4april 2010 by Nattapat S.

www.krabi-magazine.com

FREE COPY April 2010

ISSUE 52

SONGKRAN

•TRAVEL•CULTURE•AO NANG•LANTA•LEISURE•NATURE•

Editorial

Welcome to Krabi April 2010 – ISSUE 52 EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Thomas Gennaro krabimagazine@gmail.com 089 9085990 ART GROUP Creative Director: Nattapat Sunthonphuriwat [Ton®] tonidesign@gmail.com - 089 7727858 Graphic Designers: Chadaporn Chai-in [Aom] CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Thomas Gennaro – Nattapat Sunthonphuriwat Hilton Jones – Ciaran Tierney - Daniel Raine The Lanta Retreat – Ao Nang Divers Robby Attwater – Cyril – Ton Company DISTRIBUTION AO NANG - KRABI - PHUKET Thanyasit Sarunyasat Newspaperdirect Krabi: 075 637459 DISTRIBUTION KOH LANTA - KOH PHI PHI PHUKET - KOH SAMUI - BANGKOK Guava Corporations: 089 9085990

KitDee Media & Design Company Limited 247/13 Moo 5, Ao Nang, Krabi 81000 Tel: 075 661144 - 075 637459 - Fax: 075 637460 E-mail: krabimagazine@gmail.com

Krabi Magazine is published and produced by KitDee Media & Design Company Limited and is protected by Copyright. No parts of this publication can be used or reproduced in any form – printed, electronic, photocopy or otherwise – without the written permission of the publishers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse to publish adverts, texts or advertising features. Advertising terms and conditions are to be obtained at krabimagazine@gmail.com Please send submissions to krabimagazine@gmail.com DISCLAIMER While great care has been taken in the receipt and handling of material, production and accuracy in this magazine, the publisher will not accept any responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions which may occur. The information and stories published are those of the writers and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or the editor. The description of properties, the contents, whereabouts and price are given in this magazine as a guide only. Please request further details from the advertiser and seek legal advice before entering into any contract to purchase. All information and prices were correct at the time of going to press.

Songkran Cover picture courtesy of: Hilton Jones

rabi Province is considered to be one of the most beautiful regions in a beautiful country. Krabi has it all, from the limestone karsts that characterize the region to world-class beaches, islands, temples, markets, nightlife and shopping, the list is seemingly endless. Gastronomes will find Krabi a sanctuary of fine dining and lovers of the great outdoors will find plenty to keep them occupied - waterfalls, hot springs, national parks, elephant treks are all on offer and Krabi is also one of the world’s premier destinations for rock climbing and scuba diving. The coral reefs of the Andaman Sea are among the world’s best and the Railay Peninsula attracts climbers from all over the world. This is the tourist high season closing issue, and we do it with the best and biggest and most stunning water fight in the world: escape the gripping heat, mix and splash during Thai New Year Songkran, in style! Also in this issue, art in motion at Sheraton Krabi, Rong Ngeng cultural dance explained, and a wedding in the tropics with Krabi Spesialisten. Discover how local you can be in Krabi Town, find out about orchids, read on environmental projects in Railay, marvel at how yoga can positively influence your kid, and more. In Koh Lanta section we follow Sun Island Tours on a great longtail boat trip to the east-gulf islands, get involved in an unusual marriage proposal, try the food at Layana’s Tides, sleep over and enjoy Relax Bay, and continue our ongoing yoga experience. There is so much in our real estate section if you are after a property in Krabi. How should you pick your place in the sun, how to improve your water-closet condition here in Thailand, how to fend off unwanted visitors such as termites trying to vacation in your home, how to retire in this marvelous country, how to get a Thai driving license and how to buy the most interesting project in Thalane area. Watch out for our extremely popular Krabi 81000 Miniguide and Krabi Maps series that are massively available to visitors to Krabi and Koh Lanta, complementing the magazine and helping you with your search for the best eats, nightlife, activities, boats and buses timetables, doctors and banks, events; an endless array of information to make your stay reasonably organized. Find Krabi 81000 Miniguide and Krabi Maps in your hotel lounge, in restaurants and pubs, at airport and boat pier or in your favourite local travel agency. Browse them avidly and make use of our local expertise. Look out for our logos, and BEWARE OF IMITATIONS! We hope you find Krabi Magazine inspirational and helpful whether you come to Krabi to eat, drink and relax on the beach or participate in any of the numerous activities on offer here in Thailand. Enjoy the magazine, enjoy our Krabi Maps and 81000 Miniguides, and above all enjoy your holiday!

Thomas Gennaro Executive Editor

CONTENTS

A Window on Krabi

Cover Story

Art

Culture

Services

Underwater World

Highlights of this amazing province: town to temples, beaches to Islands, natural hotspots to cultural places.

April 2010, issue 52

12 14

Of all the feasts and festivals in Thailand, which are many, Songkran is the most striking. Songkran is in fact considered to be the world’s biggest water fight.

An evening at Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort with Boonkasam Saekow

Enter the world of Rong-Ngeng, a traditional folk dance and music celebration customarily performed on special occasions by Sea Gypsies.

A marriage in a tropical paradise, on a palm lined beach, with warm, turquoise waters lapping at your feet is something many people have dreamed about.

Everything you need to know about learning to Scuba Dive.

Flora 24

Many might now know that the much-loved Dendrobium is the most popular genus of orchid, the mother and father of the numerous Orchidaceae present in Thailand.

City Tales

Krabi town is always overlooked by the various traveller guidebooks and we think it’s time the place got a real mention, as it’s a great town in which to spend a few days!

CONTENTS Environment 28

Sustainable Tourism Development Project Phranang - Railay, Krabi.

Heath & Living

Restaurant Review

Koh Lanta

Therapeutic & Yoga for kids.

Sunset dinner at Krua Ao Nang Cuisine

April 2010, issue 52

Get the most out of Koh Lanta. Highlights, maps, reviews and articles: Adventure: Lanta: East is… Underwater World: Lanta’s ‘Love Boat’ Restaurant Review: Tides, @ Layana Resort Hotel Review: Relax Bay Health & Living: Yoga - exercise or lifestyle

Real Estate

Purchasing and making real estate investments made simple with Krabi Magazine. Architect Tips: Finding your place in the sun Construction: Sanitary solutions Property Review: Thalane Bay Village Home Issues: Pest Control Lifestyle: Thai driving license Know the Law: Retirement in Thailand Rentals: Krabi Villas Co Ltd

Astroflash

Divine Astrology is referred to as the Head and Tail of the Dragon. This month, the sign of Aries analyzed.

A window on Krabi

THE ISLANDS

THE CULTURE

Hop on or hire a longtail, the local wooden boats with their picturesque prows. Sail away to Koh Poda, surrounded by turquoise waters, or to Koh Kai, shaped as a chicken and therefore called the Chicken Island, from where a walk on a sandy pathway connects it to Koh Tub. Make a longtail boat or speedboat trip to the Koh Hong archipelago, a group of limestone islands with hidden caves and lagoons perfect for kayaking or snorkeling. Join an organized tour to amazing Koh Phi Phi islands, full of marvelous bays, limestone cliffs, waters rich in marine life, caves where swallow nests are harvested, and much more. Visit Koh Jum and Koh Siboya, small, unspoiled tropical hideaway that have a unique atmosphere. These islands still have no electricity and no cars and give visitors the time to relax and re-charge their batteries. Or venture out on Koh Lanta, the developing island at the southern end of the province home to sea gypsies communities, where you will meet nature and tradition. A National Park area that comprises many different islands surrounded by coral reefs, such as Koh Ngai and remote Koh Rok.

Ban Natin, on the way from Ao Nang to Klong Muang, is the place to experience the peaceful lifestyle of the local Muslim community. Home accommodation is available, or you can simply make a stopover and see the production of handmade products such as batik paintings, pineapple-fiber paper and coconut shell carving. Wat Klong Thom Museum features various kinds of beads, stone tools, and stone and earthen ornaments in animal shapes of approximately 5,000 years old, uncovered during archeological excavations. Fire dancing, part of the beach culture, is a popular evening activity on the beaches of Koh Lanta, performed by acrobatic boys who swing burning torches around their bodies, creating sparkling artistic pictures. Ban Sang-Ka-U is a sea gypsy’s settlement in south-east Lanta Yai. It is there that an old clan of traditional Chao Ley try to preserve a disappearing way of life in this fast-developing island.

THE TEMPLE Located just 9 km from Krabi Town the Wat Tham Seua, or Tiger Cave Monastery, is one of south Thailand’s most famous and interesting forest temples, as the monks live, meditate and worship within a maze of natural caves in an overgrown jungle valley. Many Thai women live out their old-age there as nuns. Explore the inner cave used by monks for meditation. Climb the 1,237 steps up a limestone tower to see the statue of the Buddha and the “footprint of the Buddha” embedded in the rock, and to enjoy one of the best viewpoints of the area. Take the circular walk through Krabi’s rarest of all features, a pocket of primary lowland forest, a circular rocky basin enclosed by high cliffs. Here, along a pathway used by monks to meditate and amongst a number of magnificent trees you can be amazed in front of the largest flared root base of any tree remaining in Thailand.

Krabi Magazine

THE BEACHES Ao Nang, at 20km from Krabi Town, is the most developed of Krabi’s beaches, a long stretch of white sandy beach with limestone mountains as a backdrop. It has a wide range of accommodation and services and the main shopping street features restaurants, bars, pubs, souvenir shops, dive centers and tour agencies, massage centers and spas. This is the hub from which to plan your trip at sea and to the nearby islands on a typical longtail boat. Noppharat Thara beach, just around the corner from Ao Nang, is 3km long yet still undeveloped, with only a few resorts and bars. Attractive because of its natural setting, this is where local youngsters and families gather at sunset and at weekends. Savour some local Muslim snacks at the beach stalls, or fill yourself with seafood in the local restaurants at the very end of the beach, near the Noppharat Thara National Park headquarters. At low tide, walk out together with millions of small crabs on the sandy pathways to the small islands near the beach. Railay beaches are split and separated from Krabi and Ao Nang by monumental limestone mountains. Railay has two sides, east and west, and its settings are simply marvelous: crystal clear waters, pure sandy beaches, lush mountains, rocky islands emerging from the sea. Railay can only be reached by boat, a 15 minutes ride from Ao Nang or 30 minutes from Krabi Town. Enjoy a cocktail in one of the beach bars, visit the Phranang Cave, challenge yourself on a rock climbing course, hike the limestone massif to a lagoon and a viewpoint, or simply chill out. Neighbouring Tonsai lies at the base of a cliff which divides it form Railay West. Tonsai has a shallow beach with slow gradients out to sea which is profoundly affected by the tide.

Krabi Magazine

Klong Muang beach is a further 20km away from Ao Nang; it is the up-market side of Krabi, the place to be if you are after a peaceful holiday. Catering to families and couples, it is here that you really get the so deserved repose, surrounded by pristine nature. Tubkaek beach is another real place to hide away; long, clean and peaceful, the area has breathtaking views over Koh Hong islands archipelago, and charming sunsets. From there you can venture inside the National Park and try a walking trail to a viewpoint and a waterfall. Koh Lanta beaches have a wide selection of resorts for all tastes and pockets. Lanta Yai island has long stretches of gleaming white sandy beaches and shallow emerald waters. Lined with tropical vegetation, a private spot is never more than a short walk away on a southern beach at Lanta Yai.

