting the foetus upon discovering the gender.

This sort of ‘prenatal infanticide’, made possible by such technological advancements like ultrasound machines,

has caused around 163 million girls to have been aborted globally in the last three decades as a result of sex-selective abortion.

Despite the privileged position that Dr Manop is in, even he can understand why sex selection is illegal in some countries, and why some object to it, “Maybe it’s something to do with ‘man wanting to be god’. This is why I personally don’t use the term sex selection.

“I understand why it’s illegal in some places like Australia or Europe,” adds Dr Manop, “Our job is just to find the good embryo, it’s up to the couple to decide [the criteria of] which one is ‘good’.”

6 ENVIRONMENT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

New green club for Naithon Jody Houton editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Above: The newly-formed Naithon Green Club after this week’s first beach clean.

Right: Getting down and dirty to help Naithon.

T

aking its lead from successful environmental group, the Kamala Green Club, hotels, local businesses and even taxi drivers took to Naithon Beach on Tuesday (May 27) to take part in a beach clean up – hopefully the first of many more events to come.

Nicholas Franklin, senior property manager at CB Richard Ellis (CBRE), explains how the Naithon Green Club – formed towards the end of April – came about, “CBRE manage a property in Naithon, and we were concerned about garbage outside the property that looked bad for visitors.

“I was aware of the excellent work of Steve Meyers, Sean Panton and Nick Anthony, who had formed a local green club supported by all the major hotels and businesses in Kamala.

“They had worked with the community to get better facilities for recycling and garbage management and collectively organised beach clean-ups.

“I wanted to try the same in Naithon and was immediately supported by the Pullman Arcadia Phuket Resort, Vista Del Mar, Trisara and Malaiwana and

Adopt a cat

then by the village community.”

After the initial meeting between the aforementioned hotels, it was decided that an attempt should be made to get locals and those from other businesses and industries on-board.

Angela Fanne, sales manager from Vista del Mar, told The Phuket News that it was great to see so many local people, including taxi drivers and girls from the local massage parlours get involved.

“Around 80 people were there. It was a fun thing with everybody talking together. We would like to set up a weekly clean-up in the future,” Mrs Fanne said.

Besides the clean-ups, the Naithon Green Club are also attempting to raise money to buy recycling containers, much like they have done at the Kamala Green Club down the coast.

“We just want to make the OrBorTor’s job easier,” said Mrs Fanne.

Although the OrBoTor was not involved in this week’s event, it is Mrs Fanne’s desire that the beach cleanup, which she hopes shows a willingness of hotels to keep the area clean, may foster a closer working relation-

ship with the local government in the future.

Mr Franklin agreed, “Our next step is to work with the OrBorTor to install recycling and garbage stations to contain refuse and keep the street clean.

“Beach cleaning, including the beach road will be a regular organised activity for us.

“Working with the community, particularly the school, we hope to improve education and awareness about the local environment to protect not only the wildlife and natural beauty of the area, but also our businesses which depend on visitors.”

For more information on how you can help Naithon stay clean, contact naithongreenclub@gmail.com

Shanghai sees biofuel gold in recycled cooking oil

C

LOVING HOMES NEEDED FOR CATS AND KITTENS Soi Dog Foundation in Phuket not only have hundreds of friendly dogs looking for new homes, they also have cats and kittens desperately seeking adoptive homes. Lately there has been an increase in the number of cats being treated at Soi Dog’s Cat Hospital and many of them cannot be returned to where they came from. Thai cats make wonderful companions and could be the perfect addition to your family. Visit Soi Dog’s Cat Suite where you can play and interact with the cats before choosing one to adopt! All cats come sterilised and fully vaccinated.

If you’re interested in adopting please phone the shelter on 081 788 4222 or email cindy@soidog.org

hina’s commercial hub Shanghai plans to turn recycled cooking oil, some of it seized by authorities, into an environmental asset by converting it into fuel for vehicles, state media said Monday.

The country has been rocked by a series of food safety scandals including the re-use of waste oil recycled from restaurants and called ‘gutter oil’ in Chinese.

The Shanghai government plans to cooperate with a local university and six companies to produce biodiesel from used oil to power the city’s buses, taxis and trucks, the China

Daily newspaper reported.

Tongji University, one of China’s most prestigious, has been experimenting for the last three years to create the ideal mix, the report said, but did not detail the scale of the plan.

In 2011 China arrested 32 people over the sale of “gutter oil”, which is thought to contain carcinogens and other pollutants.

Shanghai has also cracked down, in March implementing rules on proper disposal of waste oil and qualifications for collectors.

“On the one hand, we emphasised cleaning up illegal oil collectors. On the other, we looked for ideal

ways to use the recycled oil,” Yan Zuqiang of the Shanghai Food Safety Committee was quoted by the China Daily as saying.

When the gutter oil scandal emerged in 2010, experts estimated that people in China consumed two to three million tonnes of the illegally recycled oil every year.

The revelation forced the nation’s food safety watchdog to step up its inspections, but experts said the business was extremely profitable.

China’s food industry is notorious for safety problems despite regular government crackdowns.

AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

TECHNOLOGY 7

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

IN BRIEF September release for ‘Fifa 14’

EA Sports, developers of the popular Fifa videogame series, have announced that Fifa 14 will be released worldwide on September 27. The game will be available for the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One next-gen consoles, as well as Nintendo 3DS and the PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. Fifa 14 will be the 21st edition of the franchise, which started with FIFA International Soccer in 1993. FC Barcelona player and ‘World Footballer of the Year’ winner Lionel Messi once again graces the game cover art.

Office bully video goes viral

A Singapore company supervisor caught on video slapping a male intern is in trouble after the clip went viral on the web and sparked a public outcry.

The 17-second “Singapore office bully” clip, uploaded to the video-sharing website YouTube, showed the boss repeatedly slapping a younger man described by local media as a 29-year-old intern. When he confronted the boss, the supervisor claimed there was a reason behind the abuse. “He said that my colleague apparently has an inferiority complex and apparently my supervisor is trying to ‘nurture’ him to get over it,” he said. Its reported that the bullied intern may seek compensation from the firm.

‘Gran Turismo 6’ track editor

Sony has announced new features for its racing game Gran Turismo 6, including a full track editor that lets users create their own racing circuits. The new game also features 1,200 of cars, including Ferraris and Lamborghinis and seven brand new circuits, including the British Silverstone circuit.

GT6 is a launch title for the PlayStation 4 console, due in time for Christmas.

Behold, the Xbox One

T

he next generation of consoles are finally on their way, with Microsoft unveiling their latest system, the Xbox One, at a press conference last week. Slated for Christmas 2013 release, the new gaming console includes manyfeatures that gamers have been excited about, including the Kinect motion-sensor and TV/cable capabilities.

Let’s take a look at some of the main features.

Centipede BLAST FROM THE PAST Jean-Pierre Mestanza editor@classactmedia.co.th

Voice control

Although this function was also available for the Xbox 360, the new console’s voice control feature is much smoother and not just limited to turning on video games. The voice control feature also allows special software, namely Skype, to be utilised for online video chats.

Entertainment power

The new Xbox One is built to take over your living room as an alternative to a cable TV or satellite box. Users of the Xbox 360 could connect to HBO Go and Netflix with third-party downloads, but the Xbox One integrates all types of TV sources, and monitors

users’ show-watching habits so it can pre-download recommended programming. It can also access online TV schedules so it can be used as a DVR.

Blu-Ray

This was once a main sellingpoint for Sony’s Playstation 3, but now the Xbox One also plays BluRay discs, so movie images will look much better and very large games won’t need so many disks.

Cloud memory

This is one of the key features being touted by all the nextgeneration consoles: the ability to store game content and data such

as gaming history into online or “cloud” memory. The Xbox One’s cloud can also combine processing power from other networked Xboxes, to improve high-detail game graphics on the fly, for example.

Controller

Two IR sensors on the top of the Xbox One controller interact with the Kinect system, which can sense up to six people in the room (compared to two by the Xbox 360). The controller design has been tweaked slightly with a change in battery pack positioning. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

Robot rifle helps shooters hit the target

A

new robotic rifle developed by a Texas technology start-up users lasers and computers to help gunmen hit whatever they aim at.

The TrackingPoint rifle is said to be so effective that some members of the shooting community say it should not be sold to the public.

Normally it takes a marksman years to shoot accurately with a normal rifle.

But the TrackingPoint rifle lets even novices easily hit a target more than 500 metres away.

The rifle’s scope includes a colour graphics display that lets the shooter select a target and lock onto it with the integrated laser range finders, like in a video game.

The marksmen then pulls the trigger – but it will only fire when the gun is aimed correctly to hit the target, according to an on-board ballistics computer that monitors factors such as wind speed, shake, bullet drop and the distance to the target.

The rifle is also fitted with a wi-fi transmitter, which lets a marksman stream live video and audio to an iPad, where it can be recorded for replay or for posting on Youtube and Facebook.

The company calls the weapon a “smart rifle.”

“You have a smart car; you got a smartphone; well, now we have a smart rifle,” TrackingPoint president Jason Schauble told National Public Radio in the United States.

Schauble says the TrackingPoint system was built for hunters and target shooters, especially those from the younger generation who use social media.

But some hunters say the TrackingPoint system undermines what they call the principle of a “fair chase,” while gun control proponents fear the new rifle could make it too easy for a criminal or a terrorist to shoot people at distance.

The company says it vets its customers, who pay around US$22,000 (B660,600) per weapon, and that the computerised targeting features are protected by a security password – although the weapon will still function like a normal rifle without the password.

TOP APPS THIS WEEK

TOP CONSOLE GAMES THIS WEEK 1

Metro: Last Light (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3

6

The Walking Dead (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

1

Catch Phrase (Game)

Android

2

Fifa 13

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, VITA

7

Tomb Raider (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

2

Yap (Music)

iOS, Android

3

Dead Island: Riptide (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

8

Assassin’s Creed III (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3,

3

Shazam (Music)

iOS, Android

4

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Infinity

3DS

9

Injustice: Gods Among US

Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U

4

Glide (Communication)

iOS, Android

5

Call of Duty: Black Ops II (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii U

10 Bioshock Infinite (18+)

Xbox 360, PS3, PC

5

Tetris Blitz (Game)

Android

D

o you remember Centipede?

Released in 1981 in the arcades, Centipede was easily one of the most popular games of the early era of video gaming.

The success of Pac-Man gave developers Atari, Inc. great confidence in developing a title where the action would all take place in one screen at one time. It was also one of the first in the industry to have been co-developed by a woman, Dona Bailey.

The premise of the game was simple: defeat the centipede before it made its way down the screen.

Once a gamer shot out the middle of the centipede, they inadvertently created two separate centipedes that moved independent of each other, making the game even more challenging.

Centipede was ported to the Atari 2600 in 1982, and holds the distinction of being one of the most imitated games in the industry, and spawned many copycats.

The game was ported to the Apple II computer, Microsoft Windows 3.x computer, and the Game Boy handheld system in 1989.

Often thrown in bundle packs and “classic games” category, Centipede has made a small comeback lately in the mobile gaming world (available for both iPhone and iPod Touch) as well as in handheld TV games on commercial airline flights.

Though it didn’t break the mold in gaming, Centipede is often mentioned in the same breath as Pong, Pac-Man, and Asteroids as one of the first titles to become a household name.

Do you have a Blast from the Past? Let us know at editor@ classactmedia.co.th

8 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

Old Town cafe keeps it real Claire Connell editor1@classactmedia.co.th

The large menu has around 90 dishes, and an incredible 80 different drinks, including Phuket traditional coffee, Chinese herbal teas, and flavoured milk

Top left, clockwise; Owner Jakkapan “Noom” Jitsomboon; the food menu; the seabass with spicy basil leaf sauce; the upstairs interior; and the speciallymade plastic drink containers

K

opi de Phuket has been an institution in Phuket Town for more than 15 years.

The first branch was located inside the historic On On hotel, before it closed last year for refurbishment, while the second location has been open on Phuket Road for the last eight years.

Owner Jakkapan “Noom” Jitsomboon says the Thai food served at Kopi de Phuket is “local, eat-at-home style”, while the menu includes many dishes unique to Phuket.

‘Kopi’ means coffee in Malay, and “de Phuket” has been added for a French touch, says Noom.

Cooking has long been a tradition in Noom’s family. A native Hokkien-speaker, Noom’s grandfather emigrated from Fujian province in southeast China and opened up a coffee shop in Chalong.

Despite growing up around cooking, at university in Songkla Noom studied business, particularly import and export. However, when he graduated, at a loss to find an interesting job, he decided to open up his own restaurant – sticking to what he loves.

“When I was very small I really liked watching my mother cook, and I was always helping her in the kitchen,” Noom says.

Indeed, many of the recipes at the Phuket Town restaurant come from Noom’s mother Kaew, including the Yunnan-style noodles from the southwest Chinese province of the same name.

The large menu has around 90 dishes, and an incredible 80 different drinks, including Phuket traditional coffee, Chinese herbal teas, and flavoured milk. Mains are priced from B80 up to B250.

One of Noom’s signature dishes is seabass in a spicy basil leaf sauce (B300). Also recommended is the salmon fillet served with Phuket-style pepper curry sauce (B240), but be warned it’s very spicy.

The cafe also sells traditional biscuits (B15) and other snack foods, plus designer souvenirs that all carry the distinctive Kopi logo.

Aside from the food, one of the best

things about Kopi de Phuket is it’s colourful, Chinese-themed interior. This stems from Noom’s own heritage, as well as a love for such decorations, which he has collected since he was young.

While the majority of Noom’s customers are Thai, there are a growing number of foreigners visiting. But don’t go expecting Western dishes on the menu – Kopi de Phuket is all about keeping it local.

Kopi de Phuket, 61 Phuket Road, Phuket Town. Open 11am to 9pm daily. 076 212 225. kopidephuket.com or facebook.com/ kopi.dephuket

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

DINING 9

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Banyan brunch goes live

O

n an island already bursting at the seams with brunches, the question for resorts is ‘how do you make yourself stand out from the crowd?’ The answer, for Banyan Tree at least, was to ‘go live!’.

A quick history lesson: For those not familiar with the Banyan Tree story, the resort – the first for the brand – was built on a former tin mine by far-sighted founder and current Executive Chairman Ho Kwon-ping. Along with his team, he created beauty out of devastation, and a story out of nothing.

Fast forward to the present, and Banyan Tree Phuket has again taken an innovative step to keep it ahead of the crowd, this time embracing the concept of ‘live’ for its new Sunday brunch.

Allowing you to reflect on the area’s past, the venue for brunch is an open-air area overlooking a lagoon (former tin mine pit) and surrounded by small pools.

You’re serenaded to your chair by a live jazz band, replete with bright red bass, with carefully positioned fans making sure you stay cool.

To the left of the area is a chilled room that con-

SUPER FINE FOOD The Super Tuscan 4-Course Wine Dinner was held on Thursday, May 23 at Mom Tri's Kitchen at Villa Royale.

The evening promised rich, intense and modern beverages with traces of the Old World, and included tuna carpaccio, seared scallops, a ‘trilogy of pork’, Italian cheese platter, and vanilla panna cotta. Photo: Brent Madison/CPA Media

Clockwise from above: the Banyan Tree brunch ‘live’ BBQ station, the cheese room, just some of the desserts on offer. Photos: Kiri Heald tains the salads, cold cuts, bread and dessert, while the central ‘island’ contains a variety of ‘live’ cooking stations, including for pasta and foie gras.

However, the main attraction for many will be the ‘live’ BBQ and steamed seafood stations, where you can select from an impressive array of exotic, globally sourced ingredients, some of which are swimming in the tanks in front of you, including Canadian lobsters, Tiger prawns, and Manila clams.

Because of the shape of the space, turning a corner at the Banyan Tree brunch often seems to bring yet a new discovery – for us this was the ‘secret’ cheese room located behind the crepe station (in itself also a good find), which contains sublime varieties such as Mimolette, blue Stilton and Reblochon.

Before we get to the final course of dessert, it’s worth pointing out that the price of brunch (B3,200++ per person) includes a complimentary bottle of French bubbly per couple – it’s temptingly placed on ice next to your table, with attentive waiters topping it up

Bangkok Beer & Beverages, island's largest wholesaler of 500+ premium beverages from 12 countries.

Ask for our extensive portfolio: bart@bbb.co.th and visit www.bbb.co.th for more info.

Tel: 076-200751-3, Fax: 076-200754

when you get close to the bottom of the glass.

If you have managed your intake wisely (at brunches, we have learned to steer clear of breads and rices to avoid filling up too quickly), then you’ll still have room for a final plate of delightful desserts, including a variety of cakes, tarts, and mousses, followed by some fresh slices of tropical fruit.

Indeed, there’s so much to choose from at the Banyan Tree brunch that 3pm – the end time of the brunch – comes around all-too-soon, and there’s only time to quaff the last of the bubbles, scamper to the dessert room for one more chocolate tart, and ponder an afternoon of self-satisfying indulgence.

Go Live! Sunday Brunch at Banyan Tree is held every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm, and is priced at B3,200++ per person, including once complimentary bottle of French bubbly per couple. Advance bookings highly recommended, for reservations call 076 372 400 or email fb-phuket@banyantree.com

10 DINING GUIDE EUROPEAN

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY List your restaurant here: call 076 612 550 or email sales@thephuketnews.com ITALIAN

SEAFOOD

Acqua

Trisara Seafood

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

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

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 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.

