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Volume 14 Issue 33 News Desk - Tel: 076-236555 August 18 - 24, 2007 Daily news at www.phuketgazette.net 25 Baht

The Gazette is published Kathu in association with OrBorJor launches new concrete airport-shuttle service factory IN THIS ISSUE By Natcha Yuttaworawit scrapped NEWS: Korean tour operators elusive; Police grab hookahs; MAI KHAO: In another small By Pathomporn Kaenkrachang step forward toward solving Art market arrives. KATHU: Construction of a Siam Pages 2 & 3 Phuket’s long-standing public transport woes, the Phuket Pro- Cement concrete factory in INSIDE STORY: Phuket's dive vincial Administration Organiza- Kathu has been scrapped after industry feels the strain. tion (OrBorJor) together with objections by local residents, the Pages 4 & 5 Airport Limousine and Business Gazette has learned. Service Co-operative (Airport Montri Promrit, chief of AROUND THE NATION: Thai Taxi Co-op) have launched a Kathu Municipality Public Works children having trouble read- and Town & Country Planning ing and writing. Page 7 new airport van service direct to Phuket City. Division, said that that Siam Ce- AROUND THE SOUTH: Insur- With the introduction of the ment bought about two rai of land gents detained as violence new service, the Airport Taxi Co- on Phra Phuket Kaew Rd in continues. Page 9 op has announced that it will sus- Kathu in 2005 and leveled the pend or even terminate the ser- ground in July this year. A build- OOD IVING Drunken Mon- G L : vice of van drivers who are ing permit was then issued by key rustles up some home caught stopping on the bypass Kathu Municipality. comforts. Page 13 road to sell tours or other ser- However, construction PEOPLE: God gave rock ’n’ roll vices to passengers. With the introduction of a new van service direct to Phuket City, could only proceed if it did not to you. Pages 14 & 15 The new 100-baht airport the Airport Taxi Co-op says that the days of delay and confusion for adversely impact local residents, van service direct to Phuket City passengers waiting at the bypass road have finally ended. he said. FEATURES: Noise pullution a was launched August 12 to im- “After we received com- real ear ache. Page 18 prove the existing van service, for seven days for a second of- ing north to the airport along the plaints from the residents re- LIFESTYLE: The amazing which has long been criticized for fense. A driver will be banned bypass road. garding dust and noise we filed a world of anklets. Page 19 being unreliable. altogether for a third strike. K. Chatchawarn, chief of complaint to Phuket Provincial In the past, the vans would The new direct van route Phuket Provincial Transport Of- Public Works and Town & Coun- FIRST PERSON: All we are say- accept passengers headed for to the city will be down fice (PPTO), said the Airport Bus try Planning Office – because ing is give art a chance. destinations both on the west Thepkrasattri Rd, then right on route might be changed to collect construction was done without a Page 27 coast and in Phuket City, result- Rassada Rd and on to the termi- passengers at the new bus station public hearing,” K. Montri said. SPORTS: Boxing showdown; ing in lengthy waits for connect- nus at Ranong Rd near Suriyadej that is to be built on Thepkrasattri “On July 25, representa- Tennis; Surfing; Darts. ing rides, during which tours op- Circle, he said. Rd in Rassada, near Supercheap. tives from Siam Cement came Pages 34 & 35 erators and touts would approach “Although most of the pas- Routes of the OrBorJor to Phuket to meet with the resi- stranded passengers. sengers are Thai, we are hoping green buses serving Phuket City dents in the area, Kathu Mayor PROPERTY: Home Works: Se- Manote Chupak, president that tourists will start to use the and environs may be adjusted to Prasert Khaokitpaisarn and my- curity; Home of the Week: of Airport Limousine and Busi- service more,” said K. Manote. shuttle passengers between the self,” K. Montri said. Beach comfort; Construction: ness Service Co-operative, con- One van will run the new old bus station and the new sta- After discussions, Siam Ce- Kamala Regent; Gardening: ceded that the old service was route every hour on the hour be- tion once it opens. ment decided to comply with the Petunias. Pages 36-39 unpopular with tourists. tween 9 am and midnight, he Plans for Phuket’s new bus order from Kathu Municipality to “Tourists are not happy with added. station made progress this week stop construction and is now PLUS the way the vans have been run- The vans will depart from with the announcement that the searching for an alternative site, ning. We receive many com- directly outside the door of the owner of the 10 rai of land sought he said. QUEER NEWS 6; A ROUND THE R E- plaints about the airport vans al- airport terminal, dropping passen- for building had agreed to sell up. Local resident Peter GION 8; AROUND THE ISLAND 10; ways stopping on the bypass gers anywhere along the route. K. Chatchawarn said, “I Garrett, who has lived in the HAPPENINGS 16; TSOWNDINGS 17; road, with the drivers telling them Babies can travel free of charge. have asked for a budget of 48 nearby Chalekeree housing es- MOTORING 20; SPA MAGIC 21; that the van has to pick up extra It is unclear if the new ser- million baht for construction of tate for 12 years, earlier told the TAKE A B REAK 23 & 24; BOOKS, passengers or change the van al- vice will spell the end of the Air- the station from the Department Gazette that the development of PHUKET D IARY 25; EDITORIAL, LET- together,” he said. port Bus service. Launched in of Land Transport. We are now large residential projects in the TERS 26; MOMMA DUCK, HORO- According to new Airport October 2005, the Airport Bus awaiting cabinet approval. The area like The Heritage and The SCOPES 28; FEATURES 29; COMPUT- Taxi Co-op rules, any van driver route starts at the bus station on land owner will transfer the land Valley clearly show that the ERS 30; BUSINESS AND M ONEY 32 who stops in this manner will be Phang Nga Road and travels to us next week,” he told the area’s future lies in residential & 33; CLASSIFIEDS 40-51. suspended for three days, then west through the city before turn- Gazette on August 14. development, not heavy industry. 2 PHUKET GAZETTE NEWS August 18 - 24, 2007 Man hangs New market brings art to town PHUKET CITY: In an effort to establish The events are being organized in co- himself in Phuket as a regional art hub, the Culture operation with Phuket Province, Phuket City Ministry’s Office of Contemporary Art and Municipality, OrBorJor Phuket, the TAT ‘Burmese Culture has provided initial funding of 100,000 South Region 4 Office in Phuket, Thai Ho- baht to establish a “Phuket Weekend Art tels Association, Heroine’s Foundation and Market” in Phuket City. other government agencies and private sec- cemetery’ The event was announced at a ceremony tor groups. on the night of August 9 at Queen Sirikit Park The objective is to provide a forum for By Sompratch Saowakhon on Thalang Rd, where the first market will all aspiring artists – especially youth – on the take place on August 17 and 18. Special per- island to exhibit their works and exchange RASSADA: Volunteer rescue formances will take place both nights from 6 ideas with other artists. workers early on the evening of pm to 9 pm. More than 50 artists are expected to August 8 recovered the body of Attending the announcement were attend the first event, which will include ex- an unidentified man, believed to Phuket Provincial Administration Organiza- hibitions of painting, sculpture, mixed media, be Burmese, hanging by the neck tion (OrBorJor) President Anchalee Vanich- graphics, photography, music, cultural perfor- from a tree in a mangrove forest Thepabutra, Tourism Authority of Thailand mances, puppet shows, performance art and off Soi Honsaitong. (TAT) South Region 4 Office Director and many other genres. A performance artist uses lightbulbs and The body was discovered Suwalai Pinpradab and other officials. Admission is free of charge. For more wicker baskets to create a novel version of near the fishing port by a man A wide range of art will be on display information on how to participate or sponsor the traditional phii krahang, or long-tailed looking for shellfish in the area, and for sale at the event, which will be fol- the event call: Somrid Pejkong (Tel: 086 spirit. A wide variety of art forms will be on about 100 meters off Soi Kobkul- lowed by more Phuket Weekend Art Mar- 2735440), Ardchima Nookong (Tel: 086- display at the Phuket Weekend Art Market nusorn, Lt Maj Keerati Triwai of kets taking place on the first weekend of each 6854223), or Narong Promjit (Tel: 089- on the August 17 and 18, then on the first Phuket City Police told the Ga- month, beginning September 1. 4745253). See also: First Person, page 27 weekend of the month for the next year. zette. Kusoldharm Foundation vol- unteers had trouble recovering the body, which was suspended Suspect confesses to New NGO to hold contest about five meters off the ground PHUKET: Phuket Community Residents are being called by a nylon rope tied to a man- Foundation (PCF) was launched upon by PCF to identify commu- grove tree, he said. August 13 to provide the island nity-related problems and pos- As the man was dressed in killing mom-in-law with a new channel for dealing sible solutions that might be car- a blue T-shirt and Burmese-style with pressing local issues and ried out with the help of the Foun- sarong, police presume the man By Sompratch Saowakhon When police went to ques- concerns. dation. was Burmese, Lt Maj Keerati tion the victim’s family, her son- PCF President Niyom Tass- To start its work, PCF is said. CHERNG TALAY: A man who in-law 28-year-old Vutthichai aneetipagorn outlined the holding a competition – open to Local residents were unable allegedly confessed to strangling Jittrarat, a native of Suphanburi Foundation’s goals during the all Phuket residents – to submit to identify him and no ID card his mother-in-law in a fit of rage province, admitted to strangling launch at Phuket Merlin Hotel, their ideas for improving society. was recovered, he added. on August 7 faces charges of pre- K. Srila in a fit of rage after she saying, “PCF brings all layers of Winners will receive an all- Muddy footprints on the tree meditated murder, but police were verbally abused him for being lazy. society together with a common expenses-paid trip to observe the indicate that the man had climbed still gathering evidence in the “He said that he did not in- goal to improve Phuket for locals workings of a successful charity the tree and hanged himself, Lt case and had yet to question the tend to kill her,” Col Jetsada said. and visitors alike. project. Maj Keerati said. victim’s daughter or forward the As both the confessed mur- “We are confident in the The deadline for entries is There were no signs of foul case to the court system as this derer and his victim were mem- community’s ability to know itself September 15 and winners will be play, he added. edition went to print. bers of the same family, the tes- and the problems that exist within announced two weeks later. Police estimate the man Neighbors of Srila Kan- timony of the K. Srila’s daughter it, and we think the community is For more information visit: was in his early- to mid-30s and chorn, 52, a native of Phayao, will likely play a key role in fu- therefore best suited to decide on www.phuketcf.org or contact K. died at least 12 hours before his found her body lying face-up in a ture court proceedings, he said. the issues and challenges that Piyarat at Tel: 081-7190967; body was discovered. coconut plantation in Baan Pasak, The woman is in Phuket, but need to be addressed,” he added. Email: [email protected] Police will continue to try to part of Cherng Talay’s Village 4 had not yet been questioned by learn the man’s identity, Maj at about 9 am on August 7. She police a full week after her mother Keerati said was dressed in a yellow shirt and was found murdered. Scheduled August blackouts The apparent suicide is an light-blue sports pants. She has not attempted to PHUKET: The Phuket Provincial Electricity Authority (PPEA) has oddity in the area, which has be- Cherng Talay Police Inves- arrange police bail for her hus- announced scheduled blackouts in August. come notorious for the frequent tigation Inspector Lt Col Jetsada band, who was still being held at The blackouts, which will occur from 9 am to 5 pm, will affect stabbing murders there, earning Sangsuree said police believe she Cherng Talay Police Station as the following locations: the area the nickname the “Bur- was killed between five and six this edition went to press. August 21, Rawai to Laem Phromthep: along the entire mese cemetery”. hours before her body was dis- Nevertheless, police say Rawai beachfront to Laem Phromthep, including the Happy Home Three other Burmese work- covered. they will question the daughter housing development, Soi Yanui and Soi Baan Laem Phromthep. ers were found dead near the end There were signs of bruis- soon and prefer charges of pre- August 23, Kathu: Phra Phuket Kaew Rd, from the Tesco- of August, all apparently stabbed ing around the victim’s neck con- meditated evidence to the court Lotus intersection to Kathu Temple, including The Valley, The Heri- to death. None of them have sistent with strangulation, he as soon as all the evidence has tage, Moo Baan Chalekeree, Baan Kathu, Soi Dara, Soi Ban Kathu been identified. added. been collected. School, Kathu Thani Village, Hope Land 2 housing development and Soi Kathu 3, 4, 5 and 6. August 30, Samkong: the north side of Yaowarat Rd, from Samkong Shrine to the Samkong three-way intersection, including Soi Samkong 1 and Phuket Garden View housing development. This information is subject to change without notice. For more information or to check the latest status, call 076-211663. August 18 - 24, 2007 NEWS PHUKET GAZETTE 3 Police raid tea shop, Welcome to Phuket hookahs seized

PHUKET CITY: During a raid of the Khiew-Tong cafe on Thalang Rd on the evening of August 8, police found 16 minors smoking flavored tobacco through a hookah. The 10 males and six females, all under 18, were arrested and later released to their parents. The shop owner, Phuket native Veerasak Abdulla, 49, was charged with aiding or abetting a minor to engage in wrongful behavior for commercial gain. Police entered the downtown tea shop about 9:30 pm and found a full house of smokers. As hookahs are legal, police did not order the venue closed or arrest other patrons. The police confiscated two water pipes and two packs of to- bacco from the shop, which sells fruit-flavored molasses and to- bacco packets for 100 baht each. Lt Somsak Thongklieng of Phuket City Police Station told the Gazette, “We told the shop owner that if we find him serving minors TAH CHAT CHAI: The countdown to the official opening of the Phuket Welcome Gate continues. The again we will shut down the shop, so we will keep an eye on him.” complex is already open to tourists but will have a grand opening ceremony September 9. The 50 million baht structure is heralded as “the first living room” for visitors to Phuket. Smoking through hookahs has become increasingly popular in Phuket in recent years, due in large part to the increasing popularity of the island among tourists from the Middle East. Early in his term, Phuket Governor Niran Kalayanamit ex- Korean tour operators shy away pressed concern with the custom, saying he feared the water pipes could be also used with illegal drugs such as marijuana and hashish. -Sompratch Saowakhon from action on illegal guides By Semacote Suganya will be overseen by Korean-lan- MOU, informing other operators guage experts, will begin work- who were not able to attend the Significant rise in PHUKET CITY: Only eight of ing immediately for Korean tour August 14 meeting. 57 Korean tour operators invited operators. The MOU is the latest de- by the local office of the Tourism The PGA called on the velopment in a series of events Juvenile Court cases Authority of Thailand (TAT) to governor’s office to charge op- that have seen the TAT and the discuss the hotly-debated topic of erators who illegally employ Ko- governor’s office criticized for By Pathomporn Kaenkrachang phetamine), with 16 cases of ar- illegal Korean tour guides in rean guides and refuse to sign and failing to crack down on Kore- rest for the first seven months of Phuket were represented at a abide by the MOU. ans working illegally as tour PHUKET: Figures released by 2007, compared to 23 in all 2006. meeting on Tuesday organized by Korean tour operators at the guides in Phuket. the Phuket Juvenile Observation For theft, there were a total Phuket Governor Niran Kanlay- meeting raised concerns that af- Last November, some 25 and Protection Center for the first of 83 cases in the first seven anamit’s office. ter employing Thai guides, many Thai tour guides marched on seven months of 2007 show a months of 2007, while 115 were Being a tour guide is a pro- of them would quit and set up Phuket Provincial Hall demand- total of 364 youth crimes. If youth reported throughout 2006. fession reserved for Thais, yet their own companies or work ing the resignation of Suwalai crime continues at the same rate Snatch-and-run crimes appear to many Koreans continue to work freelance, leading to staffing Pinpradab, director of Tourism there could be as many as 624 be on the decrease, with only two illegally as guides, last year serv- shortages. Authority of Thailand’s Southern cases in 2007, which would mark cases reported so far this year, ing some of the 239,093 Korean The MOU was signed Au- Region 4 office. an 11% increase on 2006 figures. compared with 38 in all of 2006. tourists who came to Phuket and gust 14 by the Korean tour op- In a letter written to Gover- For the first seven months There have been six cases spent more than 16 billion baht. erators who were willing to nor Niran, the Thai guides alleged of 2007, there were a total of 82 of premeditated murder by In a bid to at least restrict abide by the agreement. that government officials had inhalant-abuse cases reported, youths in the first seven months the increasing number of illegal Korean operators at the been taking bribes from Korean such as for the huffing of rubber of 2007, compared with seven for Korean guides, the governor’s meeting said that they would hold tour operators to allow them to cement or glue. all of 2006. office announced at the meeting a separate meeting to discuss the continue hiring illegal guides. The majority (68 cases) in- Sangpreteep Komonlabut, a memorandum of understanding volved boys aged 15 to 18. director of Phuket Juvenile Ob- (MOU) that requires Korean op- Of the total 559 youth- servation and Protection Center, erators to employ Korean-speak- crime cases in 2006, most were downplayed the apparent in- ing Thais as guides. related to drugs – particularly the creases, saying that the number On August 29 and 30, about use of inhalants. There were a of court case tends to rise and 300 Thai guides will sit a Korean- total of 147 such cases reported fall over time. language test set by the provin- in 2006, the majority (117 cases) He said his center’s role is cial administration and the Pro- again involving boys 15 to 18 to rehabilitate and reform fessional Guide Association years of age. Only five such cases troubled teenagers so that they (PGA). were reported of girls in all age can return and live happily with According to the MOU, brackets. their families. those who pass the test, which The other two drugs popu- The greatest problems in lar with Phuket’s adolescents achieving this goal come with were marijuana, with 32 cases of children from broken homes or arrest in the first seven months those whose parents have mi- of 2007, compared with 35 cases grated to Phuket and now spend in 2006; and ya bah (metham- all their time working, he added. 4 PHUKET GAZETTE INSIDE STORY August 18 - 24, 2007 Diving under pressure or more than a year the provincial government ith last year’s controversial regulations imposed by has struggled to imple- Fment dive-industry regu- Wthe province on the local dive industry suspended lations requiring dive operators by the Administrative Court pending a ruling on their le- to register their companies and gality, Phuket’s dive industry has continued to operate declare their income. The dive operators have resisted the new as normal. regulations and very few of the Whatever the final outcome of the ruling, however, companies have followed the provincial guidelines. the province is determined to push for a more integrated The latest provincial-level approach to regulating the multi-billion-baht industry. meeting to discuss the regula- Gazette Senior Reporter Janyaporn Morel and tions was held August 6 at the Tourism Authority of Thailand News Editor Stephen Fein report on the latest develop- (TAT) Southern Region 4 Office ments, including a recent high-level meeting of provin- on Thalang Rd in Phuket City, ABOVE: At the most-recent meeting, panel members were told drawing many high-ranking of- cial officials regarding the industry. that it is only a matter of time before the Phuket dive industry ficials. comes under some centralized form of regulation, either at the Chaired by Phuket Vice- THE REGULATIONS AT A GLANCE provincial or national level. Governor Worapoj Ratthasima, BELOW: Opponents of increased dive-industry regulation say it the gathering included represen- ow suspended under a court order pending a ruling by the will increase operating costs and send dive enthusiasts to tatives from the Phuket Provin- NAdministrative Court in Nakhon Sri Thammarat, contro- nearby countries. Photo courtesy of [email protected] cial Administration Office, TAT, versial new regulations imposed on the Phuket dive industry Phuket Marine Police, Phuket and signed into law on August 25, 2006, by former Phuket Gov- Marine Office, Phuket Area ernor Udomsak Uswarangkura are divided into three parts: Revenue Office, Phuket Em- The first part covers environmental concerns and protec- ployment Office, Phuket Marine tion of coral; the second gives companies instructions on how Biological Center (PMBC) and to register as dive operators; the third sets out plans for the Phuket Provincial Immigration formation of three committees: Office. Representing the private The first committee would receive applications for per- sector were representatives of mission to operate a diving business; the second would examine the Thai Diving Association the applications; the third would inspect licensed businesses and (TDA) and Phuket Eco-tourism deal with illegal operators. Association. The regulations would require dive operators to register V/Gov Worapoj told the with the Phuket Marine Office and present registration docu- meeting that while the new ments, tax information, work permits of foreign staff, all boat regulations remain suspended by registration documents (including the names of captain and the court, the dive industry con- crew), records of salaries and wages, details of any related tinues to reap huge profits. websites, company bookkeeping and payment systems, diving At the same time, various courses and students. government agencies continue to Dive businesses granted permits from the province would face difficulties in forcing dive then have to submit monthly reports giving details of income, operators to comply with a vari- current staff and dive trips. ety of regulations, including those Any dive company that fails to submit the reports, or fails to on tax payment, issuance of provide all required documents, would risk having their permits work permits for foreign work- revoked. ers and environmental protec- tion. need for greater regulation, V/ zation agrees that better regula- Tawicha Chaitong, chief of to catch those who don’t, he said. The recent underwater at- Gov Worapoj said. tion is necessary, even if it comes Phuket Provincial Administration Although the regulations tack of a Thai diver by a foreign TDA Vice-President Pra- in the form of a new set of laws and Justice Enhancement Group, are still suspended pending the dive instructor also highlights the gon Gategun said that his organi- imposed nationwide on the indus- reminded the group at the meet- court’s ruling, the Ministry of try. ing that the regulations now sus- Interior (MoI) has since ac- However, he reiterated that pended by the court were never knowledged the need for diving- the now-suspended regulations intended to impose new restric- industry regulation nationwide. that his agency is challenging in tions or make life difficult for The MoI is studying the possible the Administrative Court would law-abiding dive operators. nationwide use of regulations put require a major overhaul before By consolidating informa- in place in Phuket and later sus- they could be applied nationally. tion in one place, they were pended by the court, he said. In their current form, the meant to facilitate enforcement “Regardless of whether regulations are not only imprac- of existing regulations. the Administrative Court rules to tical, but reflect a real lack of The goal was not to create revoke the new regulations, the understanding of how the dive in- hardship for those who comply law is on our side. All related dustry works, he said. with the law, but to make it easier agencies will still have many ways to ensure compliance. In addition to the MoI, both the Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment and the Minis- try of Tourism and Sports are planning to push for their regula- tions’ enactment when a new government is installed, he added. Phuket Marine Police In- spector Pol Lt Col Prathuang Srilamontri said a good first step to better regulating the industry would be to force operators to give notice every time a dive vessel leaves port with passen- gers. Such a move could be implemented immediately under existing regulations, he said. “We already have a law re- quiring captains of all vessels August 18 - 24, 2007 INSIDE STORY PHUKET GAZETTE 5 THE PUSH FOR REGULATION: A CHRONOLOGY