THE TOWN Small, charming, silent at times, nice for a day’s walking tour. Krabi Town is full of old buildings, bars and restaurants, local exotic marketplaces and food stalls at the old Chao Fa pier where to sample the local food. The Krabi motto is: “lively town, lovely people”; Krabi’s simple people are definitely proud of their town and of their warm and generous character. Hop on a longtail boat at Chao Fa pier and visit Khao Kanab Nam, the unique pair of hills facing each other on the opposite banks of the Krabi River, symbols of the town; or embark on a journey to Koh Klang, an island next to town on the mouth of the river, where you will experience lives lived by the local fishing communities; or charter a boatman for a visit to the mangrove backwaters.

NATURAL HOTSPOTS Limestone mountains or karsts, characterize most of the inland Krabi area, the most spectacular being the massifs of Sai Tai. Susaan Hoi is a 40 million year-old seashell cemetery; once a large swamp where freshwater crustaceans proliferated, today home to 40 centimeter thick, shell encrusted limestone slabs, a geological uniqueness not far from Ao Nang. One must find a broken edge to see the shells clearly, since all of those on the upper surface have been walked on and worn down by the elements and are hard to identify. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park, at 20km from Krabi Town, comprises waterfalls, streams, lush forests and caves. It is home to all kind of flora and wildlife and to the highest mountain in the region from which it takes the name. One of the features of the park is Huay Toh Waterfall where water runs down onto several huge pools. Tarnbok Khoranee National Park, in the north of the region, consists of limestone mountains, verdant tropical forest, caves and beautiful islands. It is well-known for its different species of trees growing around a large natural crystal clear pool, and for the hundreds of birdsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; species. Phi Hua Toh Cave, in the nearby Bor Thor area, surrounded by mangrove swamps and reachable by boat or kayak, is where to see pre-historic rock paintings depicting animals and humans. Sa Morakot, the Emerald Pool, is a natural wonder: a pond of turquoise water with an average temperature of 30-40C, fed by a hot spring in the middle of the jungle. Hot Springs of Klong Thom, natural Jacuzzis in which to lift away tensions and relieve body and mind with the mineral-enriched waters falling into rocky ponds.

Cover Story Story & Photos by : Hilton Jones

Songkran A water festival

he word Songkran comes from Sanskrit and its meaning refers to the new solar year. Traditionally statues of Buddha are bathed in a ritual using sacred water, and people perform this ritual for elders and monks also. Many people will clean their houses, and many will make new-year’s resolutions. It is a national holiday in Thailand, often called the “water festival” because after visiting the temples Thai people (for whom having fun is very important) take to the streets armed with buckets of water to have the biggest water-fight of the year. Friends and family are important on this day, but Thai people involve everyone – including tourists. The symbolism of the water is clear - it is a washing away of bad luck and negative feelings, and many people will perform the ritual bathing with extreme gentleness, perhaps pouring some water on your head or shoulders and wishing you happy new year; “sawat dii pii mai”. Far more commonly, however, you will find yourself surrounded and being attacked by a gang of kids armed with powerful water pistols and cannons. The meaning remains the same, as are the smiles on all the faces. This is a day for fun.

Songkran is the most popular festival in Thailand. It is the celebration of the new year, as well as a symbolic farewell to the bad luck and hardships of the previous year. Here in Krabi it is mainly celebrated on the 13th of April for one day, but in Chiang Mai it can last up to ten days.

Krabi Magazine

The smiles are so contagious, and the festival is a reminder for everyone to enjoy life and not take things too seriously. Even the police are considered fair targets, but always get permission before throwing a bucket of water over a policeman just in case! Sometimes people will wipe a mixture of mentholated talcum powder and water on your cheeks and forehead, which is considered to be giving you a blessing and also has a wonderful cooling effect. Be careful not to get the powder in your eyes as it stings, but it is easy to wash out and there are always plenty of volunteers armed with buckets around to help you! Most shops and restaurants will have large containers outside their premises, which are constantly being filled with water. If you ask permission you can reload your water pistol or refill your bucket, and continue soaking the never-ending flow of trucks filled with revellers. Traffic in Ao Nang is made one-way for the majority of the day, and many people drive the circuit around to Klong Haeng and back past Na Thai many times during the day, refueling both their water tanks and gas tanks on the way back to Ao Nang.

Amidst all the fun it is important to bear some things in mind to keep your Songkran safe and enjoyable. Firstly, the day is supposed to be fun for everyone so if you are unhappy having water thrown at you then perhaps consider staying inside your hotel. Water is generally not thrown inside restaurants and bars, so these provide a safe haven for a break from the festivities. Be careful with your belongings: use a dry bag or even a plastic bag to keep things waterproof. If you want to take pictures, consider buying a waterproof pouch (available at most dive centers) to protect your camera. Remember to use lots of sunscreen â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the cooling effect of the water and powder often encourages people to spend too much time in the sun. Avoid using your motorbike: it is much more fun and safe to park and walk instead. The roads will be very wet and slippery, and both water and powder will be thrown at you even as you are driving. Consider the fact that many people will be drinking and driving: unfortunately there are usually more accidents on Songkran day than any other day of the year. Be considerate and avoid throwing water at others driving motorcycles. Remember also that there is a large Muslim community in Krabi, so please dress conservatively. It is very offensive to walk around town wearing next to nothing - even at Songkran. In addition young boys, sometimes from neighbouring provinces, visit the beaches of Krabi in the hope of seeing foreign women in skimpy bikinis, so female tourists should try to avoid wearing anything too revealing and refuse offers of hugs from young, drunken boys â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hugging is not a part of the Songkran festival, or Thai culture in general and can be a misunderstood gesture. Taking these things into consideration will guarantee you a safe start to the Thai New Year leaving you free to enjoy all the fun and games. Be prepared to get very wet! Sawat dii pii mai!

Krabi Magazine

Art Story by : By Thomas Gennaro Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Live Painting with Rong Ngeng An evening at Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort with Boonkasam Saekow

Last month I was cordially invited by Khun Arunya Sirigul, Marketing CommunicationsÂ Manager at Sheraton Krabi, to join the Cocktail and Exhibition of Paintings by Krabi talented artist Boonkasam Saekow. Boonkasam is a Krabi native and his collection of several and oils capture life in the South of Thailand, and in particular of the Urak Lawoi sea-gypsies.

Krabi Magazine

t was a warm late afternoon when I arrived at the Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort lawn at the beachfront. A public of all ages and nationalities was already enjoying cocktail and snacks and looking at the several canvases exposed in the garden area; the sun was beginning to set behind the shape of Koh Yao Island. Canvas of different sizes and prices, ranging from 80x100 cm to 120x140cm, priced at 43,000 to 215,000 Baht, occupied a good part of the lawn. Those impressive paintings, marvels of art, showed generations of sea gypsies, old piers where longtail boats are parked, families playing Rong Ngeng music, old villages, beach scenes, the sea, karsts mountains and villagers life. Acrylic or oil paintings on canvas done with and spatula techniques, that come to life thanks to the amount of color used in them. I wondered in the lawn for a while sipping a pina colada, and later introduced myself to the artist, a smiley and affable guy dressed in a traditional southern Thailand sarong, interrupting his preparation of brushes and

colours on stage. Jazz music played along and the Rong Ngeng musicians were preparing their instruments for the evening, eyeing the crown of tourists with a hint of curiosity. Asked what prompted him to chose sea gypsies as the main inspiration of his paintings, he replied he lived with them for a couple of years, learning their culture, music and customs. “I started painting their life, and it fascinated me. So simple, yet everything in good order, everything defined”. At last, it was time for Sheraton GM Khun Chatchawan to give an introductory speech and start the event. The Rong Ngeng quartet consisted of old villagers dressed in traditional clothes and hats, playing violins, gongs and drums. The music started with a basic soft rhythm resembling that of a samba, and so started the live painting event of Boonkasam. At first he used his fingers, scooping out lots of paint from the tins and applying it to the canvas with rough strokes. Splashes of colours gradually filled the canvas under the astonished eyes of those present, some looking slightly sceptical. The music intensified and his strokes too, along with the rhythm, with the painting beginning to take vivid shapes. Boonkasam seemed kidnapped, and started applying different techniques using fingers, back of palm and side of hand in frenzy strokes and gestures, and it looked as if he was fighting with someone imaginary, paint slashing all over the stage. He splashed upwards and downwards, with his apparent excitement and incongruent splashes giving the painting a messy order. 15 minutes on and the musicians continued with their playing, alternating slow and fast pace and with no break between a rhythm and the next. Boonkasam distanced himself from the canvas, looked at the painting from far, washed hands and started again, this time using spatula and brushes to define some features still undistinguishable. An art expression I had never seen before. And as it started it ended, suddenly, with no definite shapes for the disappointed look of those who expected to see some sense in this painting. There was an obvious applause, after which Khun Boonkasam explained his inspiration: “This is a journal of my painting adventure in the last 20 years, a painting journey to the past where colors reflect the local lifestyle of the strong-minded Urak Lawoi. The red is the strength, and the blue is the sea”. The painting was auctioned, and bought by a lucky Norwegian for a reasonable price. Boonkasam Saekow exhibition and sale continues at the long corridors of Sheraton Krabi Beach Resort. Boonkasam often donates part of sales proceedings to the National Cancer Institute to help cancer patients extend their time and see the wonders of life. Some of the revenue from the Sheraton Krabi event will be donated to Unicef, in line with Sheraton strong mission to help children and help Unicef in their immunization programs in poor countries. This is perfectly in line with the commitment of Sheraton group to link to the community as part of sharing, and with their core value: “life is better when it is shared”.

Krabi Magazine

Fact File

The Artist In his works, Boonkasam Sae-Kow, a 47 years old local artist from Krabi Town, mainly depicts natural scenes like mangrove forests, rocky shores and karsts formations as well as temples and traditional lodgings from Railay, Sai Tai, Klong Thom, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi. Boonkasam often exhibit his “Andaman’s Life” - a series of crayon and oil paintings reflecting the way of life of villagers of the Urak Lawoi tribe in Koh Lanta Island - in the TADU Contemporary Art in Bangkok. For a couple of years, the artist lived in the community there, absorbing the environment of simplicity, sincerity, generosity and traditional customs such as worshipping the spirits and Rong Ngeng music. It is the Rong Ngeng, the diminishing southern Muslim musical legacy, which the artist is especially fascinated by. He felt the music in him, surrounding him, whatever he paints, wherever he goes. Since his career started over 25 years ago, Boonkasam has been involved in several projects, and has traveled and has been exhibited in several countries, including when recently he was in Prague for 2 years to depict his impressions of the country in canvas. Collectors around the world know his work and appreciate his unique style.

The Urak Lawoi The demise of the Urak Lawoi, one of three ancient sea gypsy clans that have roamed and lived on the coastlines and islands of Southeast Asia’s Andaman Sea for the past five centuries, has been long predicted, though today the resilience of these gentle and shy sea nomads means they are still around but with a few places left to go. On Koh Lanta Island in Krabi province, acknowledged by the Urak Lawoi as their original home in the Andaman Sea, elders struggle to save an ancient culture threatened by a modern world. Most children have tourism-related jobs and don’t have the time to learn traditional Rong Ngeng instruments and to practice the dancing. The Urak Lawoi are one of three groups of Chao Lay who have roamed the Andaman Sea for centuries. The true origins of the approximately 4,500 living Urak Lawoi are unsure. Legends and historical anecdotes also confirm the Urak Lawoi culture has prevailed despite the efforts of Buddhist, Muslim and Christian missionaries to change their ways. In the aftermath of the December 25th tsunami, the Urak Lawoi have become a hot cultural commodity worth preserving.