Lunch 12.30pm-3pm, Dinner 7pm-10.30pm (Closed Sundays). Trisara, 076 310 100

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

KEE Kitchen

Art Caffè

RE KÁ TA Beach Club

The idea of Art Caffè comes from the need to have a place to stop and enjoy something different. Meet friends, exchange ideas, propose initiatives, organizing events or reflect only reading, watching and perhaps enjoying a good cup of coffee. The exhibition space is an affront to the repetitiveness of the artistic culture of the island. Naiharn-Saiyuan Road, 076 388 546

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

DaVinci

Baan Kalim Restaurant & Seafood

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

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

Diavolo

THAI

Ceramic Kitchen

Bodega & Grill

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

FRENCH

The innovative and internationally-acclaimed chefs at the trendy KEE Resort in Patong are showing off their Top 10 international steak dishes for 2013. Sample the superior steaks of imported Australian beef, pork, chicken and even salmon now on this year’s ‘Top-10 Steak Menu’ at the KEE Kitchen, with prices starting from just B450! Open daily 6.30am-11pm, The KEE Resort & Spa, 076 335 888.

Weaves 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

Watch the evening sunlit ocean in the lavish and contemporary ambient atmosphere that is the Weaves restaurant. With its intimate low lit private dining, Weaves serves a variety of delectable Asian and International fusion cuisine, rich enticing desserts and tropical blended refreshments. Manathai Resort Phuket, Surin Beach, 076 270 900

The Bistro Restaurant

Tre by DoublePool 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

INTERNATIONAL

Baan Vijitt 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.

A menu of modern Mediterranean influences created by Chef Ryan 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

INDIAN

JAPANESE

Navrang Mahal

Tamarind Restaurant

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

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

A half-century old Sino-Portuguese style house at The Vijitt Resort Phuket offers a unique authentic experience of Thai cuisine with a focus on regional specialties. Thai Select Premium Award certifies the quality and standard of product and service here. The Vijitt Resort Phuket, Rawai; fb@vijittresort.com, 076 363 600

Talung Thai

Irish Times

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

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

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

WEIRD WORLD 11

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

THE BIG LIST Going underground Freedom, oil, gold... and now KFC. Digging tunnels in the earth is a dangerous business, but the rewards can be worth it.

Here are some deep facts about the most unusual tunnelling efforts in history.

The Great Escape: In March 1944, a total of 76 Allied prisoners of war escaped through a 120 metre tunnel from the Stalag Luft III POW camp at Sagan, in what is now Poland. The remote camp site was reportedly chosen by the Germans because tunnelling would be difficult, but the POW’s spent more than a year secretly digging three different tunnels, in case one or more were discovered by the guards. Dramatised after the war as the movie The Great Escape, the Stag Luft III bust-out was one of the most daring escapes of WWII, but not especially successful: of the 76 escapees, 73 were eventually recaptured.

Taliban tunnel: In 2011, more than 400 prisoners escaped from the Sarposa prison at Kandahar in Afghanistan – used to hold members of the Taliban and other militant fighters. The jail-break has been compared to the Stalag Luft III escapes, but the 350 metre-long tunnel was built from outside the prison, starting at a site on the far side of a highway, and was fitted with electricity cables for lighting and ventilation. The break-out wasn’t noticed for four hours, by which time most of the prisoners had been spirited away.

Dark matters: Engineers in the United States are building the world’s deepest laboratory for scientists researching one of the great mysteries of the universe. The lab is being built in the Black Hills of South Dakota, 1,500 metres below the surface in the old Homestead Gold Mine, which reaches as deep as 2,500 metres in places.

Scientists hope the instruments in the deep lab will be shielded from cosmic rays that could interfere with their experiments to detect “dark matter” particles, which make up about a quarter of the mass of the universe. (Photo: Sanford University) Great Russian bore: Engineers in the Soviet Union embarked on a mission to drill the deepest bore-hole in the world, mainly because the title was held at the time by a 9,500-metre oil bore in the US state of Oklahoma. The “Kola Superdeep Borehole” in Russia’s far northwest began in 1970 using special drilling rigs; it broke the Oklahoma record in 1979 and by 1989 it had reached a depth of 12,262 metres. Today it is still the deepest hole ever drilled, and the deepest artificial point on the earth, although some off-shore oil wells now have boreholes that reach deeper below sea level.

Digging deep: The deepest operating mine in the world is the TauTona gold mine in South Africa, west of Johannesburg, which reached 3,900 metres underground in 2008. The mine comprises more than 800 kilometres of tunnels, and miners working on the deepest rock faces take one hour to travel from the surface – including a journey in a lift cage that shoots down at almost 60 kilometres an hour.

Smuggling tunnels deliver KFC to Gaza

P

eople in the Gaza Strip can now order deliveries of Kentucky Fried Chicken, thanks to a new smuggling service which brings the takeout from Egypt through a network of underground tunnels.

It’s not exactly “fast” food – it takes several hours to arrive, and the Palestinian delivery company offering the service charges a hefty premium to cover the cost of fuel and transport.

“Last chance to order for the Thursday 6pm delivery is Wednesday night,” says the Yamama delivery firm on its Facebook page.

Yamama then orders the meals in a group – about 30 on a typical run – from the KFC outlet in the Egyptian city of El-Arish, about 40 kilometres away on the far side of the border with Egypt.

The border is closed to most traffic from the Gaza Strip, which has been under an Israeli blockade since 2007.

“We place the order with the restaurant in El-Arish, then drive it in a car to the Egyptian side of Rafah,” said Yamama director Khalil al-Ifranji.

“Someone takes it from there through the tunnels to [Gazan] Rafah. They then drive it to our headquarters [in Gaza City].” Motorbikes then deliver the food, with the entire process taking three to four hours.

Fast food is just the latest trend for smugglers seeking to turn a buck by bringing in hard-to-get products to the Gaza Strip.

Tight restrictions on Gazans entering Egypt mean those with a craving for chicken cooked to Colonel’s Secret Recipe can’t just pop over the border and pick up a bucket.

Instead, some residents seem quite happy to shell out 130 shekels (B1,040) for just 20 pieces of fried chicken – double what it costs in El-Arish.

There are no international fast food chains in Gaza.

“There are many orders,” said Ifranji. “People can’t travel regularly, and those who’ve tried this food really miss it. Those who haven’t, dream of it.”

For Gaza City resident Iyad Jaber, it’s a great idea.

“Whenever a KFC advert’s on TV, my wife tells me she wants to go to Egypt and have some,” says the 34-year-old civil servant.

When his wife heard Yamama advertising its new KFC smuggling service on the radio, she demanded he get some, saying she would wait forever if they saved up for a trip to El-Arish.

Yamama launched the service just three weeks ago after several friends came back from El-Arish with a KFC meal and suggested turning it into a business venture. Since then, the number of orders placed by the firm has been steadily climbing. (Photo: IDF)

Tourists picnic on drifting iceberg

R

escue workers in Iceland were surprised to find three American tourists stranded on an iceberg drifting in a glacial lagoon, seated at a dinner table laden with food.

Members of the Hornafjörður rescue team near Jökulsárlón in eastern Iceland had to hurry to get the tourists to safety as quickly as possible, as it was likely the berg would roll over and plunge them into the freezing water.

A spokesman for the rescue team said the four American tour-

ists set up a table and chairs on an ice floe along the shore of the lagoon, and prepared to eat dinner.

But a gust of wind pushed the ice floe out into the lagoon, leaving them stranded more than 10 metres from the shore.

One of the tourists managed to jump to shore before the ice drifted too far, and called the rescuers.

“When we arrived it was quite comical to see them sitting on chairs and with a table on an iceberg ... Yes the dinner was over,” said one of the rescuers.

He added he didn’t notice what they were eating because he was too busy getting life vests to them.

High-flying African witches told to go low

W

itches in Swaziland are forbidden from flying their broomsticks at altitudes of more than 150 metres from the ground, after a safety-minded government crack-down on supernatural aviators.

A spokesman for Swaziland’s aviation authority stated that any witch found flying a broomstick above 150 metres would be arrested and would face a fine of up to 500,000 rand (B1.6 million).

“A witch on a broomstick should not f ly above the limit,” Civil Aviation Authority Corporate Affairs Director Sabelo Dlamini told

the Star newspaper.

Witchcraft is taken seriously in Swaziland in southern Africa, where traditional witch doctors are licenced and pay an annual tax to the government.

Mr Dlamini revealed the policy in response to questions from reporters about a private detective who used a remote-controlled drone to take surveillance video.

Mr Dlamini explained that the drone was restricted by law to flying below 150 metres – the same limit imposed on toy aircraft, children’s kites, and witches on broomsticks, for example.

(Photo: Alejandro Linares)

12 TRAVEL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

Rebirth of a nation The 2025 kilometres from Yangon airport to a downtown hotel costs around B300.

Compare that to the average B400 for a quick, hair raising tuk-tuk trip up around the corner on Phuket and the betel chewing Yangon taxi driver (it suppresses the appetite so they can keep working) starts to look like providing pretty good value

W

orkers from Myanmar crammed onto the back of trucks are a common sight on Phuket. But their homeland has some surprising benefits – at least for visitors – that would make your average Phuketian envious… and drive many of those Myanmar workers home.

Where are all the motorbikes and tuk-tuks? No trucks crammed with hapless Burmese construction workers! Footpaths that are wide and actually walkable without threatening a broken ankle.

A bar without the obligatory bar girl hanging off every corner.

Overlooking it all the majesty of Yangon’s golden pagoda, an iconic reference point for visitors anywhere in the Myanmar capital, once known as Rangoon.

Hello to modern day Myanmar, source of the thousands of lowly paid Burmese workers on Phuket. For years, our home has been lauded as an island paradise, while Myanmar is seen as an undeveloped country – albeit one with huge potential – slowly emerging from decades of dark military rule.

But my how things have changed. Pick up one of the Yangon newspapers (from April 1, daily newspapers were allowed to publish uncensored) and democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi is pictured twice.

Myanmar tourism figures were up 44 per cent in the first four months of this year, with the largest single nationality group coming from… yes, Thailand.

And the missing motorbikes. Hard to find on the wide streets of Yangon. Apparently the military government wanted to cut down on accidents.

Outside the capital, like in Thailand, it is a different story. Whatever the reason, the madcap, take-yourlife-in-your-own-hands Phuket motorcycle mayhem is eerily missing from the streets of Yangon.

No tuk-tuks either. Instead, elegant single passenger bicycle contraptions ply the roads. Scenes from a by-gone era. Very Somerset Maugham-ish. Traffic also moves freely and evenly. No being stuck behind a grossly overloaded pickup, concrete truck or driver doing the standard 10kph over the Patong hill.

The cars, however, are a piece of work. Not quite in the Cuban bracket, where 1950s and 1960s style American dinosaurs still lumber about because of sanctions, but certainly circa late 1990s and early 2000s. Rather unsafe looking, small, mainly Japanese vehicles.

k Meinds ù

Weekly SET MENU, 2 courses with soft drink @ 375 Baht

*AUTHENTIC ITALIAN, GREAT ATMOSPHERE*

Myanmar taxi drivers seem to have borrowed their style of driving from their Vietnamese counterparts – top speed and plenty of sitting on the horn.

At least Phuket drivers are quieter. And the absence of traffic! Kilometre long tailbacks of cars at the Bypass Road underpass outside Central come to mind.

But unlike their Phuket brethren, Yangon taxis charge nowhere near the exorbitant fares of your average Phuket tuk-tuk or illegal ‘black’ taxi.

The 20-25 kilometres from Yangon airport to a downtown hotel costs around B300. Compare that to the average B400 for a quick, hair raising tuktuk trip up around the corner on Phuket and the betel chewing Yangon taxi driver (it suppresses the appetite so they can keep working) starts to look like providing pretty good value.

Out on the street farang spotting is almost a pointless exercise. They are there, walking the wide, unbroken footpaths past dilapidated, but still elegant and beautiful buildings from Myanmar’s British colonial past, but you need to go to bars like the elegant 50th Street bar to find locals sitting in special smoking

booths, working the still very slow Wi-Fi and playing checkers.

And, guess what? Not a bar girl in sight.

The Myanmarese (they don’t refer to the country as Burma) are smart. English in Yangon is very widespread – “It’s our British colonial heritage” says one young lady, eyes permanently on the iPhone and iPad that have spread like an internet virus throughout the land.

Ten years ago you could play a game of cricket in the time it took a web page to download. It’s still very slow, but help is at hand with large Telcos, such as Singtel of Singapore, vying for lucrative new contracts to bring Myanmar up to speed (with Thailand only just getting 3G, look out to be overtaken soon).

This is a country freed, at least partially, from the stifling yoke of military rule. The people are smart.

Look out Thailand. Look out Phuket.

There’s something positive happening to lure home those Myanmarese workers crammed onto the back of a truck like cattle that invoke guilt and horror every time they pass by. It’s the sound of a country being reborn.

Clockwise from top: Nighttime falls on Yangon, photo: soelin; hawkers sell their wares in a downtown market, photo: Stefan Munder; satellite dishes adorn rooftops, photo: McKay Savage; waiting for the train to come, photo: Stefan Munder

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

FILM 13

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

IN BRIEF

Ryan Gosling’s Bangkok movie booed at Cannes

Epic

Alice and the Faerie Queene FILM REVIEW Tom Metcalfe editor@classactmedia.co.th

DIRECTOR: Chris Wedge STARS: Amanda Seyfried Colin Farrell Beyoncé Knowles Christoph Waltz Aziz Ansari Chris O’Dowd Steven Tyler RUNS: 102 minutes

T

his woodland fairy tale is not nearly as “epic” as its title suggests. Although the trailer hints at a passionate tale amid the melancholy splendours of a hidden world, what you get in the theatres is an inane and formulaic fairy-story quest through an annoyingly twee fantasy garden populated by “daisy people” and “mushroom people” and talking slugs.

While I accept that I’m not in the carefully-calculated demographic for this movie, which must be eight-to-ten year-old girls with few other entertainment options, it’s hard to imagine that even the target audience will find very much to like here.

Since the success of Pixar’s Toy Story, producers have been quick to exploit the malleability of animated movies. Thanks to digital animation, no character, landscape or plot event is impossible – and you don’t need an expensive star to play a talking slug.

Even better, animated movies are perfectly adapted for marketing toys, books and other spin-offs to children – surely one of the main reasons why Epic was made at all.

It sure wasn’t the story. The movie is based The Leaf Men and the Brave Good Bugs, a book written by millionaire children’s author William Joyce, who is also the executive producer and screenplay writer of Epic.

One might pity director Chris Wedge, charged with making an “epic adventure” from his bosses’ uninspired tale about little soldier men who fly on hummingbirds protecting the life-force of the forest from rotwielding goblins (called “boggans” here).

Our attachment point for this sub-scale adventure is needy adolescent Mary Katherine (Amanda Seyfried), known as ‘M.K.’ She’s gone to live with her father, a crackpot boffin

studying... tiny soldiers who fly on hummingbirds. But M.K doesn’t believe this nonsense.

Oh, how wrong she is! Like Alice in Alice in Wonderland, MK is shrunk down by the magical overlord of the forest, Queen Tara, a tiny Texan Gloriana and Barbie doll voiced by pop-singer Beyoncé Knowles – and the most stupidly annoying character ever in an animated movie, redeemed only by the fact that she dies and disappears a few minutes later.

But not before she’s put the “life of the forest” into a random seed pod - and M.K., naturally, is the Chosen One who will carry this pod to Mordor, or wherever it needs to go.

She’s escorted on her quest by the chief hummingbird rider, Ronin (Colin Farrell), and the talking slug (Aziz Ansari) and snail (Chris O’Dowd). They’re off to see a wise caterpillar (Aerosmith dinosaur Steve Tyler), who riddles like Yoda but looks like Jabba the Hutt.

One bright light in this terrible sludge is the boss boggan Mandrake (Christoph Waltz), who raves that the traditional balance of nature must come to an end for a new “age of rot” to blossom. After the scenes with Queen Beyonce, you can understand his point.

What stops me from giving just one star to Epic is the technical work and animation.

Blue Sky have made some excellent movies, including the Ice Age series and the wonderful Rio in 2011. Here, the animators do their best with the hummingbirds and daisy people and all the rest, and manage, somehow, to rise above the unpromising raw material.

The character art follows an awkward line between cartoony and realistic, but that’s one of the least of the problems with Epic: the biggest are that’s it’s a boring and wasteful exercise in by-the-numbers film-making, that’s likely to be be quickly forgotten, even by the children it’s targeted at.

Lesbian love story wins Cannes top prize

A

sexually graphic lesbian love story, “Blue is the Warmest Colour” by French-Tunisian director Abdellatif Kechiche, won the top prize Sunday at the Cannes Film Festival in a pivotal year for gay rights.

Jury president Steven Spielberg said the coming-of-age tale about a 15-yearold French girl’s first love, an older woman, had been a unanimous choice.

Tunis-born Kechiche dedicated the prize to the youth of France, and the revolutionaries of the Arab Spring.

“They also have this aspiration to live free, to express themselves freely

and to love in full freedom,” he said, adding later that he hoped the film would also be distributed in socially conservative Tunisia.