April 5, 2006: A provincial-level committee chaired by their provisions will still come into force on September 1, Palad Nivit acknowledges receipt of a notice from then-Governor Udomsak Uswarangkura is set up to dis- he maintains. Nivit’s secretary said one major change the Administrative Court and says provincial lawyers will cuss ways to better regulate the dive industry amidst made to the draft regulations since the meeting would defend the new regulations in court. accusations of tax evasion, foreign dive instructors work- require dive operators to report to the Phuket Marine Reaching civil service retirement age, Gov ing without permits and environmental Officewhich dive sites they use. Privately, Udomsak does not address the issue during his last days damage at dive sites. dive operators express frustration over the in office. After the meeting, then-Phuket’s province’s refusal to compromise. Chief Administrative Officer (Palad) Nivit October 19, 2006: Arguing that the regulations infringe Aroonrat claimed that Phuket’s dive in- August 15, 2006: Palad Nivit’s Secretary on their privacy rights and are very difficult to comply dustry was “concealing” facts and that the tells the Gazette that the draft regulations with, TDA representatives formally request that the the government was receiving insufficient in- are being scrutinized by Phuket Chief Pros- Administrative Court suspend the regulations until it rules formation about operators and their em- ecutor Bantoon Thongtan at the governor’s in the case. ployees. request to ensure no loopholes exist for Placed in charge of the effort, Palad dive operators to avoid compliance. As a October 30, 2006: The Administrative Court in Nakhon Nivit said he hoped to establish a com- member of the drafting committee, K. Sri Thammarat suspends the regulations indefinitely, mittee that would comprehensively vet Bantoon is not asked to review whether the pending the court ruling. The court cited in its decision dive outfits before they can register with province actually had the legal authority to concerns that former Gov Udomsak may have over- the TAT, as is already required. Scrutiny for dive impose or enforce them. Meanwhile, the stepped his authority. operators first came from Gazette learns that members of the dive The court accepted that some procedures required June 15, 2006: Gov Udomsak accepts the office of then-Phuket industry have retained lawyers to study under the regulations appear incompatible with the stated for consideration and possible approval the Governor Udomsak these very issues. aim of environmental protection and noted that numer- first draft of a set of provincial regulations Uswarangkura. ous environmental protection laws already existed. drawn up by Palad Nivit and other com- August 25, 2006: After two weeks of re- Provincial defense attorney Aekachai Soonthorn mittee members. view by the prosecutor, the dive regulations are signed by says he intends to appeal the suspension to the Su- Gov Udomsak has 30 days to sign the draft, which, Gov Udomsak. Dive operators have until September 30 preme Administrative Court in Bangkok within the 30 days if approved, would require all dive companies operating to register with the Marine Police. allowed. in Phuket to register with the province within 30 days. Once registered, the shops would then have 30 more August 28, 2006: The new regulations and October 31, 2006: Newly appointed days to submit all required documentation and apply for related documents, all in Thai, are pub- Phuket Governor Niran Kalayanamit be- a permit to operate a dive business in Phuket. lished by the government and posted on comes nominal defendant in the case with the Gazette website. his promotion to the post of Phuket Gov- July 18, 2006: After the 30-day period to sign the draft ernor. into law has passed, Palad Nivit tells the Gazette that September 21, 2006: Chatupol Chindapol, Gov Udomsak has accepted the general concept of bring- President of the Diving Sport Association December 25, 2006: After applying for a ing the dive industry under closer provincial scrutiny, but of the Thai Diving Association (TDA), transfer, Palad Nivit leaves Phuket to take that he first wants to hear the opinions of the dive indus- meets with Gov Udomsak to suggest up the position of Palad of Samut Sakhon try and relevant government agencies before putting new changes and recommend that diving-indus- Province. He is replaced by Piya regulations in place. try regulations be applied nationwide – not Pharatasinlapin, former chief of Nakhon A public hearing is scheduled at Phuket Provincial just in Phuket. Gov Udomsak stands firm, Sri Thammarat’s Muang District. Hall on July 26, with all related organizations invited to saying changes could be applied in the fu- attend. ture but that the regulations will be enforced June 12, 2007: Gov Niran calls a high- “as is” until any problems with the rules Current Phuket Governor level provincial meeting following reports July 26, 2006: At the public hearing, dive operators are become apparent. Niran Kalayanamit has that a foreign dive instructor attacked a given Thai-language copies of the draft regulations and now taken over the Thai diver at Richelieu Rock in the Similan allowed seven days to suggest changes. The governor September 29, 2006: The Gazette reports charge. Islands. said the regulations were not designed to make people’s that the the TDA filed a case in mid-Sep- With the Administrative Court yet to lives more complicated, but to protect the environment tember with the Administrative Court in Nakhon Sri rule on the legality of the suspended provincial regula- and to ensure compliance with existing laws. Thammarat challenging the legality of the regulations and tions, the incident appears to rekindle interest in dive-in- requesting that the court order them rescinded. dustry regulation. Noting that the government lacks an August 8, 2006: Palad Nivit, noting that the committee TDA Vice-President Pragon Geatgun tells the Ga- effective mechanism for regulating the behavior of indi- has received no formal opposition from the dive indus- zette that TDA members find it difficult to comply with all vidual dive instructors, Gov Niran calls on the TAT to try, says he believes the new regulations will be signed the required paperwork. Phuket Marine Office Chief Surin work together with the Education Ministry to set up a into law by the governor “soon”. Theerakulpisut tells the Gazette that about 40 dive opera- system of individual licensing similar to that required of Although the signing of the documents was delayed, tors have already registered. teachers. over 60 ton gross weight to in- Khruthanang told the Gazette form the Marine Office when that all dive operators in Phuket they leave port. So far we have are prepared to accept regula- enforced the rule only on ves- tion of the industry because they sels going abroad. understand that it is needed to “The Marine Police are au- avoid further problems. thorized ready to carry out in- spections on all aspects of the law, including whether or not dive instructors have work per- mits,” he said. Other problems discussed at the meeting included finding ways to limit damage caused by the industry to the marine envi- Ad- DD Jewel Design ronment and local ways of life, as well as maintaining standards 2x5 on diving courses offered. K. Ann Before concluding the meeting, V/Gov Worapoj told all board members representing government agencies to list all the problems they were en- countering with the dive indus- try and come up with possible solutions. These would be dis- cussed at the next meeting, to be held within 30 days, he said. Looking for a place to stay? After the meeting, West Coast Divers Managing Direc- Check out the Phuket Gazette classified ads at tor and Phuket Eco-tourism As- www.phuketgazette.net sociation President Pakdee 6 PHUKET GAZETTE NEWS August 18 - 24, 2007

STAMPS QUEER NEWS Rampant rapist All become one In honor of the 24th World University Games eludes vengeful (Universiade) held in Bangkok from August 8 to 18, Thaiand Post on the vigilantes, police opening day released a NAKHON SRI THAMMARAT: A group of irate villagers in Nakhon stamp to commemorate Sri Thammarat Municipality launched a vigilante squad July 31 to try the games. to track down an inhalant-addicted rapist from whom not even dogs, The stamps cost three pigs and banana trees were safe. A meeting was held at 1:30 pm that day at the house of Phairot baht each. Only 1.2 million Mathayawut, head of the local Volunteer Crime News Reporting copies will be produced at Squad and ex-chairman of the Ton Wah community group, to discuss a size of 27 x 45 what to do about a young local man known as Aek, 20, who had been millimeters. terrorizing local women, livestock and fruit trees. K. Phairot said that villagers in Ton Wah and nearby communi- The stamp features a ties were so afraid of Aek that few women dared to leave the safety hand holding a of their homes after nightfall and parents kept their children locked Universiade medal with the indoors. Female market vendors were losing money because they were competition’s slogan, “All too afraid to venture out to the local market during the early morning Become One.” hours, he said. Universiade, launched “Aek is addicted to inhalants and is very secretive, never asso- ciating with anyone. He has a sword as long as a man’s forearm and in 1923, is played in a a two-meter-long metal pole as his personal weapons. These he car- different country every two ries with him at all times,” explained K. Phairot. years and includes “As for his style of attack, apart from grabbing women when separate summer and they are outside their homes, he also watches out for when women are home alone. When he finds one, he climbs onto the roof and winter competitions. removes tiles until he can jump down into the house,” he added. The stamps can be Aek’s latest outrage was the knife-point rape in July of a young bought at all 10 Thailand mother who had recently given birth. Despite knowing Aek’s iden- tity, police had been unable to find him. Post offices in Phuket. At the meeting, the villagers decided they had waited long enough for police action and took matters into their own hands by sending out a group of local tough guys to hunt for Aek. When the vigilantes arrived at Aek’s house, they found he was Cook’s helper saves the day not home. From there they went to a shack in the nearby forest where Aek was known to hide out, but again found no trace of of CAPE PANWA: Panya Tor- him. charoen, commercial director of Villagers said that in addition to raping women, Aek had also Thai Sarco Company, presented forced himself on villagers’ dogs, pigs and banana trees. Around his a gift basket to Anthika Hokhern, house, more than 10 trees were found to have small holes cut in them a cook’s helper at Cape Panwa at about waist height that Aek allegedly used to pleasure himself. Hotel, to show his deep appre- Nakhon Sri Thammarat Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj ciation after K. Anthika helped K. Gen Sutjai Yannarat said that he had received a report of the inci- Panya’s elderly uncle safely dents. home on the night of July 30. A subsequent investigation of Aek’s background revealed that After spending his day read- he was so heavily addicted to inhalants that he had become mentally ing newspapers at the Samakee unstable and posed a great danger to society. He has ordered Nakhon Tham Association about 50 Sri Thammarat Police to track him down as quickly as possible, he meters from his home on added. Yaowarat Rd, near Timber Hut “The court has issued an arrest warrant for Aek, but we still in Phuket City, K. Panya’s uncle have been unable to catch him. I have assigned Lt Col Chokdee K. Engchoo, 91, was mistakenly nd Srimuang, deputy inspector of investigations at Nakhon Sri Thammarat dropped off by a well-meaning Panya Torcharoen (2 from left) presents Anthika Hokhern with a Provincial Police, to work with Muang District Special Task Force to person outside his son’s place of gift basket after she escorted K. Panya’s elderly father home safely hunt him down. work at Makham Bay, more than after he had been dropped off in the wrong part of town. “Two days ago they almost caught him, but he fought so hard 10 kilometers from his home. Sea Port when noticed by K. until K. Enchoo could explain that he lost all his clothes and managed to escape wearing only his Hard of hearing and disori- Anthika. where he lived and then drove him underpants,” Gen Sutjai said on July 31. ented, K. Engchoo was wander- Fearing K. Engchoo would home safely. Source: Kom Chad Luek ing along the roadside about 300 be run down by teenage motor- K. Panya delivered the gift meters from the Phuket Deep cycle racers, she patiently waited basket the following morning.

Ad- Sinsuk Thani 5x3 K. Anna August 18 - 24, 2007 AROUND THE NATION PHUKET GAZETTE 7 Thai language in ‘dismal state’ national artist in lit- Scheme in disarray: The new erature on August 8 version of the One District One urged the Education Scholarship (ODOS) project will Ministry to highlight use stricter rules for its scholars A after nearly 100 students during the importance of writing and re- citing in Thai. the project’s first two years gave Naovarat Pongpaiboon said up their decision to pursue an after a meeting at the Culture overseas degree and returned to Ministry that children need to Thailand. learn how to put their thoughts in Launched by the Thaksin order to use the language prop- administration, the ODOS project erly. has seen some 90 students retun- By his estimate, more than ing to Thailand while 160 others 50% of Thai children have prob- were unsure whether they could lems forming long sentences be- complete their overseas under- cause they do not know the ba- graduate courses. sics of the language. About 96 other grantees will The government has de- need more time than usual to com- clared 2007 as Year to Promote plete their courses. Thai Language. As part of the Asked why the students ministry’s two-million-baht pro- were not achieving the desired ject, activities are being held at expectations, Education Minister various department stores nation- Wijit Srisa-arn said scholars in wide. their first year were not properly Youngsters can also take prepared because they were part in the Thai-language compo- rushed into going abroad. sition contest on the subject “good K. Wijit said most of the stu- children embrace moral prin- dents who had returned to Thai- ciples”. Winners receive scholar- Members of the newly-founded ‘Network of Tribal Peoples in Thailand’ marched to Chiang Mai’s land had now chosen to pursue a ships and a plaque of honor from Three Kings Monument last week to urge the government to establish August 9 as National Tribal university degree in social sci- the Minister of Culture. Peoples Day and to enact laws to protect tribal rights. ences at private universities in Thailand. Boss does a runner: The La- Since the interim govern- bor Ministry has blacklisted a Tai- cal third quarter, with earnings of to extend the shelf life of foods New coins to save a mint: ment came to power late last year, wanese businessman who disap- 68 million baht for the April-June containing the fat. Cabinet on August 7 agreed that it has renamed the ODOS project peared without paying workers period, down from 473 million Trans-faty acid can be adjustments be made to all nine the Community Development after his firm failed. baht during the same period last found in vegetable shortenings, coins in circulation, expecting to Scholarship project. In addition to legally-re- year. margarine, crackers, cookies, cut minting costs by 1.9 billion K. Wijit has now asked the quired severance payments, Lee snacks and food made with or baht a year. Office of the Civil Service Com- Chen Fu will be subject to civil GMO revival: The Agriculture fried in partially-hydrogenated oil. Chodechai Suwanaporn, a mission and the Office of the action to clear debts and will be Ministry will ask Cabinet to al- Unlike other dietary fats, deputy government spokesman, Higher Education Commission to barred from making future invest- low field tests of genetically modi- trans-fatty acids are neither re- said, “To continue producing the draw up detailed reports on the ments in Thailand, said Pha- fied organisms (GMOs) again as quired nor beneficial for health. current coins, the Treasury De- scholars’ choices of educational dungsak Thephasdin, director- Thailand is falling behind trading Eating the fat increases the risk partment will have to bear 1.1 institutes and their fields of study. general of the Labor Protection partners who already grow them. of coronary heart disease. billion baht in losses. In April, the The scholarships were in- and Welfare Department. GMO crops are farmed in K. Visith called for the FDA price of metal rose sharply tended to ensure that brilliant stu- The department took action 22 countries over an area of to impose a regulation to ban the against levels during the same dents receive education at great following the unannounced shut- 637.5 million rai with a current import of margarine, shortening period last year.” institutes so that they can make down of Lee’s Phoenix Furniture trading value of US$6 billion (203 and hydrogenated oil that contain He said the current cost of a contribution to the country’s Group in Samut Prakan’s Muang billion baht) per year. trans-fatty acids. minting was 40% more than the development, he added. district last week. Lee disap- The Ministry and the private Tippawan Parinyasiri, direc- coins’ face values. New coins will The students, under the con- peared without paying 6.5 million sector were ordered to stop field tor of the FDA’s food-control di- be smaller, lighter and coated with ditions of receiving the scholar- baht in back wages to 463 work- tests of GMO plants on April 3, vision, said the agency would is- cheaper metal. ships, were required to return to ers and a number of other full- 2001. sue a regulation banning the im- A source at the Cabinet Thailand after their educations time employees. Adisak Sreesunpagit, direc- port of trans-fatty acids, but first meeting said that the Finance were complete. More than 100 workers last tor-general of the Department of needed to study the pros and cons minister had also said that the week gathered outside the Phoe- Agriculture, said the government of banning and controlling food one-baht and the 25- and 50- Around the Nation news round- nix compound to demand their should consider allowing the re- production. satang coins would be gradually up is sourced from the pages of wages. The workers had earlier sumption of testing. The study would be finished phased out and replaced by two- The Nation and Kom Chad Luek gathered outside the local labor The Thai government has by next year, she said. baht coins. newspapers. welfare office to negotiate with not allowed anyone to grow GMO Rewat Khantha-aree, a Thai plants for commercial purposes manager, who had promised ear- because of concerns about bio- lier to meet them there but later safety. fled. Over the past 11 years, the annual trading value of GMO THAI approves plan: The board crops has increased from of directors of Thai Airways In- US$200 million to US$6 billion. ternational (THAI) August 10 approved the flag carrier’s 10- Trans-faty acids targeted: year strategic plan, including the Health experts have urged the upgrading of its fleet. Food and Drug Administration President Apinan Sumana- (FDA) to issue a regulation ban- seni said the board was consid- ning the import of all foods con- ering whether to seek 53 or 64 taining trans-fatty acids. new aircraft, reported Dow Jones Visith Chavasit, a health Newswires. expert at Mahidol University’s The board will make a de- Institute of Nutrition, said the re- cision at its next special board sults from a recent study of 309 meeting, he said, without provid- food items in local markets found ing a specific time frame. five items that were “high risk” The fleet expansion is part and contaminated with trans-fatty of THAI’s plan to broaden its acids. operating network. Trans-fatty acid is made THAI also reported that its when manufacturers add hydro- net profit plunged 86% in its fis- gen to vegetable oil, thus helping 8 PHUKET GAZETTE AROUND THE REGION August 18 - 24, 2007 Samui-Krabi air service announced