Krabi Magazine

Culture

Rong Ngeng

Story by : Thomas Gennaro Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Traditional Southern music unveiled

he basic elements of Rong Ngengâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s musical culture were brought to the Malay Peninsula by Portuguese traders in the 15th century. Rong-Ngeng quickly became popular with the ruling classes, which included a provincial governor and the ruler of the kingdom of Pattani. It is not surprising that this disappearing tradition was extremely popular in Koh Lanta, as the island used to be the trade center of this area and its first settlers absorbed a mixture of various cultural traditions from all over. Now, most performances of Rong Ngeng in Krabi are held on Koh Lanta, especially in occasion of the Laanta Lanta annual festival, but a few ceremonies are performed elsewhere in the Krabi region.

To describe it in a few words, Rong-Ngeng is a traditional folk dance and music celebration customarily performed on special occasions by Sea Gypsies. Music is played on violins, Arabian drums and Chinese gongs with Malaysian lyrics, accompanied by oldfashioned western dances.

Krabi Magazine

Rong-Ngeng is performed in two different styles in Thailand: in the Thai provinces of the southern border it is an elegant and exquisite dance with musical components. On the Andaman coast, Rong Ngeng is considered more to be a folk dance with some singing. During a Rong Ngeng, audience members can buy a ticket to dance with female dancers who are part of a Rong Ngeng band. Once the ticket is exhibited to the dancer, she rises from her chair or mat and dance in front of the audience with exotic and sensual movements to the sounds of the band; the rest of the singers usually accompany by singing in turn haunting laments in falsetto. I myself was invited, a few years ago, to attend a Muslim wedding in Koh Klang which had Rong Ngeng for the entertainment. I was fascinated. I observed the bandleader, a dark and wrinkled elder in his 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sporting a long white beard and a traditional hat, who stroked the strings of his old violin continuously, producing a lasting melody. I remember that the village elders had looked content and entertained while the singsong continued, and the youngsters in the audience saw Rong Ngeng as an opportunity to socialize with the opposite sex. In the past, the dancers would have covered their legs as a sign of respect for the community, but now the rules have been relaxed and that evening showed how much traditions are changing.

On a final note, it is worth mentioning that Rong Ngeng is an event usually paid for by one or several families for a special occasion. I am told a Rong Ngeng can go on nonstop for about 5 hours and costs about 10,000 baht (it can go on all night if the family is willing to pay more for the performers). No cash is involved directly with the dancers. People willing to ask them to dance purchase the vouchers from a ticket seller and hand them to the lady of their choice. The family who arrange Rong Ngeng partly finance it with the proceedings from the sale of these tickets; although money is not the main aim of an event, a successful Rong Ngeng can mean a nice profit for those who give a party. Rong Ngeng music, put in the right context, is indeed an ambassador for the culture and society in the south of Thailand. Its musical characteristics have been picked up by some local bands like Ussaleemala, a group that was formed with the aim of introducing and promoting Rong Ngeng culture, making it travel from the south to the other provinces. Ussaleemala is made up of 6 artists who play 8 different musical instruments: violin, mandolin, accordion, rebana, small rebana, gong, maracas and tambourine. The songs they perform are original and come from senior Rong Ngeng performers from the 3 border provinces of southern Thailand. Ussaleemala uses 5 main rhythms: Rumba, Joget, Inang, Zapin and Asli. In each of these patterns, the distinguishing element of the rhythm creates motives for the melody, which is constructed of two to four parts using diatonic scales in major and minor keys. The rhythm is then amplified using techniques such as diatonic sequencing, rhythmic sequencing or repetition. In their performances, the group separates into melody and rhythm sections. While the above can sound complicated to those not familiar with academic music, the emotions a Rong Ngeng concert triggers are equal to none.

Krabi Magazine

Services

Say yes in the tropics For many, a two-week yearly escape to the sun from a hectic lifestyle at home is as much as can be hoped for. But a Norwegian tour operator based in Krabi’s Ao Nang hopes to be able to make the dream come true for many people in the future. Krabi Specialisten offers couples the chance of such a wedding, an almost fairytale start to a life of happiness together in a spectacularly beautiful setting in Thailand’s Krabi province.

A marriage in a tropical paradise, on a palm lined beach, with warm, turquoise waters lapping at your feet is something many people have dreamed about.

Krabi Magazine

The drive to the venue, a five star resort in up-market Klong Muang, passes through peaceful villages set amid towering limestone casts and has recently been referred to as ‘the prelude to paradise’. As we approach the beach, it’s easy to see why so many couples are choosing this area and Krabi Specialisten for their wedding. A wave of excitement comes over me as I look across the beach and notice how perfect the setting is. A gloriously long, white sandy beach stretches out to the north and to the cliffs in the distance. As we walk towards the beach, Ingeborg the charismatic Norwegian manager of Krabi Specialisten, informs me that this beach will not be the location for the wedding. She tells me that when the bride and groom arrive, we will board a speedboat, along with the priest, flown in especially for the occasion, to a location where two remote Islands sit at either end of a sandbar. It just keeps on getting better and better. We board the speedboat and jet off in to The Andaman Ocean towards the famed Koh Hong Island group. We arrive at Koh Pak Bia where the Krabi Specialisten team are hard at work applying the finishing touches to the traditional Thai style wedding decoration, in this case an improvised version made from carved green bamboo and beautiful bouquets of flowers, as their private longtail boat, The Queen of Ao Nang, rocks gently on the surf, anchored a few meters offshore.

The bride and groom have chosen a very low-key, personal ceremony. Just the priest will be present while Ingeborg and her staff work silently in the background. With the sun about to start making itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s descent towards the horizon that will see it set over a beach flanked by two rocks, the priest begins the ceremony as the bride and groom, stand barefoot on beautiful golden sand while the Andaman Ocean pulls gradually away, revealing the stunning strip of sand beneath their feet, connecting the two Islands. The short ceremony, delivered by the Norwegian priest, dressed in traditional robes, in a smooth baritone, holds an open bible in his left hand, while the couple stand facing him and that glorious orange sunset, as it silently slips through a sliver of cloud and its long golden reflection hits the water. With the ceremony concluded and having enjoyed their first kiss as a married couple, the newlyweds are led to a small table to toast each other and their future happiness. A magnum of Champagne and an evening spent sipping, chatting and enjoying the beauty of the beach and the sublime sunset awaits, before once again climbing aboard the speedboat before heading back to the mainland to begin a new life together. For enquiries check on www.wedding-in -thailand.com or contact Ingeborg on +66 (0) 75 639 0978-8, ingeborg@wedding-in-thailand.com, ingeborg@krabispesialisten.com

Underwater World

Learn to Scuba Dive Everything you need to know about learning to Scuba Dive

f you’ve just decided to learn to dive you’ve made an excellent decision and if you’re not quite sure yet, let me help you along the way. Let’s have a look at everything you need to know about learning to dive. We begin by looking at which course would suit you. Introductory courses can be as brief as a half day trial in a swimming pool all the way through to full certification. Courses may have slightly different names but they are generally versions of the below courses:

Discover Scuba Diving A brief half day or more introduction to diving. This course provides a first time experience of scuba diving under the watchful eye of a scuba professional. You’ll practice some basic skills in order for you to become comfortable underwater and then you’ll experience the fantastic underwater marine life.

Scuba Diver Course The Scuba Diver course is an abbreviated Open Water Course that is commonly taken by people who either don’t have enough time do a full Open Water Course or are looking for continued supervision when you dive in the future.

Open Water Diver Course The Open Water course is the most common course and a full beginner course to scuba diving. The course takes a minimum of 3 days, or more, and once you complete it you’ll be certified for life and ready to go on to further training and a future of great diving.

Where should I learn? You can learn to dive almost anywhere in the world, so this will usually depend on where you live and where you spend your vacations. When deciding which dive center to learn at it’s important to understand the differences between certification agencies but equally important is to feel comfortable with your instructor and the dive center itself. Pay particular attention to the services and dive sites on offer. REMEMBER Cheap isn’t necessarily the best, this is your first step into diving so make sure that you are going to receive the best training possible.

What equipment do I need? You won’t usually need any equipment when you start to dive as it can all be rented for the duration of the course, but some dive centers may prefer you to have your own mask, snorkel, and fins. Once you’re certified there are all sorts of things you can buy and many divers love the new dive gadgets nearly as much as the actual diving.

Krabi Magazine

What will I learn? If you do a Discover Scuba Diving course you’ll learn the basics of dive safety and a few basic skills to make sure you’re safe underwater. During the Open Water course you’ll learn fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. You earn this rating by completing five pool dives and knowledge development sessions and then by making four open water dives. Once you have completed the course its time for the real fun to begin as you’ll be qualified to go diving any where in the world.

What’s next? Once you’ve completed the Open Water Course and you’re a certified diver you may like to do further courses like Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver or even go on to become a professional Divemaster, Instructor, Technical Diver, Commercial Diver, or even Military Diver. There are also many diving specialty courses that you can study that will broaden and enhance your underwater experiences. Ad. Ao Nang Divers.pdf

3/26/08

4:35:38 PM

Ao Nang Divers are located 50 meters from the beach, near Phra Nang Inn. Contact them on 075 637 244 or browse www.aonang-divers.com

Flora

Flowering Thoughts D

endrobium is an easy to grow and fast flowering orchid, with as many as 30 longlasting orchid sprays a year. It is the Dendrobium that introduced Thailand to the world orchid industry and elevated it to the top of the Asian orchid exporting market with big weekly orders from Scandinavian countries and a Japanese market that alone is worth an annual turnover of US$ 100 millions to the Thai nation. Orchid in Thai is gluay mhai. Thailand is today famous for its huge variety of orchids. Orchidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; admirers will amaze at the variety and quantity of the flower they will see in the country, which has around 1150 currently known species of Orchidaceae. Orchids differ according to habitats and province in the country, with an array of specimens both rare and common. The best way to find them is by visiting botanical gardens, present all over the country. Alternatively, you can chose to explore natural reserves and national parks with the support of a local guide, as a thorough exploration of little visited habitats of Thai orchids will give you the chance to find some rare exemplars.

Many might now know that the much-loved Dendrobium is the most popular genus of orchid, the mother and father of the numerous Orchidaceae present in Thailand.

Krabi Magazine

Unlike some hybrids with their large and long-lasting flowers, native orchids of Krabi and Southern Thailand have small blossoms in short flowering periods and their reproduction from seeds is very unlikely. The best time to see flowering wild orchids in Krabi and Southern Thailand is March through May. At this time of year whole hillsides can be seen decked with orchid flowers through all levels of the forest. Orchidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; magnificent colours and beauty make them a popular tourist purchase. Specially packaged flowers complete with water supply are readily available for the long journey home and can be conveniently purchased in many Krabi locations and inside Krabi and other major international airports.

Lanta Orchid Nursery, located in the mountains above Koh Lanta Yai Long Beach opposite Elephant Trekking, is a both an orchid farm and an exhibition. It shows all stages of nursing orchids, from the minuscule seeds to the flowering plant, and help visitors to understand the complicated life cycle of the orchid family. There you can experience the colourful flowers of various hybrids that have been crossbred for easier cultivation, or admire the small flowers of the natural ones that are found on trees in the upper canopy of the rain forest, where the humidity is high all year round. Tel 085 2111488, E-mail: mail@lanta-orchidnursery.com, www.lanta-orchidnursery.com. At the Phuket Orchid Garden you can admire over 1 rai (1,600 mt2) of exotic & rare varieties of orchids, a great area to enjoy and relax within. It comprises the reproduction of a Thai Village that provides an exciting comprehensive example of the life and culture of the people of the southern part of Thailand, with special attentions to their unique lifestyle. Phuket Orchid Garden is located on the main road to Phuketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s airport, 2.5 km from Phuket Town. Tel. 076 237400, 076 214860. Last but not least is the story of Khun Pradit Kham-Phoemphun, a man from Udon Thani famous for successfully breeding, after experimental crossing orchids from the forests of Northern Thailand, an orchid that has fragrant flowers and blooms all year round. His persevering effort yielded a beautiful, sweet smelling orchid 10 years later, which today he uses for producing the perfume made from the fragrance of an orchid flower. Following this success, Mr. Pradit co-operated with several government agencies to establish a company that today produce perfume from the orchid under the brand name Miss Udon Sunshine. This is still the one and only perfume factory in the world that uses orchids as raw material. You can purchase a bottle of Miss Udorn Sunshine in the above places and in gifts shops around the region.