The runner-up award, the Grand Prix, went to Joel and Ethan Coen’s

SFX Coliseum Phuket (Central Festival) Epic (3D/E) [G] 11:00, 13:10, 15:20, 17:30, 19:40 The Great Gatsby (D/E) [15+] 17:45, 21:50 Iron Man 3 (E) [G] 16:10, 21:30 Rue Doo Tee Chan Ngao (T/E sub) [15+] 20:40 Star Trek Into Darkness (E) [13+] 13:30, 18:50 Fast & Furious 6 (E) [15+] 11:20, 14:00, 16:40, 19:20, 22:00, 22:50 Fast & Furious 6 (E/F) [15+] 12:40, 15:20, 18:00, 20:40 Fast & Furious 6 (T) [15+] 10:40, 11:40, 12:30, 13:20, 14:15, 14:20, 15:10, 16:00, 17:00, 17:05,

17:50, 18:40, 19:40, 19:45,20:30, 21:20, 22:20, 23:10

Inside Llewyn Davis starring Carey Mulligan, Justin Timberlake and Oscar Isaac in the title role of a luckless folk singer in 1960s New York. The Coens’ Barton Fink won at Cannes in 1991 and they were in the running in 2007 with No Country for Old Men. Mexico’s Amat Escalante claimed best director for the ultra-violent “Heli” about his country’s blooddrenched drug wars.

French actress Berenice Bejo won the best actress prize as a Parisian mother in Oscar winner Asghar Farhadi’s family drama, The Past. AFP

Boos rang out at the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday for a blood-spattered revenge tale starring Ryan Gosling as a US fugitive running a Bangkok drugs racket. Only God Forgives left many in the auditorium wincing or unable to watch, although some lines sparked unintended laughter. Danish director Nicholas Winding Refn, who made the 2011 hit Drive with Gosling, defended his movie, saying he felt powerless to resist a compulsion to depict violence on screen. “Art is an act of violence. Art is about penetration. Art is about speaking to our subconscious and our needs at different levels,” he said.

Leo DiCaprio into space

Leonardo DiCaprio will be getting closer to stars of a different kind as he heads into space aboard the Virgin Galactic spacecraft – and a well-heeled bidder at the Cannes Film Festival has paid 1.2 million euros (B46 million) to go with him.

A sub-orbital trip with the Hollywood star was among 20 goodies up for grabs at a celebrity gala auction at Cannes to raise money for AIDS research. Other big-ticket items were a role as an extra in four Hollywood movies, including a feature starring DiCaprio; a private concert for 45 people by Simon Le Bon and John Taylor of Duran Duran; and a game of six-a-side football against a team led by Zinedine Zidane.

‘Fast and Furious’ leads holiday weekend

Moviegoers raced to see Fast & Furious 6 as it debuted over the Memorial Day weekend and earned a massive US$98.5 million (B3 billion) at the box-office. Second place went to the debauched bachelors of The Hangover Part III, which earned US$42.4 million (B1.26 billion). Third place went to Star Trek Into Darkness. which earned US$38 million (B1.1 billion) as it fell from first place last week. AFP

US BOX OFFICE TOP 10 Film

Gross

1

Fast & Furious 6

$122M

$122M

2

The Hangover Part III

$51M

$62.5M

3

Star Trek Into Darkness

$48M

$157M

4

Epic

$44M

$44M

5

Iron Man 3

$24.6M

$373M

6

The Great Gatsby

$17.2M

$118M

7

Mud

$2.5M

$15.2M

8

The Croods

$1.61M

$180M

9

42

$1.6M

$91.4M

10 Oblivion

$1.05M

$87.5M

SFC Jungceylon Phuket (Patong) Epic (3D/E) [G] Fast & Furious 6 (E) [15+] The Great Gatsby (D/E) [15+] Iron Man 3 (E) [G] Lincoln (E) [G] Star Trek Into Darkness (E) [13+]

Weekend gross

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

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, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

Jeremy Healy returns to Phuket for Xana’s black and gold party

J

eremy Healy has enjoyed a colourful career as a DJ and producer of dance music. He has circumnavigated the globe more than once, headphones in hand, delivering energetic performances to packed dance floors in some of the world’s finest venues. Throughout his career he has enjoyed a relationship with the fashion industry, becoming the go-to DJ for high profile shows, where his ability to plan as well as execute the perfect catwalk accompaniment is legendary. We caught up with Jeremy ahead of his latest gig at Xana with Attica, next Friday (June 7) for their Black and Gold party.

Well the biggest show of the year is always the Victoria’s Secret fashion TV show, 20 million viewers last year, so that’s quite a buzz. Obviously that is a huge production with many artists collaborating on it.

We’ve had Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake, Rhianna, Jay Z, Kanye, Beyonce, you name them. It’s fantastic.

What are your tips for dealing with jet lag?

Melatonin. I won’t take sleeping pills, but these are herbal and help you to drift off nicely.

Which producers are exciting you musically at the moment?

I am diggin’ ‘Mozart’s House’ by Clean Bandit.

You’ve played in Asia several times in the last decade, how has the scene evolved?

I first played in Asia way back in 1993 at Zouk in Singapore, I guess that must be the daddy of all Asian clubs. Then we would go on to Double Six in Bali, and end up playing pubs in Australia. Rough and ready but a lot of fun, that is how it started.

Ibiza is the clubbing capital of the world, but Phuket has been cited as a potential Ibiza in Asia, is that something you would agree with?

Over the Christmas period there are probably more people partying in Phuket than Ibiza, the weather is better.

Having been at the top of your game for years, how do you maintain your hunger for DJing?

It’s just such a joyful thing, I love being in the middle.

Pet

Do you still have a passion for finding and chasing new tunes?

That’s my homework, the boring bit but it’s gotta be done. When you find something good – eureka.

You have been the go-to DJ for many of the top designers. What challenges does a fashion show offer different to a normal club party?

A fashion show is more like a silent film you colour with music, that can be emotional or a soundscape, to take you somewhere else. As opposed to DJing, which is all about getting everyone on that dance floor.

Which do you prefer, playing for the dance floor or the catwalk and why?

What are the first three things into your case when you set off on a long tour?

Computer, Serato and headphones – otherwise there’s no show.

Jeremy Healy is hosting Xana with Attica’s Black and Gold party on June 7. The event starts at 9pm and entrance is free. All those dressing up will receive a 2-for-1 drinks coupon on the door and there will be prizes on the night for the best dressed. For more information visit xanabeachclub.com or Facebook, ‘Xana Beach Club with Attica’.

A day of frisbee fun

of the week T

SPONSORED

he Phuket News speaks to the head of middle school at Phuket International Academy Day School (PIADS), Dan Magie, before Sunday’s Ultimate Frisbee Day at Xana Beach Club.

Tell us about the Ultimate Frisbee Day on June 2 – what’s it all about?

This Sunday’s Ultimate Frisbee Day is about having fun with Phuket community members of all ages. PIADS’ students and teachers enjoy being active and many of us enjoy the beach.

Connecting with Xana Beach Club to host this upcoming event in Phuket allows us to do both while hopefully also meeting other Phuket community members.

T

Who is the event open to, and do you need to have any experience to join in?

This event is open to anyone who would like to “throw” and “catch” a frisbee while playing on a team with others. We will organise the event so that people who have never played and people who do play regularly can work together in a team. No experience necessary!

his handsome 10-month-old Beagle, named Captain Woulfe, belongs to Phuket-based designer Brian Woulfe. You can follow Captain on Instagram: #captainwoulfe

Want to see your pet here? Email a photo to editor1@classactmedia.co.th

Where does Ultimate Frisbee come from and how is it different to normal Frisbee?

Ultimate Frisbee began in New Jersey in the late 1960s when a couple of high

school students “invented” it. According to Wikipedia the first collegiate match was played between Rutgers and Princeton in 1972.

In Ultimate Frisbee, you take the skills from playing “normal” Frisbee and add them to a team event. There are two teams both attempting to advance the Frisbee to their end zone to score points.

As long as the team with the Frisbee continues to throw and catch the Frisbee, it is theirs. The defence can attempt to steal the Frisbee in the air and/or place pressure on the offence to cause them to drop the Frisbee.

It is important to note that Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact sport, which means that when the defence applies pressure, they must do so without touching their opponents.

Why do you think it’s important for children to get into sport?

Sport provides many health benefits to us all, not only children. However, being active is a habit that can last a lifetime if children are introduced to activities that they enjoy at a young age.

The Ultimate Frisbee Day takes place on Sunday, June 2. Registration starts at 1pm, with the event taking place from 2-6pm. There will be a barbecue available for B740 net, and an ice-cream stand. There will be a free buffet for the winners. Children 0-5 eat for free, and ages 5-12 for half price. For more information, email info@pia.ac.th; info@xanabeachclub. com or visit xanabeachclub.com

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

ISLAND SCENE 15

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

FINDING YOUR ZEN Zen Sisters jewellery was launched at The Surin hotel on Thursday (May 23) to an appreciative crowd of guests.

Leah Douglas, Helen Richardson and Samantha Jane.

Sue Richardson tries out the jewellery.

NEW OFFICE IN PHUKET

The launch of the new Coco Kamala sales office in Surin was held on May 16. Pictured in the photo from left are Robert Krupica, Partner of Hughes Krupica; Dexter Norville, National Director, Head of Estate Management from Jones Lang Lasalle; Kenneth Gondry, Sales Manager of Phuket.net real estate; Angus Keeling, Partner of Coco Kamala; Authanop Pankamnerd, Managing Director of Coco Kamala; and Tomas Noren, Sales Manager of Jones Lang Lasalle.

ELEPHANT SPOTTING Phuket band Elephant in the Room held its one year anniversary at The Village, Coconut Island on May 25, with all proceeds going to the Ban Sri Thammarat Orphanage. Photos: Ilse Maria Gibson

16 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 31,2013 2013 FRIDAY, MAY

SPREADING THE TEAM SUPPORT The Phuket FC team dropped by the Class Act Media office on May 23 to spread a little Phuket Saksee (Phuket Pride) spirit. Holding the official team T-shirt are Phuket FC’s Sasiratdha Limrattanamekha and Class Act Media Managing Director Simon Samaan.

HELPING HAND The Phuket Has Been Good to Us Foundation held a thank you party for their volunteers at Ocean Beach Club, Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa.

Singto Numchok with some of his fans.

Amy Bensema, Stu’s wife Cathy Coles-Clark and Becky Antrobus.

DOING IT FOR STU A charity auction to raise money for injured expat Stu Clark was held at Cafe Janduan on May 21.

Stu was injured in a motorbike crash in early April. A combined amount of B350,000 was raised from both last week’s auction and a concert by Thai musician Singto Numchok held on May 18.

Cherry and Jon Fowler and Eric Haeg.

From left, Cristy Baker, Malia Thanatram, Cathy Coles-Clark, Natasha Eldred and Tina Hall.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

ISLAND SCENE 17

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

SIX OF THE BEST Chefs from six restaurants and hotels across the island – Anantara, Paresa, Joe’s Downstairs, Pullman Arcadia, Taste and Vset – cooked at Paresa in Kamala on Saturday (May 25) to raise money for the Good Shepherd Learning Center in Phuket Town.

India Wilson, 10, played “Gavotte”.

MAKING MUSIC Students from Siobhan’s Music Studio performed at their annual recital on Sunday (May 26) at the Underwood Art Factory on the bypass road.

Max Cloesen, 12, performed “Jingle Bells”.

Tropical Voices sang “Make the World Move”. From left, Gemma Kealy, Olivia de Perthuis, Victoria Margo, Hannah Willoch, Georgia Franck and Teuri Horwood.

Shion Yamada, 11, played “I Knew You Were Trouble”.

Zoe Wittmer and Maddie MacMillan, both 8, sang “On The Good Ship Lollipop”.

18 EVENTS

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

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Fobissea Primary Games 6 - 8 June 2013 Hosted by

British International School Phuket, Thailand Thu. Thu. Fri. Sat.

info@bisphuket.ac.th

6 June AM. 6 June PM. 7 June 8 June

Tel: +66(0)7633 5555

Athletics Swimming T-Ball Football

www.bisphuket.ac.th

FRIDAY MAY 31

Bar/B/Q from 4pm. Free pool table. Happy hour 12pm-6pm. Karaoke. Everybody welcome. 62 Hasib Pee Road, Patong. Call Khun Joon for more Info 082 286 5171.

other Wednesday night 8pm at the Black Dog Bar, Soi C&N, off Rat-u-thit road, Patong. Meet all the regular ex-pats and ladies for lots of fun. Call Joon on 082 286 5171.

MONDAY JUN 3

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

Curry Fridays at Navrang Mahal Every Friday, all-you-can-eat authentic Indian curry buffet, B449 net per person.

7pm-11.30pm. Call 076 286 464.

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.

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.

TUESDAY JUN 4

SATURDAY JUN 1

Wednesday Ribs We cure the ribs on Wednesday, dry rub them on Tuesday and smoke them for 6 hours on Wednesday then massage them with our Kentucky Bourbon BBQ sauce.

Full rack set: 3 course set with corn chowder and bread pudding souffle: B1,500++ per person. Must reserve. For residents order one kg full rack on Friday for takeaway on Wednesday. Pick up and pay at SALA Beach Bar 5pm-6.30pm (Happy hour) B750 net. Sorry, you must take away. Make a reservation or book your ribs with events@ salaphuket.com, no phone calls please.

Half Chicken Spit Roast

MOONSHINE @DIAMOND BEACH CLUB Join us at DIAMOND Beach Club Saturday, June 1st for the first edition of MOONSHINE! Come experience the sights, sounds and visions of Phuket most elite Beach Club. The night will host a variety of special live performances and international guest DJs all to stimulate your mind, body and soul. Come dance, socialize and drink the night away under the MOONSHINE! 084 745 6934.

BBQ at Expat Hotel

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.

8pm, Expat Sports Bar, Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com.

WEDNESDAY JUN 5

SUNDAY JUN 2

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.

daily event updates on Sunday Chillout Session Sunsets Bar & Gusthouse (Patong). Chillout session every Sunday. Live music. Free

Enjoy Wednesday Night Free BBQ, fish and chips or buffet every

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

List your event for FREE at thephuketnews.com

EVENTS 19

End of Year Show Phuket Art Village

FRIDAY JUN 14

KIS is proud to present our End of Year Show ‘Red Riding Hood in Fairy Land’.

We would like to invite all members of the Phuket community to come and join in and support our children on this family fund raising event. The performance starts at 6.30pm on June 28 at our Kathu Campus. There is no ticket fee but we will be collecting donations on the evening for ‘The Good Shepherd Phuket’.

Please contact us via email to reserve seats for the show. We hope to see you there! Contact : Kajonkiet International School Phuket, Cherish, Call 082 425 0104, 089 652 7599. ip@kajonkietsuk sa.ac.th, http://kajonkietsuksa.ac.th/kis/. into a carnival playground. Enjoy the bouncy castle, and games in the Kidz Lounge.

Festival attractions planned include art classes with Artist-in-Residence, Zumba fitness sessions in Latitude Marquee, theme parties and more.

And a popular return attraction for the youngsters at this year’s Festival will be the Kidz Fun Zone, serving up afternoons of sports skills, cooking lessons, adventure and educational activities, golf excursions and outings to local amusement parks, from just B200 per session. See lagunaphuket.com/events/family-festival.

Tor Kong is a God of Devil. The seventh lunar month in the Chinese calendar is believed to be the period when spirits are released. The gates are opened and spirits released to wander or revisit homes.

During the festival, people bring food and nicely-decorated fruits to make offerings to Por Tor Kong to pass onto those spirits. An essential offering for the festival is a red turtle-shaped cake, large or small. They believe that turtles symbolise longevity.

SAT OCT 5 - SUN OCT 13

MONDAY JULY 22 IBAP meeting Phuket's Powerful Women The June meeting of IBAP will be especially interesting as we hear from local author, and colorful character, Colin Mackay. Mr Mackay shall give a historical presentation explaining why women on Phuket and Thailand are comparatively so successful and powerful. Mr Mackay will also present several interesting anecdotes that have revealed themselves. All welcome. More info at http://ibap-phuket.org

SAT JUN 29 - SAT AUG 31

Asalaha Bucha Day It celebrates the first sermon given by the Lord Buddha on the full moon day of the Asalaha (the eighth lunar month). On that day, all Three of the Triple Gem, The Buddha, The Dhamma and The Sangha, had established. It became the day that honoured the Sangha, or the community of the monks.

MONDAY AUGUST 12 HM the Queen’s Birthday Commemorates the birthday of Queen Sirikit, also observed as National Mother’s Day (Wan Mae Haeng Chart). It is a public holiday.

WED AUG 21 - TUE AUG 27

Laguna Summer Family Festival Laguna Phuket’s Summer Family Festival rocks into action on Saturday 29 June, heralding the launch of a two-month treasure trove of fun and games for kids, together with a host of entertainment options for Mums and Dads. Right through until 31 August, Latitude Marquee is transformed

Loi Krathong Festival Loi Krathong is one of the most beautiful festivals in Thailand. The event occurs on the full-moon night of the 12th lunar month.

The festival originates from Sukhothai Province. Loy means to float and Krathong is a lotus-shaped boat made from banana leaves. The festival is of Brahmin origin to honour Mae Khongkha, the Mother Goddess of the Waters. Before people float their krathong, they make a wish. It is believed that the krathongs carry away sins and bad luck.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is an annual event held during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar. It is believed that the vegetarian festival and its accompanying sacred rituals bestow good fortune upon those who religiously observe this rite. During this time, local residents of Chinese ancestry strictly observe a 10-day vegetarian or vegan diet for the purposes of spiritual cleansing and merit-making. Sacred rituals are performed at various Chinese shrines and temples and aesthetic displays such as walking barefooted over hot coals and ascending ladders with bladed rungs are performed by entranced devotees known as “Ma Song”.