angkok Airways has announced plans to add new routes, including B one that will connect Samui with Krabi. The airline will offer three flights a week from Samui to Krabi on a turbo prop aircraft that can carry up to 70 passengers. A spokesperson for the airline com- mented that the addition of the service is to meet tourist demand for the route during high season, which begins in October. FROM THE The popular non-stop flight GULF OF from Hong Kong to Samui will also begin daily flights during the THAILAND busy holiday period. By Max Rogers The additional flights will be aboard a Boeing 717-200 carry- ing up to 125 passengers. illegal smuggling of unregistered Bangkok Airways is the medicine into the kingdom and only airline currently serving Koh other breaches of Customs regu- Samui and the surrounding is- lations. lands. Lt Col Kosol Kawnkaew of The airline is also said to be the Samui Marine Police said that planning new services to carry they believe the contraband origi- passengers from Bangkok to nated in China, arriving at Samui Vientiane and Krabi, as well as a through Hong Kong in an effort new route from Chiang Mai to to avoid a strict customs check Siem Reap in Cambodia. in Bangkok. TOLL CHECK: (Above) Samui yellow “meter taxis” Bangkok Airways currently The vaccine, intended for suffered another blow on August 5 when one of has regular flight services from use on poultry, was banned in their drivers assaulted a group of foreign tourists. Phuket to Bangkok, Samui and Thailand in 2005 for fear that its Pattaya. widespread use would cause the MALENE MAGIC: (Left) Danish jazz vocalist H5N1 strain of the virus to mu- Malene Mortensen and her sultry voice will return Bird drugs. Samui’s Marine Po- tate into a possible pandemic. to Samui, this year with the impressive Kasper lice announced that they have in- The confiscated vaccine Villaume Trio. tercepted bird flu vaccine valued was later destroyed at the Samui at more than 20 million baht incinerator. smuggled in from China. Police told reporters that At your service. The poor repu- Having witnessed the dis- car and fled, leaving the taxi be- style of rich jazzy melodies and a three men were arrested at the tation of Samui yellow “meter turbance, two other foreigners hind. Police are continuing their fine tuned ear for innovation. She bus station in the main port town taxis” took yet another blow fol- stopped to intervene. The driver investigation. was awarded the Django D’or of Nathon after they were dis- lowing the savage attack by a then allegedly produced a knife Prize for Best Young Jazz Musi- covered with 1,800 bottles of driver on a group of foreign tour- and began slashing at all four, Kasper class. After a stunning cian of the Year in 2005. avian influenza vaccine intended ists. causing multiple injuries, before performance at last year’s Hua The Kasper Villaume trio, for use with poultry. The men The assault happened on the returning to his taxi and speed- Hin Jazz Festival, the sultry-voiced who won the Danish Grammy were loading the vaccine onto a night of August 5, when a couple ing away. Malene Mortensen returns to Award for Best CD in 2005, bring bus getting ready to depart for on holiday from Belgium report- The four tourists reported Thailand and will be at Samui’s with them a classy, internation- Bangkok. edly took a yellow metered tax the incident to police and were Bandara Resort and Spa on Sep- ally renowned style bound to bal- The three men, all Bangkok from a popular night club in taken to a local hospital. Between tember 4. ance brilliantly with Malene’s residents, turned up at Samui Air- Chaweng to their nearby hotel. them they received medical treat- Malene will perform with honeyed voice. port to collect 30 parcels arriving Once they arrived at the hotel, the ment for more than 50 lacerations the Kasper Villaume Trio in the The Samui performance will on a direct flight from Hong Kong. driver then asked for a fare of before being released. second installment of the “Colour be held by the beach and will start The smugglers then transported 300 baht. The pair refused to pay The following day, police Your Life: European Jazz” series. at about 6 pm with a cocktail re- the goods to the port in Nathon, the amount because the driver traced the rented taxi to a nearby Making a name for herself ception. Tickets are 1,300 baht. where they were apprehended had not turned on the meter. The hotel. Employees at the “99” ho- at 19 when she won the Danish For more information call the while loading them onto the bus. driver then exited the vehicle and tel reported that the man had Eurovision contest, the Scandina- Bandara Resort and Spa at 077- The trio were charged with began to physically attack them. been picked up in an unmarked vian vocalist went on to master a 245795. August 18 - 24, 2007 AROUND THE SOUTH PHUKET GAZETTE 9

he military on August 7 detained 31 people from Yala and Narathiwat Tprovinces in connection 160 detained as blitz on with ongoing violence in the Deep South. More than 80 soldiers and police raided Ban Limud in Yala’s Muang district at dawn, arrest- ing 16 people. All of the suspects were insurgents continues Muslims aged between 17 and 56. They were detained at a mili- Officers reported first hear- tary camp before being trans- ing a heated argument between ferred to the Fourth Army Sen Sgt Maj Jaran Saelong, a Region’s forward command in Squad Leader in the station’s neighboring Pattani. Administration Department, and In Raman district of Yala, Phonphiphat Khumsang, 50, an more than 100 officers raided two electrician from Krabi. villages and took 11 suspects into After shots rang out about custody. They were taken to a 1:30 pm, Superintendent Col Issra Pattani military camp for ques- Charoenphun and Capt Nit Kan- tioning. chanawong rushed to the scene. Meanwhile, in Rusoh district On the way, they passed Sen Sgt of Narathiwat, more than 100 Maj Jaran rushing downstairs, military and police searched more gun in hand. than 50 houses and arrested four In the room from which Sen suspects. Personal effects be- Sgt Maj Jaran had just emerged, lieved to have been used in at- the officers found the body of K. tacks were seized, as was am- Phonphiphat. He had been shot munition for automatic weapons in the head and right arm. and documents with anti-govern- After inspecting the crime ment propaganda. scene, Col Issara led officers to The raid was part of an on- the home of Sen Sgt Maj Jaran, going operation that has seen sev- who had barricaded himself in. eral hundred arrests in recent Relatives and fellow offic- months. ers attempted to persuade Sen Sgt More than 160 suspects re- Maj Jaran to turn himself in, but main in detention at military to no avail. At 3:30 pm a gunshot YOUNG CONSTITUTION: Students from Yala Rajabhat University march through Yala Town on August camps in Yala and Pattani, ac- was heard, prompting Col Issara 8 encouraging people to vote in the August 19 referendum on the draft constitution – the first to order officers to break down cording to army spokesman Col national referendum to be held in Thailand. Acra Tiproch. the door. Inside they found that Another 252 were sent for Sen Sgt Maj Jaran had shot him- job training in the Upper South sacrificed her life for the coun- Doha, a village in Narathiwat’s commando of the cell, attended self through the temple. after no evidence was found that try. She encouraged all children Sungai Padi district, to search for university in Indonesia and is on Cap Nit said that K. Phon- they were involved in the insur- to study hard, respect their par- the militants after being tipped off the authorities wanted list, Col phiphat had been given the con- gency. ents and stay away from drugs. by intelligence sources. Acra said. tract to re-wire the station’s elec- Authorities believe the ar- As the government forces During the firefight, Private trical circuits and before his death had gone to discuss the work with rests are restricting violence in Prince grants medical aid. arrived, the militants opened fire. Pavee Chart was injured. the predominantly Muslim region. HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajira- Pilots flew a helicopter over the Military officials confiscated Sen Sgt Maj Jaran, who was on The following day, however, longkorn has granted a second area to guide troops to the mili- electronic components used to the board responsible for order- a roadside bomb killed two sol- delivery of medical equipment to tants’ position. detonate bombs and two M16 as- ing the work. The motive for the diers and injured four others on seven hospitals in Nakhon Sri After the shootout, officials sault rifles with serial numbers in- killing is likely to have a been re- patrol in Ma-Yor district of Thammarat and the three troubled found the bodies of Sungai Padi dicating they came from the lated to a dispute over the quality Pattani. The six soldiers were Deep South provinces and pro- residents Usaman Jeharee, Adam Fourth Development Battalion – of the work, he added. traveling in a pickup on a road in vided 99 annual scholarships to Ama and Hanafi Sarina. a military camp in Narathiwat’s The contract to rewire Ban Klongchang. Command Sgt nursing students to tackle the five Officials believed there Joh I Rong that was robbed by Phibun police station was worth Maj Apinant Pethkamnerd and southern border provinces’ short- were 11 militants in the cell un- insurgents in 2004. around 100,000 baht. Cpl Waemausoh Doloh died at age of trained nurses, a senior der the leadership of Muhamad There will be an investiga- tion into whether there was any- the scene. official said on August 10. Nase Maruno, whose passport Shocking result. An electrical Public Health Ministry Per- was found at the scene. The re- contractor was shot dead August thing unusual about the contract, Teacher’s mum honored. The manent Secretary Prat Boonya- maining eight, including the leader, 10 by a policeman in Phibun Dis- he said. mother of the late Juling Pangan- wongvirote said 14 items of medi- managed to escape the fighting, trict Police Station, Nakhon Sri moon – the schoolteacher beaten cal equipment worth almost 16 said army spokesman Col Acra Thammarat. The officer respon- Around the South news round-up into a coma by her abductors in million baht would be given to Tiproch. sible shot himself dead later the is sourced from Kom Chad Luek Narathiwat’s Rangae district – Pattani Hospital, Mayor Hospital, Muhamad Nase, the top same day. and The Nation newspapers. has been recognized by the Crime Yala Hospital, Betong Hospital, Press Association for the sacri- Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Hos- fices she made for her dying pital, Sungai Kolok Hospital and daughter. Maharat Nakhon Sri Thammarat Khamme Panganmoon Hospital. stayed at the bedside of 24-year- This was the second dona- old K. Juling for eight months at tion sponsored by 39 million baht Prince of Songkhla Hospital until raised from the Crown Prince’s she died this year. special charity flight earlier this K. Khamme was one of year, K. Prat said. three mothers honored at the The equipment is expected association’s Mother’s Day cel- to boost the quality of medical ser- ebration on August 11 at Lumpini vices for people in the South – Police Station. especially surgery for injuries The two others were Nuan- from the ongoing unrest as well noi “Kru Noi” Timkul, who has as mother and child care, he said. devoted her life to helping or- phans and underprivileged chil- Militants killed in clash. A dren, and Suleemas Suthisam- three-hour clash in jungle in phan, who has been helping vic- Narathiwat August 10 resulted in tims of the southern unrest since the death of three militants under 2004. the leadership of well-known cell K. Khamme said she was leader Muhamad Nase Maruno, happy to be recognized, adding officials said. that she was making peace with About 9 am, nearly 100 po- her loss. She said her daughter lice and military surrounded Ban 10 PHUKET GAZETTE AROUND THE ISLAND August 18 - 24, 2007 PIWC just keeps on giving By Nick Davies hildren and parents at Ao Por School enjoyed fun, games and feast- Cing on August 10 at a children’s day organized by the Phuket International Women’s Club (PIWC). The event was held to celebrate Mother’s Day and as part of an ongoing initia- tive by the PIWC and local spon- sors to provide much needed sup- port for the primary school. The school kids competed for medals in traditional sports day games, including relays, sack races and competitions in burst- ing water-filled balloons while parents and teachers cheered them on. Adult members of the PIWC were no match for the determined youngsters in a tug of war to round off the games be- fore lunch. Back in the classrooms af- ter lunch, the children lined up expectantly to receive colorful goody bags of sweets and useful FUN & GAMES: (Above and top right) Students at Ao Por School items for their lessons, such as take on Phuket International Women’s Club (PIWC) members during pens, scissors, rulers, erasers and the fun day. pencil cases provided by the day’s RIGHT ON: (Right) Students give a ‘thumbs-up’ thanks to the PIWC sponsors, which included Phuket for awarding scholarships that will see them continue their education. TGR Group Asia, Ocean Villas, Sunseekers (Max Marine), Bovis, PWIC Co-ordinator Carol hand on the day. K. Siriporn, 22, Hunter Sotheby’s International Fryer explained, “The children is currently studying to be a mu- Realty, Enhance, Jumeirah Pri- here are desperately in need of sic teacher with the help of PIWC vate Island Resort, Engel & help, both immediate and long donations. She was also able to Volkers and Simpson Marine. term. Many come to school with buy a saxophone, which would The Gazette kitted out the no socks or underwear and lunch have been impossible for her with- kids with caps and Oriental Lei- for most of them is often little out funding assistance from the sure helped organize the day and more than a bowl of rice,” she PIWC. provided transportation for equip- said. K. Jeab, 20, and K. Koi, 21, ment as part of continuing efforts “We are often asked to di- are studying Information Tech- by the PIWC to provide assis- rectly contribute to educational nology on PIWC scholarships. K. MBE by Queen Elizabeth II of awarded to students studying tance with schooling and schol- projects, such as providing Jeab is well on her way to be- England in the 2006 New Year’s medicine, nursing, dentistry, phar- arships for the region’s under- kitchen equipment, computers or coming a competent computer Honors list. macology, law, engineering, com- privileged children. new toilet facilities, but after technician and hopes to work as Mrs Ratcliffe sees the fund- puter science, chemistry, music Ao Por, on the east coast evaluating the school’s immedi- a system analyst, while K. Koi is ing of scholarships as the best and art. of Phuket, is fast becoming home ate needs, we decided that our looking forward to a career in way to ensure donated money is PIWC Treasurer Wipa Tan- to many high-end projects, boast- main contribution should be to graphic design. well spent. “Our aim is for these manatragul explained on their ing several magnificent residen- provide ongoing funding for nour- The PIWC was established students to eventually be able to policy on student funding. “As long tial developments, yet many of ishing lunches for these growing over 18 years ago with just five give something back to society. as the students receiving scholar- the 260 children attending Ao Por children,” Carol added. women, but now has a member- “The scholarships are not ships show continued dedication School come from very poor Students from the Rajabhat ship of more than 120 with about loans; the students are not ex- and willingness to learn, we en- homes and lack basic necessities; and Prince of Songkla universi- four new members joining each pected to pay them back, but we deavor to help as much as pos- some of them walk to school ties in Phuket, who are currently month. The club is currently hope that by helping them achieve sible with funding until they com- barefoot while shiny chauffeur- studying under scholarships pro- headed by President Cindy success, their knowledge and plete their studies,” she said. driven cars glide by. vided by the PIWC, also lent a Ratcliffe, who was awarded an experience will be a valuable as- The PIWC originally fo- set to the community and will cused solely on providing girls enable them to make their own with scholarships, but boys are contribution to society in the fu- now also considered. The first ture,” said Ms Ratcliffe. male student to be given a schol- The club’s voluntary chari- arship studied art in Bangkok. He table efforts are geared towards has now returned to teach at providing educational scholar- Phuket Vocational College and ships for needy children in Phuket made a name for himself as a and the region by organizing fund successful artist. raising events, such as monthly This year, the PIWC Gala lunches and raffles. Ball will be held at the stylish In- The PIWC also organizes an digo Pearl Resort on November annual Gala Ball, which has be- 24 and promises to be as glitzy come one of Phuket’s most glam- as ever. More than half the 350 orous social events, attracting the available seats already booked. island’s well-heeled movers and Funds raised at the event will go shakers. towards the club’s continuing ef- Through the generosity of forts to provide scholarships and PIWC members, local businesses funding for Phuket’s underprivi- and members of the community, leged children. more than 500 scholarships have been awarded since 1988. More For more information regarding than 250 students currently re- funding or to reserve tickets for ceiving PIWC support for their the Gala Ball, contact Carol education. Fryer at 087-4178860, email: Scholarships have been [email protected] August 18 - 24, 2007 PHUKET GAZETTE 11 12 PHUKET GAZETTE August 18 - 24, 2007