City Tales Story by : David Raine Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Krabi Town: Go Local I

f you are looking for a non-stop party and rows of beer bars this may not be the place for you. But if you feel like meandering (there is no rushing here) around a chilled Thai town, feasting on truly varied food in the markets, and enjoying a few cold beverages in the different bars then you should give it a try. Go local!

Krabi town is always overlooked by the various traveler guidebooks and we think it’s time the place got a real mention, as it’s a great town in which to spend a few days!

Krabi is of course the stop off point on the way to the many stunning islands in the south of Thailand but, as people walk around town, many end up staying longer and exploring the islands and attractions on day trips. The accommodation in Krabi town is generally cheaper and in many cases of better quality than staying right on the beach in a bamboo hut on one of the islands. Perhaps you want to wake up and be able to walk straight into the sea for a swim and you don’t mind paying a little more for this; if so head to one of the beach resorts. If you decide to stay in town you can get a feel for the local culture and easily get to all the local beaches like Ao Nang, Klong Muang and Railay in a day trip. They are all accessible by local transport or on a rented bike. There are also some excellent travel agents in town that can book you on a day out around the Andaman Sea on the four islands tour, snorkeling and kayaking at Hong Island or a fantastic speedboat trip around the gorgeous Phi Phi islands. After your day of swimming, sunning and adventure you will be happy to head back to town ready for some of the culinary treats and wonderful atmosphere at one of the towns night markets. This is where the locals eat and, true to the world-renowned wisdom, if a local is eating there it must be good. There are 2 markets open daily. The city market is located on a soi between the Maharat and Uttarakit roads. This place has every exotic fruit you can think of (and some that you can’t) and from around 5pm it comes alive with stalls selling fresh and reasonably priced Thai food and snacks. If you walk to the Khong Ka pier you will find the next night market which is packed with locals and tourists every night. It’s a great place to take photos and you can watch your food being cooked right in front of you in one of the huge woks. It doesn’t get fresher than this. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings there is yet another market, this one called “walking street” which has more cheap and tasty snacks, plenty of well priced handy crafts and a stage where you will often see schools kids singing, some certainly better than others, as well as other varied cultural performances. This is the real Thailand.

Krabi Magazine

Now where to go if you are in need of some liquid refreshment? If you want to see the sunset or are in need of a cooling breeze head up to the Rooftop Bar on Chao Fa Road. This place sits on the roof of KR Mansion and is worth finding for the 360 degree views out to Railay and the islands, the inland mountains and the town. Food is served up here, cocktails the order of the day with the mojitos the best in Krabi if not the world. If you feel like live music you can find this at Boleros Restaurant where a local band plays classic rock covers from 10pm most nights, they will also sometimes do requests! Another popular favourite is Blue Juice, which also has occasional live performances by the owner and great breakfasts. For any sport fans there are many openair stalls that spring up on the streets at night that show English premier games, you will be watching with the football mad locals, or you could head to Chillin Bar on Chao Fa road. They have a huge screen and play all the football matches and big sporting events as well as serving a range of drinks.

DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK

If you feel like carrying on somewhere else the best bet would be to head off the tourist track and onto Jam house, located off Maharat road, it is a friendly Thai style bar which is heaps of fun for a drink or 2 later in the evening. This place is conveniently located around the corner from a Krabi institution “Crazy Pub” which has just had a refit and is busy at weekends from midnight. Expect Krabi locals dancing to both new and old Thai hits, it’s worth it just for the experience! Further out of town up Maharat road is Room 69. This is more of a nightclub but not as you know it. It’s a massive space and is often packed out on weekends and especially around payday. Again, it’s a Thai style place with table service and a stage hosting both local and national bands. There’s also a great little outdoor space with soft lighting and late night snacks if it all gets too much (and too noisy) indoors. So that’s Krabi town, friendly, atmospheric and authentic. It’s not as in your face as Phi Phi, nowhere near as busy as Phuket, not as expensive as Ao Nang or Railay and is somewhere you can mix with locals and explore at your own pace. Try it, you might like it!

GREAT FOOD, LIVE MUSIC, LIVE SPORTS

www.irishpubskrabi.com Krabi Magazine

Environment Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

Sustainable Tourism Development Project

Phranang - Railay, Krabi A

s part of Phranang – Railay Sustainable Tourism Development Project, Rayavadee Resort last month set a special session for the press & media from Bangkok and Krabi to visit their property for inspecting their waste water treatment system, production of bio-fertilizer, and visiting the improvements of public walkway as they are part of the program. Several parties concerned and directly involved with this project such as representatives from Railay community, long tail boats, rock climbing & etc were present at the event. As part of the project, Rayavadee donated floating buoys to Khun Prasit Osatanond, Krabi Governer, whom passed them to the Railay community together with National Park Department to set up a zone for marine transportation in Phranang – Railay area. These buoys will be used for the longtail boats to attach to and will overcome the problem of long tail boats setting their anchors down on the seabed and causing damage to the coral. Members from the Railay community, tourists and members of government sectors installed the buoys in the zoning area.

FACTFILE Introducing the Phranang – Railay Sustainable Tourism Development Project Tourism in Krabi Province is very important to the local economy and to local people and the Tourism Authority of Thailand acknowledges that tourism has a very vital role in the economy of the province and the country. There are many points of interest and natural hot spots within the province and because of this reason the tourist numbers, both Thai and foreign, are already substantial. However, as tourist numbers are increasing year by year, the effect on the natural environment needs to be addressed. This is the reason that the Railay group of business associations, local authorities and the concerned government sector will work together to deal with these matters in order to sustain the natural beauty of the area. The aims of Phranang – Railay Sustainable Tourism Development Project are to make this area a model of sustainable tourism for the future. The project will involve all local and national government authorities as well as the business owners, workers and tourists alike. The main aim of the project is to develop Phranang and Railay into a safer and more convenient place for tourists, sustaining the natural resources and at the same time keeping the natural beauty of the area intact.

Krabi Magazine

FACTFILE The main objectives of the project The project will help the Railay - Phranang area and tourism businesses work together as one in the hope of developing a sustainable environment for everyone.

The scope of this project is to provide: • The conservation and preservation of the environment and the natural surroundings of Phranang and Railay • The development of better services and infrastructure for tourists and the local community • The introduction of a working system of management of the Phranang and Railay area • The marketing of the project elsewhere in Thailand The administrative area involved in the project is Phranang and Railay, Ao Nang, Krabi province.

The proposed time scale of the project Period one: Completed in February 2010 • Railay group business association, local authorities and the concerned government sector have been working together on environmental projects including beach clean up days, mangrove planting and have been in regular consultation about the sustainable future of the area • The local people within the Railay community are keeping the place clean and tidy and free from garbage • The use of mainland electricity which is supported by Electricity Authority of Thailand which has reduced the noise pollution and use of gasoline from the generators • The completion of rebuilding the public bathrooms on the Phranang walkway and the construction of public bathrooms at Nam Mao • The fitting lights and upgrading of the public walkway to Phranang beach • Consultation with the community to develop and set up a conservation foundation for the protection of Railay and Phranang Period two: From March 2010 onwards • The launch of the Phranang – Railay Sustainable Tourism Development Project and introducing the project to all parties • Sharing information about the project and generating interest and involvement at local and national levels • Discussion of improving the environment by setting up a more appropriate place for the parking of all boats. It has been suggested that floating buoys could be used to prevent any damage to the sea bed and coral reef from the boat anchors. • To set up a permanent conservation foundation for the protection of Railay and Phranang. This foundation will work together with the community and Railay group to achieve sustainable tourism and conservation of the area • A continuation of working closely together in the development of this project

The future benefits of this project are • Making Railay and Phranang a good model of sustainable tourism and a good example for others to follow • Promoting tourism in Krabi Province as a quality destination and leader in Thailand • Promoting good relations and understanding between all related groups and the community • Raising awareness of the importance of conservation and sustainability of tourist attractions in the Province • Developing a new forward thinking perspective for the tourism sector

In cooperation with Rayavadee Resort Tel: (66) 75 620-740-3 www.rayavadee.com

Krabi Magazine

Health & Living

Yoga for Kids

i, my name is Marina, I run a Yoga and Reiki center in Ao Nang. Back in Germany, I looked after children in my own kindergarten for over 15 year. Here in Thailand, I teach Yoga to kids aged 3 and over. Benefits in kids doing Yoga are various: improved concentration, controlled movements, inner peace of mind and body, development of stamina. Classes are structured in a friendly way and including role-plays. We often imitate animals’ natural positions, which is an easy way to recreate Asana postures, with kids creating their own personal variations. Kids’ bodies are naturally flexible and tend to move uncontrolled. This is why they need to start Yoga at an early age in order to prevent late damage from wrong postures. Kids usually fuel motivation from each other, and this is a great advantage for better concentration and better postures. They tend to help each other to achieve postures and hold concentration for longer. Practice of meditation via the “singing bowls” make kids calm and peaceful. Most kids look forward to the meditation end of the Yoga class for the final singing and chanting OM. From my experience with children in Germany, I find that they are pretty easy to motivate when Yoga is involved; they love practicing Yoga and feel respected. I listen and pay attention to them all and integrate with them, and it is always a fantastic challenge. Another subject I teach is the social aspect of treating each one equally, nicely and fairly. Kids learn to accept and respect each other, and to have trust in themselves and in others. We fight off jealousy or different arguments by talking about it in class and I help them clear their ‘problems’. It is a great reward looking at these kids perform and stick to regular Yoga classes. Kids enrolled in my Yoga class come from local schools, kindergartens, and via word of mouth. They have different nationalities and some do not speak English at all, but they all help each other with my continuous support.

Krabi Magazine

ENJOY THEIR COMMENTS: EMMY: My name is Emmy. I think yoga is a very fun activity and my favourite pose is the split .I think you should learn it too, because it is healthy for you. JANELLE: Janelle likes yoga, because it is fun. I really like headstand. This is good for concentration. TANJA: I like yoga, because it makes me fit and flexible. CHANAYA: I like yoga, because it is very relaxing and fun too. I like to do some exercise to become more flexible. JOSE: I like yoga, because it relax my mind and sometimes we do fun stuff. After yoga we can all do OM, it feels like a massage in your lungs. Also where the yoga place is has a lot of green trees and the hold yoga place is natural. Lots of fun also comes in every class!!! Also the decoration at yoga are nice.

Therapeutic

Kids with Motor Deficit

hildren with neuromotor deficits have a very difficult time to perform very simple movements. For them, a small step forward at an early age could be the breakthrough of a lifetime. Charo worked with children with motor deficit at a school for special education, which soon became for her the most rewarding job imaginable.

KAREN: I think yoga is a very nice place, it’s a lot of fun. Yoga is my favourite after school activity. Don’t take my word for it. Get your kid to try Yoga with me and see what he has to say about it.