Chulalongkorn Day Ethnic Chinese in Phuket believe that Por

SUNDAY NOV 17

EVERY DAY

WEDNESDAY OCT 23 Por Tor Festival

Bangkok and in the provinces. Piya Maharat is the nickname for the King, meaning the beloved great king.

A public holiday in remembrance of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in 1910. Thai people lay flower wreaths at his statue in

Enjoy Daily at Expat Hotel Watch live sports with our five large screen choices of sports. Two pool tables and pool competition every Friday at 9pm and enjoy BBQ every Saturday from 8pm onwards. Rock music, good food and much more. Soi Tai pan near the top of Soi Bangla, Patong.

daily event updates on

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

20 TIME OUT

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013 FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

This week in history

GOT YOUR NUMBER

110

Weight in millions of tonnes of one teaspoonful of neutron star material.

108

Litres of absolute alcohol that can be extracted from a tonne of potatoes.

33

Percentage of the world’s food crops that are eaten by insects in a typical year.

1

Number of times a year that every citizen of Kentucky must – by law – taka a bath.

Contemporary painting of the British ironclad Nemesis destroying Chinese war junks in the First Opium War.

■■ May 31, 1279 BC Ramesses II becomes pharaoh of Egypt after the death of his father, Seti I. He will become the most powerful pharoah in Egyptian history.

■■ June 1, 1495 Friar John Cor, a Tironensian monk of Lindoers Abbey in Fife, Scotland, records an order from the King to supply “aqua vitae VIII bolls of malt” – the first written record of Scotch whisky.

■■ June 2, 1953 Britain’s Elizabeth II is crowned Queen of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Her Other Realms and Territories, & Head of the Commonwealth. It is the first major international event to be televised.

■■ June 3, 1839 Chinese official Lin Zexu destroys 1,200 tonnes of opium confiscated from British merchants, sparking the First Opium War. ■■ June 4, 1783 Brothers Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Etienne Montgolfier make the first unmanned public flight of their Montgolfière hot-air balloon.

■■ June 5, 1967 The Israeli airforce launches simultaneous preemptive attacks on the airforces of Egypt and Syria, the opening shots of the Six Day War. ■■ June 6, 1985 The grave of “Wolfgang Gerhard” is exhumed in Brazil. The remains are later shown to be those of Josef Mengele, Auschwitz’s “Angel of Death”, thought to have drowned while swimming in 1979.

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. Monroe’s successor 6. Yammers 10. “Hamlet” has five 14. Storyteller 15. Unsightly 16. Binary 17. High enders 20. Fifth-century scourge 21. Border monitors (abbr.)

22. Absorbed, as a cost 23. Caesar’s meal starters?

26. Bach composition 28. ___-l’Eglise, France 31. E or G, e.g.

32. International language 33. ___-time low 34. “Seize ___!”

35. Arctic jacket 38. High enders 42. ___-proof 43. Caviar source 44. Afflict 45. Gathered dust 46. Black gold 47. Dutch pottery city 49. 1940s-60s world leader

1. The month of April is named after which goddess?

2. In which country are Husqvarna motorcycles made?

3. Which two seas does the Suez Canal connect?

4. Where did the bowler hat get its name?

5. Who wrote the novella A Clockwork Orange?

Answers at the foot of the page.

SUDOKU

51. Dorm room staple 53. “We ___ the World” 54. Dash 56. Plaudits 60. High enders 64. 1952 Olympics host 65. Home, informally 66. Heart chambers 67. Western or Buy 68. Arabic miracle 69. Leather whip Down 1. Eastern pooh-bah 2. “Dang!”

3. Common contraction 4. Fashionable 5. Funeral slabs 6. Pursue relentlessly 7. “Give it ___!”

8. Disheveled 9. Harmonize 10. Play title word 11. Relating to a steward 12. Spoonful, say 13. Cold shower?

18. Spicy stew 19. Corn dish 24. Like, with “to”

25. Mark for misconduct 27. Aroma 28. Truth 29. Scat queen, to friends 30. Hinged dredgers 34. “And I Love ___” (1964 tune) 35. Mature 36. “___ I care!”

37. Early European 39. Bandy words 40. Hoaxes 41. Lady Macbeth, e.g.

46. Fish hawk 47. Strip of potency 48. Crude stone artifact 49. Bigwig 50. Clear, as a disk 52. “Andy Capp” cartoonist Smythe 55. “Empedocles on ___” (Matthew Arnold poem) 57. City on the Yamuna River 58. Dilute 59. Alone 61. Auction offering 62. ___ Today 63. Utmost

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz:

1. Aprodite; 2. Sweden; 3. Mediterranean and Red Sea; 4. hatmakers Thomas and William Bowler; 5. Anthony Burgess.

SUNDAYS

SATURDAYS What’s On @ The Weekend

10am-1pm

Non Stop Music

12am-10am

Phuket News Radio

1pm-2pm

What’s On @ The Weekend

10am-12pm

Box Of Neutrals

2pm-3pm

Weekend Brunch

12pm-3pm

11am-12pm

Going Green

3pm–5pm

Phuket News Radio

3pm-4pm

12pm-3pm

Best of Breakfast with Sam and Kirsty

5pm–7pm

Easy Sunday with Andy Saunders

4pm-6pm

7pm-10pm

Sunday Night Chill

6pm-9pm

Non Stop Music

9pm-7am

WEEKDAYS Breakfast with Sam & Kirsty The Power Hour Lifestyle with Steve Johnston

7am-11am

Drive with Jason Wilder

3pm-7pm

Dance Anthems

Non Stop Music

7pm-7am

Saturday Night Fever

10pm-midnight

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 17

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Property PROPERTY FOR RENT

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FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @thephuketnews

For Rent Villa in Cherng Talay: Villa in Cherng Talay, Rental - Longterm or shore term. Price: B90,000 per month ( long ) B150,000 Short term. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms Internal area: 472 sq. metre on 1.2 Rai gated land. Call +66 (81) 892 0534.

Near Beach 3 Bed Pool Villa: Fully equipped holiday home

Panwa. 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 1 livingroom, kitchen and diningroom for 8-12 people, outdoor relaxroom for sunset meetings (no pool, in repair) and 2-rooms condo. See phuketbeach living.com.

with private garden and pool. Within easy reach of Rawai and Nai Harn beach. For full details and pictures, please contact 084 850 1340.

Superb ocean view Lux Penhouse: B148,000 per sqm, 288 sqm 3 B e d H o u s e Te r m Fu n Cherntaly: Main bed & sitting room both air con, large kitchen. Newly renovated. Part furnished. 10 minutes. from Laguna, 15 minutes. from Surin Beach. 12,000 per month, minimum 12 moths. 087 272 5250. phetmeekha@ yahoo.com.

Beach Condo, Beach 3 Min. Walk: Spacious 2-bedroom apartment for rent, long or short term, fully furnished, kitchen, 2 bathrooms. Pool, large gardens, parking, a mere 3 minute stroll to scenic Nai Harn beach. resortgm@gmail.com.

New House for Sales:

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.

Beach House & Beach Condo For Rent: Beach house in Cape

Vassana Residence. 2 Bedroom: Luxury 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Apartment. Sea view, Swimming pool, Whirlpool. Wi-Fi, Cable TV. Only 3 Apartments in complex. Call Eng. 087 882 9604, Rus. 084 443 6811 artlpmj@yahoo.com.

The Courtyard: Upper floor 10 m showroom frontage Floor area 100 s m with air/cons. Contact Khun Siriporn 081 691 0213, siriporn@islandfurni ture-phuket.com, www.thecourtyardphuket.com.

of heaven plunge pool, 3 bed, 4 bath overlooking perfect panoramic ocean views. Beach shops, fabulous restaurants, nightlife all a 3 minutes walk.

B42,624,000. Contact: 088 761 4030 or imgphuket@gmail.com.

Comfortable 4 bedrooms villa, plus maid room. Approx. 450Sq.M building, corner plot, energy saving, management service available for investor.

Located in secured gate community, near British International school. info@ mindproperties.net.

bedrooms,granite top kitchen,outdoor seating,100" home cinema, LED Lighting system,Tv's,LAN & Audio every room,alarm,3 phase electric. close to Laguna 0862662786.

ACG Cricket Ground:

Kathu Anuphas Golf Ville, fully furnished, 15 min to Patong, 15 min to Phuket Town, 20 min to Intern. School.

THB 30,000/month long term. Available immediately. Contact 087 892 6899.

Patong Lof t Rent /Sale: Beautiful 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms Condo, Fully furnished complete with kitchen utensils, microwave, coffee machine, toaster etc, bed sheets, towels for 4 people, internet, tv etc.

Call 081 4326587, 081 8915602

Sea View Land for Sale: Ao Makham. 5.5 rai, B10 million per rai.

Contact Siriporn 089 649 9939, email: siri_phuket@changrunner.com

Beautiful home in Phuket 5.9m: Spacious open plan home - 4

(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 B9.9 - B12 million. Rent: from B85,000 - B120,000 per month. 088 751 2389.

3 Bedroom House for rent:

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

Price Reduced, 4beds Villa:

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

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

Rawai Pool Villa For Sale:

House for Sale - Chalong: 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 mil lion, f irm. Contact: peterb@inter globalau.com, 084 843 3492.

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 ensuite, 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.

Pool Villa Rawai:

Urgent 2 New Apartments 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.

Kalim Sea View, Freehold Condo for Sale/Rent: B11.9 million, 2 minutes walk to beach, big balcony and sunset view, 180 sqm, 2 ensuite bedrooms, big living space.

PhuketAREA.com, search V146.

Accommodation Available: Patong Tower apartment for long term rent. Fully furnished with kitchenette, security, parking etc. Right in the middle of Patong.

More info call 076 344 922 or visit bluewaterphuket.com.

Three bedroom modern home available for long Term Rental. This Pool Villa is close to B.I.S. Central private location. Please check out website for more details. Contact Dianne 089 469 810. https://smore.com/r5ts.

Long Term Rental:

3-storey Shophouse:

372 m2 Ideal for office or appartment / office.

All floors with air condition, bathrooms, phone lines, local phone network, internet, cable TV and office furniture.

Sell by owner direct. Call 081 958 3310.

Luxury Ocean View Apartments for Rent in Kata and Karon: 1 or 2 bdrm, 2 bathrm, kitchen, large balcony, parking, 24 hrs security, gymnasium, swimming pool. Ph: 076 486 624 and 086 281 9311. Email: bao200@gmail.com.

Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Room, Office/Study, Upstairs Balcony, Large Car Park, High Walls & Electric Security Gate. MUST SEE! See propertyforsalephuket.co.uk.

Luxury 3 Bedroom Pool Villa: Located 4 km from Layan Beach, just outside Laguna, this new villa is available for long term rent. www.baanboosakorn.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE

N i c e H o u s e + Po o l Fo r Sale: House with Pool for sale at Land & House area 119 sqm. Sale for B13,000,000. Contact 086 036 3944 and 086 282 7457 Khun Touch.

Beach Land on Koh Yao Yai: 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.

Luxury Condo Rent / Sale: 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 – B63,500 Buy: B8,500,000 – B11,500,000.

Contact 086 268 7901 or send e-mail to: condophuket@yahoo.com.

2 Bed Thai Style House, Rawai: 110m2 Thai Style House, 2

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. See property forsalephuket.co.uk.

For rent in Patong Andaman Beach Suite Condo Patong Beach, Phuket: Has kitchenette, ter-

race, TV, CD player, telephone, WIFI, has full use of hotel facilities, restaurant, room service, swimming pool, tennis courts and gym.

120mt to beach, 5 minutes to Patong. email penthouse2102@gmail. com, 089 972 3861, 089 570 1519.

Main road from Karon to Patong-Close to Simon Cabaret.

Surin Beach Office For Sale: Prime location Sales of-

fice/ shop. Internal 144 m2, back garden 60 m2, 4 car parks, kitchen, internet, phone/ fax, TV, 5 AC. 6 yrs lease then 3 years rolling, rent B35,000, sale B1.5 million. Call 085 060 0033.

Multi Functional Building Total 700 sqm (15 metre front)

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.

1-floor 350.sqm with 3 toilets.

2-floor 350.sqm with 2 toilets.

For visit SMS (French) 080 035 1626 English 081 788 8280, Email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com For Russian contact: Oxana: 080 529 0726 Email:phuket.lux@gmail.com

18 CLASSIFIEDS

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PROPERTY IN PHUKET

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Nai Harn Baan Bua: Patong Free Hold Condo:

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.

Studio condo on 4th floor 50s/m.

Huge swimming pool, beautiful gardens, completly renovated new tiles, light, painting, new furniture, kitchen, shower and toilet. B2.5 million, Eng 085 471 9246, Thai 087 621 3405.

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.

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.

When only the best will do! 4 bed/pool villa in Phuket’s best-kept gated community. 410 sq.mtr villa. 812 sq.mtr land.

Overlooking lagoon. Beautiful. Call 081 270 4291. Email: thailandmls@ gmail.c om, w w w.phuketpremium realestate.com.

Villa with Pool for Sale: FreeBudget Bungalows: Two BunS i n g l e H o u se S p e c i a l Price Rent/Sale: Nice house Sales Down Payment Dcondo Mine: 7th floor. with pool & lake view. Fully furnished, near Kajonkiet International School, Tesco Lotus, Big C. 10 mins to Patong. Move in Mar 2014. Only B99k. Contact: 081 694 4144, 081 307 7247, email: suthipow@yahoo.com

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.

galows in Chalong.2-3 bedrooms.

Close to all amenities.One has room for a pool,the other is like a rain forest. From only B2,300,000. Call 081 270 4291. Email: thailandmls @gmail.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.

Hillside setting. Luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom pool villa for sale or rent.

Sale B20 million. Rent minimum 6 months. High season 90K per month.

Twelve months or more 70K PM. 087 078 6379.

SPECIAL TWIN VILLAS. 3 OR 4 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS. POOL, LARGE TERRACE, SMALL GARDEN. LIVING SPACE 400 SQM, LUXURY FURNISHED. PRICE B8,500,000. FREEHOLD.

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.

INFO: 081 788 8280. EMAIL: thewhitehousekata@gmail. com.

Five Bed Luxury Villa For Sale: NEW. Beautiful Lakeside Villa in SURIN BEACH. Private Estate. 5 Bedroom En-suite. Unique Architectural Style. Private Pool. THB 35.7m. To view call 083 636 0245 or villasurin7@ gmail.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.

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

2 Pool Villas next to PIA:

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.

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.

N ew Condo Kat hu For Sale/Rent: Sansiri D Condo Kathu, Fully furnished Studio type 29.7 sq.m. on 6th Floor, good facilities with fitness gym and large swimming pool. Only 5 minute to Patong, Lotus, Big C, Central. By owner. Call 086 105 8144.

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.

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

B e a u t i f ul V i l l a R awa i:

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

Urgent-3 Bedroom House for sale: 3 Bed, 3 Bath, 4 aircon,

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.

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.

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).

Rawai Great Buying: Lovely house with 2 bedrooms or separate SC flat downstairs.Well ventilated with natural light in pristine condition. Distant sea views. B5,500,000.

Call 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@ gmail.com. See phuketpremium realestate.com.

Beautiful 2 bed pool villa with sep maid’s room or 3rd b/room. Great outdoor entertaining area. 5 minutes to all conveniences. Reduced to B9,500,000. Call 081 270 4291 or thailandmls@gmail.com.

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. Mail: thamad17@yahoo.com.

House in Phuket Town / Samkong 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms Semi detached house with large 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large open living/dining area and entertainment deck outside. Large western kitchen with all appliances.

fullly firnished with Chanote title, mini office 4x4, living room, European kitchen, CCTV, internet, garden. Permsap Villa Manik, 436sqm.

15min from airport. B6.8 million. Call 089 871 4172.

Seaview Townhouse Patong: Bet ween the c it y and

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

ote for sale, concrete access road, Land plat, electric & facilities ready to build your home. Direct contact Thai owner K.Dallas (Poy) 089 472 9870 or dchaibut@gmail.com.

Guesthouse for Lease in Patong: 12 rooms, good location Nanai

Ready to move in, villa 1 on 1,100 sqm. land, for sale 15.9 mil and villa 2 on 2,200 sqm. land, for sale 19.9 mil baht. 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 electricity and securit y, only 80 0 metres from Mission Hills golf course, less than 10 mins to airport, Phuket International Academy and Ao Por Grand Marina. Call 081 343 0777. Email: montha_phuket@yahoo.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.

FOR SALE RAWAI BEACH

Kathu-Pool Villa for sale:

1 Rai Land QUICK Sale in Rawai: Beautiful land with Chan-

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.

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

Seaview 1 BDRM New Condo Patong: Stunning seaview,

Af fordable 3 Bedroom House: Single floor, 3 bedroom, kitchen/dining area, living room, 2 toilets/showers. Aircon in each bedroom. Water tank+pump. External covered area. Chanote title: 256 sqm Quiet developed village near Heroines Monument B3.2 million.

Call 086 278 0007.

Great area very 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 B4.3M including 4 air cons. and all modern style furniture. Nothing more to spend. Contact (English): 084 768 0536 or (Thai): 085 888 0502.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 19

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

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.

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE

Mission Heights: 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.

LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,700,000.

LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720.

EMAIL; thewhite housekat a @ gmail. com.

3 Bdrm House for sale Thalang: House for sale. 3 bedrooms and 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. 081 737 3116.