Ad- Home Pro Full page K. Ann August 18 - 24, 2007 GOOD LIVING PHUKET GAZETTE 13 Dining with the Drunken Monkey henever British or, The splendid medallions of Rajana Nowpae and Kirisorn in this case, English pork in a creamy mushroom Prajantabut who prove to be com- food is mentioned, sauce with mashed potatoes and petent, confident front of house Wa series of images vegetables remind me of a professionals. The glasses are appear before me: mother pull- winter’s dinner at the Grand ho- polished, places immaculately set, ing a tray of mince pies from the tel in Brighton many moons ago. the explanations of food and bev- oven, me queuing for a stodgy I had difficulty rising from the erages spot on and the recom- school dinner, Jamie Oliver being table on that occasion, too. mendations a treat. It’s also amazed at school kids not recog- Next up for my sampling is worth noting that the whole place nizing a turnip. the Steak Diplomat. I’m not sure is spotlessly clean. Never had the vision of be- if it’s named after the Diplomat The DM is in no way pre- ing served the likes of bangers and Steakhouse in Regina, Canada, or tentious. “We concentrate on of- mash and apple pie with cream the diplomatic use of French fering good, hearty, home-cooked in Rawai appeared before me. Roquefort cheese, but the Steak food of consistent quality,” says The Drunken Monkey has just Diplomat is not a dish to be Ian. “Come back in two months changed that. messed with. and the standards will be the The dream child of partners Fillet steak topped with same.” and long-time friends Ian Martin prawns and Roquefort blue I’ll do just that. and Martin Hyde, the Drunken cheese and served with home- Monkey was conceived on a wet cut fries and seasonal vegetables. The Drunken Monkey. 21/6 and drunken night in Islington, This is the most expensive dish, Moo 4, Wiset Rd, Rawai. From North London. Tired of working at an incredibly reasonable 340 Chalong Circle, it’s on the right just to pay the mortgage and af- baht. just before Saiyuan Rd. Tel: 081- The Steak Diplomat is not to be trifled with. The thick-cut steak is ford a decent holiday, the two topped with prawns and French Roquefort cheese, and served There is hardly room for 0878742, 081-7871184. Aver- decided to take a year off and with over-sized, home-cut fries. dessert, but in the interests of a age cost of a meal for two travel around Thailand and per- full review it has to be done. people, excluding wine, is less haps set up a business. wine brewing inebriated primates do, is seeking feedback from his Homemade apple pie and cream than 1,200 baht. Open Monday As Martin is a trained chef of Borneo, I ask Ian why they customers before adding to the and a chocolate cake with vanilla to Saturday, noon to 3 pm and and Ian has a background in sales chose the name Drunken Mon- list. ice cream good enough to knock 6 pm to 10:30 pm. Open from and marketing, the two realized key. The celebrated bangers and your socks off (without wishing noon to 8 pm Sundays. that a restaurant was the natural “We frequented the trendy mash is unmistakable English to cross the cultural divide). choice. They traveled exten- places in London and the name fare. Three pork sausages lying The performance of the Email your restaurant recom- sively and they admit that Phuket was simply borne out of a desire on mashed potatoes and covered kitchen is admirable and full mendations, suggestions and was at the bottom to create something with onion gravy. Served with marks must go to the two young comments to Alistair Why at of their list of a little different, but carrots, long beans and snap peas. and enthusiastic waitresses, [email protected] places to reside un- trendy. We’re just a til they visited couple of drunken Rawai and fell in monkeys anyway, love with it. really.” They are both And so to passionate about drinking. The drinks Thailand, the menu is concise, people and the cul- with the usual ture, and Ian is house pours of spir- learning the lan- its and a short but guage in his spare enticing cocktail time. But his spare On the list. time is fairly limited I first brave since the restaurant menu the concealed dan- is open for lunch WITH gers of a “Drunken and dinner six days Alistair Why Monkey” cocktail. a week and offers Drunken Monkey The sweetness of a special roast ev- the tequila, rum, ery Sunday. chocolate-cream liqueur and The Drunken Monkey’s air- Baileys mix disguise its potency. conditioned interior is an elegant “That’s how the monkey arrangement of Lanna-style dark got drunk,” says the menu. The wood furniture and soft, rich-red monkey could have also chosen furnishings from Chiang Mai – from one of the several excellent where a one-week shopping ex- frozen daiquiris available in a pedition turned into a six-week choice of raspberry, strawberry, stay for the two. black currant and local seasonal The dining area is spacious, fruit flavors. All cocktails are 150 the tables spaced enough apart baht. and Buddha images and paintings Although there is a Thai abound. menu, I try the English cuisine, Adjacent to the bar is a de- for which the place is becoming lightful alcove with comfortable increasingly well-known. A deli- sofas and a table for drinks. The ciously sweet cream of pumpkin bar itself is dominated by Martin’s soup is joined by hearty English Drunken Monkey logo in gold fishcakes and a triumphant leaf hanging on the wall. chicken Caesar salad, all washed On the terrace, the table- down with a glass of the Maitre tops are made from small ceramic de Chai house white wine. mosaic tiles in hues of blue and For the main course, hav- green. This is apparently where ing established that the portions most of the clientele congregate, are not for the faint of heart, I under a bank of ceiling fans, hid- opt for liquid assistance from the den from the road by palms and Lagarde Vin de Pays D’Oc red bamboo trees. wine. The Drunken Monkey’s Popular with lunchtime wine list is extremely short, al- diners,Wi-Fi Internet access is though I understand that a review available free to patrons through- is underway. out the restaurant. One white, one rose and one Thinking that there might be red is currently the choice, all a tale of adventures amongst the from Lagarde. Ian, as he likes to 14 PHUKET GAZETTE PHUKET PEOPLE August 18 - 24, 2007 Singing to idden in the darkest depths of Phun Pol e’s a rock star, a secret agent and a co- Plaza, tucked away median, but behind the one-liners and Hdown a shady alley in one of Phuket’s more run-down numerous TV appearances, Brian Burton areas, there is an unexceptional- H looking building in the shell of an has been working to help those in need in and old shophouse. Take a step around Phuket for 17 years. through the doors into a small, crowded room and a flurry of Gazette Desk Editor Matt Crook reports on greeters welcome you and ask the Phun Pol pastor. how you are. Jazzin’ People are milling about, friends are chatting and a group Dynamic jazz trio Allen of about 150 people are finding Youngblood & Jazbalaya seats, waiting patiently for the (above) got diners up and show to begin. It’s 10:30 on Sun- dancing during ‘BBQ on day morning, and while most of the Boardwalk’ at Les Phuket is still in bed a collection Anges restaurant, Royal of Thais and foreigners are in this Phuket Marina (RPM). building waiting for a concert. ABOVE: Allen The lead singer and guitar- Youngblood (right), bass ist of the band casually saunters guitarist Paul Candelaria up to the front of the room, picks (left) and drummer and up his guitar and straps himself vocalist Larry Hammond up. The backing singers are in take time out with RPM's Jeanette Skelton. place, the drummer takes his seat, RIGHT: RPM's Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree (right) and Karuna the female vocalist signals she’s Tip-o-sot (center) pose for a photo with Central Festival Phuket's ready and the lead singer plucks Marketing Activities General Manager Songphol Pongrapeeporn. a few strings in preparation for BELOW: Ladies get down with a boardwalk boogie. the band’s opening number. An overhead projector beams a message onto a large, white screen to the back-left of the room: “Please honor God and turn off your mobile phone.” You get the impression that WELCOME TO THE FAMILY: Baby ‘Not’ was well-behaved as this isn’t going to be your aver- Pastor Brian dedicated the newborn in front of her mother and age concert. aunt during a service at Phuket Christian Centre. The crowd rises to its feet, the band commences its set and vice was a birthday party with a joined the church. He told a story the white screen displays lyrics divine twist. of depression and thoughts of in both Thai and English for the After a brief call for offer- suicide that eventually led him to crowd to sing along with. Jesus, ings and tithes to help with the Christianity and to meeting Brian. God, redemption and forgiveness running of the church, Brian told Brian had called Dave over figure heavily in the karaoke ses- his congregation that he had a to him at the alter during a cer- sion. This is a typical morning at treat in store for them. The lights emony of worship at a PCC lead- Phuket Christian Centre (PCC), were dimmed, the ambiance set ership retreat. He looked down located in the heart of one of and a movie began to roll. and instead of seeing the alter, Phuket’s most infamous neighbor- Brian is a churchman with Dave said he saw God’s throne. hoods. a sense of humor. The video his “It was so powerful to see the The lead singer of the band congregation watched was a throne that I broke down and is Pastor Brian Burton – an parody of James Bond, starring cried,” he said. enigmatic character from “Pierced Burton” in You Only After Dave’s testimony, Wolverhampton in the UK who Live Twice. The holy 007 trav- Brian said, “I think Dave gets the looks as though he might have eled across the world in search badge for the most improved been an Elvis impersonator in a of a “faith promise”. After traips- man. Before he used to walk past life. He’s instantly likable and ing from Phuket to Australia to around looking glum, but now positively glowing as he strums London and back to Phuket via every time I see him he’s got a and sings his way through a num- the magic of cheap stage props, smile on his face. He’s even got ber of hymns. 007 finally found his faith prom- a bit of a swagger. Praise God!” The congregation at PCC ise back at the PCC building. Though his humor adds sings with so much vigor that you The faith promise is a form some spice to his services, Brian wonder if the Man upstairs can’t that each of the congregation was maintains an air of authority and hear them. Some of the follow- asked to fill out, pledging a dona- seriousness that has earned him ers sing with beaming smiles, a tion toward the construction of a the respect of everyone at PCC. few raise their hands to the roof new building for the church. Pas- “Seventeen years ago I in celebration, while others ap- tor Brian’s troop has outgrown its came to Phuket with my wife pear so lost in prayerful trances home in Phun Pol, and 20 million Margaret. We started this church that it’s difficult to tell whether baht needs to be raised – that’s a with just two people,” said Brian, they are awake. lot of money for a church that has satisfied with the improvement in A row of Thai children only 220 followers. attendance since his work began. stands at the front of the room, The service was sharp and As the service drew to a clapping along with the grown-ups to the point, with Brian throwing close, Brian dedicated a baby and behind. This is the flock that Pas- one-liners and gags into his de- posed for photos after a church tor Brian has worked for 17 years livery. “The Gazette’s here to- birthday cake was cut. All in a to build. day, so I’ve even worn a shirt busy day’s work for Christianity’s “God’s great, isn’t he!” ex- and tie,” he quipped. James Bond, but after the service claims Brian as the band finishes During the service, Dave Brian had some time to chat. its set. from Australia gave a testimony “I arrived in Phuket in 1990 Sunday, August 5 was about how his life had improved as part of a program to start a PCC’s 17th anniversary; the ser- now that he had found God and Thai church,” said Brian. I came August 18 - 24, 2007 PHUKET PEOPLE PHUKET GAZETTE 15 a soi salvation

SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE: (Above) Pastor Brian (left) and Pastor Nok pray for Aussie Dave (right) to acknowledge his new position in the church as spiritual parent, a type of church leader.

FLOCK ’N’ ROLL: (Left) Pastor Brian leads the band with his guitar at Phuket Christian Centre during a service commemorating the church’s 17th anniversary.

this one, by the weekend market. center for the island’s hospitals. It will be finished by the end of We had about 40 people being 2008 and will seat about 600 looked after here. The whole people.” community pulled together to Phun Pol, an area re- help: doing laundry, bringing food, nowned for sleazy late-night tending to the sick. The people hangouts, has been the home of do know we are here,” said PCC for the better part of a de- Brian. cade. Brian admitted that chari- “The area needed the light,” table life can get tough some- said Brian. “I remember one time times, but his motivation to carry after the tsunami when I had to on is borne out of the realization travel to the UK and Sweden to that his work is not dependent on raise funds: As I was leaving, a how he feels. group of shopkeepers and resi- “I can’t just stop because I dents, who had heard I was go- had a bad day. I’m doing the ing, came to see me and asked, Lord’s work.” ‘You are coming back, aren’t you?’ It’s moments like that when For more information, contact you realize you’ve made a differ- the Phuket Christian Centre at ence. Tel: 076-246380; email: pcc@ here with my wife and after a added Brian. 18 children currently being cared “After the tsunami, the loxinfo.co.th; website: www. short period in Bangkok we came Church Services held by for. church was used as an overflow phuketchristiancentre.com to Phuket.” PCC are given in four languages: “People saw me on TV and The first meeting of PCC, Thai, English, Burmese and a sea they were looking for ways to attended by 34 people, was held gypsy dialect. “After the tsunami, help,” said Brian. “Sussex Police April 1, 1990, at City Hotel we took teams to the coast to help did a sponsored bike ride around Phuket. On August 1 of the same out at a sea-gypsy village that was Britain and raised money for both year, Brian and Margaret com- destroyed on Koh Pratong,” said Sussex House and Baan Kamala pleted their move to Phuket and Brian. School.” relocated the church to Nimit Rd, “There was an outbreak of PCC also helped build a and then to the first of two build- chicken pox at the time, and the nursery school in Tai Muang, ings at Phun Pol Plaza. sea gypsies asked us, ‘Why are Phang Nga, which opened in May “At first the church was just you helping us?’ I told them, ‘Be- and is now attended by 56 chil- me and Margaret; then two more cause God loves you’. They said dren affected by the tsunami. people joined, and slowly it built that nobody had cared about Not limited to aiding chil- up to what we have now. We’re them before. After that, they dren, Brian said that PCC formed here because God wants us to joined the church and now they Self Help and Empowerment be,” said Brian. come here about once a month.” (She) group to help women work- Brian recounted the story of PCC is involved in a vari- ing as prostitutes in Patong to find how Nok, Youth Pastor and one ety of projects around the island. alternatives means of making of the churches earliest members, One of those projects is the New money. arrived at PCC. “Nok was just Life Foundation, which helped “We help five girls at the 14 when we found her on the with the rebuilding of Baan Ka- moment,” said Brian. “We teach bank of a canal near Phun Pol, mala School and the creation of them to make jewelry that is then abandoned by her mother,” he Sussex House. sold in the UK and the US. We said. The projects are funded are hoping that some of these girls “She was looking after six with money that resulted from will be able to go on and train new younger brothers and sisters on Brian’s meteoric rise to fame as girls.” her own. We took them in and he appeared on multiple major Construction of PCC’s 20- looked after them. That was 16 news networks following the tsu- million-baht church building will years ago; now the brothers and nami. begin in December, said Brian. sisters are members of the Sussex House, in Phuket “We’ve been in this building for church, the mother has come City, opened about one year ago about eight years, but it’s too back, and the family is restored,” and helps children in need, with small. The new building is near 16 PHUKET GAZETTE HAPPENINGS August 18 - 24, 2007 This week

RESTORATION ROAM: Phuket Vice-Governor Smith Palawatvichai tours Baan Bangla, HEALTH AND HAPPINESS: At Panta Phuket Hotel, Executive Director Artitaya Baan Phak Cheed and Yamu Bay in Pa Khlok with some of the 1,000 participants of Temtripeth (center) and staff welcome Tourism and Sports Minister Dr Suwit Yodmanee the mangrove planting project that resulted in the planting of 3,000 trees to restore (in yellow shirt) to Phuket during his tour to follow up on the Yoo Dee Mee Suk (‘Good the natural habitat of the area. Life and Happiness’) provincial development strategy.

MOVING FORWARD: Toyota Pearl Managing Director Chaipat Na-Ranong (right) joins Sakarin Tasanawiriyakul (2nd from right), a competitor in the Toyota Vios One Make Race; Toyota Motors ADDED CONVENIENCE: Chairman of Operations for TMB Bank Public Co Thailand Public Relations Director Kit Mahajuntakarn (3rd from right); Muang District Chief Weerawat Ltd Kraithip Krairiksh (right) presents a gift to Phuket International Airport Janpen (left) and Thai model Araya “Chompoo” A. Hargate at the Toyota Motor Sport 2007 press Director, Sq/Ldr Pornchai Eua-aree, during the grand opening of the TMB conference at the Pearl Hotel, in Phuket City. branch at Central Festival Phuket.

THEIR CUP RUNNETH OVER: Mom Tri’s Boathouse General Manager Louis Bronner (back, 3rd from left) joins F&B Manager Pinyo Thippimas, (front, in yellow shirt), YOUTH ASSISTANCE: Prince of Songkhla University, Phuket campus, students gather Wine Director Georges Ciret (front, in striped shirt) and staff in a cheer for the with children at Child-Watch Phuket, where they presented money raised through donations Boathouse being awarded the Wine Spectator 2-glass ‘Best of Award of Excellence and sales of homemade T-shirts. 2007’ – the only establishment in Thailand to receive this award for 2006-2007. August 18 - 24, 2007 FEATURE PHUKET GAZETTE 17

ecently I told my friend 96-year-old wrinkled rapista with Fardley Nerdwell about a face like Medusa the Gorgon Ran item I’d read in the and withered dugs hanging down newspapers. The Thai authorities to her knees, with a fat, bald, dirty have introduced a new law that old drunken rapee with rotten allows men to sue women who When altruism teeth, bad breath, body odor, erec- rape them. tile dysfunction, and a gut the size “Sue them? Most men of the planet Jupiter?” would pay them!” Fardley ex- “That’s part of the chal- claimed. But then he thought a lenge, man!” Fardley cried. bit. “I didn’t know women raped “They must learn to rise above men,” he confessed. “Why would shallow considerations of physi- they have to do that? Most men I cal repulsiveness – yes, and of know would happily succumb to comes undone superficial shortcomings such as even the crudest attempts at se- senility, obesity, personal filthiness duction. and foul odors emanating from “And how could a woman every pore. force a man? I mean, to perform female could be called the kinky, the perverted, the degen- “They must look deep sexually, he has to, um, get rapista. The male victim, the erate and the diseased. We want within, beyond the vulgar limita- aroused. If he’s aroused, doesn’t rapee. The whole process could no whiff of scandal to sully the tions of the flesh, and appreciate that make him willing? And if he’s be called femrape. reputation of our chaste organi- the rich spiritual treasures that willing, how can it be called “By bringing the two to- zation.” shine within. We’ll drug them, rape?” gether in ardent congress we shall “Bravo!” I applauded. You blindfold them and make them use “The issue is fraught with forge a new paradigm in human can always count on Fardley to their imagination.” moral, legal and biological com- relationships, a new mode of in- uphold the loftiest canons of mo- Fardley’s idea might have plexities,” I admitted. “But it terpersonal bonding, a grand new rality. alleviated the suffering of thou- sounds as if Thailand has a prob- TSOWNDINGS ideal of coming-togetherness.” “Once the putative rapista sands of sex-starved men and lem with women raping men. “Wonderful!” I cried, de- and rapee have agreed on a women and contributed signifi- Otherwise the government By S. TSOW lighted at Fardley’s genius. match, we shall introduce them cantly to the moral and spiritual wouldn’t have introduced a law “Now,” Fardley went on, “to in an elegant social setting and let elevation of our species. But alas! against it.” rape them,” I objected. implement this noble concept we the voluntary rape begin,” Fardley When a lawyer friend warned A new light began to dawn But Fardley wasn’t listen- shall first set up the volunteer, uh, continued. “For emergency him that he’d be prosecuted for in Fardley’s eyes. “We can do ing. “We can do something with “victim” bank. Men will submit cases, we shall have a hotline. running a prostitution ring, he re- something with this,” he mur- this,” he murmured again. “I en- their data – including their statis- Our fleet of motorcycles will luctantly abandoned it. mured. “There are thousands of vision a charitable organization tics, qualifications, personal his- speed rapees to liaison with their Thus always do the base love-starved foreign men who set up specifically to serve men tory, and a recent photo – to be rapistas when the latter are in perceptions of petty minds bring would love to be raped by a Thai who want to be raped by women. posted on our website, urgent need.” the soaring altruism of idealists woman. I am thinking specifically We’ll recruit thousands of male www.femrape.org. I thought a bit. “There’s a crashing down. of the brothers Tex and Bubba volunteers to create a bank of “Aspiring rapistas will sub- problem. Your volunteers on both Hogwaller.” victims for anxious women to mit similar data, so that we can sides – male and female – are S. Tsow can be flamed at “No woman with a function- choose from. match them up with their rapee likely to be hideously ugly, the [email protected], except when ing brain would even look at Tex “We’ll need a new terminol- of choice. This wise procedure sexual rejects of our society. his soaring altruism is crashing and Bubba, much less want to ogy to deal with this concept. The will enable us to filter out the “How do you match up a down. 18 PHUKET GAZETTE FEATURE August 18 - 24, 2007