Charo M.Torcal is a physiotherapist who specially designs therapeutic exercises for global postural re-education. If you think her experience can be of any help, feel free to contact her on 082 2746766 or by email at charotorcal@ yahoo.com. If you are Thai, please contact in Thai language, Charo will find a way to get your message translated and will ask her friends to contact you back.

Marina Yoga also offers Reiki, personal training and more. Feel free to call 087 8981506 if you have any question or if you like to visit Marina Yoga center. You can also visit www.marinayoga.com

As this is Charo’s personal noble cause in her life, no fees apply. Just pay it forward with love and kindness to make the world a better place.

NA THAI ROAD

SOI AO NANG 1

FOLLOW THE ROAD OUT OF AO NANG FOR 4 KM AND TURN RIGHT INTO SOI AO NANG 1, AT THE NA TAI INTERSECTION

MARINA YOGA

TO KRABI TO AO NAM MAO - SHELL FOSSIL

Mc Donalds Longtail boats

Ao Nang Beach

Krabi Magazine

Restaurant Review Story by : Thomas Gennaro

Krua Ao Nang Cuisine

Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornphuriwat

unset; don’t we all love those special holiday moments in a tropical country? The sun has heated our skin for good part of the day and it is time for it to depart. Spending that special moment savouring local food is indeed a holiday treat many cannot resist. Ao Nang has that special place: a row of seafront seafood restaurants called Ao Nang Seafood Street, which comprises 4 restaurants. The one we visited last month is called Krua Ao Nang Cuisine, right at the very end of the row. We sat awaiting our order and savouring a glass of red wine, while a palette of reds and oranges coloured the sky, and the blues of the sea gradually faded into a grey expanse. It was high tide time; traditional longtail boats and modern speedboats and yachts floated anchored in the distance, dotting the beautiful Andaman Sea. Down below the restaurant terrace, holidaymakers happily strolled along the Ao Nang sandy beach, lulled by the gentle noise of the waves breaking. The appetizer comprised a plate of crunchy veggie spring rolls. What followed was a lobster soup ‘bisque Napoleon’, a tasty dark cream that inspired my belly when I swallowed it. Yummy. We continued our dinner with a serving of orange sauce salad with a huge tiger prawn that dominated the plate, and superb fresh veggies. Gosh, I was already full. The best still had to arrive. Crab Thermidor au gratin was so tasty I could not believe myself, the shell filled with crabmeat, potatoes, peas and mayonnaise. The last dish was indeed the best: a Mango chicken curry with coconut milk and lime leaves I had never had in the whole of the country, with big chunks of mango literally melting in the mouth. Quite a meal! I was impressed. At Krua Ao Nang Cuisine, food is impressive, with classic soups and curries and appetizers and all favourites and the usual suspects on the multipages menu. Hot pans and grilled fresh fish and seafood and a series of combination dishes are a bonus: ostrich, venison and crocodile steaks for those who love to try something different. The selection of International food is good and not to be missed. They have pastas and pizzas of all kinds, several fish and meat dishes as well as steaks of various sizes and quality. List of desserts is rich and the choice of cocktails is more than enough for those wishing a good sundowner or two before their meal by the sea. The food was well presented, the staff well mannered and fast, the manager was friendly and spoke good English. Krua Ao Nang Cuisine has plenty of reasons to please hungry patrons, at prices that will not dent your wallet.

• Krua Ao Nang Cuisine, Ao Nang Seafood Street, Ao Nang, Krabi • For bookings contact 075 695260 • They also have accommodation, Ao Nang Beach Home, a 12 rooms operation catering for holidaymakers. Check on www.aonangbeachhomekrabi.com

Krabi Magazine

SIAM COMMERCIAL BANK

AO NANG 075695560-1

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta Highlights K

oh Lanta is situated in the southernmost tip of the Krabi province. It consists of two islands, Koh Lanta Noi and Koh Lanta Yai. Koh Lanta Noi is the smaller of the two islands and does not have tourist facilities. Visitors traveling by road from the main land pass through the smaller island on the way to Koh Lanta Yai, the center of the tourist operations. Ban Sala Dan village, in the north of the island, is Lanta Yai’s commercial center, and the pier where visitors arrive on the island. It is a row of shops, seafood restaurants on stilts, dive shops, tour operators, banks and guest houses that cater for new comers on the island. The bulk of the Lanta beaches lie along the west coast of the island and can all be reached by road: Kho Kwang, Khlong Dao and Phra Ae all have long stretches of white sand facing the Andaman sea, while Khlong Khong, Khlong Nin and Ba Kan Tiang and other smaller bays are all nice to relax and swim but might appear less stunning. The east coast of Koh Lanta Yay is flat and has many local villages scattered along its coastline. Koh Lanta has a very diverse cultural mix of people who have lived on the island in harmony for hundreds of years: Thai-Muslim, Thai-Chinese and the original sea gypsies still inhabit the place in harmony. The biggest town on the island is Lanta Old town. Boat trips to Koh Lanta are available during the monsoon free period from October to April. May to November see the closure of some of the island businesses and of the boat passenger services due to rough seas. A minibus service is the alternative way to reach the island via land. For boat schedule to/from Koh Lanta consult our Krabi Miniguide 81000.

Ba Kantiang Beach Spectacular crystal–clear seawater and soft white sand, romantic sunsets in utmost privacy, this is why Ba Kantiang has come to symbolize an hideaway in Lanta for relaxing in natural surroundings.

Lighthouse on Lanta Located in Tanod Cape, on the southernmost tip of the island, the lighthouse tower of Lanta is the perfect symbol of solitude. It is the place where immaculate nature still survives as it is rarely reached by tourists due to the rugged road conditions.

Koh Lanta National Park The park covers a marine area dotted with several small sandy islands surrounded by coral reefs. The headquarters is located on the island’s southern extremity.

Ban San-ka-u A sea gypsy’s settlement in south-east Lanta Yai. It is there that an old clan of traditional Chao Ley try to preserve a disappearing way of life in this fastdeveloping island.

Eco-tours These are run all year round from the east coast of Lanta Yai, not affected by the low season rough seas. Make your way to Thung Yee Pheng village for a trip with a local community - www.tungyeepeng.com, or book a tour with friendly and experienced Sun Tours - www.lantalongtail.com

Nature Lanta Old Town It was once called Ban Si Raya and was the commercial port for Chinese and Arabic trading boats that sailed between the ports of Phuket, Penang and Singapore. Today it is a village with a few rows of stilted shop houses home to an ancient community that was established on the island long ago. It is a picturesque place with, these Chinese timer shop-houses date back 100 years, from the old days of sea trading. Near the shacks along the coast, local fishermen dock their longtail boats giving the whole scene a very Thai look.

Because of its bio-diversity and richness of natural resources, Lanta is a good place for trekking. Explore limestone cave chambers and passageways in the Lanta caves, or walk upstream to the spring water waterfall, where to swim in cool rock pools.

Fire Dancing This is definitely one interesting part of the Lanta beach culture. A fire dancing show is usually performed by young boys performing twisting acrobatics swinging burning torches and ropes lit on fire around their muscular bodies. A distinguishing show that sparkles in the dark.

Krabi Magazine

Adventure Text Story and bypictures : Robbieby Tree : Sun Island Tours Photos by : Nattaphat Sunthornpuriwat

East is… K

o BuBu is an island gem approximately 3 to 4 nautical miles from Lanta Old Town. It is a Robinson Crusoe island with thick vegetation in the middle, some 10-15 bungalows with a restaurant, sugar-fine sand, helpful locals, and foreign visitors that can be counted on the fingers of two hands (and that is at the peak of the season). It’s the sort of “get-awayfrom-it-all-and-lie-in-a-hammock” type of concept. Waters around the island are crystal-clear, with some opportunities for snorkeling and fishing off the rocks. The few local workers are friendly, helpful, and discreet. There is a nice walking trail for a short trek around the entire island, look for a large family of Southern Pied Hornbills that are usually spotted at sunset when it cools down. Ko BuBu is a privately owned island and the rustic resort is open from Oct- May. The phone number for Ko BuBu Resort is 075 618-066.

Lanta’s Eastern Islands are definitely off the beaten track. They are easily accessible from the main pier in Lanta Old Town. If you’re looking for a secluded beach to call your own, some great snorkeling or some adventurous caving, these islands have it all.

Krabi Magazine

Ko Kam is east of Lanta Old Town in between Ko BuBu and Ko Talabeng. Completely deserted, it’s a fine spot for a swim, exploring or a BBQ on the beach. A lone fisherman’s shack sits on the beach; a resting spot for weary Thai and Chao Ley fisher folk. Ko Nui is a small spit of sand approximately 200 meters in circumference. It’s completely deserted and that is its appeal. With splendid views to all the of islands on Ko Lanta’s East coast, it is a relaxing spot for a cool swim, some beach exploring or for the more adventurous; spend the night sleeping under the magnificent stars. Ko Nui is located close to Ko Lanta Noi or about 5 nautical miles from Lanta Old Town.

Ko Por has a long stretch of sandy beach for swimming on its north coast, located opposite the pier of Lanta Old Town. Ko Por is a short sail from Ko Lanta. Most of Ko Por’s 500 residents are Muslim fisher folks; it has one primary school, a mosque, a nursery, a general store and a community bank. As Ko Lanta rapidly develops, the islanders on Ko Por wish to protect and maintain their natural resources in accord with their Muslim beliefs in order to provide a sustainable base for the future of their families. Please don’t bring alcohol, no gambling, dress discreetly and kindly respect the Muslim way of life. Ko Talabeng is located off the East coast of Ko Lanta Noi; it is a limestone island similar to Koh Phi Phi Lay. It is also famous in the itinerary of many kayak and long tail trips originating from Lanta Old Town or Tung Yeen Peng village on Ko Lanta. Ko Talabeng does have a few small beaches and during a low tide it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing swim next to the magnificent sheer cliffs. For the more daring you could explore some steep cliffs by foot and rope and visit an intriguing cave located at Talabeng Noi. Keep and lookout for small grey Macaw monkeys clinging to the rocks.

Sun Island Tours [Lanta Longtail] offer their guests a great day out to Lanta’s Eastern Islands aboard a traditional Longtail boat equipped with all the right safety gear, English speaking captain, snorkeling equipment and fine food. Contact them on 087 891 6619, info@lantalongtail.com, or visit www.lantalongtail.com

Krabi Magazine

Underwater World Words and photo by : Ciaran Tierney

Lanta’s ‘Love Boat’ A

ntonio had secretly arranged with dive guide Bibi and videographer Don to ‘pop the question’ to Jenny at the bottom of the sea during a day out with Blue Planet Divers at Koh Bida Noi on March 17. Everyone on the Blue Planet boat was in on the secret, bar Jenny, after Antonio had made his intentions known to the dive shop staff when he booked the day’s diving by email before he got to Koh Lanta. As a result, bottles of champagne were hidden away from Jenny for the trip to Koh Bida and there was a real festive atmosphere on the boat for the return trip to Koh Lanta after Jenny, still in shock, had said yes to her beloved by giving him the diver’s ‘o.k.’ signal at a depth of 10 metres.

American visitor Jenny Prunty enjoyed an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day during a scuba diving holiday at Koh Lanta last month when her boyfriend of nine years, Antonio Alvarado, unexpectedly proposed to her underwater.