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. Email: larion2555@ gmail.com.

Land for sale: 206.4 sq m, Chanote title in Phanason residence(next to Makro). 1 min to Central festival, 5 min to town. Call 084 061 4314, 076 393 965.

Mansion in Town for Sale:

3 & 4 Bed Pool Villas: 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.

Laguna/Layan. Luxury private pool villas in secure development.

Available now. All beds ensuite.

Fully furnished. Rental programme available. B12-20 million. Contact owner: 085 549 7110.

Nice Villa for Sale: Near Naiyang Beach, 3 bed & 4 bath, jacuzzi, open dining/living room, kitchen, fully furnished, aircon, garden, Sala, swimming pool, car park.

Only 8.9MB. 087 091 8331 K. Nah, chiangmaibeltrade@hotmail.com, dreamhousephuket.com.

One + Two Homes for Sale with AC, Rawai: Main home:

two bed, extended bungalow with outside kitchen, shower and seating salas set in mature, walled, private gardens. Own well, tanks and pumps. Sold, furnished. Will sleep 8+ can be sold with a 30-year land lease for non-Thai. Price B5.5 nego: Mobile: Eng 082 416 0150. 3BB WiFi internet also.

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.

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.

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.

FO R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B2,900,000.

LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720.

EMAIL; thewhite housekata@gmail.com.

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

Rawai Condo Sale/Rent: Sell 1.1MB, Full ownership foreverbeyond the financing plan of 10 years. Rent 9,000B/Month. Studio room renovated with furniture. A/C, WiFi, kitchen, 200m to beach. 084 242 8914. Rawai4@yahoo.com.

359.7 sq. 43 rooms. 15 air-conditioners, 28 Fans. Balcony, Hi-Speed Internet, Parking, CCTV and Sentry box. In & Out with Finger Scan. Near shopping centre. B32 million. Call: 090 167 9816 (Eng), 086 300 5052(Thai).

House for sale near Loch Palm: Three bedroom pool vil-

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.

la in Kathu close to international schools. Views over Loch Palm. All bedrooms with aircon and ensuite bathrooms. Two car garage and secluded garden. Chanote title. Call 084 844 0991

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.

F O R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE LUXURY 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT 60 SQM. PRICE B3,400,000.

LEASEHOLD. INCLUDE FURNISHINGS.

Modern Family House for sale: Beautiful 3 bedrooms villa in Rawai. 160sqm indoor. 400sqm outdoor. Shared swimming pool. Modern villa renovated in 2011-2012. Fully furnished. For more info: phuketvilla jasmine@gmail.com

PATONG condos for sale: Beautiful, modern Condos/Apartments, furnished, best/quiet locations, garden, s-pool, from 36-67sq metre, sea-city-mountian views, from B2,375. Call 087 819 2162 or caltirol@hotmail.com.

INFO: 081 788 8280.

EMAIL; thewhite housekat a @ gmail. com.

Patong Tower for Sale: 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.

Beachfront Building - Lanta:

Urgent Sales! Beach front 2 Commercial buildings (3 storeys), 14 bedrooms, 16 bathrooms Klong Dow beach, Koh Lanta - Krabi. Contact owner directly - negotiable price: 081 270 8622, 084 841 5635.

Double your money in 5 years!: New Year special promotion: Studio in brand new, world class, east-coast development. Never seen on Phuket; Amazing luxury at real prices. Call 080 882 1377, email: beachprojects1@gmail.com.

Luxur y Villa 3 Bedroom Pool for Rent: New villa 320sqm NEW Studio Apt in Kathu:

30 sqm, 1 bedroom, kitchen, washing machine, aircon, balcony, fully furnished. Condo with gym, 24hr security, car park. 5 mins to Patong, Loch Palm golf. Good view. B1.25 million. Call 086 947 1273.

Seaview Land For Sale: Land located right in the heart of Chalong with panorama view of Chalong pier.

Close to a number of sandy beaches; Naihan Rawai Kata and Karon. Easy access to major department 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.

B22 millions per rai. Call 087 278 7206, 089 215 5041 e-mail: kubesjoy@ hotmail.com.

Condominium in Patong for Sale: Less than 1 Km from

the beach, large 2-bedroom apartment with communal swimming pool and balcony. FREEHOLD (can be foreign owned). B7.5M. Call owner 089 724 7211 or julien@phuket immo.com.

Villa and farmland for sale: 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 132MB. Contact K. Peerawat: 084 308 8484. Email: peerawat200310@hot mail.com

Golf Course Land For Sale:

Near British Intl School, 17 rai with public road access. Suitable for resort or housing project. Can be divided. Price: B4.5m per rai. Contact owner 089 724 7211, email: julien@phuketimmo.com.

fully furnished. 4 bathrooms, 12m long pool, 5 min. by car to PIA, situated between Naithon and Naiyang beaches. Longterm rent B80,000 include maid and gardener service.

Call 08 0 143 529 4, email: alain terrat@hotmail.com.

Sales - House near By Pass:

2 Storeys single house in Rock Garden 5 Village - By Pass Road. Near town, quiet and safe. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms & housekeeper's room. 2 cars parking. Nice English & German neighbours. Call 089 159 3239.

Golf View Villa For Sale: Near

British International School, state-ofthe-art villa overlooking the Loch Palm Golf Course: 4 bedrooms + maid’s room; 485 m2 built on 1,860 m2 land.

B28million. Contact owner 089 724 7211.

For Sale Rawai Beach Special Twin Villa.

4 suites/studios, 4 bathrooms, pool, large terrace, small garden, living space 400 sqm. Include luxury furnishing 7.5 M House and Pool Bypass Rd: Very clean 5 bedroom,

3 bathroom house with 5 x 10 metre pool 10 minutes south of Central Festival, walking distance to Kajonkiet Bilingual School. To see: 083 301 3470, email: wpdrake@hotmail.com.

Price B8.5 mllion.

SMS for info: 081 788 8280 Email: thewhitehousekata@gmail.com For Russian contact Oxana 080 529 0726 or Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com

“Simply more than office rental” Beautiful Naiharn Pool Villa: Furnished House for Sale Phuket Villa 5: 3 bedroom

For your private or virtual office call Martin on 08 9874 9080 info@asiapacificoffices.com

www.asiapacificoffices.com

ศูนย์ธุรกิจปาล์มพลาซ่า

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

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.

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. 15x4.6m pool. Freehold.

Nice. 089 727 5407.

Sea-View Contemporary Pool Villla: Located near Phuket tow n. L and: 8 5 5 sq.m. H ouse: 650sq.m. Furnished. 3 beds, 2 offices, 2 staff quarters, 1 free room.

2 car parks. Price B54.9 mill.Tel: 081 895 3628 E-mail: jin_koy@ yahoo.com.

FO R S A L E - K ATA BEACH CENTRE 2 BEDROOMS LUX E APARTMENT 135 SQM. P R I C E B 7, 9 0 0 , 0 0 0 .

LEASEHOLD. INFO: 084 843 8720.

EMAIL; thewhitehouse kata@gmail.com.

Laguna area, Cherngtalay From 8m2 to 120m2

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT. House on The Corner for Sale: Quiet location and only 500m

SeaView near Airport:

Beautiful Karon Villa:

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.

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.

3 - Bed House - Sale or Rent: Sun Palm Village, Chalong.

Lounge, dining kitchen, 3 beds and 2 baths. Private swimming pool and easily maintained grounds. All furniture with fitted kitchen included.

Ideal for small family or as rental investment. Contact 081 273 7326, Email: keithmarshall747@gmail.com

Ocean Front Villa for Sale: 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.

1.5 Rai Private Land Cape Yamu: 1.5 Rai flat land at Cape Yamu. 2 x 0.75 Rai adjoining plots.

OrBorTor road access to quiet end of soi location. Sale direct from the owner.

B3.75 Million per rai negotiable. Call 081 087 9237.

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.

Rawai 6 Bedrooms:

Lovely 6 bedroom/office.Inc: 2 bedroom SC disable flat. Pool, garden, garage, storage. Opp.Tesco in well established area. Priced to sell at B9,000,000. Call 081 270 4291.

Email:thailandmls@gmail.com.

Amazing 3 Bedroom Villa With Swimming Pool: Guarded 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.

from the main road. Thepkrasattri, Heroines Monument. 70sqw x 280sqm, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, big living room 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.

Townhouse Chalong Bargain!: Town house on 3 levels with mezanine, 112 sqm, fully furnished, 3 BR, 3 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, 3 air con.

Tasteful western decoration, MUST see, HP English 0854415115. Thai 081 555 1230.

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

Patong Bangla Building for Sale: B28 million, Chanote, 4 floors 6m x 14m. 1st & 2nd tenanted.

Flr 3-staff accom, bath, kitchen.

Separate office with access to lower floor. 4th flr private Penthouse one bed. 087 881 7600.

Urgent 6.1 Rai Land for Sale: 6.1 rai (10,000sq metre). - 5 minutes to Naithon Beach. 10 minutes to Naiyang Beach. 10 minutes to Airport. 7 minutes to New Tesco Lotus. - Roadside land and Chanote title. Call 085 793 2718.

Allamanda (Laguna) Residences/Phuket Sale/Rent:

Sea View Land for Sale: Luxury Villa in Marina:

Hot deal price @ 39MB only. An exclusive 2 stories pool villa combines 2 land plots in Phuket Boat Lagoon surrounded by big trees. Made with good materials and modern style design. 66 (0) 76 238 948, info@phuketpropertytrip.com

One condo unit, half of a deluxe twin house, fully furnished and equipped, set direct on the picturesque lagoon with balcony right over it. 3 bedrooms each with shower/bathroom, roof terrace. Long term rent or sale. 090 487 8084, utaipan@yahoo.com.

Very Spacious European From Owner: Villa in peaceful

Balinese Pool Villa:

Nai Harn / Rawai, Balinese Pool Villa, 2 years old, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, price reduced for quick sale. Please call our Agent 082 420 70 52 or send email to stayonphuket@yahoo.com.

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

Rawai Beachfront Pool Villa for Rent/Sale: Rawai

Land for Sale Cherngtalay: Beautiful 2,400sqm (1.5RAI)

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

Chanote titled land plot in Pasak 8, located on the highest point of a gentle slope. Quiet and safe area.

Only 8MB. Email: Phuketlandvilla@ hotmail.com, 089 875 9609.

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

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.

For sale: 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.

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.

Rawai Soi Saliga Land for Sale: Land 1 rai + 81 T/W total 1924 sqm. Does not need landscaping sale by owner land location on the top of the Soi. Tel: 084 745 4132, chanote title.

Pool Villa For Sale Nai Harn: Modern, open design villa with a large 9x3 metre pool, 2 floors, nice garden, car park and mountain views, 6 years young, 120 sqm floor, 2 bedrooms, chanote, located close to the centre & beach.

Call 085 473 7812.

Free Hold Condo For Sale: 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.

Kamala 3 bed pool villa reduced: Expat owner must sell health reasons. Beautiful home, plot size 892sqm, B16 million. Additional plot 1,372sqm, price B3 million. Best buy in Kamala. No question! Call 0862695108, 0807447625 Thai.

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.

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CLASSIFIEDS 21

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com

PROPERTY IN PHUKET

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.

Condo in Marina:

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

PROPERTY FOR SALE CONT.

2 , 2 0 0 L and , N ai H a r n -B10.9 million for Sale: Located in Sai Yaun 9, at the back of Mangosteen hotel. Very good access , road, electric, water. Size approximately 30 by 70 metres.

Chanote. Contact 087 897 0501. aleksa@thai-evagroup.com

Great Investment Opportunity: Completed show house Condominium for SALE in Patong: Freehold title, Studio type, 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.

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

and infrastructure seven fur ther plots for development. 1.5km from Mission Hills Golf Club. Please call 087 888 1761 (Aom) for details.

6 rai Hilltop Land for sale: Near Mission Hills golf club, may split into 3 x 2 rai separate plots, B4.2 million per rai, full chanote, water/elec. sea/mountain views. 087 978 5804 (Eng).

Apartment on Golf Course:

O pp or tuni t y K nocks:

Golf View, Kathu. Tastefully renovated large (83m2) apar tment 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.

Apartment for sale in Patong: Apartment for SALE in

World Class Sea Views:

4 Bedroom British Colonial style house, Cape Yamu, Phuket. Amazing views spanning over 100km, as far as Krabi.

Price reduced from B35 to B28 million.

086 279 6283, email: kdesmond59@ yahoo.co.uk.

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.

Amazing Sea View Penthouse: Panoramic sea view,

B24,500,000. Deceased Estate Absolute waterfront. Occupying a stunning location on the east coast of Phuket this five-level villa has panoramic sea views from every level.

Renovation work required. 085 793 2667. See exotiqproperty.com. Ref AB-V453, email: dmuir@exotiq.com.

Land for Sale:

Mission Hills.

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

mountain view and Big Buddha.

310 sq metre, 2 beds, 2 baths with option to convert in 3 beds. Contact: Izzy +66(0)86 278 8300 or izzy. serenitygroup@gmail.com.

Prime Location 35M Lake Front: Fantastic views over the Land Plot for Sale:

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

BEST SEAVIEW LAND-EVER! www.phuket-land-sale.com

lake and Loch Palm. Very quiet, secluded plot but with all facilities ready to go. 1551 sqm plot, freehold leasehold with full Chanote title. 081 273 6959.

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.

1 R a i S e a - V i e w L a n d:

Beaut i ful L and L aguna Cherngtalay: Chanote title, yel-

Opposite Wat Chalong on the way up to the hill, Chanote, ca. 36 m x 45 m, sophisticated hillside project, proratable, B8.5 mil direct to owner: 085 65 44 0 11 or 089 40 40 737.

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

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.

Rawai Half Rai for Sale: Land Luxury 3 Bed Villa For Sale:

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.

Land & House for sale:

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 At Kathu For Sale: Only 15 min to Patong and only 10 min to Phuket Town, located at Kathu, total 141 sqw or 564 sqm with ready public utility. Call 081 892 0610, 081 472 0770, tan_ohio@hotmail.com.

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.

plot 100 metres to Rawai Beach, about 850 sq.metre. Chanote title deed, private road with sewer, 3 phases electricity and wall around the land.

Email: rawai.steen@gmail.com, call 080 530 6880.

Paklok Land Only B7,999/ Sqwah: Only B7,999/Sq wah at Paklok, Chanote, Mountain View, 200m from main road, 11 km from monument and 4 km to Mission Hill.

Interested or want a larger size?

CALL 084 305 6667, email: mari sar1978@hotmail.com

low zoned, save area. Nearly 4 rai, direct from owner. Subdivided in 6 plots each ca. 1,000sqm. ready to build. Only B6.75 million per rai. Call 081 367 7683, chanchira.panpaen@googlemail.com.

A b so l u t e B e a c h Fr o n t 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.

Patong/Kalim sea view condo: Freehold, 2nd floor, corner unit, stunning sea view, pool, car park, security, best location, ca. 110sqm, 2 bedroom, German kitchen, all new, terrace, only a few metres to beach, B10.6 M 081 824 1385.

East Coast Sea View Land Beachfront land for sale: 2 rai absolute amazing beachfront, few min boat ride from Phuket, facing west to sunset and views of Phuket.

B13 million per rai +66 (0) 86 278 8300 or izzy.serenitygroup@gmail. com.

Patong Condo for Sale:

My condo is ready for immediate sale located at Lotus Residence, a small 3-storey boutique condo of only 12 apartments total. It is located on a southern hillside above Patong Bay. Call 084 436 2540.

Commercial Building For Sale: 5M. x 18.30M.,3 floors, located close by Condo at Saiyuan, 2 big halls, 2 bedrooms,4 bathrooms,clean&new building. Price negotiable. Tel:087 881 7979, 081 472 0770, ss.kijrungruang@ gmail.com.

Hill Land for Sale: Very nice location hill land by the Bangwat Dam, total 60 rai, 96,000 square metre. C ont ac t: At t apong 0 81 892 0610 (Thai), Jantiwa 081 890 8268 (Eng). e-mail: jantiwa_ j@ hotmail.com.

Total 1.5 rai (2,450sq metre) on gently sloping land with sea view of Phang Nga Bay. 2 separate Chanote titles each about 1,200 sq metres (4.5 and 5.5M), or will sell as one lot.

Underground services. 081 273 7326, email: kmar74@hotmail.com.

22 CLASSIFIEDS HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Main Contractor:

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High Quality Building, Design, Construction, Renovation, Shop Fitting, Electrical Work & Plumbing

Please contact us for consultation: Mobile: 081-892-8526 Email: info@phuket-besthomes.com Web: www.phuket-besthomes.com

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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WALK IN AUDITION 1st June

Our new BEACH CLUB opens soon and we are now looking for outgoing, fun and enthusiastic stars to join our pre-opening team in Surin.

BISP - Requires Staff: BISP - Requires Summer Camp Staff July 2013 The British International School requires experienced English S u m m e r C a m p S t a f f f o r J u l y.

Applicants are required to have a recognised degree and a TEFL qualification. As it is a residential camp overnight boarding duties are required. Camp dates 29th June - 27th July 2013. Applications can be submitted to ppreez@bisphuket. ac.th.

ZAZADA Beach Club is looking to fill the following positions: Head Chef Chefs All Levels Kitchen Stewards Restaurant Manager Head Hostess Hostess Waiters / Waitress / Supervisors Head Barman / Bar Supervisors Barman Public Area Cleaners Maintenance Technician Resident DJ

If you want to be one of our rock stars, have passion for what you do and have the skills to rock our guests, then come show us your talent!