By Heiko Haupt, dpa he debate about clean air and lowering carbon dioxide emissions has Tbeen raging for years and has come to overshadow another important side effect of heavy traffic: noise pollution. Phuket’s roads are notori- ously busy, with buses belching out black clouds, tuk-tuks racing Noise pollution caused across town, motorbikes whizzing by traffic is a common complaint in Phuket, but from one lane to the next and the damage being done souped-up pick-up trucks thun- could be greater than dering down the highways. people realize. The island’s blaring traffic is definitely in need of some With the high-revving noise reduction. motorbikes and cars Over in Europe, legislators driving by, the risk of are preparing a host of new laws permanent damage to the to curb noise levels in densely- residents’ hearing is high. populated city areas. “The issue of noise is a growing problem, especially in cities,” said Dietmar Oeliger of Berlin-based eco-group Nabu. By mid-2007, a European Union directive will take effect, making it compulsory for urban areas to compile “noise maps” indicating in which sectors and roads noise levels are highest. In Phuket, it’s a safe bet that those areas won’t be station- ary, thanks to the multitude of pick-ups driving around advertis- ing Thai boxing or the latest mov- ies at full volume. Initially, measurements will be taken in European cities with more than 250,000 inhabitants and main traffic arteries with more than six million vehicles annually. Noise nuisance a The program will later be expanded to cities with popula- tions of 100,000. Some of the solutions could include special road coatings that cause less noise and sound barri- ers along roads near homes. ‘growing problem’ Car-makers have made much technical progress in reduc- ing the noise levels of vehicles, that cars are still as noisy as 25 duced from tires was never in- but cars are still far from silent. years ago. cluded in new directives. The German Federal Envi- Engine noise has progres- “In reality, the noise com- ronmental Office in Dessau con- sively been reduced in line with ing from tires at speeds of over ducted a study in 2005 showing new legislation, but the noise pro- 40kmh is dominating,” said Michael Niedermeier, traffic ex- pert with Germany’s ADAC au- tomobile association, who added that engine noise is heard mostly when cars stop at traffic lights. Progress made on reducing engine noise is not as significant is it could be, according to Gerd Lottsiepen from the German traf- fic association (VCD). In addition, noise fluctua- tions cause different perceptions of the noise levels. “Two cars each producing a noise level of 71 decibels are perceived as one vehicle producing 74dB, while four cars with 68dB are also heard as one vehicle with 74dB,” said Gerd. “What is disturbing is the sudden sound coming from a heavy truck pulling a trailer or a loud motorcycle,” said Michael. According to Gerd, motor- ists can do their bit to reduce The sheer number of motorbikes on Phuket’s roads mean that, although small, the high-revving engines result in much-increased noise levels. What is crucial is road noise. whether the engine is revved up. Most cars can easily be driven in “32 cars driven at 2,000 revs are shophouses and homes, keep your city areas at a rev count of about as loud as one car driven at 4,000 revs in mind. Hearing experts say 2,000 revs per minute, he said. revs.” that prolonged exposure to noises Gerd offered an idea of how So next time you’re cruis- louder than 70dB can lead to ir- big the difference can be, saying, ing around Phuket and near the reversible hearing loss. August 18 - 24, 2007 LIFESTYLE PHUKET GAZETTE 19 Stepping in style By Sompratch Saowakhon

part from the current craze of finding un- usual body parts to Apierce, ankle bracelets or anklets are one of those fash- ion accessories that sometimes receive looks of disapproval from more conservative observers. Because of the social con- notations regarding the feet, many Thais are cautious about draw- ing attention to a part of the body that can be used offensively but today’s youngsters are throwing caution to the wind and dressing up their ankles. Top, right: Phet Gift Shop has more than 100 If you have been thinking of handmade styles to choose adding an anklet to your attire but from. are worried about the negative reactions you may get from some Right: Anklets made with people, a jade or hematite Feng colorful beads are popular Shui anklet is a good style to start with foreigners. with, as they are not only fash- ionable but are said to bring peace, harmony, protection and rings, necklaces, watches and prosperity to everyday life. bracelets,” K. Lalana added. Ladies who like wearing K. Lalana did receive a short skirts but are self-conscious negative comment from an older about their legs have found that gentleman once, who said that her anklets help divert attention from anklet made her look like a strum- their not so shapely legs. pet. “I didn’t take it to heart Anklets can be worn on though because he wasn’t a wedding days to symbolize femi- friend and he was at least 10 ninity and fidelity. A pearl blue years older than me,” she said. anklet is a good choice to wear Phet Gift Shop on Bangkok at a wedding as it symbolizes hon- Rd in Phuket City has more than esty, purity and self-acceptance. 100 varieties of anklets hanging Pearl is said to help lift our spirits on the wall among the shop’s and is guaranteed to make a other affordable accessories. woman look and feel more beau- The anklets range up to 30 tiful. centimeters long and can be used The range of styles of an- as bracelets. They sell for 39 to klets is so varied that even men 69 baht apiece. can wear them. It’s also impor- Shop owner Phuangphet tant to choose a style that goes “Phet” Wongwai, 36, makes the with the rest of your outfit. An anklets by hand. “Most of my anklet with big beads, for ex- customers are foreigners, but ample, will look trashy if you wear more young Thais are buying an- it with a dressy outfit. klets these days. They are going A simple, sterling silver or for the natural look, rather than gold anklet will work just fine gold or silver,” she said. whether you are attending a for- “Most anklets I sell are mal or casual event. It probably decorated with natural materials, goes without saying, but I’ll say such as shells, fish bone, glass it anyway, that anklets should beads, coconut shell, wood, bam- never be worn under stockings. boo and stones. Anklet advocate and 31- “Foreigners really like the year-old Phuket City resident K. handmade Thai-style anklets as Lalana has worn anklets for they consider them original works nearly half her life. “I’ve been of art and more valuable than the wearing anklets since I was 15. I more-common gold or silver an- like trying different styles but I klets,” she added. prefer gold or silver ones because they look classy,” she said. Phet Gift Shop is on Bangkok “I don’t follow each and ev- Rd, near Suriyadej Circle, in ery trend, but I do like to wear Phuket City. Open Monday to accessories all over. Anklets are Friday, 10 am to 7 pm. Tel: 076- just another addition to rings, ear- 256499 or 089-7290989. 20 PHUKET GAZETTE FEATURES August 18 - 24, 2007

BEHIND THE WHEEL By Jeff Heselwood

rench automaker Citroën, part of the PSA Peugeot- Citroën alliance, is pro- Fducing a broad range of cars these days, but one of its most innovative is the C3 – a so- called “supermini” vehicle. Equipped with either a 1.4- liter gasoline engine with 75bhp or a slightly more powerful 1.6L 16-valve motor with 110bhp; the C3 is extremely frugal and yet offers brisk acceleration and a reasonable amount of low-speed torque. Top speed is around 165kmh to 190kmh, depending on the specifications of the vehicle, with a leisurely 0-100kmh sprint time of slightly over 12 seconds, or 10 seconds for the larger-en- gine model. Citroën has a remarkable history, with several innovative creations emanating from its French designers. It was in 1907 that Andre Citroën was brought The Citroën C3 offers an impressive selection of features available at a reasonable cost. The compact design and overall low-running cost in to assist the troubled Mors au- add appeal to the car buyer who seeks an alternative to the grandiose SUV world. tomobile factory in Paris. Citroën turned the company around and significantly improved its financial situation, and in a little over seven years the company saw an 18-fold increase in pro- duction. Good things do come In 1919, Citroën began sell- ing cars under his own name, but, more relevant perhaps, in 1902, after completing his military ser- vice, he patented a gear-cutting technique that he had discovered in Poland, which produced gears in small packages with chevron-shaped teeth. Hence the Citroën logo of a B10 model at the 1924 Paris mo- makers used wood as a basis for double chevron that is featured tor show. The steel body had been their cars, but Citroën’s metal on all of its cars. developed in the United States by body revolutionized the industry. Five years later, André the Budd Company. The biggest step forward Citroën displayed his all-steel Virtually all other auto- was in 1934 when Citroën intro- duced the Traction Avant. The vehicle featured front-wheel drive with independent front and rear suspension housed in an all- steel monocoque body. One of the most memorable Citroëns is the venerable 2CV, which was initially built in 1949 and was designed for farmers and city types. With long-travel front and rear suspension, the car could ride the highway or traverse a plowed field. It could also accommodate sheep, goats and chickens in its Loeb is behind Finland’s Marcus crash tests, the C3 scored four spacious, hard-wearing interior. Grönholm by a slim margin at the stars, which is perfectly accept- Remaining in production for time of writing. able for this size of car and bet- a remarkable 41 years, the 2CV The WRC machine is the ter than most others. was, in turn, an urban vehicle, a larger C4 model but the C3 avail- André Citroën created a rural car, cheap student wheels able here in Thailand is no less a number of motor cars that and a vehicle that could be taken winner. changed the industry and while around the world. A five-door hatchback, it the C3 may not offer anything These days, despite its also has a fairly high roofline, al- startling in the way of engineer- unique heritage, Citroën gener- lowing ease of access as well as ing excellence, it represents a ates around 70 % of its sales out- plenty of headroom inside. serious alternative to the ubiqui- side France. The rear seats fold flat to tous Japanese clones. Its unprecedented success increase load area and front, side At a starting price of around in the World Rally Championship and curtain bags are fitted. Six 1.3 million baht, the C3 also of- (WRC) with current world cham- exterior color options are avail- fers excellent value. pion Sebastien Loeb has contrib- able. uted to a surge in Citroën’s inter- In the stringent European Jeff Heselwood can be con- national recognition, even though New Car Assessment Program tacted at [email protected] August 18 - 24, 2007 FEATURES PHUKET GAZETTE 21

s a news editor with an energetic two-year- old daughter and a Aworkaholic wife, it wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to characterize my typical day as The Great Escape a steady stream of stress, inter- rupted by periods of pandemo- nium. Starting in a face-down po- tea and talking with K. Noriyana, Back in the days of my ex- sition, the treatment again cov- who said that even though it is tended bachelorhood, I really ered my entire body. At The Spa, low season business is good at knew how to relax; routinely go- no sense was overlooked. As I The Spa, with resident expats and ing for two-hour ocean swims lay face-down I saw below me tourists from the Middle East and then drinking beer by the through a hole an attractive plate among those keeping all 15 spa beach all day – never doing any containing palm fronds placed in villas in use. Clients are strongly more than was necessary. After a geometrically arranged sunburst advised to book in advance, she all, what is the point of moving to pattern with two yellow marigolds said. Thailand if it isn’t to exit the rat and violet orchid flowers. Later, we met Nampetch race and enjoy life to the fullest? The room was filled with “Nikki” Tipaxsorn, Marketing and With a simple exchange of pleasant scents from an aroma- Communications Manager at the rings and a switch from English therapy burner. The temperature resort, for a quick tour of the Kidz teaching to news reporting, my was perfect and soothing music Paradise children’s activity cen- life changed dramatically – too was playing in the background. ter. Open 9 am to 6 pm, guests far the other way. “Where’s the It was almost impossible to can leave kids over four years old balance?” I sometimes ask my- keep my eyes open. I briefly en- at the center free – though some- self during the few precious mo- tertained the thought of calling times there are small materials ments alone. over to Piya to ask how she was costs for the various arts and At times it seems that my enjoying her first oil massage, but crafts activities on offer. life is like a pendulum; one that with K. Jaree rubbing hard into One thing I really liked about swung so quickly from one side my gluteal muscles I was some- Kidz Paradise was its location in to the other that I didn’t even how rendered incapable of the middle of the 185 rai covered notice it passing through the cen- speaking. by the Hilton Arcadia, Phuket’s ter, where ideally it would remain I was “in the zone”, and largest hotel. all the time. there I would stay for the next It is one of the few places I I have to get my hits of re- hour. I can’t put my finger on ex- know on the island where kids laxation as and when I can – and actly what happened. Either my can play safely in a natural envi- there is no place on the island consciousness had left my body ronment, which means the par- better for that than The Spa at and was floating around the room ents get to relax. the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort As part of The Spa’s signature Equilibrium Treatment package, the – or perhaps I had just drifted off Kidz Paradise also arranges & Spa in Karon. Royal Thai honey and sesame body scrub gently exfoliates the skin to sleep and had a lucid dream. babysitting services for younger Our baby left in the capable and opens the pores. Of the multitude of mas- children for 150 baht an hour – hands of our next-door neighbor, sages I have had, this was by far something I will likely take advan- my wife Piya and I headed to The wrestler with that thing on,” as rience together, because it was the best. K. Jaree has 10 years’ tage of in the future. Spa for some badly needed Equi- we hung up our clothes and in such contrast to normal rou- experience in massage. I would librium Therapy, The Spa’s sig- switched off our mobile phones. tine; any free time either of us nominate her in an instant for the The Spa at Hilton Arcadia Re- nature treatment. Once in robes, we sat side- can get seems to come at the Nobel Prize for sabai, if such a sort & Spa. Open daily from 10 For Piya, whose workday by-side on a comfortable teak expense of the other. thing existed. am to 9 pm. The signature Equi- usually starts at 3:30 am and ends bench for the first phase of treat- The next step in the treat- After the session was over, librium Therapy is 3,200 baht when she falls asleep exhausted ment. K. Jaree gently washed and ment was a scrub with Royal we were told not to shower again before tax and service charge. around midnight, it scrubbed my feet in Thai honey and black sesame. so that the oils could continue to For more information contact was her first ever a large ceramic Every inch of my body was lath- work, moisturizing the skin. We The Spa at Tel: 076-396433-1. spa treatment. bowl filled with ered with the scrub except the sat on the terrace overlooking the Fax: 076-396136. Email: We started by Spa warm water, kaffir eyes, which remained covered by hillside, enjoying a cup of ginger [email protected] drinking refreshing lime and yellow cool slices of cucumber. cups of chilled MAGIC marigold flower pet- The scrub, which took about Roselle juice in the als. half-an-hour, gently exfoliated the lobby, where Assis- By Stephen Fein With Piya sit- skin and opened the pores. After tant Spa Manager ting by my side get- the scrub, we showered side-by- Noriyana Prayut in- The Spa ting the same treat- side in the outdoor garden under- troduced us to K. Jaree and K. ment, I thought about the many neath two large overhead show- Siriwan, our therapists. Carefully advantages of getting a couples’ ers next to an azalea tree. holding umbrellas over our heads massage. The first and most ob- Then it was back into the to shelter us from some light rain, vious for a married guy is that you massage room for the main the two visions in violet escorted don’t have to endure the suspi- course: a wild mint, hot oil mas- us to a private villa named “Sanc- cion-filled cross examination that sage together with a special herb tuary Suite”. normally follows a trip to a mas- press. One of 15 villas purpose- sage parlor. Although I have had hun- built for spa treatments, the suite On top of that – and at the dreds of massages, this was my was state-of-the-art in design, risk of sounding like Ned Flanders first oil massage using a herbal with every conceivable spa-re- – it was simply pleasant to share press – known in Thai as luuk lated convenience, including a a relaxing and stress-free expe- prakawb. two-person sauna. The ambiance was luxurious yet casual, with a large image of Buddha in the abhya mudra position, standing with right palm exposed, at one end calling for peace. Two raised treatment beds filled the main chamber. While totally private, the chamber had a high ceiling and offered an im- pressive view of the outdoor whirlpool, shower and garden area through oversized windows. As we disrobed together, Piya laughed when I put on a dispos- able undergarment that was little more than a paper jockstrap. Never missing a chance to chide me about my waistline, she joked, “You look just like a sumo 22 PHUKET GAZETTE August 18 - 24, 2007 August 18 - 24, 2007 TAKE A BREAK PHUKET GAZETTE 23 PPUZZLESUZZLES The BIG Crossword Spot the Difference Can you find the seven differences between the two cartoons below? And can you find them faster than the rest of the family? Solution on the next page.

© 2007 Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd Across 85. Barrier attendants 9. Plant louse 74. Love Story actress, 1. Basin 88. Incompetence 10. Sworn promises Ali... 6. Moving stairway 90. Settler 11. Fragrant flower 79. Smoothed (wood) 12. Scurries 93. Figure-hugging 12. Halt 81. Nursed 17. Gangway 95. Delve 13. Astronaut’s cabin 83. Chinese dish, 18. Main artery 96. Cat sound 14. Israeli port (3,4) chow... 19. Thick scarves 97. Lug 15. Early Soviet leader 84. Food enhancer 20. Photos 99. Conclude 16. Pips (1,1,1) 21. Show of wealth 100. Made from clay 23. Lustful look 86. Use frugally, ...out Solution, tips and 22. ...& females 102. Sixth month 25. Lie adjacent to 87. Formerly Saigon computer program 24. Piles 104. Was in debt to 27. For a specific 89. Snag 26. Duchess of York 105. Helicopter’s landing purpose (2,3) 90. Humorous ambiguity at www.sudoku.com 29. Encrypts place 28. The A of ANC 91. Eire, Republic of... 33. Windmill blades 108. Nigerian city 30. Scary Movie 4 star, 92. Process of wearing 36. Originator 110. Person, ...being Leslie... away 39. Pilfer 112. Philippines capital 31. Chat show hostess, 94. Copy 41. Pointed 114. Mrs Marcos ...Winfrey 96. Student 42. Vehicle depot 117. Timepiece 32. Incited (5,2) 98. Heredity units 43. Type of beard 118. Rational 34. Lawlessness 101. Blue shade 44. Manservant 119. Additional wager 35. Turn out 103. Eskimo dwelling 46. Rent contract (4,3) 37. Beaver-built barrier 106. Traveled through 48. Drink cooler (3,4) 120. Whip marks 38. Invasions curve 50. Dedicatory verses 122. Borders on 39. Black & white 107. Bladder 52. Fathers 126. Allows use of Chinese animal 109. Tot up 54. Trade ban 129. Comes closer to 40. Engine turn 111. Most inquisitive 56. Rowing aid 132. Tropical fruit 45. Be plentiful 112. Wrongly dub 58. US sledge 135. Protestant 47. Sharp road bend 113. US space 60. Brazilian jazz style, denomination 48. Not functioning organization bossa ... 136. Points of view 49. Dines 115. King of beasts 61. Car safety cushion, 137. Vitamin C, ...acid 51. Great joy 116. Spray can air ... 138. Florida metropolis 53. Hymn, ...Maria 117. Greeting 62. Forest ape 139. Suspended state 54. Sunbake 120. Droops 66. Tentacled creature 140. Walked arrogantly 55. Miserly 121. Modify 67. Misplacing 141. Searches for gold 57. Rebuke, ...over the 122. On the move 70. Scrutinise 142. Simple earrings knuckles 123. Prisons 71. Used horn 59. Bank investor 124. Render accustomed 72. Embrace Down 60. Fed 125. Extract (metal) 73. Belonging to us 1. Weak people 61. Receptacle 127. Lordly 75. Ploy 2. Less risky 63. Friendly 128. Uses straw 76. Crushing snakes 3. Hotel page 64. Sullivan’s operetta 130. Writer, ...Blyton Sudoku is very simple: each row, each column and each “box” of 77. Stupidly 4. Heating partner 131. Sloped walkway nine squares within the puzzle must contain all the numbers from 78. Strolls 5. Painting, Mona... 65. Lies snugly 133. In existing condition 1 to 9 with, naturally, no repetitions. Beware: there is only one 80. It is (2’1) 6. Otherwise, or... 67. Tiny amounts of time (2,2) solution to this puzzle, which is on the next page. 81. French Pacific island 7. Feel 68. Unrelenting 134. Babbles 82. Smashed into 8. Meat jelly 69. Permeating Answers on next page 24 PHUKET GAZETTE TAKE A BREAK August 18 - 24, 2007