But Antonio almost gave the game away about 20 minutes earlier. A slate he had secretly written in the boat’s cabin while Jenny was sunbathing upstairs, with the words ‘Marry me?’, had slipped out of the pocket of his Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) early in the dive. “We were swimming along on our dive and then I saw ‘Marry Me?’ written upside down on a slate. It fell out of the pocket of his BCD a little. I kind of wondered what that was about, but I was just enjoying the dive and then I forgot about it!” exclaimed Jenny, who is from San Antonio, Texas. Their guide, Bibi, signalled to all the divers in the group to kneel in a line along the bottom, towards the end of the dive. Jenny did not have a clue what was going on. “Our guide signalled to me when the time was right to pull out the slate. I was very nervous. I had a string attached to the slate and it was tied to

my BCD. I wanted to do something crazy, something that would last in the memory. We’ve been together for eight or nine years and we came to Thailand with two other friends, who were in on the secret,” said a joyous Antonio after Jenny had accepted his marriage offer. He said that they were not particularly experienced scuba divers, but they had come to love the sport in the three years since they learned how to dive in the Cayman Islands. As an Irish-American, Jenny always loves to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and he wanted to make sure that she would remember the 2010 festivities for a long time to come. “It was all a blur,” said Jenny. “All of the others started to kneel down and Bibi was pointing at something on the ground. I couldn’t make out what he was pointing at and then Antonio showed me the slate. I gave him the ‘o.k.’ sign under water. I was just shocked. We had just come to Thailand on a holiday with two friends and I had no idea that we were going to get engaged!” The other divers in the group applauded when Jenny and Antonio kissed each other under water and videographer Don was on hand to capture their special moment so that they can show the video to their friends and families back in the United States.

Happy couple Antonio Alvarado and Jenny Pruty celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Irish Embassy, Koh Lanta, last month. Just a few hours earlier, Antonio proposed to Jenny underwater during a dive with Blue Planet Divers at Koh Bida.

Afterwards, their celebrations continued into the early hours at the Irish Embassy, Koh Lanta’s only Irish pub, where Antonio expressed his gratitude to Mellisa Bunyan of Blue Planet Divers for plotting the entire event in secret, much to the shock of his future wife! And, for one day at least, the Blue Planet boat became known as Lanta’s ‘love boat’!

Krabi Magazine

Restaurant Review

Layana

You are in heaven… part 2 T

hat night was to be a special evening, as we were to sample some excellent dishes from the amazing Layana menu. The staff greeted us at our table for cocktails and a chat that evening before we ate. We had a chat with the F&B manager, who explained how his passion for excellence drives him to train a great team of employees, striving to achieve the best quality for a reasonable price. He suggests that attention to details like freshly made pasta, extra virgin olive oil, fresh coffee and even imported yeast for the bread, make the quality of the food served here stand head and shoulders above other resorts. After our cocktails, we retired to the restaurant and awaited our meal with mounting excitement! We were greeted and seated by 3 staff members, and a basket of fresh bread ‘nibbles’ was placed on our table, as well as a small fish cake with mango chutney to whet our appetites. We were then presented with carpaccio of beef, with young olives, balsamic vinegar, fresh rocket and shaved parmesan cheese, as well as a selection of cold cuts which included parma ham and salami, dressed with buffalo mozzarella, sun dried tomatoes and rocket. Our main course followed and was a delight for the eyes before we even got a fork in our hands. An exquisitely prepared and presented duck bougoulais with fresh vegetables and a lamb with a potato fondant and fresh vegetables were set before us. Both were cooked to perfection and melted in the mouth. Just when we thought we couldn’t get any better, the desserts arrived: a tart tatin served with anise cream and a sumptuous warm chocolate tortino, served with a lemon and ginger sorbet resting on a bed of roasted cashews and garnished with a sprig of mint. Yes, it was as good as it sounds. We accompanied our feast with a great wine chosen from the extensive wine list of quality-imported bottles, and a fine cognac at the end. We left with nothing but praise for the chef and the everattentive staff - and it was obvious that F&B team was doing a fantastic job of running the place. An amazing meal we will remember for a long time.

Tides Restaurant A formal restaurant perched on the very edge of the beach overlooking the sea and open to the cooling sea breezes. Guests have the choice of a cool interior venue or an al fresco beachside setting on the deck in front of the restaurant. Serving a mouth-watering a la carte selection of international dishes, as well as traditional Thai fare and seafood specialties all made from the freshest of ingredients. The menu quality is matched by a wine list of varying prices. Location: Beachfront Capacity: 58 seats inside and 20 outside Opening hours: Breakfast: 6:30am to 10:30am All day dining: 11:30am to 6:00pm Dinner: 7:00pm to 10:30pm Layana Resort & Spa, 272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach, Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand - Tel: + 66(0) 75 607 100 - Email: resa@layanaresort.com

Krabi Magazine

Hotel Review

Relax Bay Resort

Remember the sign and you will never forget the place…

et on 1 km of a lovely private beach unique in Koh Lanta, Relax Bay Resort has 31 secluded air-conditioned and fan bungalows, all with private bathroom and balcony with sea views. The dining area is open on all sides, with a gentle sea breeze ruffling the curtains and cooling the area. The cuisine offered is Thai and French; the French chef will delight you with a large choice of Thai and Western food, fresh fish and seafood, live lobsters and a large wine and spirit list. Great beach bar for lazing away the afternoon, best sitting for sunset with a large choice of cocktails and a lovely bonfire every night with cozy music. Relax Bay Resort also offers Thai massage and reflexology and Thai and Swedish massage. Yoga for any level is available on request and taught by an experienced teacher on a large platform on the beach. Diving, cooking classes, transfers and private excursions can be booked at their tour counter. Central for easy access and sightseeing, Relax Bay Resort has been recommended by Condé Nast Traveller and Budget Travel.

Relax Bay Resort, 111 Moo 2, Koh Lanta 81150, Thailand, Tel 075 684 194, 075 684 430, www.relaxbaylanta.com

Krabi Magazine

RENT YOUR OWN HOUSE ! private villa & apartment rental

www.visitlanta.com

Health & Living Story & Photos : The Lanta Retreat

Yoga - exercise or lifestyle Yoga is an Indian philosophy and the Sanskrit word yoga means the ability to focus on one object without being distracted. In other words yoga is one kind of mindfulness practice. It is also described as union/balance. A union within yourself or a union with yourself and something greater.

he wonderful fact, especially for us in the West, is that we do yoga within ourselves, with ourselves. It is so liberating to let go of all competition and comparison and only focus on ones own practice. You meet yourself on the yoga math, your true self. If you are impatient, uneager to demand things from yourself, unfocused and so on, you will see yourself as you truly are and you will be able to change. You will challenge yourself and conquer yourself. Often the purpose of the practice changes over time. Maybe you start because you have seen Madonna´s awesome body and you want it. And believe me, with hard practice of a dynamic style of yoga, you will get it. Of course this also demands the right nutrition. After a while you will find yourself unable to live without it. Apart from the physical aspects that you feel so much stronger, taller and healthier, you will experience a great change in your personality. You sleep like a baby, you find yourself calmer, happier and handle stress in a beautiful way. If you have children, they soon learn when to ask for those things you normally not approve. That is after your yoga practice. You agree to most suggestions and you rarely find anything a problem. You are more patient and it is easier to stay mindful. So yoga also improves the relationship to other people. Many people relate to their yoga practice this way and they are very content. Their body is strong and firm and their mind is cool and tranquil. You live a “normal” life, enjoy wine, good food and yoga is your “all in one” practice. After a while you might want to go deeper and integrate more. Maybe all dimensions of yoga, since yoga is both a mental and spiritual practice. A warning, if you try yoga, you might never stop!

This article is provided by Annelie at The Retreat, located in Klong Dao Beach. Contact them for more information on 08 46751094 or check www.theretreatthailand.com

Krabi Magazine

Lanta PIZZERIA BAJEN STEAKHOUSE

Tel: 081-677 84 95

MiniGo f Nintendo Wii

075-684 309

Phra-Ae Beach - Koh Lanta

www.bajenpizzeria.com

KOH LANTA YAI NORTH

Minivan Station

to Lanta Old Town

Sunday Market Costa Lanta Resort Laguna Beach Club Mike’s Collection Eden Bar&Dining

The Retreat Chaba Bungalows Maneelanta Lanta Island Resort Southern Lanta Resort Gafae Aroy

Phone +66 (0) 75 68 41 24-27 Fax +66 (0) 75 68 41 28

KLONG DAO BEACH

E-mail : info@lantaislandresort.com Website : www.lantaislandresort.com

Resort & Spa

• Room rates between 300-1,600 baht C excluding Christmas & New year holiday– AirM con minivan pick-up from Krabi, Trang and Phuket airport Y • 18 tropical architecture inspired bungalows with CM 2 modern bathrooms on 6,400 mt plot MY • Dive center, free sea kayaks & Wi-Fi internet access CY • Yoga & Spa CMY • Bar and restaurant • Sportive communal activities, volleyball field K • Laundry service, bicycle, motorbike and jeep rental service • Tour agent service: fishing tours, island tours & ticketing service

Thai Orchid Restaurant Lanta Car Rental SK Optik

Minivans to Krabi/Phuket Congrit Resto Everything Shop Ancient Realm Resort & Spa

Elephant Trekking

Time for Lime Cooking School & Restaurant Klong Dao boxing stadium Holiday Villa Lanta Resort Expat Cafe’ Lanta Sand Resort Escape Cabins Out to Lunch Poseidon Villas Lanta Diver Lanta Tavern Ozone Bar Dreamy Spa I-Yarade Real Estate Lanta Palm Beach Lanta Law Thanee Layana Resort & Spa Tides Restaurant

Andaman Sunflower

Lanta Casuarina Resort Dive & Relax The Irish Embassy

PHRA AE LONG BEACH

White Flower Bajen Sports Hammerby Bar Lanta Castaway Resort Lantanian Center Andaman Sunflower Resort Red Snapper

Long Beach • Koh Lanta Yai Tel. 075 684668 Fax. 075 684900 www.andaman-sunflower.com

Relax Bay Resort

White Flower Apartments Bajen Steakhouse & Nintendo Wii Minigolf Opium Bar Lanta Garden Hill Faim de Loup

Retro Restaurant Lanta Loft

Lanta Sunset Living

ndaman sunflower.indd 1

Passenger Post Office Ferry Car Ferry to Lanta Noi & mainland

KAW KWANG BEACH Kaw Kwang Resort Blue Planet Divers

Lanta Diver Lanta Sailing Ko Lanta Diving Center Blue Planet Divers Oscar Shopping The Frog Monella

BAN SALADAN

Elephant Trekking

4/23/08 11:42:21 PM

Sunrise Creek Villa Project

to Lanta Old Town & eastern islands

KLONG KONG BEACH FERRY TIMETABLE: to Koh Phi Phi 8am & 1pm to Ao Nang/Railay 8am & 1.30pm to Phuket 1.30pm to Koh Lipe 1.30pm

Chaw Ka Cher Resort

BUILT AND MARKETED BY

Saneh Villas LPH Kirikan LPH Klong Kon Villas

tel. +66 (0)899085990 krabi@exotiqrealestate.com www.exotiqrealestate.com

BUS TIMETABLE: to Krabi every hour 6am to 5pm to Trang every hour 8am to 3pm to Phuket every hour 7am to 4pm

AD Mike lantaTHOMAS.pdf

10/27/08

4:24:50 PM

MARKETS: Ban Saladan Sunday mornings Lanta Old Town Monday mornings Klong Nin Saturday mornings

Enjoy Thai tasty dishes European food Pizza & Pasta & BBQ Seafood

to south of the island

ar B n ing e d E Din &

KOH LANTA

Klong Dao Main Road Beside PT Petrol Station For Reservations Contact Khun Supavadee [Azmi] : 086 8840052 - Mr. Markus : 083 1066606 www.eden-restaurant-lanta.com, e-mail : mail@eden-restaurant-lanta.com

Yoga classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday 0900-1100

Private meditations Silent detox retreat with meditation and yoga 29/5-4/6

ESCAPE CABIN FEB09+.pdf

1/19/09

2:06:43 PM

... escaping into the nature and seclusion Phra Ae, Koh Lanta TEL: +66 (0)8-4446-8909 FAX: +66 (0)75-684-240

stay@escape-cabins.com www.escape-cabins.com

Stylishly decorated cozy villas nestled

in a peaceful and private setting

In-room PC, LAN / Wi-Fi internet, satellite

CMY

TV and DVD player Fine quality Belgian mattresses for your restful night every single day Never crowded swimming pool with panoramic view of lush tropical nature Single to family size, with or without kitchen, daily to monthly Visit our web for availability calendar

Real Estate - Architect Tips Story : Pierre-Yves Loriers

Finding your place in the sun

n a warm, sunny country like Thailand, a small pension will go much further: you can live comfortably for as little as 1000 Euros a month â&#x20AC;&#x201C; though many pensioners get by with less. And with a little more, you will find you can also enjoy luxuries that were unaffordable at home: for example, employing a housekeeper so your retirement really is all about leisure.