Audition with your resume at So FA Boutique, Phuket Town, 1100 - 1700 on Saturday 1st June.

www.zazadabeachclub.com F e m a l e C o o k / H o m e m a ke r Wa n t e d: Exceptional conditions for live-in cook /homemaker for semi-retired UK/Canadian businessman.

Separate high quality room with shower & T V in high - end re sor t style surroundings. Must speak English. Send resume to bggvirgo@gmail.com.

Couple Wanted: Thai couple, house & pet care, work and stay at foreigner villa, speak English, no smoking, husband as driver, wife as housekeeper. Contact: aoaphuket@ gmail.com 076 203 010.

Guest Service Supervisor: Good command in English, customer service skills, knowledge in F&B, HK, front office, Knowledge of computer basic skills, own car with driving license, working in Phang Nga -Natai Beach. Candidate send resume to: hr@luxuryvillasandhomes.com. Office: 6/84 Srisoonthorn Rd, Cherngtalay, Thalang Phuket 83110. Call 076 527 633, 087 881 0003.

Headteacher/Coordinator wanted: Phuket International is looking for an experienced headteacher / teacher's coordinator. If you have worked in this position before please contact us for more information. Phuket International Kindergarden and School, Chalong. Email: becky201077@gmail. com.

Chef Wanted: Fulltime, flexible, strong leadership and a good team player. The restaurant has an extensive menu with a focus on pizza, burgers and authentic Thai dishes. See phuket adventureminigolf.com.

Document Control Officer: S e n i o r E S L Te a c h e r Needed: PHBGTU charity is seeking experienced Senior Teacher to teach, manage teaching staff, and develop curriculum for practical, quality English language programme in 2 government schools. info@ phukethasbeengoodtous.org.

Development Management Group Co., Ltd is searching for a Document Control Officer for our Patong Beach site. This administrative position controls documents and drawings for a construction site and is open for Thai Nationals only. Successful applicants will hold at least a vocational degree or certificate and have a minimum of 3 years of experience in office work.

Need proven ability to use MS Office and good English communication skills. Knowledge of engineering or construction is a plus. Call 076 617 763, email: tum@dmg-thailand.com.

Sales Managers And Reps Wanted: Club Tropical Asia is looking for experienced Managers, TO’s & Liners for the expansion of our successful operation in Phuket and Samui. Great product and huge growth potential. 084 847 1320 or salesbt@clubtropical lifestyle.com.

P.E. / Swim teacher wanted: Phuket International KindergarLooking for people who love animals: and would like to do some volunteer work looking after sick, injured and homeless dogs in Thalang area. Contact: Sherin.peace@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’.

SALES REPRESENTATIVES Qualifications: ● Thai or Expat. ● Excellent communication and negotiation skills in Thai and English. ● Highly motivated self-starter with a positive attitude. ● Works well under pressure and has a will to succeed.

We offer: ● Competitive salary, bonuses and travel expenses. ● A friendly work environment. ● Social security paid by the company. ● Excellent career progress opportunities.

Interested applicants are invited to apply in person or send application with full resume indicating qualifications and experience, expected salary and recent photo to: adminmgr@thephuketnews.com Tel: 076 612 550-2 ext 101

Class Act Media Co., Ltd. 99/7 Moo 1 T. Kathu A. Kathu Phuket 83120 Tel: 076 612 550-2 Fax: 076 612 553

den is looking for a experienced P.E. / Swimming teacher for our primary students. If you are certified in this field and Thai/Philippine national please apply. Email: becky201077@ gmail.com.

KG & P1-3 Teaching Vacancies: ELT Phuket is looking to appoint two experienced teachers to start at Kala Pattana School on Chaofa West Road, Phuket as soon as possible. Please email CV to eltorborjor@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’.

Full Time Public Relations/ Marketing manager Responsibilities :

● PR and marketing of our products & services ● Identifying sponsorship opportunities & liaising with event organizers ● Building relationships with local organizations, government & private companies

Qualifications:

● Thai National ● Excellent personal skills ● Good command of English ● Experience in PR/Marketing in print media or radio would be an advantage but not essential ● Existing relationships/network of contacts in Phuket an advantage ● Own car & ability to work flexible hours and attend events during non-work hours

We offer:

● Competitive salary & bonuses depending ● 5 day work week – (Monday – Friday 8.30 am – 6 pm) ● Friendly work environment & excellent progress opportunities ● Time in lieu policy for any overtime hours worked 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 www.thephuketnews.com

24 CLASSIFIEDS

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Buy&Sell COMPANY FOR SALE

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

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Sunseeker 58 Manhattan For SWAP or SALE

Bar for sales on Soi Bangla:

PHUKET, THAILAND SELF STORAGE, POTRA COM, PRE-FAB 470,000 USD

WWW.SAFEWAYASIA.COM

4 cabins 3 bedrooms fully equipped located in Boat lagoon. With excellent place FREE for 7 years.

Price 12 million or EXCHANGE for a Villa or Apartment in Rawai, Kata, Karon.

For English - Email: maurice.phuket@gmail.com or SMS 081 788 8280.

For Russian - Ms. Oxana Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com or SMS: 080 529 0726.

Krabi Boat Lagoon: New marina sister of Phuket Boat Lagoon, ready to berthing now with marina charge 50% off and long term berth available.

Well protect by sea condition and full facilities provided.Contact Khun Choo 086 281 0330.

Located mid-soi on Bangla, Patong Beach Contact now for best units & special offers on pre-sales. 3 years contract. Price starting B1.7million.

Call 08 5887 7414

+66 81 892 4804, gordon_asia@hotmail.com

BOATS & YACHTS

Boat Sales and Charters:

Sale New Boat SR-21 Finished: Only B330,000. Samran 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: 087 265 8002.

Marine. We are professional boat builders, factory located in Pattaya, This model is SR-21 fully finished.

We can deliver to your place. “This price excludes engine.” Call 081 782 0921. Email: nungnapong@ hotmail.com.

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

Speedboat for sale - Hull Only: Excellent condition, 12.18m

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, Neon light, Twin 570HP with reliable shaft drive, under 300 hours, Brand New Condition. Euro385,000. Call: 089 971 0278, eddyelan@yahoo.com.

Charter Boat:

62ft Hatteras Style yacht, 35 + 4 crew, large upper deck includes website: www. char terboatsphuket.com, price B5,370,000 or best offer. email: eastcoastefi@aol.com or 087 889 8044.

Fiberglass Bowrider, 12mm thick hull, 600ltr fuel tank, 150ltr water tank, licensed for 25 passengers, storage area, manual head, 5 years old, B1.4 million o.n.o, contact 076 362 300 Ext.1801.

13 Metre Wooden Hull Cruiser: Cap. 17 PAX. Wooden hull, 3.5 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.

Sale New Boat SR-18 Finished: Only B280,000. Samran Marine. We are professional boat builders, factory located in Pattaya.

This model is SR-18 fully finished.

We can delivery to you place. “This price excludes engine”. Call 081 782 0921. Email: nungnapong@ hotmail.com.

Ski Boat for Sale: Glastron CarlSpeed Boat For Sale:

Steppa Fiberglass 32 feet Flybridge two 200 hp Yamaha outboard engines. Ideal for diving and tours. B850,000. Call 081 8942124.

son design, Thai registered, 120ltr fuel tank, 200hp Yamaha engine in excellent condition. Includes trailer, boat cover, wakeboard pole, ropes and ski equipment. Call 081 894 5822, email: mark breitis@gmail.com.

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Beach hotel offer for long term lease.

Location: Patong beach front ocean panoramic view. 18 rooms, aircon. internet, cable TV, telephone, safe, Full furnished. Contact: 076 342 197-8, K.Thanin,K.Tum

2 Language & TEFL Schools: The schools are very successful due to the high demand of people wishing to learn English as Asia develops and plays a larger part in world affairs every day. These 2 schools are licensed with the Ministry of Education and the Cha-am branch also holds a TEFL license. As part of a franchise group, you will always have on-going support for sales and training. The selling price is calculated at 5 times the net profit and with sales growth averaging over 20% year on year, your breakeven point is within 4 years. As all truly profitable business there is no negative cash flow. Call 081 846 9193. See insightenglishhuahin.com.

KOH LIPE Dive Center for sale: URGENT SALE Speedboat

Speed boat for sale! Now B290,000: 6 metre body Bayliner, 200 HP (EFI) Mercury engine, Yamaha 5 HP back up engine. Blue book. Including: trailer, 2 anchors, and cover, Garmin deep sounder and fish finder brand new. Call 081 477 5637 THAI; 086 283 0082 ENG, RUS.

meters 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@krabikonnect.com.

URGENT Boutigue Hotel for Lease: A small boutigue Patong

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.

Yamaha 200HP4s, Coltri Sub compressor, Nitrox system, 16 BCD, 11 regulators, 32 tanks, website, renewed TAT, buildings, 5 rooms for rent. Asking price 120,000 USD. 084 399 8978.

6.5M RIB: New Hypalon tubing and blue cover. On a fiber glass V shaped hull. 240HP Mercury Giving comfortable cruise at 25-30Kts and 40 Kts Max Ideal for family day trips to beach skiing etc. 081 273 6959.

Patong New Hotel for Longterm Lease: 40 rooms with full furnished, TV, fridge, aircon, hot water, swimming pool, restaurant and spa.

Located in Soi Nanai villa. Contact 086 300 9406.

Sport Club for Sale by Owner: Set on 4 rai land with 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$110K. 085 378 0498, yacht.antaia@gmail. com.

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.

Cement Production Plant: 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.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com BUSINESS OPP. CONT.

Restaurant/Pub: For sale in Bang Tao Beach Road. Get 10 year contract, great location 50m from Best Western Hotel & Beach. Full furniture and equipment. Price B2.5 million. Call 087 893 8590, Email: somtom_landandhouse@yahoo.de Patong Massage Shop For Sale: Cosy renovated shop. Shop

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

For further info email samos1941@gmail.com.

2 Rai, Cherngtalay:

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

is located inside a hotel on a busy street directly leading to Patong Beach. Business from hotel customers as well as from many tourists going to/from Patong Beach. Email: chumpo26@hotmail.com.

5 In 1 Business For Sale: Good location, 1 1/4 Rai. 1) Jungle bar, 3 TVs, 2 pool tables, seating: 65 pax, parking: 15-16 vehicles, good business. 2) Beauty salon: fully equipped.

3) Massage pallor. 4) Restaurant. 5) Indoor pub: fully equipped, stage, seating: 70 pax. Lease for 8 years+6 months left on lease. Sale: 5.7 MB. Negotiable! Contact: five.business@ yahoo.com, 091 654 1720, 087 892 6204, (Russian) 085 709 9191 (Thai)

3 Business For Sale: Good location, Rawai Area. 1) Big Bar, 3 TVs, 2 pool tables, seating: 60 pax, parking: 10 vehicles, good business.

2) Massage parlor – leased out 3) Beauty salon: fully equipped. Lease 8 years+6 months left on lease - Have owned business for 8 years - Sale: 2.9 MB. Negotiable! 087 892 6204, 091 654 1720.

Looks like new. The car is totally revised for B100,000. Fast and agile.

B220,000. Contact Yupin English and Thai: 081 817 4805.

Restaurant/Guesthouse for sale: Located in Kamala. 40 metres to the beach. 10 rooms with full furnishings. Restaurant 54 seat.

Price B8 million. For more information call 081 396 0033.

Hi Every One: Toyota Vios For Sale: 2007 lady owner perfect condition B359,000. Tel 081 125 1873, gordon_asia@hotmail. com.

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.

G u e s t h o u se Ca f e B a r KaronBeach: Easily managed profitable business lease 5.5M. Fully refurbished, 6 year contract(fully pre-paid). Low rent. Busy Soi 2minutes from the beach. 5 beautiful en-suite rooms. Sports bar, fully fitted kitchen and restaurant area.

Account available. Call 081 891 9461 / livingroom-phuket.com.

BUSINESS SERVICES Sale Bar, Hotel + 1 Shop Rawai Beach: Land plot 700 sq metre+building+10 bed+10 bath+2 restaurants. 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.

2 Business For Sale: Good location, Rawai Area -1) Restaurant – 40 pax - leased out 2) Indoor pub: fully equipped, disco - stage, seating:70 pax. Lease - 8 years+6 months left on lease.Sale:2.9 MB Negotiable. 087 892 6204, 087 244 1322, 091 654 1720.

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.

Nissan NV 1.6 Pick Up, 2006:

Isuzu Dmax: Isuzu Dmax 2006, 105,000km, one owner, 4x2, silver automatic, double cab, good condition. Contact 087 079 0650 or 080 073 5371.

One hand, private. Only 96,000 km.

Now I’m looking for new owner, she must be nice to me, please buy me as I don’t want to sleep outside. I’m still very young, only just over 3 years old, I have big hear t and strong legs as I not travel much. I’m fully automatic and come with all trimmings. Please don’t call her, call my friend John 0872760529 if you want to see me.

WRITE YOUR CLASSIFIED PREMIUM: PAY ONCE UNTIL SOLD B2,799+VAT.

Restaurant / Guesthouse: Established restaurant covering two shop houses with private terrace and owners apartment or 8 room guesthouse. Freehold (no lease/rent). Includes all equipment and newly renovated kitchen. Contact for details. Projected ROI 4 years. Call 081 956 3166.

Mini Cooper S JCW GP for sale: Only 2000 made worldwide.

My name is Tida, only the other day my owner told me to find a new home that she had enough of me and I’m too old or she will put me outside, can you believe that after 3 years of faithful service I took her wherever she wanted to go and never never let her down once.

PAY ONCE UNTIL SOLD WILL RUN ONLINE AND IN EVERY PRINT EDITION UNTIL YOU HAVE SOLD. INCLUDES ADDITIONAL 9 PICTURES ONLINE.

Headline:

Tile I t: Thalang.

Wana Park on Srisoonthor n Rd. Phuket ’s quality tile boutique.

Tiles for interior, exterior, residential, commercial.

Contact 076 620 168 or 081 424 2828. Email info@ tile-asia.com.

...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

Body: ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

189 CHARACTERS

...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

Farang Food Paradise:

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.

CARS FOR SALE

...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ......

Online upgrades:

Website link B199

Print upgrades:

Extra lines B99

Urgent banner B199 Box B199

Colour Background B199

Colour Headlines B199

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

HO NDA CIT Y ' 03 1,5AT, 118XXXkm: Very reliable & userfriendly 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. Call 083 102 0070.

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

26 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

BUY & SELL IN PHUKET CHILDCARE

Health Food: Online health food in Thailand. Good karma, all natural, healthy, and organic products. Please contact 082 276 1675, w w w.good karmathailand.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

List your advert for FREE at thephuketnews.com Tables! We do PROFIT SHARING on Coin operated pool table so you don’t need to invest in a table. 081 823 4627.

Looking for a VISA Service?

near new. 081 958 6754, johnhideaway @hotmail.com

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.

Backgammon: PlayBuds Nursery:

Phuket’s oldest 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 1/2-8. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm.

Bus service available from Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket, Rawai and Chalong. Tel: 076 384 638, 080 624 7060. Website: www.budsphuket.com.

Motorbike Trailer with Tow bar: Professionally built motorbike trailer, with tow bar and coupling.

Cost B45,000 to build, will sell for B25,000. Ideal for dog caring or shopping. Very stable. Please ring 084 858 1917.

ers Wanted. Tel: 081 577 8443, email: phuketcon nection@yahoo.com

PET ADOPTION

MOVING & STORAGE

But this is not a long term solution and the dogs can not just be put out on the street as they need an owner. They are both the most beautiful girls who want nothing more than you to love them.

FunStart: Family sports and leisure

CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS Blue Canyon Golf Membership: Blue Canyon Golf Lifetime membership for sale! Excellent saving!

B89,500 Call 084 052 2277.

We Sell Boxes & Moving Supplies: At MY STORAGE Self

Wonderful with other dogs and great with children. Beautiful loving well mannered girls. They can go together or separately. Call 081 271 3211, email: sonyaklapko@yahoo. com.

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.

PET HOSPITAL

PERSONAL SERVICES

Chaofah Pet Hospital: 8/28–29 Moo 9, Chaofah East Road. Contact 076 283 365.

Singapore Club Phuket: Calling all Singaporeans in Phuket to join Singapore Club Phuket. Contact Robin on 081 803 7189.

POOL TABLES W E A R E LO O K I N G FOR A NEW HOME

Clubs & Memberships: Club Asia Fitness, Royal Phuket City Hotel - Offers Zumba/LesMills/Yoga Clas ses / Weight Training /Sauna / Steam/Swimming pool-all inclusive.

For a free trial workout come along and join the action. Call 076 354 027, 087 275 3614, www.club asiaphuket.com.

Gol f M emb er ship for Sale: Loch Palm 500,000 Baht.

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

Mum & Puppy Need a Home Lady & Yam-Lai are abandoned and in desperate need of a loving home. Mum 1.5 years & Puppy 4 Months old female.

I have boarded them at Surin Beach Pet Hospital.

CHILDREN’S CLUB club. Swimming/golf/ playcentre/ gaming arcade. Contact 076 203 185, 087 882 5544. See funstart phuket.com.

Specialised Carbon Full Suss: Stumpjumper FSR Carbon Order your Money Machine Now! : Quick Profit, Best for Bars & Commercials. Call us about Special Discount to Buy & Lowest Rent & Best Profit Sharing Deal at PATANAKARN BILLIARDS PHUKET for your service. Tel. 076 521 211, 081 171 2121.