EZ TRIVIA QUIZ 1. What do omnivores eat? 11. Cats sleep for how many GetGet youryour brainbrain hours a day on average? 2. Arthritis is the swelling of inin geargear withwith what? 12. What is the average life inin geargear withwith span of a pig? 3. In physics, what do we TheThe MonsterMonster QuizQuiz call the unit of force equal 13. What is the most abun- to the force needed to dant metal in the earth’s accelerate a mass of one crust? 1. What is the real name 9. Where is Jimmy Hoffa 16. What was the bloody kilogram one meter per for the Italian Mafia, reputedly buried? power struggle follow- second squared? 14. What are the three most which translates as “our ing the attack on common elements in the thing”? 10. Who plays Jimmy Hoffa Charles “Lucky” in the movie Hoffa? Luciano between 1927 4. A pound of body fat universe? 2. Al Capone’s business and 1931 called? contains approximately card described him as 11. Early Chicago mob boss how many calories? 15. Which is the only planet what? James “Big Jim” 17. What is the title of the in our solar system that Colosimo was also known book about Joey 5. Who is famous for being rotates on its side? 3. What was Al Capone by what nickname? Massino by Simon the “King of Pop”? convicted of in 1931? Crittle, which was 12. Brooklyn mob boss released in March 16. Which world commodity 4. How many died in the Dominick Napolitano had 2006? 6. Which golfer is nick- is second only to oil in St Valentine’s Massa- a tattoo of what animal on named “The Golden value? cre? his right forearm? 18. A chance discovery by Bear”? New York law-en- 17. How many hairs are on 5. How did notorious 13. Where did the Messina forcement officials of 7. What is the full name of the average human scalp? Chicago gangster John Brothers operate in the the Apalachin Meeting Barney, the purple “No Nose” DiFronzo post World War II years? in 1957 confirmed the lose his nose? existence of what? dinosaur? 18. What is the only kind of 14. What was the name given rock that floats in water? 6. How many robbers took by the media to flamboy- 19. Which 1990 film is the 8. What is the capital of part in the Brinks Matt ant mobster John Gotti for true story of mob Serbia? 19. What kind of animal is a Robbery? avoiding convictions of informer Henry Hill, polecat? racketeering and assault? based on the book 9. Bangalore is in which 7. How much gold bullion Wiseguy? 20. How many trees can the did they discover? 15. What permanent disfig- Indian state? urement did Charles 20. Who directed that average beaver cut down 8. How much was the “Lucky” Luciano sustain film? 10. Which chemical element in a year? bullion worth at the in an attack by fellow has the atomic number 6? Answers below time? mobsters? Answers back Puzzle Solutions EZ Trivia Solution to Monster this week’s Answers Sudoku puzzle 1. Combinations of meats and vegetables; 2. Joints; Quiz 3. A newton; 4. 3,500; 5. Michael Jackson; 6. Jack Nicklaus; 7. Barney T. Dinosaur; 8. Belgrade; 9. Answers Karnataka; 10. Carbon; 11. 16 hours; 12. 15 years; 13. Aluminum; 14. 1) Hydrogen; 2) Helium; 3) 1. Cosa Nostra; 2. A used Solution to this week’s BIG Crossword Oxygen; 15. Uranus; 16. Coffee; 17. 100,000; 18. furniture dealer; 3. Income Pumice; 19. A weasel; 20. 200 . tax evasion; 4. Seven; 5. Jumping out of a window to escape the police; 6. Solution to this week’s Six; 7. 10 tons; 8. UK£26 Cartoon Puzzle million; 9. The Giant’s Stadium, New York; 10. Jack Nicholson; 11. Dia- mond Jim; 12. A black panther; 13. London, En- gland; 14. Teflon Don; 15. A droopy eye; 16. The Castellammarese War; 17. The Last Godfather: The Rise and Fall of Joey Massino; 18. The Na- tional Crime Syndicate; 19. Goodfellas; 20. Mar- tin Scorsese. August 18 - 24, 2007 FEATURES PHUKET GAZETTE 25

ichael Deveney takes his readers on an amiable ramble by bicycle through M Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos. A middle-aged Brit expat with wife Biker in paradise and kids and job in Ho Chi Minh City, he took up cycling to gain a modicum of fit- are “a dwarf, a transvestite and a man in when it comes, is an adrenalin rush so I let ness. “I do what I can to make sure the a black vest with a body-builder’s phy- go of the brakes to see what it’s like but tones are not quite jelly and are a bit firmer sique. How did I miss this?” when I pass 60kph I rein than blancmange,” he writes. On he pushes to things in […] This is almost “I am aiming for a midriff that’s not Pattaya where he devotes perfect cycling: warm sun- so much a six-pack but more a bag of 20 pages to the mores of shine, the fields being culti- shopping. From nice shops.” bargirls. Nothing new here. vated, the air smells alpine Lollipop Fury (Bangkok Books, Off the He comes into his own fresh and it looks like Bangkok, 2007, 268pp) is the name of his in Laos where he’s over- Grindelwald or somewhere. book and he’ll explain why. The author whelmed by sheer joy as he You wouldn’t be surprised to adopts a breezy, jokey, conversational tone SHELF cycles alone through the see this vista as the subject throughout which can be greatly enter- By James Eckardt mountains outside Luang of a 1000-piece jigsaw.” taining but also irritating as rambles off Prabang. He is equally exhila- on maddeningly irrelevant tangents. lages. No rain for ages, no crops in sight, “One thing I notice is rated on trips along the But the main trunk of his story is not a plant, not a worker; the contrast that I am listening to the mountainous Burmese bor- fascinating. Four glorious bike trips: from couldn’t be greater. This is Svey Rieng sound of silence, something der in northern Thailand and Ho Chi Minh City to Pattaya, from Luang Province in Cambodia, one of Cambodia’s that I have not heard for a in the Bolaven Plateau in Prabang to Vientiane, from Ubon Ratcha- poorest at the best of times and now as long time – a tautology but southern Laos. And in his thani to the Bolaven Plateau in Laos and raggedy-ass as could be… you know what I mean. intimate chatty style, he brings the reader from Mae Hong Son to Chiang Rai. “This reminds me of the old adage “After living in Ho Chi Minh City for along with him. On his first trip he leaves home at which was told to me when I came to the a while this is like brain medicine. Let’s Where he loses the reader, or at six in the morning and reaches the Cam- region some years ago: ‘The Vietnamese call it aural therapy. Happy ears, happy least this one, are his boring asides about bodian border in three hours. plant the rice, the Cambodians watch it thoughts. It’s more like a kind of gestalt his favorite books, movies, TV shows, “Miracle rice, miracle irrigation, grow, the Laotians listen to it grow, and therapy commissioned by the music of the football games and jokes. We really don’t work, work, work – Vietnam is a verdant the Thais sell it.’ Hmmm.” void. Wow, who said that? Kerouac? want to hear it. You feel the urge to thump and vibrant advert for the earth’s fecun- On the beach in Sihanoukville, he Teilhard de Chardin? Me? him and say, “Get back to the story!” dity. Doing! You cross the border and the checks into a hostel where “Rule #1” “This is a beautiful stretch of road, But this is a minor irritant. When he’s green turns to brown. Mile upon mile in posted on his door reads: “No condoms, the limestone peaks soaring ahead of me on track, Deveney tells his stories very every direction, tough, unforgiving vil- no sex”. And behind the reception desk – it’s a bluetooth landscape. The descent, well and I can’t wait to hear more of them. EVENTS CALENDAR www.phuketgazette.net/calendar

August 18. Australian Winery player, including welcome recep- from overseas while you’re trav- Phuket will see this festival November 14-17. Chalong at Wine Connection Chalong. tion, three-day greens fees and eling this summer! For more in- realized with the Gala Opening on Bay Fishing Tournament A special evening of high- caddy fees, awards luncheon and formation call Stuart Bird at 081- October 21. 2007. quality wines from the excep- more. Registration closing date is 7376184. On that day, the festival will Registration night is Novem- tional Rutherglen Winery from July 31. Special events, dis- present the newly restored Thai ber 14 and the fee 7,000 baht per Victoria, Australia, will be at Wine counted greens fees and special October 11-19. Phuket Veg- film The King of the White El- team, including beer. Fishing will Connection Chalong, along with hotel rates at Laguna Beach Re- etarian Festival. ephant (1941), the only remain- be November 15-17 with prizes an appetizer buffet and live band sort have also been arranged. For This festival is an annual ing full-length, English-language given on November 17 from 8 pm. at just 500 baht net per person more information visit www.kids- event held during the ninth lunar feature film made entirely in For details contact Uwe from 7 pm to 9 pm. tee-off.com month of the Chinese calendar, Thailand. Schittek at 081-7195766; email: For more information con- which normally falls in late Sep- Check the Gazette for more [email protected] tact Pascal. Tel: 087-8896074. September 15. Splash for tember or early October. detailed information. Email: fb.phuket@wine Trash Underwater Clean Up. Sacred rituals are per- Want to be one of our vol- November 24. PIWC Gala connection.co.th Take the plunge on Interna- formed at all Chinese temples in unteers? Please call 076-209000 Ball. tional Clean Up Day with Dive Phuket. or email filmfestival.phuket@ The Phuket International August 19. Meditation re- Asia and Sea Fun Divers, The processions from each gmail.com. Women’s Club will hold the most treat. Phuket’s only PADI fiev-Star temple show spectacles of strict For further information visit prestigious event this year – the Free monthly meditation re- CDC Centers. Participants must vegetarians, known as devotees, www.phuketfilmfestival. com annual Gala Ball – November 24 treats on the third Sunday of ev- be certified divers and must pre- ostensibly possessed by gods, at the Indigo Pearl, Nai Yang ery month from 1:30 pm to 3 pm register due to limited space on piercing their tongues, cheeks and October 23. Chulalongkorn Beach. at Wang Kung restaurant, lo- the boats. other parts of the anatomy with Day – Public Holiday. Contact Carol (Tel: 087-417- cated behind Suan Luang Park in Participation is free of sharp implements. Chulalongkorn Day com- 8860, Email: carol.fryer@piwc. Phuket City. charge and everyone is welcome memorates the reign of Rama V info) or Sue (Tel: 087-2776948, The sessions will include an to join. Boats will leave from October 21-27. Phuket Film who is best remembered for abol- Email: [email protected]) for introduction to meditation, relax- Chalong Pier at 8:30 am, return- Festival. ishing slavery in Thailand. details. ation exercises and meditation ing at 5 pm. practice, as well as a question For more information call and answer period. 076-330598 or 076-330124, email Instruction is provided by [email protected] or visit English-speaking Thai monks and www.diveasia.com people of all nationalities and re- ligions are welcome to attend. September 22. The 8th Phuket For more information call International Beer Fest. 081-3704005, 089-6476424 or A celebration of probably 087-2838185; email: the best beers and most ardent [email protected] or beer drinkers in the world at the [email protected]; or Watermark bar and restaurant. visit www.meditationthai.org This is your chance to show to the world, or at least Phuket, September 5-7. KTO Junior your favorite beer. Yes! YOU Golf Challenge Golf Tourna- supply the beer – in the hope that ment 2007. it wins the prestigious accolade The inaugural KTO Junior of “Winner of The 8th Phuket In- Challenge Golf Tournament will ternational Beer Fest”. Each com- be held at the Laguna Phuket petitor must supply 12 bottles or Golf Club. This international tour- cans of their nominated interna- nament is open to children 6 to tional beer. All entries are re- 17 years of age who hold a cur- quired to register in advance. rent handicap card from a rec- Entry fee: 12 beers plus 800 ognized golf club. Registration is baht. US$285 (approx 9,975 baht) per Tip: bring back the best beer 26 PHUKET GAZETTE EDITORIAL & LETTERS August 18 - 24, 2007