The high cost of living in the West, the cold weather, and the lack of community in big cities: these are just some of the reasons more and more people are choosing to retire overseas.

In a holiday destination like Krabi, recreation is at the foremost of most peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds. Outdoor living is the norm here and you can spend your days on anything from gardening to golf. The beach is never far away and there are any number of excursions both inland and out to the islands to be made. Expats both young and old will always mention the quality of life here as one of the primary reasons for moving. Of course there is good food, good weather and a low cost of living, but there is also a nice balance of East and West: enough expatriates and western goods to make life familiar, yet also a friendly, vibrant local community used to having foreigners around and accommodating their needs. You can really get the best of both worlds. With advanced technology making communication with loved ones easier, emotional ties back home need no longer stand in the way of a move. Skype and Google allow you to stay in touch with children and grandchildren with regular video chats. And when your family and friends find out you are moving to Krabi, you are in fact likely to have the opposite problem to solitude: too many visitors!

Krabi Magazine

Finding a place to live Many Krabi retirees choose to rent homes and keep their primary residence abroad. But for those who wish to make an investment and buy, there is not a great deal of choice. In Krabi, there are relatively few good quality housing developments and the resale market is still very small. This is why many people choose to custom-build a home. In this way, you are able to control the materials used, as well as specify the size and design of the property. Should you be investing for the future – many younger people are now acquiring property in place of a nest egg, often decades ahead of time – these types of houses are also easy to rent out to the holiday market and make some returns while you wait to retire. Experienced local firms such as Ton Company in Ao Nang provide a ‘one-stop’ house building service - from design to construction - and have expertise in creating livable homes for older clients with features such as extra security, guest bedrooms, outdoor living space and manageable gardens. Any type of custom build can be done in your absence: usually only 2 or 3 site visits will be necessary, with progress reports and other communication done via email and Skype. For further information, please contact Ton Company Ltd. In Ao Nang at (075) 695-633 or by email at: Ton@TonCompany.com

Getting around A car will be essential for anyone living long term in Krabi. The regional road network is excellent and well maintained; Phuket, with its international hospital and large shopping malls, can be reached in less than 2 hours. With a retirement visa (see below), buying a car and getting a Thai driving license is relatively straightforward. The new Government marina in Krabi Town, and the increasingly busy international airport also offer important air and sea links both within the Southeast Asia region, and further afield.

Overcoming culture shock Because Krabi has a very large English-speaking community, as well as many German, Italian and Scandinavian residents, it is not as “foreign” as other parts of the country. Western food and brand name products are widely available in familiar supermarket settings and most service staff will have at least very basic English skills. One of the things new arrivals find it hard to get used to is the relaxed pace of life. Things get done very slowly in Krabi and there are often frustrating waits for bank accounts or phone lines. The only solution is to embrace this laidback attitude and learn the meaning of “mai pen rai”. One of the positive cultural aspects here is that older people are held in high regard by society and receive more respect than in the West.

Doing the paperwork Thailand welcomes older visitors: in fact, anyone over the age of 50 can apply for a retirement visa of one-year duration before entering the Kingdom. This permission of stay can be extended in subsequent years in Krabi itself, so no need for “visa runs”. The only requirement is proof of sufficient income: a copy of a bank statement showing a deposit of not less than 800,000 baht; or an income certificate with a monthly income of not less than 65,000 baht; or a combination of the two totaling not less than 800,000 baht for the year. Successful applicants have six months from their first entry to Thailand to bring household items from their home country, exempt from customs duty.

For more information on the comprehensive villa design, construction and management services offered by Ton Company Ltd, please contact us at (075) 695633 or by email at: Ton@TonCompany.com. www.KrabiArchitect.com - www.TonCompany.com - www.KrabiVilla.com

Krabi Magazine

Construction Story by : The Lumyai Group Ld

Sanitary solutions There has, at least as long as I have been living here, always been an almost child-like discussion about the subject of going to the water closet in Thailand.

y first encounter using one was at the northern bus terminal in Bangkok. Not long after an uneventful flight and a thirty-minute zip across town in a taxi I and my fresh faced entourage found ourselves in a noodle shop that happened to sell beer. Time was on our hands as we huddled around a metal table and perched ourselves on the plastic stools. Several beers in and lunch seen to we got the news that the bus had been delayed. I remember this not coming as bad news, on the contrary really as this was an enjoyable late lunch and we were experiencing the delights of Thailand for the first time. When we did finally get the go ahead to board the bus a frightening realisation hit me. I had been putting off going to the toilet! I motioned to the bus conductor using the appropriate sign language of holding my stomach and grimacing. The shopkeeper pointed to a door under the stairs and hurriedly got on with her business. And now I was to be getting on with mine. What first struck me about the lavatory was the almost comical height of the ceiling. Baring in mind I am not that tall I felt like a giant. Also the floor was flooded causing the bottoms of my jeans to get soaked. The actual cleanliness of the toilet was ok but it had been a while since a plumber had been in to check the pipe works. The actual sanitary system was of the hole in the floor variety. Not actually just a hole in the floor but with a ceramic top/lip that you are meant to stand on. It was on a raised platform of about fifteen centimetres, which happened to make the ceiling even lower. The only dilemma that I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see myself overcoming was where to hang my trousers. There was no visible hook or towel rail so I opted to hang them over the sink. What happened next was a predictable comedy of errors. The weight of my belt buckle had unbalanced the evenness and sent my denims crashing down into the puddle covering the floor. All this happened as I was squatting in a position that I had never before found myself in. I will spare you the details regarding the finer points of the cleansing process, as I am sure most of you reading this have had the pleasure of the bucket and ladle. Picking my wet slacks off the floor I composed myself and felt like a lesson had certainly been learned. Never go to the toilet in a hurry. Especially with jeans on! I left the establishment feeling as if all the customers had heard the commotion and left holding onto the remaining tread of dignity I had. Nowadays times have luckily changed and most resorts and restaurants have, so to speak, western sanitary appliances. This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s article is focusing on two popular brands that cover everything toilet orientated from soap dishes to bathtubs.

KARAT Established in 1983 the company boasts of being a leader in manufacturing water saving products and accessories here in Thailand, Saraburi province to be exact. In 2002 Karat became part of the Kohler group, a long-standing, recognisable company in the kitchen and sanitary world. The company has a show room on the Route 4 road out of Krabi. Just past the Tiger temple traffic lights on your right. To be honest I was always unsure whether to go into the shop, as I was almost definite that the prices would be extortionate. In fact the majority of goods on offer were cheaper that other leading brands and plenty of discounts to found. The ranges to found are modern and stylish. They also have a wide variety of fixtures and fittings. A Majority of goods have a western feel without a western price tag. Have a look at www.karatsanitaryware.com to see some of the latest ranges.

Krabi Magazine

COTTO To be proud of a national product is in my opinion something to be promoted. The first builder I used looked at me like I was mad after I asked whether or not I could change the sanitary ware from Cotto to another brand. Cotto ranges like Karat are up to date regarding being modern and economic. Browsing www. cotto.co.th, it is easy to see why they are the leader in their market. Popular ranges include the Soprano and Diamond series, which incorporate square angles. They have a Smart selection catalogue that has options for all tastes. To find a Cotto supplier is easy. As it is a national treasure you can find the product everywhere.

This article was supplied by The Lumyai group Ltd, a Development and Construction company based in Krabi. For all your Construction and Home renovation needs please contact our English speaking team for your free quote and any advice required. Please visit our web-site www.lumyaihomes.com to view our latest project.

The Lumyai Group LTD Development and Construction 1:100

Construction and Renovation Kitchen and Bathroom Re-modelling Auto CAD Structural Design OfďŹ ce Fitting and Refurbishment Seasonal Hotel and Restaurant ModiďŹ cation

For a free quote contact us 075 624 062

086 947 8262

www.lumyaihomes.com

Property Review Story and Photos by : Ciaran Tierney

Thalane Bay Village Resort T

halane Bay Village is located in the south of Thailand in the Phang Nga Bay in Khao Thong area. It’s close to Thalane village, 30 minutes drive from Krabi Town or Ao Nang. The village is situated 35 Km (21 ml) from Krabi International Airport and 155 Km from Phuket International Airport. The site affords extensive views to the myriad limestone islands of Phang Na Bay. The Krabi area is economically developed, yet it retains its traditional charm and beauty. The same is true of the Thalane zone, though it is in the early stages of advancement. Khao Thong is a green conservation area, which means only quality projects that respect protection of the environment and Thai style will be accepted. This point is very important: it is the guarantee of an unspoiled quality environment, and hence, easy resale of property. This concept gives to the owner opportunity of fully drawing benefit from its investment and in all serenity. The resort maintenance and the catering service will be ensured by a professional team at Europeans standards. The villas hiring will be ensured for those who wish to make profitable their investment. The developer will remain owner of part of the village and will ensure itself maintenance, management and the hiring. They will reside on the site and will remain personally implied in management of the village.

Thalane Bay Village is a unique development of 6 beachfront villas fully serviced, with private swimming pool, built in modern Ayudhya style.

Krabi Magazine

Thalane Bay Village Resort includes 6 villas: Two villas Type C – CHABA: single-storey beach villa with 2 bedrooms and large private swimming pool, view of bay from all the rooms, living room with kitchenette, large en suite master bedroom, large mansard-roofed room at a higher level. Two villas Type B – BUA: single-storey with 3 spacious bedrooms, large private swimming pool, view of bay from all the rooms, living room with kitchenette two large en suite master bedrooms, large mansard-roofed room at a higher level. Two villas Type A – ANCHAN: double-storey with 4 bedrooms and large private swimming pool, view of bay from all the rooms, living room with kitchenette two large en suite master bedrooms, large mansard-roofed room at a higher level.