SPORTING GOODS & EXERCISE Ocean Kyak For Sale: For Sale, "Mirage" ocean kyak, 6 meters, Kevla hull, electric pump and all the gear,

MTB, Super top spec - Brain F+R Shocks, SRAM XX drive train, Hope Race brakes, Mavix SLR wheels.

Large size (180 cm+). Midlife crisis dream machine. B125,000. 081 737 0722.

Kite Surf Equipment for Sale: 2 new boards, never used. 2 Kites, used 2-3 times. New price was more then B200,000. Sell altogether for 100,000 Baht. For single items please call: 086 747 9292 (English) or 081 970 520.

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

Sailboat for Sale/or TRADE

Several rescued dogs, Cute, cuddly & groomed ready to be loved.

Lose Weight Feel Great!: Organic, Delicious, Nutritious Fruit & Vegetable Juice Detox programs from 5,000 baht Delivered To Your Door. www.weightwatchdetox.com, call now to get 10% discount! 084 100 6274. Email: sales@weight watchdetox.com

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE

VALCUCINE for sale: VALCUCINE showroom kitchen for sale due to renovation. 3 years old / good condition / Walnut material with Stainless Steel worktop /hob / hood sink and tap. Please call English (084 240 6688) and Thai (081 484 2565).

Clearance Sale

SAFEWAY THALANG * Liquidation Goods *Unpaid Storage *Repossessions Office Furniture, Bathroom ware, Jacuzzis, Water Tanks, Motor Bikes and more

Main Highway Thalang 081 125 1873 - 081 892 4804

For more photos visit www.doggieheaven.net Or contact: Sherin.peace@gmail.com ***Vaccinated & sterilised

2 mast 17 metre (50 c.v. Yanmar engine) excellent condition Fully equipped located in Chalong. Valuations price B15 million.

Price NOW! 9.8 million - OR TO EXCHANGE. For a villa/apartment in Rawai, Kata, Karon Phuket.

Why buy a pet?:

Soi Dog Foundation have over 300 beautiful dogs and puppies available for adoption. Fully vaccinated and sterilised.

Contact 085 574 4258 or email: cindy@ soidog.org.

Be different and Exposure!: Be different and boost your exposure with our Coin Operated by Phuket Pool

Email maurice.phuket@gmail.com or SMS 081 788 8280 For Russian contact Oxana 080 529 0726 or Email: phuket.lux@gmail.com

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

PHUKET SPORT

Super Six kicks off FOOTBALL

P Low season means Phuket surf season SURF SPOT

Tim Campbell editor@classactmedia.co.th

GET INVOLVED! WITH the surf season well underway in Phuket, now is the perfect time to “get involved”.

At this time of year the wind generally comes in from the west. If you dig deep into your bits and bobs cupboard and pull out your world map you will see the Andaman Sea connects with the Indian Ocean.

The seasonal weather patterns in this area at this time of year means huge storms develop and push waves towards our small island coastline.

Most local residents turn into polar bears and hibernate for the so-called “low season”, but if you dare to venture out you will often see a pick-up truck with a long board sticking out of its tray, or two friends on a motorcycle: one pretending to drive while the other tries to keep their surfboards from being blown away in the wind.

Surfers relish this time of year and they definitely make the most of the weather. Storm equals waves, and waves equal an escape of the real world and a time for embracing nature at its best.

Low season, ha! We like to refer to it as surf season.

Next time you are down at the beach going for a stroll, take a moment and pause to

soak up the action of what’s happening out on the water: the enthusiasm in the faces of the surfers, and the excitement when one comes cruising down the face of a wave.

Strangers become friends in the water, and encouragement and cheers are heard constantly when a fellow surfer takes off on a wave: “yeewlll” (an expression of excitement).

Surfing is not restricted to a surfboard, surfing can involve any craft that can be used to ride a wave.

Around Phuket you can find classic boogie boards or body boards, differently shaped short boards and longboards, kayaks, surf skis, wind surfers, kite surfers and now the very popular stand up paddle (SUP) boards.

Even though these water craft differ in size and technique when riding a wave, they all produce just as much fun.

Depending on your preference I’m sure you will find a craft that suits you.

Kata, Patong, Kamala and Bangtao beaches all have surf schools, so if you’re busting at the bit to get wet, don’t hesitate and get involved!

Surf’s up!

Tim Campbell Tim Campbell is a founding partner of Phuket stand-up paddle adventure company Stand Up Projects (standup projects.com) and Skyla’s Beach House in Kamala (skyla phuket.com).

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

Run 1423: 4pm on Saturday, June 1 Hares: No Hope, GR, QoP and Lau Lau Louder Directions: From Thalang traffic lights head north along Thepkasattri Road towards the airport. After 2.5 km take the new U-turn before the old Airport Road traffic lights (HHH sign), head back south for 200m, turn left into the road for Thanyapura (HHH sign). Carry straight along the road past Thanyapura and turn right under the pylons (HHH sign). The laager is in the date palms.

More info: phuket-hhh.com

27

huket’s Super Six league kicked off its fifth season this week, after just a month of down time. Several newly-promoted teams have a fight on their hands in Division 1, while Division 2 looks like it will be tougher than ever.

Division 1 Seduction v Joy Dive FC: 2–7 A tough introduction to Division 1 for Seduction as they face Joy Dive FC. Seduction took the lead after a mistake in the first minute, which was quickly corrected by Joy Dive, who followed up with six goals in the first half. In the second half Seduction clawed back two goals, but did not pose any real threat upon the final result.

Pita Bar Phuketeers v Phuket Condos & Homes: 2 – 6 Season 4 champions PC&H look intent on retaining their title, starting with this strong 6-2 win against last season’s runners-up, Pita Bar Phuketeers.

TT Boys v Irish Times: 6 – 3 Newly promoted team Irish Times were given a harsh welcome to Division 1 with this 3-6 loss to TT Boys (formerly known as Nanai Boys).

Great Bangkok v Shakers FC: 4 – 2 New Thai team Great Bangkok ground out a surprise win against experienced team Shakers FC, in their first game in Division 1.

Division 2 Fruit Ninjas v Mr Moo: 6 – 3

Phuket Super Six League Division 1

Team

MP

W

D

L

F

GD

Pts

1

Joy Dive FC

1

1

0

0

7

5

3

2

Phuket Condos & Homes

1

1

0

0

6

4

3

3

TT Boys

1

1

0

0

6

3

3

4

Great Bangkok

1

1

0

0

4

2

3

5

Shakers FC

1

0

0

1

2

-2

0

6

Irish Times

1

0

0

1

3

-3

0

7

Pita Bar Phuketeers

1

0

0

1

2

-4

0

8

Seduction

1

0

0

1

2

-5

0

Pts

Division 2

Team

MP

W

D

L

F

GD

1

Rose United

2

2

0

0

9

5

6

2

Phuket Serenity Villas

2

1

1

0

10

1

4

3

Fruit Ninjas

2

1

0

1

10

2

3

4

KTM Phuket

2

1

0

1

5

-3

3

5

9th Floor

1

0

1

0

5

0

1

6

Gang Junior

1

0

1

0

4

0

1

7

Big Apple & Pita

2

0

1

1

6

-1

1

8

Mr Moo

2

0

0

2

5

-4

0

Division 3

MP

W

D

L

F

GD

Pts

1

Team Daohang FC

1

1

0

0

8

6

3

2

Grizzly’s FC

1

1

0

0

4

2

3

3

Bat Fire

1

1

0

0

4

1

3

4

Two Chefs

1

1

0

0

4

1

3

5

Raum-pheun Coffee Club

1

0

0

1

3

-1

0

5

Nong Ice FC

1

0

0

1

3

-1

0

7

Mew FC

1

0

0

1

2

-2

0

8

Banana FC

1

0

0

1

2

-6

0

Newly promoted team Fruit Ninjas impressed with this 6-3 win against the Mr Moo side.

9th Floor v Phuket Serenity Villas: 5 – 5 9th floor (formerly known

as Atmanjai), showed how they have strengthened their team in this thrilling 5-5 draw against an experienced Phuket Serenity Villas side.

Gang Junior v Big Apple & Pita: 4 – 4 Newly promoted Thai team Gang Junior proved that there will be no easy games this season in Division 2 when they had to work hard for this deserved 4-4 draw against young expatriate team Big Apple.

Rose United v KTM Phuket: 6–2 Newly promoted side Rose United jumped straight to the top of Division 2 with this well-deserved win against KTM Phuket.

Division 3 Two Chefs v Nong Ice FC: 4–3 Two Chefs started their new season’s campaign in winning fashion against new team Nong Ice FC, with a close 4-3 win.

Mew FC v Grizzly’s FC: 2 – 4 New team Grizzly’s FC got off to a flying start with a 4-2 win against another new side, Mew FC. Daohang FC v Banana FC: 8–2 New team Daohang FC jumped straight into the driving seat with this solid 8-2 win against Banana FC. Raum-pheun Coffee Club v Bat Fire: 3 – 4 A close game, but previously relegated team Bat Fire FC came out on top against new team Raum-pheun Coffee Club.

28 PHUKET SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Phuket snatch late draw at Trat FOOTBALL

Kazira Hans editor@classactmedia.co.th

P

huket FC played their latest Yamaha League 1 tie away against the “White Elephants” of Trat FC on Saturday, May 25.

Trat went into the game 10th on the league table, and missing their star Miroslav Todd due to injury. Phuket’s star scorer Dudu had also suffered a minor injury and didn’t travel with the team to Trat Provincial Stadium, on Thailand’s east coast.

Under pressure after a series of draws, Phuket immediately took the game to the home side, landing their first corner kick only two minutes in. It was taken by Geoffrey Doumeng, and passed to Thongchai Kuenkuntod, who curled the ball just a few yards outside the goal post.

Minutes later Phuket’s Yusuke Sato sent a long ball forward to Doumeng, who it over to Watcharapong Jun Ngam waiting at the far post.

He clipped it into the middle, where Phuket’s forwards were waiting, but a Trat defender charged in before Eak-artit Somjit could take a shot.

Phuket’s first goal came at 10 minutes, when Eak-artit was fouled by Trat defender a few yards outside of the penalty area. Doumeng shot the free kick at the wall of defenders, but it bounced off the wall over

Trat’s Chokechai Choochai scores the first goal for the home side. Photo: Trat FC Facebook the back line and gave Phuket another corner kick.

Thongchai took the corner, and Phuket’s Nene Bi Tra Sylvestre jumped the highest, sending a powerful header just under the crossbar and beyond the reach of Trat’s keeper. It was Nene Bi’s 20th goal for Phuket in four years with the team – the Islanders top scorer.

The boost in morale from the early lead meant Phuket had an easier game for most of the first half. Doumeng had space to play and creating many opportunities for his team-mates.

Trat finally found their feet later in the first half, with three attempts on goal in ten minutes, but Phuket’s goalkeeper Ninuruddin “Spider Ming” Nideha and defender Nene Bi didn’t miss a beat.

But the White Elephants spooked The Islanders after a small misunderstanding between Sato and Nene Bi when Spider Ming tried to save a shot.

Nene tried to clear the ball after the keeper missed it, but the shot bounced off Sato’s back

Thai Division 1 Team

MP W

D

L

F

A Pts

1

Air Force United FC

12

8

4

0

15

6

28

2

PTT Rayong FC

12

6

6

0

12

4

24

3

Bangkok FC

12

6

4

2

21

17

22

4

Singh Tarua FC

12

6

2

4

17

14

20

5

Phuket FC

12

4

7

1

17

13

19

6

Nakon Rachasima FC

12

4

6

2

16

10

18

7

BBCU FC

12

4

6

2

14

11

18

8

Krabi FC

12

5

2

5

15

14

17

9

Saraburi FC

12

3

6

3

12

10

15

10

Nakhon Pathom United 12

3

6

3

12

11

15

11

Trat FC

12

3

5

4

20

21

14

12

Siam Navy

12

3

4

5

12

16

13

13

Khon Kaen FC

12

2

6

4

12

16

12

14

Sri Racha FC

12

2

4

6

13

20

10

15

Rayong FC

12

1

6

5

16

21

9

16

Rayong United

12

2

3

7

16

21

9

17

TTM FC

12

1

6

5

8

15

9

18

Ayutthaya FC

12

1

5

6

8

16

8

and went towards the Phuket goal. Luckily there were no Trat players nearby, and Ninuruddin rushed back to pick up the ball.

The home side then rained attacks on Phuket, but Ninuruddin denied shot after shot, while Sato and Nene Bi cleared the ball out wherever they could.

Doumeng continued to set up plays for his team-mates, but

could never quite connect with Giorgi Tsimakuridze, leading the attack in the absence of Dudu, and the first half ended with Phuket FC ahead by one.

The Isanders scored their second just two minutes into the second half, when Trat defender Chokechai Choochai tried to intercept a long kick from Spider Ming, only to

have Giorgi steal it off him.

Speeding ahead for a one-onone confrontation with Trat’s goalie, the Georgian shot past him to score. The 20 devoted Phuket FC fans who had followed their team to Trat were vocal in their delight. – but the feeling of victory wouldn’t last.

Trat FC next closed down Phuket’s midfield by tightly marking Doumeng. The result was that he was effectively shut off from the game, which drastically cut Phuket’s possession of the ball.

Phuket’s first mistake came nine minutes into the second half, from a free kick by Trat that went towards the far post.

Spider Ming reached out but missed, and Trat’s Chokechai charged the ball in, despite Nene Bi’s attempt to block it.

The goal inspired Trat FC to come back stronger. Two minutes later Phuket lost their lead when Ninuruddin punched a corner shot away – but the ball went to a Trat player, who fired it back towards goal. Trat’s Tinnakorn Asurin got to the ball first, sending it past the tip of the keeper’s glove and into the goal, putting the score at two goals each.

Phuket FC were now struggling to keep calm and hold on for at least a draw, but there was worse to come. Seven minutes later Trat tried a shot at goal from a long throw-in.

A Phuket defender blocked it, but the ball fell to Trat’s Trairong Kaenjan, who fired

a shot straight at Ninuruddin.

Spider Ming tried to block the ball with both hands, but the powerful shot went in right under the crossbar, putting the home side in the lead 3-2.

Phuket were now facing defeat just ten minutes after they held a two goal lead. With nothing to lose, Nene Bi left his post at centre-back to help up front, while key midfielder Doumeng was still effectively shut out of the game.

The tactic paid off when Nene curled the ball from outside Trat’s penalty area towards the far post. The keeper jumped up and reached for a save, but Giorgi leaped out from behind two defenders and headed the ball right through the keeper’s hands, giving Phuket the equaliser they needed to avoid the misery of losing.

Both teams fought fiercly in in the five minutes of additional time. Trat took a close-range shot, but Spider Ming was in the right place to save it. A minute later it was Phuket’s turn, when Narakorn Wisetthanakarn fired in from 18 yards – but the keeper tipped the ball over the crossbar. The game ended with the score on 3-3, giving each team one point in the league.

The Phuket News is the official media partner for Phuket FC, and publishes the official Match Guide now available at each home game for just B10.

Moorabbin Rams defend Rugby 10s title RUGBY UNION THE PHUKET INTERNAtional Rugby 10s tournament has been won once again by the Moorabbin Rams from Australia, in a pulsating final against Sri Lanka’s UC Lions where the winning 12-10 score came from a conversion in the last minute of the match.

Hundreds of players and more than two dozen teams

Over 90 Cities, One Perfect Gateway.

SilkAir and Singapore Airlines Connecting you to Places.

took part in this year’s tournament, and the finals from different categories smoothly alternated on the pitch at the Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club on Sunday (May 26). Thanyapura’s artificial pitch showed its mettle when a monsoon storm let loose without troubling the players.

Tour nament hosts the Phuket Vagabonds narrowly missed out on reaching the finals after a semi-final loss

to UC Lions, in a game that was hailed by many spectators as one of the best of the tournament – before the final pipped it for spectacle. Local youth rugby team the Phuket Lomas had better luck with a 10-5 win over the Bangkok Lions to take the U13 cup, while Krabi defeated Surat Thani to win in the U16 division.

Tournament organiser Pat Cotter hailed the event as “a great weekend of rugby at a

great venue” and said plans were already being made for an even bigger tournament next year.

Main tournament

Cup winners: Moorabbin Rams A Plate winners: Al Ain Amblers Bowl winners: Taipei Baboons Player of the tournament: Farrell of the Moorabbin Rams.

Coffin Dodgers veterans tournament

Cup winners: Moorabbin Rams Vets Plate winners: Abu Dhabi Harlequins Bowl winners: Cottesloe Pirates Player of the tournament: Nick Dancer of the Beduk Stings

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Thai golfers lament late prize payments GOLF GOLFERS ARE BECOMING increasingly frustrated with the Professional Golf Association of Thailand’s delay in paying them their prize money.

The issue was unexpectedly raised at Monday’s ThaiPGA press conference when golfer Atthaphol Sriboonkaew questioned ThaiPGA’s president Chaiyaphat Sunayont about the matter.

“The players in the last four tournaments have not got their prize money,” Atthaphol claimed. “In total, it is 5.6 million baht.”

The four tournaments in question were the Nakhonnayok Golf Classic 2 (B2 million), the Watermill Challenge (B600,000), the Toyota PGA Thailand Classic 1 (B2 million) and the Toyota PGA Thailand Challenge (B600,000).