367/2 Yaowarat Rd, Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000 Tel: 076-236555 - Since 1994 - Fax: 076-213971 Email: [email protected] Raising the bar While Phuket’s dive industry could benefit from better regulation, without doubt the same can be said about many other tourism-re- lated industries operating in the province. The attention focused on dive operators in the past few years [see Inside Story pp 4-5] raises the question why they have been singled out while tuk-tuk drivers, jet-skis and parasail boat operators, car and motorbike rental agencies and many others continue to oper- ate with little or no regard for law or regulation. Part of the answer may be that dive businesses in Phuket tend to be heavily financed by foreigners, who are deemed to be getting more than their fair share back from their investments. Of course, the initiative by the Phuket provincial government to deal with what it sees as a case of “foreign domination” is just a microcosm of the larger issue that has been in the news recently, as the military-installed government failed to get its version of proposed amendments to the Foreign Business Act passed by the National Legislative Assembly (NLA). Long-term foreign residents on the island are quick to point out that many successful, high-profile businesses run by foreigners in Phuket eventually fall under an intense regulatory scrutiny that well- connected, local businessmen seem to avoid. Over the years the local Thai-language press has also played a Letters large role in this by capitalizing on nationalist sentiments and repeat- edly sensationalizing stories involving foreign businessmen, while ig- The Gazette is pleased to receive mail from read- your views for publication in our next issue. noring far more egregious scandals involving Thai investors. Patong’s ers. Please write to us at 367/2 Yaowarat Rd, We reserve the right to edit all letters. Pseudonyms now-defunct Shark Club nightclub and allegations over land-use rights Amphur Muang, Phuket 83000, fax to 076-213971 are acceptable only if your full name and address in and around Laguna Phuket are just two examples. or send an email to [email protected] with are supplied. The provincial government’s attempts to tackle the dive indus- try is notable in that an entire industry – not just one company – is Stray lovin’ Dog Foundation for giving us Mr McBride’s criticism of under the microscope. While the draft charter being put to a nation- these delightful dogs. the Top Dog article is a good ex- wide referendum on August 19 provides a good framework for politi- I would like to share with you the Tiffany and Lionel Ladebat, ample. cal and administrative decentralization, it hardly calls for or facili- joys that my Thai dogs have owners of IT-Gigs.com The sections of the article tates the establishment of industry-specific regulations imposed at brought me. My husband and I he refers to were clearly explain- the provincial level. moved to Phuket and decided to ing the situation in Asia generally, Recent comments seem to indicate that the provincial view re- adopt a dog back in November. Dub be good to me and not specifically Phuket; and garding the ongoing court case is “we don’t mind losing the battle as We went over to the Soi Dog Any kind censorship is a viola- yes, there have been numerous long as we win the war” and that victory will come when the next Foundation, where they had an tion of human freedom. In the studies carried out in many dif- government uses the controversial measures as a template to impose ample 35 orphaned puppies to US, the ratings system only helps ferent parts of Asia on the he- similar regulations nationwide. choose from – all absolutely flea kids pick out which movie, video reditary aspects of street dogs. Only time will tell whether this will happen, but in the meantime covered and adorable. or music they want – if it isn’t It was pointed out that these wouldn’t it be nice to see the province move with the same vigor to They broke our hearts and rated “R” or “parental advisory”, dogs have and continue to inter- crack down on interests that pose far greater, albeit homegrown threats on the spur of the moment we the teenagers won’t buy it. breed with domestic pets, but take to our all-important tourism economy? – The Editor decided to take two very differ- As for the money made by a purebred dog that was bred for Do you have an opinion you want to share? ent, very adorable pups with no Thai movies, I am astonished that the pet market and place it on the Email [email protected] idea of how they would look in Thai filmmakers want so little in streets after living in a home for the future. It turns out that they return for their work. For every a while, and it will not survive for were only two months old. baht made in Thailand, there is long unless a human takes it in. One year later, we have had another 100 baht made in the rest Road kill has very little ef- our share of adventures with get- of the world. fect on the overall population of ting to know the Thai dog breed dogs. When the bypass road be- In association with The Nation Multimedia Group PCL The Thai film industry needs – and they are different! Our to understand that something as came dual carriageway there yellow dog Tio and our shaggy simple as English subtitles would was a huge increase in the num- black mutt Ina have been the ber of dogs killed on that section Editor: Parichat Utintu more than double its income; a source of many joys – great full English-language audio track of road until the remainder Managing Editor: Chris Husted swimmers – and costs – what would triple it. learned how to use it. News Editor: Stephen Fein happened to the couch?! Suriyothai made good The number of dogs on that Chief Reporter: Sangkhae Leelanapaporn They came with some trust money abroad, but many people section has now decreased, but Editorial Team: Natcha Yuttaworawit, Janyaporn Morel, issues even being so young, but had difficulty reading at the pace it is because nearly all the dogs with lots of TLC, almost a year there are sterilized. Were they Sompratch Saowakhon, Semacote Suganya, Nick Davies of the dialog, so an English later they have become the soundtrack is needed. able to breed then the numbers Zach Fridell, Ryan Nerone, Matt Crook. sweetest and funniest pair of Khan Kluay, the cartoon would have rapidly increased to friends. We have taken the time whatever that area could support, Managing Director: Oranee Pienprasertkul feature, is just one example – an to train them and they in turn excellent kids movie, but no one and would continue to do so no General Manager: Niladaa Mastanawattanakul charm our guests who are always in the rest of the world can un- matter how many were killed on Marketing Manager: Natthira Susangrat surprised at the sensibility of derstand it. the road. Classifieds Manager: Phatsara Raktammakit these strays. The Legend of King Nare- That sterilization is the only Publisher: The Phuket Gazette Co Ltd The best thing that we can suan could make a fortune if done long-term, effective method of recommend to someone inter- with an English-language sound- stray-dog control has been exten- ested in helping a Thai dog is to sively researched and proved. Contact us track. take the time to train them – leash Michael Weldon While Phuket has a refuse Advertising Sales: [email protected] and all. These dogs have some- Udon Thani problem something will feed on Classified Advertising: [email protected] times had a rough start and they it. If there are no dogs left then need the security of leadership or there will be an increase in the Website Services: [email protected] Barking mad a parental figure in their lives. feral cat population. If they can Gazette Guide inquiries: [email protected] And second: get two! They will While welcoming constructive be controlled then rats will take Telephone: 076-236555 (10 lines) Fax: 076-213971 keep each other entertained all criticism, it never ceases to amaze over. Wild pigs will not be a prob- day and we can leave them at the me how many readers who put lem here because of the reasons The views expressed in the Phuket Gazette are those of the writers and contributors house guilt free. It’s so wonder- pen to paper have clearly not read clearly stated in the article. and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, the editor, the shareholders, or the ful to see how they love each properly the article they are criti- Top Dog directors of The Phuket Gazette Co Ltd. other to bits. We thank the Soi cizing. Phuket Letters conveying views and suggestions are published here. Those seeking comment from government Copyright © 1994-2007 The Phuket Gazette Co Ltd officials and/or business owners are published in Issues & Answers at www.phuketgazette.net. August 18 - 24, 2007 PERSPECTIVES PHUKET GAZETTE 27 Showcasing art in Phuket e have had the idea get that although we are an in- of creating a cen ternational province with tourists tral forum for art in coming from around the world, so WPhuket for a long FIRST far there hasn’t been any serious time, but until the establishment commitment to the arts. I would of the Phuket Weekend Art Mar- like to see Phuket serve as a ket, feedback from local govern- PERSON showcase for all kinds of art, but ment agencies and the private so far we have lacked the kind sector had been poor – nobody huket is home to a large number of organized approach needed to seemed interested in it. make it happen. We would like to see the of both professional and amateur When we talk about pre- project succeed as a monthly Partists, all keen to see the island senting cultural shows, no one event over the first year, but un- develop into a Southeast Asian center seems to listen. They just act fortunately the entire 100,000 bored and disinterested because baht granted by the Office of for the arts. they don’t see the value, thinking Contemporary Art and Culture This effort received a boost when that culture is something best pre- was spent getting everything the Office of Contemporary Art and served within the walls of a mu- ready and in place for the open- seum. ing two days on August 17 and Culture in Bangkok provided 100,000 The situation is different in 18. After that we will be on our baht to turn Queen Sirikit Park on many other countries, where they own. Thalang Rd into the ‘Phuket Weekend realize the value of culture and We put all our hearts into Art Market’ on the first weekend of each the need to put it on display so making this happen because we that younger generations can un- really want to have something like month for one year, starting August 17 derstand and take part in their this for the arts scene in Phuket. and 18. own cultural heritage. We don’t have any budget left to One of the primary forces in getting When we ask for govern- stage shows or other public ac- ment support for such things they tivities after the launch, but we the monthly project off the ground has been 37-year-old freelance artist Samrit often tell us it is too late because do have leftover materials to use Petchkong, who is a member of an informal network of artists living and working in we haven’t given them enough in creating more art. What bud- Phuket. A native of Trang who has lived in Phuket for 19 years, K. Samrit explains here warning to arrange a budget in get we can get we will need to time. I don’t know, maybe that is use for labor and transport costs. why Phuket needs greater support for the arts. just a convenient excuse. To make the market project Fortunately, right now there a long-term success, what we re- Weekend Art Market into a long- rate exhibitions into different ar- essarily something that needs to seems to be an increasing inter- ally need is public support. This term success that could be a real eas. It also has both outdoor and be confined to a frame. That is est in the arts in Phuket and many may come in many forms, from benefit to Phuket City and the covered areas, allowing us a good why we want to bring art out into young people want to learn more donated meals and audio equip- entire island by giving young art- deal of flexibility in terms of light- the communities, as we did over about art and participate in cul- ment to financial funding – ists a suitable forum to display ing and dealing with the elements an area covering 40 rai at the tural activities. though we are not focusing too and possibly sell their works. year round – rain or shine, hot or Halal Food, Halal Town event at People interested in devel- much on the financial aspect at I love Queen Sirikit Park for cool. the end of last month. oping arts in Phuket can call me this point. this project because it is suitable Another idea behind the We would love to see at 086-2735440. If we all work together, I in many ways. As it has different project is to get across to the pub- Phuket develop into an arts cen- – Compiled by think we can develop the Phuket levels, we will be able to sepa- lic the concept that art is not nec- ter for Southeast Asia. Don’t for- Sangkhae Leelanapaporn Is there a new road from Sidetracked Patong to Phuket City? senior seeks Having read your news article about German architect Frank Issues Witzel facing deportation, I & sidewalk solution checked out the Patong View ANSWERS Talay website as the project site I recently took the occasion to stroll that walking to work in their is on Phra Baramee Soi 3, where Want to know how to get something done? down Sawatdirak Rd in Patong, high-heel shoes was indeed dif- I also have a property. Want to pitch an idea to Phuket’s authorities ? which runs between Rat-U-Thit ficult. On the company’s website 200 Pi Rd and the beach road. Although I made it safely is a map showing a road running Submit your queries or suggestions to us and Although I have an artificial back to my pension later than parallel to Phra Baramee Soi 3 we’ll ask the appropriate people to respond. limb and ambulate using a walk- night, I remain concerned for the marked as the “New Road to ing stick, I generally have little dif- safety of these fine young lasses Phuket Town”. Write to: The Phuket Gazette, 367/2 Yaowarat Rd, Muang, ficulty in walking short distances. and wonder whether there are As I overlook this new road, Phuket 83000. Fax 076-213971, or submit your issue at On Sawatdirak Rd, how- any plans to improve the side- I wonder if someone in local gov- www.phuketgazette.net ever, I found that the sidewalk walks in that area. ernment could provide further surface was all cracked and un- Johnathan A Marks planning information on it? even – a situation which I am sure RAF (retired) Tim Goodman Can we play poker with chips? poses a safety threat to even the Patong I heard that it is illegal to play I was doing this with my buddies most able-bodied. Patong Municipality Public cards, particularly poker, in Thai- and the police came? In my case, I was fortunate Works Director Sompon Patong Municipality Public land. But what’s the deal if me FST enough to happen upon a friendly Khwunyuen replies: Works Director Sompon and my friends, who are farang, Patong young woman sitting in a road- We are aware of the prob- Khwunyuen replies: play poker games using chips? side bistro who, despite my ad- lems with the sidewalks in that Our department has no We play with chips in a kind Pol Lt Gen Chatchai Pipho- vancing age, seemed to take a area and plan to fix them as part plans to build a new road to of tournament. The cost to enter thanon, Crime Suppression real liking to me. of a 1.5-million-baht budget to Phuket City. The road you refer is 500 baht and the prize money Inspector at Kathu Police Sta- She explained that the side- improve sidewalks throughout to simply serves as an access is split between the top three play- tion, replies: walk surface had been com- Patong. road for a community of about 20 ers. It’s really no different than a Poker is classified as a gam- pletely redone after the tsunami However, the project still families to get to the main road. golf, pool or chess tournament. bling card game. It is illegal in – which means it is less than three requires final approval by Patong It is a dead end and I can con- In the rest of the world this Thailand, no matter whether years old! Municipality. If the budget is ap- firm that there are currently no is a popular thing to do among money is used. If you do this, She also commented that proved as we hope it will be by plans to extend it to serve as a friends. Can I do this here in there is always a chance the po- several of her colleagues in the the end of September, then re- new road to Phuket City. Thailand? What would happen if lice will stop you playing. establishment had complained pairs could begin in October. 28 PHUKET GAZETTE FEATURES August 18 - 24, 2007 Is sipping from the soup bowl wrong?

Dear Momma Duck, Dear Momma Duck, of things, and certainly don’t need a lad- When I go to my local restaurant, On the balcony of my rented home der to climb home. they often give a small bowl of soup with there is quite an attractive spirit house with A spirit house is the home of a Phii the one-plate lunch I order. a small ladder from the ground all the way or ordinary local spirit associated with the However, they don’t provide any up to the entrance. land upon which your home sits. soup spoon. As I find it difficult and time Do you know why spirits need lad- A Phii is therefore a lower-ranked consuming to get the soup to my mouth ders? I thought they could fly or other- spirit in the same manner as a guardian with the tablespoon they provide, is it okay wise transport themselves without having spirit, an ancestor spirit or even a wood to just sip it straight out of the little plastic to deal with the effects of gravity... nymph. bowl, like the Chinese do? Just curious Since a Phii is associated with the I would like to drink the soup this Samkong land and is not as powerful as Phra Phum, way, but I am afraid to because I never a Phii needs a ladder to climb up to the see any one else doing it. Dear Just curious, house. In some cases, a spirit house is Regards, Momma In most Thai homes or surrounding painted the same color as the birthday color Stefano gardens, there is usually a spirit house, of the home’s owner. For example if the DUCK called a Saan Phra Phum in Thai, either owner was born on Tuesday, then the color Dear Stefano, with or without a ladder, or one of each would be yellow. You are probably talking about the By Wanida Hongyok situated close to each other in the same Related to this custom, you might popular khao mun gai (chicken on rice) [email protected] garden. have seen a larger type of shrine in front dish that comes with a bowl of clear soup. According to our myth of the Guard- of an important building. These come from I agree that it is difficult to eat when If not, try asking for a soup spoon, ian Spirits, the king of Phle City had seven the Indian Bhraman tradition and are also you do not have the proper utensil. which is called chorn ta gaeng or chorn sons and he sent all of them to protect in- seen to be a guardian spirit of the land and However, unknown to you, the lo- glang in Thai. habited areas. building. Such Bhraman shrines are more cal restaurant may already provide a If the waitress doesn’t understand, They became known collectively as prominent than a Saan Phra Phum. Chinese-style soup spoon – usually stain- you may have to give up. Phra Phum, or guardian spirits. A Saan The Ploenchit and Ratchadamri in- less metal with a flat bottom and ridged In this case, do what you like and Phra Phum is a residence or home for tersection in Bangkok probably has the sides. just be yourself. guardian spirits. With the influence of the most famous shrine of this type, with Thais There might be several already on Feel free to drink the soup out of the Indian culture, we believe Phra Phum are and tourists knowing it well. the table in either a cup-like container or little plastic bowl like the Chinese do. No- Thevada, which translates as a higher- People come to make a wish and perhaps a rectangular stainless box with a body will raise an eyebrow or say any- ranked spirit or almost a divinity. promise a giving ceremony if their wish is hinged lid. thing here in Phuket. They are powerful and can do all sort granted. In The Stars by Isla St ar

LEO (July 24-August 22). It August to improve your circum- situation at work can be simpli- on rumors. Start sowing seeds influenced by your unique touch. may be necessary for you to pen- stances. The only thing required fied by taking some distance; if quietly to reap a fruitful harvest The scent of sandalwood encour- etrate a thick hedge of opposition is your input. possible, a long weekend away later this year. The number eight ages romance. in order to get a new work project will help you to view the matter can be lucky on Wednesday. off the ground. However, your LIBRA (September 24-Octo- more objectively. A Taurean TAURUS (April 21-May 21). You powers of persuasion should do ber 23). Your luck in love is strong friend is waiting for you to make AQUARIUS (January 21-Feb- are advised to take some of what the trick and success will be high- until the end of the month. Those amends for words spoken in the ruary 19). Your ability to charm you hear with a pinch of salt. For lighted. Where romance is con- who have been wondering heat of the moment. the snakes out of the rubber tree down-to-earth information, listen cerned, a midweek misunder- whether Cupid has forgotten could be too much of a good thing to another Taurean or a Capri- standing needs to be clarified about them have a pleasant sur- SAGITTARIUS (November 23- this week. It’s likely that some of corn. You still need to cultivate quickly. Don’t be afraid of admit- prise in store. Those of you al- December 21). A twisted tale be- you have underestimated the more strength of mind; if this ting you got the wrong impres- ready in a committed relationship gins to unfold at work this week. power of your competition. All will doesn’t happen, you will be too sion. Wear a piece of amethyst will discover that your partner still Some of you will be shocked at be revealed midweek when a easy for a strong Scorpio to con- to encourage a soft approach. has ways to show how much he what is unearthed; others will business negotiation vince. Monday is or she cares. Career matters are have seen it coming. Either way, doesn’t go accord- the best day for VIRGO (August 23-September well highlighted on Wednesday you will have to set new standards ing to plan. How- WHAT DO splashing out on 23). Your dreams of a better fu- and Thursday, so schedule impor- for trusting colleagues. At least ever, the stars will something you’ve ture are not going to come to frui- tant meetings for those days. you will know that Pisces is a support your efforts THE wanted for a long tion this year unless hard work shoulder to lean on. Travel is fore- to get back on track HEAVENS time. Number three takes precedence. Those of you SCORPIO (October 24-No- cast toward the end of August and at the end of the is lucky on Thurs- who are feeling jealous of friends’ vember 22). Your financial judg- this week you will receive infor- month. Wear the HOLD IN day. healthier finances should start ment is clear and strong until the mation about this. The color beige color indigo to en- seeing how hard those friends end of August. Those of you who encourages strength. courage a sensible STORE FOR GEMINI (May 22- worked to reach that zone of com- have been looking into property outlook. June 21). There fort. There will be every oppor- investment are advised to seal the CAPRICORN (December 22- YOU THIS are indications of a tunity during the remainder of deal before then. A complicated January 20). The remainder of PISCES (Febru- WEEK? business break- August is due to pass smoothly. ary 20-March 20). through this week. Finances are well highlighted af- The chase is on for A deal that you be- ter Tuesday, so put important ne- those of you ready to pursue a lieved turned sour last month is gotiations on hold until then. Your long-term goal. Gemini will be of being given further consideration career-related ambitions are particular help, as long as you are by someone with the power to gradually growing stronger, but ready to listen to some advice. make dreams come true. Don’t this is not the right moment to act Wednesday is the most auspi- count your chickens before cious day for scheduling meet- they’ve hatched as last minute ings. If you are single, you will hitches are forecast. Family con- have good reason to give some- cerns require careful handling this one a second chance when they weekend. Wear a piece of clear learn what went wrong. The crystal to encourage the truth to number five can bring some luck be seen. on Sunday. CANCER (June 22-July 23). A ARIES (March 21-April 20). candid conversation with some- Your luck is strong this week, so one close to you is highlighted this make the most of the auspicious weekend. Even if the person con- circumstances by setting your cerned appears to be avoiding sights higher. Career matters will this, find a way to make it hap- benefit from a chance meeting pen. Leo can be of use if you are with an ex-colleague who has searching for a new job, but there struck gold since you last saw are indications that a radical them. Take some tips, but don’t change of career will be neces- try to copy their moves exactly. sary if you want to earn more Your chances of success will be money. August 18 - 24, 2007 FEATURES PHUKET GAZETTE 29 Beyond Bangla

atong never ceases to amaze me with the array of characters you meet Pon a night out trawlin’. Jilted lovers, entrepreneurs and friendly, accommodating bar- owners make it an interesting place to snoop around, collecting stories of woe, joy and indiffer- ence. ’ My column aims to show TRAWLIN visitors and residents that Bangla By Alas Swan is not the only place kicking it in Patong; if you venture out a few blocks you can find a diversity not and exquisite culinary delights, the normally found on that well-trod- place is gaining an awesome den thoroughfare. If you’re bored reputation among tourists and lo- with the same old places, then do cals. what I do: get trawlin’. Italians dine here, so you know you’re in for a treat. I Great Craic. Let’s face it; Irish would recommend the gnocchi in pubs are ten-a-penny in Patong, bolognese sauce, cooked by an but did you know that the first one Italian chef that plied his trade for in Phuket was opened in 1987 by decades in his motherland. a Phuket local named Sateep? K. An excursion off Soi Bangla will lead to the discovery of many gems, including the ‘1 Irish Bar” on the I found Soi Post Office to south side of Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd – the first “Irish pub” in Patong. Sateep currently owns the “1 Irish be full of surprises, and was re- Pub” on the south side of Rat-U- warded with my discovery of a Thit 200 Pi Rd. little English bar and guesthouse It does not have aircon or named The Tavern. Owned by live music, but it makes up for this Chris and Ann and serving the with affable staff and a real char- cheap beer and cocktails my col- acter often lost within Bangla’s umn exists for, The Tavern boats touristy-style Irish bars, which a great, friendly atmosphere. seem to cater more to holiday- The Tavern is defiantly makers and less to local drinkers worth a visit after consuming than one would expect of a true Maccaroni’s sumptuous offer- Irish pub. ings. After 30 minutes you feel K. Sateep is a wonderful like you’ve known The Tavern’s host with a history so colorful that staff and regular imbibers for books should be written about years. him. He is happy to spin a yarn The only drawback of the or two for your pleasure. With Soi is the minor form of harass- draft Tiger and Heineken on the ment the ever-present tailor touts menu, canned Guinness and a have become famous for. very happy hour that lasts from If you adopt my approach 10 am to 7 pm, you cannot find there should be no problem: sim- many cheaper places to enjoy a ply reply to the question, “Where good tongue wag. you come from mate?” with a Also, on my last visit, the swift, “Immigration, have you got pub was installing a tap so that a work permit?” That should see Guinness draft – the “gold stan- the annoying hand extended in dard” of any Irish Pub – will be mock friendship retracted quickly available soon. enough.

Italian Invasion. For centuries Absolutely: The recently opened the Romans held a sort of cul- Absolute Ceylon Pub at Jung- tural stranglehold over the West- ceylon has three pool tables, air ern world. While Italy may not conditioning, live music and a vast be the force it was during the selection of cocktails and spirits days of the Roman Empire, a re- at surprisingly affordable prices, surgence of sorts has begun on given the type and location of the Soi Post Office, halfway up the establishment. beach road. Sit back and relax with the Six Italian Restaurants maroon and wooden interior dominate the soi, including Roma while listening to cool jazz music; Pizzeria, Marco Polo’s, Napoli Absolute Ceylon is the perfect pit Restaurant and the Dolce Vita. stop to enjoy a stiff drink while But the place of choice for most your wife mercilessly destroys Italian ex-pats is Maccaroni’s. your credit rating on shoes and With its simple yet stylish décor handbags. Email news of venue openings, sincere good deals, gossip or genuine Patong shenanigans to Alas Swan at [email protected] 30 PHUKET GAZETTE COMPUTERS August 18 - 24, 2007

his is my third article in the Pushing Buttons se- ries, and since I’m in- Windows genuine disadvantage Tcredibly busy with my day job – IT security – I thought I’d whip out an article to let you know what I am not going to be and other unmentionables writing about in the near future.