Thalane Bay Village Resort will be built in two phases, with the Grand Opening scheduled for April 2011. The rental program represents a sustainable capital appreciation and a rental strong potential. A capital appreciation should be higher than 10% annually over 5 years. A super investment opportunity with 4.6% to 12.9% projected annual rental income yield. The small size of the village makes it possible to the owner to personalize his villa, while remaining in the spirit of the village (not of imposed package). The owner has the full use of his property, he can use is villa as much as he like, and at anytime. The owner can subscribe, if it wishes it, to the tailored rental management services in order to make profitable his investment

Exclusively marketed by Exotiq Krabi Real Estate Brokers 247/13 moo 5, Ao Nang, 81000 Krabi • [T] +66 75 637459 • [F] +62 75 637460 • [M] +66 89 9085990 • [E] Thomas@exotiqrealestate.com • [W] http://www.exotiqrealestate.com

Nong Thale River Residence

NTL RR

Modern minimalistic Villa Ao Nang “baan Will”

Nong Thale River Residence

16 Luxury tropical houses on spacious plots Surrounded by beautiful mountains and a lovely river, just 10 minutes from Ao Nang beach Visit the project site in Nong Thale, on the road to Klong Muang, 350 m. of the junction with the 4034, the road to Krabi

7 km from Ao Nang beach 7 km from Klong Muang beach 25 km from Krabi Int. Airport

Kamalot

Co. Ltd. Land & Development

NTL 300

บรีษัท กมล๊อต จำกัต

Klong Muang

info@kamalot-ltd.com

www.kamalot-ltd.com

www.globe-investments.com

Nong Thale 350 m

Krabi

experience the difference

T. 0818940675

Attico Ao Nang Exclusive apartments in the center of Ao Nang

Thomas (+66) 089 9085990 : thomas@exotiqrealestate.com Ton (+66) 089 7727858 : Nattapat@exotiqrealestate.com krabi@exotiqrealestate.com

lLocation: Ao Nang – Krabi - Thailand l Bedrooms: Studio, 1 and 2 bedroomsl lFeatures: Air-con, lift, terraces, private entrance l Price: From 3,000,000 Thai Bahtl For more information contact:

EN: Thomas +66 (0) 89 9085990 TH: Ton +66 (0) 89 7727858 Web: www.aonanglivingroom.com Email: aonanglivingroomsales@gmail.com

Home Issues

Pest Control In Thailand all sorts of unwanted visitors such as termites try to vacation in your home.

lthough there are many different types of termites, they all have one thing in common: a voracious appetite for the cellulose found in lumber. Termites especially like to eat moist wood so it is very important to keep the house dry. Once termites are inside your home they’re harder to get rid of. The last thing you want to do is make their job easier. Follow these 2 steps to effective Termite Defense and make sure that your home doesn’t become their home:

Step 1: Initial Inspection of Buildings & Surrounds It is essential for the termite controller to complete a thorough inspection of the buildings and surrounds. The property owner should be supplied with a written inspection report and detailed specifications for an integrated termite control program. It is essential that the inspection and report be received before any protective measures are commenced. A professional termite inspection and report, including a termite control protection advice costs vary depending on the size of the house and the style of construction and ease of inspection access.

Step 2: Chemical soil treatment and Schedule regular professional checkups Chemical soil treatment around the perimeter and sub-floor of a building to eradicate termites attempting to gain entry into the building through a treated soil area. Monthly check-ups by your pest professional will make sure that your home remains termite-free for as long as you live there.

Termite Prevention Tips • Don’t affix wooden trellises to exterior walls. • Keep mulch, wood debris, scrap lumber and sawdust away from your home. • Trim all shrubs, bushes and other dense greenery away from the foundation of your home. Move mulch away from the foundation as well. • Don’t bury wood debris near your home. • Remove infested trees and stumps. • Repair leaking faucets and water lines, both indoors and outdoors. • Fix leaky roofs and gutters. • Don’t allow leaves to accumulate in gutters and drains. • Grade soil so that water (including air conditioning condensate) runs away from foundations. • Ventilate crawl spaces and attics to reduce humidity. • Seal all cracks and holes in your home’s foundation, which may provide a handy access point for termites.

Krabi Magazine

Lifestyle

Thai driving license

n international driving license is not required for persons with Driving Licenses of the following countries irrespective of the citizenship: Singapore, Malaysia and Laos. Obtaining a Thai driving license may be an advantage if you do not have an International Driving License and plan to drive in Singapore, Malaysia and Laos with a Tourist Visa. For those without an International Driving License, a local Thai license can be obtained against the Driving License of their respective country at the Land Transportation Department. The following are required to make the application: 1. Passport with valid Non-immigrant Visa (individuals with a Tourist Visa usually don’t qualify) 2. Present residence address certified by Immigration Bureau 3. Medical certificate stating good health 4. 2 photographs The fee is 105 baht for cars and 55 baht for motorcycle. Applications for driving licenses for other forms of vehicle may not be granted. You will need one license for cars and one for motorbikes. PS: You must be 18 years old to drive car in Thailand.

Procedure Foreigners unable to speak Thai should arrange for a Thai friend to accompany them. 1. Fill in the application form (issued in Thai language only) and attach the required documentary evidence as indicated above. 2. Join a class for instruction on the laws related to driving and how to drive safely in Thailand. The class is for two hours and is taken at the Transport Office in Krabi Town, near the Krabi New Boat Pier in Klong Chilat. Study book is in English, you will be given time to study the book before taking the test. 3. Take a test for colour blindness. 4. Take a written test in English on the rules of driving (see Note 1 below). 5. Take the driving test (you usually take it with your own car or bike – if you do not have either, you can rent it from the Transport Office). 6. Pay the license fee and wait for the license to be issued. The Thai license is valid for 1 year. Thais and foreigners holding Thai residency permits are allowed long-term licenses for life after three years with yearly license.

Krabi Magazine

Know the Law Story : Thanee and Associates Law Firm

Retirement in Thailand T

hailand is a viable option for seniors with a bit of adventure in their blood. If you’re over 50 years of age, you can apply for a long-term visa in Thailand. There are some conditions you have to comply with, e.g. you are not allowed to work and you may not have a criminal record. Also, one of the important conditions is that you need to have 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account. For further information on procedures visit www.mfa.go.th MEDICAL CARE: Thailand has world-class hospitals in Bangkok and Phuket, such as Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital and others, providing a 24-hour service. They employ English speaking doctors, nurses and technicians. The costs of treatment are very competitive and many foreigners now fly in to Thailand for procedures from all over the region. TAXES: For current tax rates check the website of The Revenue Department of Thailand - www. rd.go.th IMMIGRATION: Temporary visiting visas of 1 month are granted to most nationalities on arrival in Thailand. Foreigners can also apply for a 1-year multi-entry non-immigrant visa. On completion of three consecutive years of non-immigration status, foreigners can be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

Krabi Magazine

ON THE ROAD: You can purchase a vehicle from a sophisticated industry of vehicle sale, leasing and servicing. There is also a competitive rental and sales market and many dealers and distributors offer financing. AÂ buoyant second hand market also provides cost effective options. Foreigners with residency visas can apply for local Thai driving licenses at the local officeÂ of the ministry of transport. A full overseas driving license, identification and a small fee areÂ required. There are several law firms providing this service. WORK: Residents can apply for a work visa and there are many agencies and law firms that specialize in assisting foreigners in this process. EDUCATION: There are several international schools throughout Thailand, most teaching British Curriculum. You can also find Frenchspeaking schools.

www.krabisunset.com

Villas, Homes, Apartments Properties to suit all budgets o Beachfront locations with 180 views Located in Had Yao, 20 min to Krabi Airport

www.aonanglivingroom.com krabi real estate made easy

Marketed by Exotiq Real Estate Agents nattapat@exotiqrealestate.com info@aonanglivingroom.com tel. 089 7727858

Rentals

Krabi Villas

Company Limited

Krabi Villas ltd, Exclusive & Luxurious Pool Villa rentals with professional villa care management, located in a tropical paradise called Krabi, tucked away in southern Thailand on the coast of the beautiful Andaman Sea, surrounded by national parks and areas of outstanding beauty

rabi villas ltd has two departments, Krabi Villa Rentals & Krabi Villa Care; they work hand in hand complimenting each other, making it a well organized and manageable global company, giving international care and support to all visiting guests and company clients. Krabi villa rentals can take bookings direct through their own website and secure booking system, also using their own large network of international agents, if needed they can take full care of all villa guests, using their own Krabi Villa Care team including meet and greet, airport transfers, villa hand over, giving a first class hospitality service throughout their stay, at the same time taking full care of the villa and providing villa care management. Krabi villas ltd. is a young, professional, friendly and exciting company who are eager to please all existing and new customers. Their office is based in Klong Muang on the beach road between the Sheraton and the Sofitel Resorts.

Krabi Magazine

BENEFITS OF VILLA RENTALS Villa rental is becoming a very popular option for holidaymakers, the reasons being high standards, privacy, space and comfort, and most importantly it provides excellent value for money. This is allowing villa owners to discover the opportunities and rewards from the villa rental option. The 3 requirements needed for successful villa rentals are: A well presented villa, A pleasant location, A reliable Villa rental / Property Management Company. As the Villa owner you will leave all the organizing to your villa rental/property Management Company, who will generate bookings through their own network and network of agents, they will deal with all the admin such as contracts, terms & conditions and of course booking payments. Once the booking is completed and the guests arrive, the Management Company will also organize everything needed to ensure the guests have a enjoyable stay, including meet and greet, airport transfers, daily maid cleaning and a complete hospitality service, of course at the same time taking full care of the villa. There is a set fee, normally a percentage of the booking price that is deducted from the rental payment by the management company, the owner is then left with a large profit for very little input, as everything is taken care of by the Management Company. So as one can see there is great opportunity to earn a healthy extra income through the villa rental option and at the same time watching your property investment grow, not forgetting you have your own luxury private Villa in Amazing Thailand, better still within the magic spell of Krabi.

Krabi Magazine

Astroflash

The sign of Aries

by Cyril - psychological astrologer

For those born in April

“Divine Astrology is the energy of the north and south nodes of the moon, referred to as the Head and Tail of the Dragon”. This formula does not reflect the modern astrology disciplines you may use, study, or practice. For those born on the cusp of any zodiac sign, simply refer to the month of your birth, which reflects the exact constellation of your nativity. Divine Astrology, as practiced by Nostradamus, is the original way at looking and dealing with the stars correctly. “The location of the head and tail of the dragon in your chart in different signs of the zodiac will make you understand the Dragon’s power”.

ssertive Mars controls the month of April. This planet is called in Greek Mythology the Lord of War and rules the impatient sign of Aries. You were born a leader but because of your inborn impatience you will learn by mistakes. Your strong and impatient desire to succeed must be controlled and hasty decisions avoided. You are perceived by others as a competitive and motivated person. More than any other sign of the zodiac, souls born in April must learn steadiness, organization and most of all diplomacy. When confronted, grace and charm does not really belong to you. Martian souls possess strong leadership and engineering abilities and April men are attracted to dangerous sports, speed, the Army and Navy. Due to your “turbocharger” personality you are also accident-prone to the head and should protect it. Both male and female born in April tend to talk too much and must learn to listen to others and control impatience. You must focus on your needs steadily and finish what you have started. Unfortunately Martian personality could hurt sensitive souls. Your explosive temper is generated by an inborn fear of rejection and an inferiority complex. Do not take rejection or opposition personally. The “childlike” attitude could attract manipulative spirits wishing to structure or use the immense creativity and energy of Mars competitive spirit. You do love your home and you are responsible with your family. Nevertheless you do prefer to be where the action is, as you get bored easily. If you practice patience, tolerance and diplomacy there is no limit where Mars will take you to the highest level of accomplishment. Your main lesson is to learn all the diplomatic and loving traits of the opposite Venus-ruled sign Libra. Once you do find yourself and confidence, the option to become a leader in any chosen field will be given to you. Souls born in the month of April must assume a diplomatic attitude when dealing with others and when dealing with corporate money.

Cyril is a psychological astrologer; he exercises Nostradamus’ 16th-Century Divine Astrology method. To order your dragon profile with your natal report, forecast & progression report, compatibility report, relocation astrology report or astro-mapping report, please contact Cyril via email at astrobycyril@yahoo.com

Krabi Magazine