“It has been seven weeks since the end of the Nakhonnayok Golf Classic 2, but players have not yet got their prize money,” Atthaphol insisted.

Piya Sawangarunporn, who won the Toyota PGA Thailand Classic 1 this month, said players were unhappy with the association’s management.

“The delay has affected

THAILAND SPORT 29

Environmentalists oppose F1 night race for Bangkok FORMULA ONE

P Thailand PGA president Chaiyaphat Sunayont. the players’ lives and golfing plans,” he said. “They need money to spend.”

Tour player Pornsakol Tipsnit said the association had given no indication of when he would be paid: “When we phoned the president, he could not give us the exact time when we will be paid,” Pornsakol said. “Such a situation has never happened before.”

Chaiyapat declined to make a promise but said he would discuss with the players today.

Chaiyapat, better known as ‘Pro Louis’, was elected to replace golfer Thongchai Jaidee as ThaiPGA president in June.

His win was a surprise as he is not backed by Singha Corporation, which sponsors many Thai golfers.

Bangkok Post

plans to hold a Formula One race in Bangkok will harm the environment and people’s safety, environmental campaigners claimed on Tuesday.

Srisuwan Janya, president of the Stop Global Warming Association of Thailand nongovernmental group (THAISGWA) said accidents were common at this type of race.

“F1 cars might overshoot a curve and crash into some structures along the route,” Mr Srisuwan said.

Besides the loud noise, severe vibrations caused by the speeding race cars can do some damage to structures of the Grand Palace and other historical buildings, he said.

Mr Srisuwan said the proposed Bangkok race would break many laws, including those concerning environment and historic sites. He cited the Antiquities Act and environmental laws.

“The purpose of organising this event is to promote car manufacturers, not tourism as claimed,” he said.

THAISGWA will ask

Red Bull driver Mark Webber of Australia drives in the Formula One demonstration race staged in Bangkok in 2010. Photo: Red Bull/Athit Perawongmetha Thailand’s Administrative Court to consider suspending the project immediately if relevant agencies still want to push the project forward.

Earlier this month, Thai sports officials revealed the route of the proposed Formula One night race, which would be held in the capital in 2015.

The route starts and finishes beside the Chao Phraya River at the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard (Rat Woradit Pier),

and runs for 5.995 kilometres along Maha That Road, Na Phra Lan Road, Na Phra That Road, Chakrabongse Road, Phra Sumen Road, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Maha Chai Road and Thai Wang Road.

The organisers say the route will give spectators and TV viewers the chance to see several tourist spots along the route, including the Grand Palace, the Victory Monument, and the Temple

of Dawn.

Plans are being made for makeshift stands at several areas along the circuit that would be able to accommodate about 150,000 spectators, including main stands by the Chao Phraya River.

Details of the proposed route and other plans for the 2015 Formula One night race night race are being submitted to the cabinet for approval.

Bangkok Post

30 WORLD SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Crystal Palace make return to top flight FOOTBALL

C

rystal Palace returned to the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Watford in the Championship play-off final on Monday.

Veteran striker Kevin Phillips came off the bench to score a superb extra-time penalty at Wembley Stadium, after Manchester United-bound winger Wilfried Zaha had drawn a tired foul from Watford rightback Marco Cassetti.

The Championship play-off final is said to be the richest game in world football, and promotion to the English elite will reportedly swell Palace’s revenue by up to GBP120 million (B5.45 billion).

“We’re in the Premier League now, so God help us,” said Palace manager Ian Holloway, who was appearing in his third play-off final in four years.

“It’s absolutely massive for the club and I’m delighted for everyone connected. I feel very privileged.”

Palace last played in the Premier League in 2005, the last of four single-season stints in the top flight, and join Cardiff City and Hull City in graduating from the Championship this term.

Phillips, who began his

career at Watford, said he was yet to decide whether or not to play on next season.

“To come on and get the winning goal against the club where it all started is a fairytale,” said the on-loan Blackpool striker, who had tasted defeat in three previous play-off finals.

“If that is my last game, what a way to sign off. I’m going to have a break now. Every bit of my body is aching. I’ll see what the future brings.”

Zaha was a torment to the Watford defence throughout a scrappy game and will now link up with United having fulfilled his ambition of guiding Palace to promotion.

“I’m exhausted and speechless. It’s a dream come true,” he said. “This is all I wanted, leaving Palace knowing they are in the Premier League.”

A crowd of 82,025 turned out for the final game of the English season, with Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho among those in attendance, fuelling speculation that his return to Chelsea is now only a matter of time.

In a cautious first half, Zaha was the electrifying star turn.

He produced three dazzling runs down the right flank, the last of which culminated in a

Wilfried Zaha is on his way to Man United after helping Palace return to the Premier League. Photo: James Boyes cut-back for Owen Garvan, whose shot was blocked.

By that stage Palace had already lost Kagisho Dikgacoi to an apparent calf injury, with Stuart O’Keefe coming on in his place.

It was not until the 57th minute that Watford substitute Alex Geijo produced the first shot on target, but as the game wore on, Palace began to turn the screw and Watford goalkeeper Manuel Almunia was called upon with steadily increasing frequency.

The former Arsenal player thwarted Palace on five occasions in the closing stages

of normal time, saving from O’Keefe, Garvan and Aaron Wilbraham, twice, before plunging to his left to grasp a Mile Jedinak header in stoppage time.

Watford made the more enterprising start to extra time, Palace goalkeeper Julian Speroni superbly swatting the ball away from Troy Deeney, before Almunia’s resistance finally gave way.

Zaha’s dart into the box provoked a rash swipe from Cassetti and after referee Martin Atkinson pointed to the spot, Phillips swept an unerring penalty into the

top-left corner.

Fernando Forestieri almost sent the game to penalties at the death, but although his shot beat Speroni, Joel Ward was on hand to head the ball off the line and safeguard Palace’s return to the big time.

Crystal Palace manager Holloway lauded Zaha’s “genius” after the match – but despite Zaha’s obvious worth to Palace, Holloway dismissed the idea that he might ask incoming United manager David Moyes if he could take the 20-year-old England international back to Palace on loan.

“I think he’d be silly to give him back,” he said.

“It might be unrealistic but who knows? He’ll know the task that he’s got, so good luck to him and good luck to us.”

Holloway said Palace would be careful not to make rash moves in the transfer market.

“I don’t really want to talk about money,” he said.

“If we can look at [improving] the ground, the gentlemen [Palace’s owners] want to keep running this club the way we are.

“How much you spend on the group doesn’t always give you something – it’s what’s inside their hearts and how much they want to work for you.” AFP

Chiefs steam towards NZ conference title RUGBY UNION

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS THE Waikato Chiefs have all but secured the New Zealand Super 15 conference title while the battle in the Australian and South African intra-leagues remains contestable.

The Chiefs carved out an important 28-19 victory over Kiwi rivals the Canterbury Crusaders, to open up a 10-point lead over the seven-time Super Rugby champions in the New Zealand conference.

The Chiefs showed great defensive resolve to hold out against the Crusaders in Hamilton, when they were pinned on their own line for 10 minutes midway through the second spell as Canterbury looked to build on a one-point lead.

From there, the Chiefs worked their way back up-field to produce a converted try and a penalty in the final 10 minutes to seal the outcome.

Waikato may be in a strong position at the top of the overall Super 15 standings, but the race is still on in earnest in the other two national conferences and with it home advantage in the July playoffs.

Triple champions the Northern

The Chiefs’ Ben Afeaki takes the ball. Photo: Leon Barrott/chiefs.co.nz Bulls are second overall and leading the South African conference by five points after a thrilling 18-16 derby win over the Coastal Sharks in Durban.

The ACT Brumbies are still the team to beat in the Australian conference after a crucial 20-13 win over the Auckland Blues at Eden Park.

The Central Cheetahs loom as the Bulls’ main conference rivals after a bonus point 34-22 triumph over the Southern Kings away in Port Elizabeth.

The Queensland Reds, the 2011 Super Rugby champions, are five points adrift of the Brumbies in the Australian conference and fifth overall after going down 20-15 to the Western Stormers in Cape Town.

The New South Wales Waratahs’ playoff hopes are threatened following an upset 24-22 loss to the Rebels in Melbourne. The Blues were in seventh place overall, although they were level on points with the Crusaders,

now in sixth place after their loss to the Chiefs.

In the other weekend match with no playoff bearing, Australia’s Western Force edged New Zealand’s Otago Highlanders 19-18 in Perth, while the Wellington Hurricanes had a bye.

Springbok fly-half Morne Steyn became the leading Super 15 pointsscorer this season with six penalties as the Bulls beat the Sharks.

Steyn won the individual goalkicking battle against Patrick Lambie, the younger Sharks playmaker who replaced him in the Springboks team last season.

Christian Lealiifano kicked the Brumbies to a crucial win over the Blues as the Canberra-based side won in Auckland for the first time in five seasons.

It was one try apiece but Lealiifano punished the Blues with five penalties for the Brumbies’ eighth win this campaign.

The Cheetahs rose to fourth place for the first time in Super Rugby with victory over the struggling Kings.

The Bloemfontein team led 13-12 at half-time and after falling behind again, scored three tries in 12 minutes to go on to win. AFP

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

Anti-doping ‘biological passports’ for NRL RUGBY LEAGUE AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL Rugby League announced Friday it will introduce new “biological passport” drug tests that can spot the signs of doping even after chemicals have left an athlete’s body.

The Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) programme was developed during last year’s London Olympics to detect Human Growth Hormone (hGH) and increases testing for peptides.

NRL chief executive Dave Smith said in a statement the ABP tests differ from traditional techniques as they look at the effects of doping, rather than directly detecting the prohibited substances or methods used.

“Even if a substance has left the body, the tests will detect if it was there,” he said.

The drug testing announcement follows the appointment of Nick Weeks as the NRL General Manager of Integrity and General Counsel, as well as the establishment of rugby league’s first dedicated Integrity and Compliance Unit.

“We will do everything we can to have a drug-free game and the new testing measures are just part of our commitment to fans and players to placing integrity and compliance at the forefront of Rugby League,” Smith said.

“Under the guidance of a Queen’s Counsel we established the NRL Integrity and Compliance Unit and we have been working with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) to identify the emerging threats in world sport.

“We have now developed a comprehensive new testing programme that responds to and minimises these risks.”

The introduction of the new testing measures follows consultation between the NRL, ASADA, NRL clubs and is supported by the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA).

ASADA Chief Executive Aurora Andruska said that the NRL’s anti-doping programme was as comprehensive as any in world sport.

She said it was tailored to meet emerging threats in doping while providing an ongoing deterrent against substances and methods prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

ASADA is currently investigating several NRL clubs after the release of a wide-ranging Australian Crime Commission report into doping in Australian sport. AFP

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2013

WORLD SPORT 31

Sport

Trat attack stuns Phuket Late goal from Giorgi saves Islanders from away defeat > 28

editor2@classactmedia.co.th

Lions land in Hong Kong RUGBY UNION

T

he star-studded British and Irish Lions touched down in Hong Kong on Tuesday (May 28) for the first Asian tour match in their 125-year history, ahead of the three-Test series with Australia.

The 37-man squad, which combines the cream of England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, were given a warm welcome as they arrived at Hong Kong’s Chek Lap Kok airport wearing red Lions T-shirts.

Captain Sam Warburton and Scotland full-back Stuart Hogg posed with local schoolchildren who displayed a welcome banner in Chinese alongside the Lions mascot, Billy.

The Lions, who visit one southern hemisphere rugby nation every four years, kick off their tour on Saturday when they play the Barbarians at the 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium, venue for the annual

Scottish full-back Stuart Hogg with Billy, the mascot of the British and Irish Lions, as the team arrives for their first Hong Kong match in 125 years. Photo: AFP/Philippe Lopez Hong Kong Sevens tournament.

The Lions’ first ever game in Asia adds to rugby’s steadily growing presence in the region, including Bledisloe Cup games between Australia and New Zealand in Hong Kong and Japan’s hosting of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Live Sports TV Schedule

CHANNEL GUIDE

1XX- True Vision, 8XX - Astra; 8 - Setanta

*Times may be subject to change

CHANNEL

START

END

SPORT

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

Friday, May 31 816, 117

14:30

16:30

Rugby Union

Super 15

Crusaders v Waratahs

of a brutal series against John Eales’s Wallabies. They since suffered a thumping 3-0 loss to New Zealand in 2005 and a 2-1 reverse against South Africa in 2009.

After their first run-out on Saturday against the “BaaBaas”, who lost 40-12 to a

Saturday’s match is a warm-up for the Lions’ tour of Australia, when they will try to end a three-series losing streak since defeating South Africa in 1997.

Their last visit to Australia in 2001 saw them edged out 2-1 in the gripping final installment

Super 15 Team

young England side at Twickenham on Sunday, the Lions will fly to Perth to face Super 15 side Western Force on Wednesday.

They will then play five more warm-ups before the Test series begins in Brisbane on June 22. The second Test is in Melbourne a week later, and the series wraps up in Sydney on July 6.

Coach Warren Gatland has selected 15 Welshmen in his squad, including Captain Sam Warburton - Wales’s largest Lions representation in 36 years.

The England contingent now numbers nine and there are three from Scotland Ireland contribute 10 Lions since the inclusion of hooker Rory Best as a late replacement for suspended Englishman Dylan Hartley, who was red-carded at Twickenham on Saturday while playing for Northampton against Leicester.

Hartley’s verbal volley at

referee Wayne Barnes, which contained a profanity and the word “cheat,” earned him an 11-week ban, ending his Lions tour before it had begun.

The Lions begin their itinerary against the Barbarians who, having lost 40-12 to England on Sunday, should prove relatively gentle opponents despite the likely 30C heat and stifling humidity at the 7.30pm (11.30 GMT) kick-off time.

The opening-match workload will almost certainly be carried by the 22 players in the squad who were not involved in club season finales at the weekend.

The rest, with Best among them, will get their first chance to pitch for Test places against the Wallabies when the Lions face Super 15 side Western Force in Perth four days later.

The British and Irish Lions face Australia in three Tests in Brisbane on June 22, Melbourne on June 29 and Sydney on July 6. AFP

NRL MP W

D

L

F

A

Pts

D

L

F

A

Pts

1

Chiefs

13

10

0

3

383

283

52

1

Team Rabbitohs

MP W 11

9

0

2

277

163

18

2

Bulls

12

9

0

3

337

238

50

2

Melbourne Storm

11

8

1

2

253

168

17

3

ACT Brumbies

13

8

2

3

346

234

50

3

Sydney Roosters

11

8

0

3

254

120

16

4

Cheetahs

13

9

0

4

320

287

45

4

Sea Eagles

11

7

1

3

205

128

15

5

Queensland Reds

14

8

2

4

274

264

45

5

Newcastle Knights

11

6

0

5

248

192

12

16:35

18:30

Rugby Union

Super 15

Brumbies v Hurricanes

816, 106

16:00

00:00

Tennis

French Open

Roland Garros Day 6

6

Crusaders

12

7

0

5

315

241

42

6

Gold Coast Titans

11

6

0

5

223

195

12

29

16:45

00:30

Cricket

ODI

England v New Zealand

7

Blues

12

6

0

6

270

244

42

7

Sharks

11

6

0

5

191

173

12

521

16:30

19:30

Aussie Rules

AFL

Brisbane Lions v Collingwood

8

NSW Waratahs

13

7

0

6

349

321

39

8

Penrith Panthers

11

5

0

6

241

206

10

9

Hurricanes

12

6

0

6

280

319

38

9

Brisbane Broncos

11

5

0

6

202

175

10

10

Sharks

13

6

0

7

285

252

34

10

Bulldogs

11

5

0

6

188

223

10

11

Stormers

12

5

0

7

245

253

34

11

Canberra Raiders

11

5

0

6

206

261

10

12

Melbourne Rebels

13

4

0

9

307

406

32

12

Cowboys

11

4

0

7

180

194

8

Saturday, June 1 816, 117

18:20

20:30

Rugby Union

International

British Lions v Barbarians

813, 109

17:30

00:00

Motorcycling

MotoGP

Qualifying

816, 117

14:30

16:30

Rugby Union

Super 15

Highlanders v Blues

13

Southern Kings

12

3

1

8

244

415

24

13

Dragons

11

4

0

7

164

226

8

16:30

18:00

Rugby Union

Super 15

Reds v Rebels

14

Western Force

14

3

1

10

233

323

23

14

Warriors

11

3

0

8

179

296

6

15

Highlanders

12

1

0

11

238

346

17

15

Parramatta Eels

11

3

0

8

166

295

6

Conference leader

Wild card team

16

Wests Tigers

11

3

0

8

145

307

6

521

816, 106

22:00

00:00

Rugby Union

Super 15

Stormers v Kings

00:00

02:00

Rugby Union

Super 15

Cheetahs v Bulls

16:30

19:30

Aussie Rules

AFL

Sydney Swans v Essendon

19:30

21:30

Aussie Rules

AFL

Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide

16:00

00:00

Tennis

French Open

Roland Garros Day 7

Sunday, June 2 816, 117

12:00

14:00

Rugby League

NRL

Titans v Cowboys

813, 109

16:00

19:00

Motorcycling

MotoGP

Race Day

816, 106

16:00

00:00

Tennis

French Open

Roland Garros Day 8

521

12:00

15:00

Aussie Rules

AFL

Melbourne v Hawthorn

29

16:45

00:30

Cricket

ODI

England v New Zealand