Windows Vista. Microsoft has been hyping this for two to three years now and IT writers have followed suit, in large part be- cause many of them need to per- petuate their existence and fill space. As late as August 2006 I was still using Windows 2000 (with Service Pack 5) and Office ’97 and you know what? I never said “I wish I had XP” or “I need Office 2000 to get that needed functionality”. Even Microsoft isn’t follow- ing its historic pattern of dump- ing the old version of Windows as soon as the new version is re- leased – one week the software is the most innovative creation in history and the next week it stinks because a new version is out. Resistance is futile, though, because it will be crammed down our throats by the PC and laptop vendors who pre-install it. If you think that Windows Genuine Advantage anti-piracy system is bad in XP, wait until you see the Digital Rights Manage- A genuine copy of Windows Vista Home Basic bought online will set you back about 4,000 baht – about half the monthly salary of a teacher ment features that are conve- at a Thai government school. The far superior Windows Vista Ultimate on DVD costs over 8,000 baht from the same website, but our niently built-in for your entertain- sources say pirated copies are readily available at places like Pantip Plaza in Bangkok for about 150 baht. And that’s the last this author is ment displeasure in Vista. going to talk about it… If you are buying a new PC YouTube was supposedly un- remotes for the TV, DVD player stupid and alienate large chunks that represents you in Second in the near future, I highly rec- blocked weeks ago, but in fact it and stereo, computers, mobile of their audience – including me. Life. ommend buying it from a manu- was still blocked as this went to phones and so on. It’s like Sheryl Crow tell- Its creator, Linden Lab, has facturer that still offers XP SP2 press – and he’s the guy in Then there are the kids’ ing me that I need to use “one been criticized recently for claim- preloaded. Acer is finding this out charge of this. toys, which are all from China and square of toilet paper per ing that the number of Second the hard way. At least wait for Yes, this is our ICT Minis- have safety standards that fail to restroom visit”. Life residents is 6.5 million (8.7 Vista Service Pack 1, as ter. To sum it up, every day that reach those in Japan 30 years ago I’ll never figure this one out: million at the time of going to Microsoft might start getting it he is ICT Minister, Thailand falls when it was the fledgling elec- from a musician I want to hear press), as many other pundits right by Version 3. So, in short, I one day further behind Vietnam tronics manufacturer of the or see music, from an actor I have speculated that regular us- might start writing about Vista in in ICT development. world. Often I wish that I could want to see acting, from an IT ers are about a quarter million or about 2010. take a ham- columnist I even as low as tens of thousands. Microsoft has already an- Gadgets. Why am I not going to mer and just want to read Despite that, big-name cor- nounced that it’s working on the write about electronic gadgets: 1. beat these to or listen to IT. porations such as IBM, the BBC, next version of Windows, called I’d have to be famous enough to smithereens What’s so dif- Playboy and Comcast are in- Windows 7 until they figure out a get the gadgets free to try out and for some in- ficult about volved in it one way or another – really hip name for it like “Sierra”, review, which I am not; 2. this stant gratifi- this? Of mostly through advertising, mar- “Taj Mahal” or “Orgasmatron”. type of information is readily cation; so far course, if IT keting and hosting meetings. available on the Internet (see my I have man- and Thai poli- Sweden has even set up an The current ICT Minister. I’m previous column); 3. they would aged to re- tics hit the “embassy” called the Second trying to fly under the editorial have to be available in Phuket, frain from road at the House of Sweden. Sadly, I don’t radar with this topic – so let’s see which is far from a sure bet; and violent action. same time think they’ve invented effective if this gets by. To loosely para- 4. I’d need a lot of spare time and As for then I might virtual drunkenness yet. phrase a few of his oral gems: IT patience to fiddle around with digital cameras and even the mi- be obligated to report on it – as I watched my friend sign in conventions in Bangkok aren’t them and try them out, which I crowave oven – many of these above concerning our brainiac and try it out for 30 minutes be- important because Thais can’t don’t have. gadgets are so complicated that ICT Minister. fore exiting out of sheer boredom. innovate anyway; since Open To be honest, I have a diffi- you’d have to be a rocket scien- I’ve read that it does have some Source software is free then it cult enough time being the task- tist just to access the damned Another Life. Second Life is a positive uses, one of them being must be of poor quality and who master of all of the electronica in gadget in your own language. And virtual world modeled after the that people are more likely to would want to work for free? And my house as it stands now: our lives are more enriched with Metaverse in Neal Stephenson’s speak up in meetings while hid- all of this crapola? classic novel Snow Crash. ing behind their avatars than they You can be a resident, buy would be face-to-face in the real Politics. There’s nothing worse property, trade Linden dollars (the world. than being a regular reader of IT fictional currency created for use However, I am guessing experts columns and have them in Second Life) for real US dol- that lots of the inhabitants hang use their podium to espouse their lars and travel around in the form out there because their real lives political views and say something of your avatar, your virtual being are extremely dull. Probably 75% of the “resi- dents” are guys in the US, Canada or Europe who can’t get chicks. Thank you Asia – I have an interesting enough First Life.

Ignacio Evans is an information security consultant based in SE Asia who tries to be in Phuket whenever he can. Email him with questions, complaints, or any other comments at iggy69.e @gmail.com August 18 - 24, 2007 PHUKET GAZETTE 31 32 PHUKET GAZETTE B U S I N E S S & MONEY August 18 - 24, 2007 US subprime mortgages only one side of the coin more than two months after the event. Other mergers will continue, MONEY and the ongoing battle between Barclays and Royal Bank of Scot- land (RBS) for control of ABN- TALKS AMRO, Holland’s largest bank, is a perfect example. By Richard G Watson It is also an interesting story. he issue of subprime According to the BBC, ABN- mortgages – meaning AMRO placed itself on the mar- that the quality of the ket for sale. Bank of America borrower and his ability (BoA) approached Barclays T Bank to take over the bank. to repay are below standard – coupled with falling residential However, BoA did not really house prices in the US has want to acquire Barclays, their brought fear to investment mar- real target was Chicago-based kets. A substantial portion of new Lasalle Bank, a subsidiary of jobs created in the US since the ABN-AMRO. previous recession relate to resi- A deal was reached for dential housing. These occupa- Barclays to acquire ABN- tions include the obvious, such as AMRO and then sell Lasalle construction workers and estate Bank to BoA. agents, but there are many other BoA certainly was not categories. amused when a consortium led The consumer accounts for by RBS, including their long-time two-thirds of the US economy, allies Spanish Banking Group, and the business sector the bal- Despite fears of the US economy cooling off, some mergers and takeovers are going ahead unabated, Banco Santender, and a new ally ance. Hence, the consumer and such as the battle between Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland for control of ABN-AMRO, Holland’s Fortris Bank of Belgium put in a his spending patterns are vital to largest bank. rival bid. the economy. Consumer confi- tional Monetary Fund (IMF) has alarming rate and continued to economy is much larger; price- RBS is also after Lasalle dence is at a multi-year high with raised its growth estimates glo- rise until the “crash of 1987”. earnings ratios are much more Bank to reinforce its existing US low unemployment boosting both bally, from 4.8% to 5.2% so far It is interesting to look at a subdued. Corporate profits sup- operations – they already own confidence and spending power. for the calendar year 2007. long, dated graph of the market. port current prices and even mod- Charter One Bank. Business investment is still run- In general, US stocks are Today the “crash of 1987” looks erate inflation from 2000 to 2007 This battle has waged for ning strong. not expensive. The Standard & like a blip on the chart, especially allows for higher prices. months, RBS currently has the However, this can change Poors 500 (S&P 500) index, as most markets reached record US bond markets have re- highest and better offer and ABN- and the next few months are go- which is the broadest popular in- highs within 18 months to two acted dramatically to the new AMRO have now reversed their ing to be potentially problematic. dex of large caps (large-market years of the “crash”. In short, it fears. Treasury bonds have in- decision to back the Barclays bid. Markets, as always, are watch- capitalization, usually meaning was more of a huge correction in creased in price (reducing yield) This will be the biggest takeover ing the situation closely. Markets large companies) is at a six-year a strong-bull market rally than a as there has been a “flight to of a bank in world history. hate uncertainty and this is likely low on value, with Bloomberg cit- “crash”. quality” and corporate bonds are There are many other to be felt in terms of volatility. ing a price-earnings ratio of 15:4. In the late 1990s investors now cheaper. This appreciation mergers taking place without us- Many market participants believe Stocks in other markets piled into the stock market and of “risk” has widened the ing leveraged buyout techniques, that a correction would be healthy around the world are generally were awarded first-class degrees “spreads” – that is, interest rates as many companies have strong and long overdue. fairly valued, though there are ex- from the School of Hard Knocks. for borrowing have risen from balance sheets. This opinion is often stated ceptions, such as Vietnam and This is another period of inves- “appropriate for conditions per- While there may be worries after looking at graphs of the China. Even India is not “cheap”, tors’ “irrational exuberance”, as ceived as safe” to those for a about subprime in the US mar- major stock market indices, which but that can be expected consid- described by US Federal Reserve “speculative” market. This is ket, the underlying economic have risen almost without inter- ering their “boom” economies. ex-chairman Alan Greenspan. known as “re-pricing of risk”. strength is unlikely to disappear ruption since March 2003. On the The introduction or increase Much has been made of the This is going to at least tem- overnight and this is true for many other hand, global growth is strong in the “fear factor” evident in fact that some stock market indi- porarily dampen the spirits and countries. at an increased rate, the Interna- markets is healthy and welcome. ces have risen to record levels this opportunities for private equity Reviews by publications Markets that forget risk always year, in some cases only weeks buyouts. CNBC and Bloomberg such as The Economist reveal complete their education. Perfect ago. have both reported that underwrit- that most global economies are examples of this were evident in However, to equate 2007 ing banks issuing bonds for the expected to grow at moderate to 1986 when stock markets, hav- with 2000, when previous highs leveraged buyout of pharmaceu- strong rates for 2007 and 2008. ing already enjoyed four years of were reached, requires a few ad- tical group Alliance Boots still It is healthy for markets to growth, suddenly rose at an justments and inputs. The global have half of their bonds unsold have an element of fear, other- wise they can become too fo- cused on greed and this, as his- tory has shown, is when trouble occurs. Second quarter profits for S&P 500 companies were around double what analysts had expected; coins have two sides. Maybe the analysts were too pes- simistic.

Richard G Watson runs Global Portfolios Co Ltd, a Phuket- based personal financial-plan- ning service. He can be reached at Tel: 076-381997, Fax: 076- 383185, Mobile: 081-0814611. Email: imm@ loxinfo.co.th or on his Website: www.global- portfolios.com August 18 - 24, 2007 BUSINESS & MONEY PHUKET GAZETTE 33 ON THE MOVE

Anthony Armas has been Dararat Bourtong, from German Jens Schuster appointed director of the Trang, has been appointed has been appointed direc- JW Marriott Hotel Bang- IT manager of Dusit La- tor of engineering at Dusit kok, JW Phuket Resort & guna Resort. Laguna Resort. Spa and the Renaissance Holder of a degree in Mr Schuster holds a Koh Samui Resort & Spa. business systems manage- bachelor’s degree in ap- He will also oversee the ment from Monash Uni- plied technology from a opening of three new versity in Australia, she has polytechnic educational in- Courtyard by Marriott experience as a network stitution. properties in Bangkok, analyst for the Victorian Before taking the po- Patong and Surin. Mr. Employer Chamber of sition, he was technical and Armas started working Commerce and Industry in quality control director and with Marriott in 1995 and Australia and later as help head of the technical de- has been director of sales desk team leader and se- partment at Tauzia Hotel and marketing for several curity engineer for Elec- Management in Indonesia properties in South America tronics Data System (Thai- as well as a consultant for and the Caribbean. land) Co Ltd. Accor hotels.

VITAL STATISTICS: COMPANY REGISTRATIONS FALL July ’05 July ’06 July ’07 Limited company registered 125 129 100 Limited partnership registered 34 20 35 Limited companies restructured 196 289 324 Limited partnerships restructured 29 30 39 Limited companies deregistered 13 10 14 Limited partnerships deregistered 1 13 6

Source: Phuket Business Development Office Despite the occasional downpour and the rough surf, Phuket is enjoying one of its best “low seasons” ever. Phuket enjoys strong tourist ‘low-season’ By Semacote Suganya the Thai Hotels Association Southern Chapter said, “The oc- PHUKET: This year’s green cupancy rate has increased season has seen a healthy in- partly because there are more crease in the number of Middle Eastern and Indian people holidaymakers visiting Phuket, visiting Phuket.” said Suwalai Pinpradab, director Other reasons for the busy Ad-Property (F.O.C.) of Tourism Authority of green season include other Asian Thailand’s (TAT) Southern Re- source markets, such as Hong 3x8 gion 4 Office. Kong, China and Taiwan, expe- K. Jip Hotel occupancy rates are riencing particularly hot seasons; reportedly about 80%, marking a TAT’s tourist-enticing roadshows 20% to 30% increase on last year, held in Middle-Eastern countries; with Patong being one of the busi- and more direct flights servicing est places on the island, accord- Phuket from places including ing to TAT figures. Australia, Hong Kong and Tai- Phuket Tourist Association wan, said K. Suwalai. (PTA) President Maitree “We are all doing our best Narukatpichai reported that the to promote tourism during the PTA’s statistics were less impres- green season. For example, for sive but he was still happy with Phuket Walk & Run on Septem- the situation, saying that hotel ber 30 we have been working occupancy in Phuket was cur- with 21 Japanese tour operators rently between 60% and 70%. to sell about 500 packages for K. Maitree told the Gazette people to visit Phuket. The Japa- that hotels such as the Holiday nese like this kind of sport,” Inn Phuket Resort and the Phuket added K. Suwalai. Merlin Hotel are operating at up “Tourism in Phuket has to 90% occupancy. Hotels in been gradually improving since Kata and Karon are running at the tsunami. I think that next year about 50% occupancy, while will be even better, especially Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and with more charter flights from Spa is at 60%, he added. places like Scandinavia,” said K. Methee Tanmanatragul of Methee. 34 PHUKET GAZETTE SPORTS August 18 - 24, 2007

By Zach Fridell ickey Stratton had waited seven years for his big moment. The might of Mickey M Waking before 6 am and training for hours every day The same realism extended with a world-renowned coach, to everyone associated with the Mickey’s first Muay Thai fight fight. Master Toddy said, “It’s not was a symbol of dedication and about winning or losing. It doesn’t devotion. At the age of 55, it was matter about the result, he will also a risky gamble. have achieved his goal and in- Mickey, a multimillionaire spired people.” from Las Vegas, was about to The coach went on to ex- step into the ring against a man plain that he did think Mickey 30 years his junior in a crowded would win, but he too was unwill- Patong stadium. He had never ing to guarantee it. fought in the ring; his opponent Vivian was worried. “You had more than 50 bouts under his have to understand that he’s 55. belt. Mickey is fit for his age and There’s a 30-year age difference under the tutelage of the here.” Thohsaphon “Master Toddy” Siti- Mickey strode out to the watjana he felt up to the chal- ring first, stone-faced and ready lenge. for action in the red corner. Dur- “I feel good. I feel ready,” ing the wai kru (pre-fight ritual he said a day before the fight. during which fighters pay re- “Master Toddy wouldn’t put me spects to their trainers), Mickey in if I wasn’t ready.” stood with Master Toddy in the An entire ringside section corner of the ring, with Master was taken up by Mickey’s friends Toddy speaking in a low voice and family – along with 10 stu- while holding Mickey’s head in dents from Khao Lak. The stu- his hands. The students from TCF dents, from the Tsunami Children sat near Mickey’s corner with a Foundation (TCF), were there to Mickey came out swinging and didn’t let up until Promlikit was down for the count. large sign reading “MICKEY receive a check for 1.188 million U.S.A.” baht from Mickey. By soliciting in Muay Thai and began training operates a Master Toddy gym in to get in the ring against a younger The fighters walked to the friends and business associates in with Master Toddy. Las Vegas, where Mickey trained opponent, the training has helped middle of the ring where they met America, Mickey had raised the The years training together in the morning before flying to Mickey to handle his illness. with the ref. Micky, at 6’ 2” money for the school of tsunami- – an hour and a half in the early work in his private jet. “He has to keep a healthy (188cm) stood about 3” (7.6cm) effected children. morning and concluding the day “One of the biggest excuses lifestyle,” she said. “I think the taller than his opposition. He only The money will be used pri- with two more hours – has left people use is, ‘I’m too old,’” intense training has increased his broke his solemnity when marily for staff, beginning with a both men with a mutual respect Master Toddy said. But for discipline.” Promlikit (“Destiny”, in Thai) school librarian and a kindergar- for each other. Mickey, being old wasn’t enough Mickey agreed. “Muay gave him a pat on the stomach ten teacher: the kindergarten has The day before the fight, for him to give up his dream of Thai has been a lifesaver for me. as they parted. only one teacher per 80 students. Master Toddy explained that competing in a Muay Thai fight. My day is built around it,” he The bell rang and Mickey This isn’t the first time Mickey is a source of inspiration Neither was living with chronic said. “Muay Thai is not just for charged out of his corner, throw- Mickey has donated large sums for him because of his “never say hepatitis C, a liver disease that has the young. It’s a great aerobic ing punches as fast as he could. to the TCF. When it was first never” attitude. “This fight is to interrupted Mickey’s training exercise. Being older, the heal- Promlikit got a good kick in to established he gave nearly an let the world know that anything schedule for months at a time as ing process is the hardest. I pull Mickey’s outer leg, but Mickey equal amount. you want to do, you do,” he said, he recovered. muscles a little easier, and there responded with a series of hard Mickey has been involved as Mickey was sitting in the Ti- Mickey explained that hav- are more aches and pains.” right jabs as his coaches yelled with Phuket ever since Phuket ger Muay Thai gym beginning his ing hepatitis C is like the second Mickey was slated for the at him to punch even harder. and Las Vegas became sister cit- pre-fight workout with trainer day of flu when you feel miser- second bout August 9, against Within 15 seconds Promlikit was ies in 1996. A prominent land- Anupong “Saohin” Chrisuk. able – but all the time. fighter Promlikit. Both fighters down on the canvas. owner and businessman, Mickey “He’s my hero because The hepatitis also means that were listed at a dubious 180 Mickey stalked away and as was asked by the Las Vegas when he makes a decision, what- Mickey has to watch what he pounds – although Mickey didn’t Promlikit stood again, Mickey mayor to represent the city in a ever it is, he keeps to it.” eats and not exert himself exces- look like he lost 30 pounds since repeated the maneuver, charging delegation sent to Phuket. That’s Master Toddy, creator of the sively. His wife, Vivian, said that his weigh-in the day before, and with a flurry of punches and when Mickey became interested Fight Girls TV series in America, although she was nervous for him Promlikit wasn’t lacking in extra knocking Promlikit down for the weight either. count. The referee quickly The TCF children would jumped in and called the fight a receive the check from Mickey TKO. and friends regardless whether Visibly relieved, Mickey al- Mickey won or lost, but there was lowed his expression to break into some doubt whether Mickey a wide grin as he hugged Master would be standing after the fight Toddy in his corner and began to present it personally. calling Vivian over to the ring. Will McNamara of the Ti- The kids received their ger Muay Thai & MMA Train- check, Mickey was doused with ing Camp was on hand for the water and the victor prepared to event, but like everyone else, he celebrate his win with friends and wasn’t prepared to make any family. Seven years of training promises about the outcome. had paid off in a lightening-fast “Am I worried? He’s been victory. trained by one of the best Muay Will he do it again? “Well, Thai fighters in the world,” that’s up to my wife,” Mickey McNamara said. “But guarantee said. But he’ll let his muscles re- he will win? Not a chance.” cover first. August 18 - 24, 2007 SP O R T S PHUKET GAZETTE 35 Call for entries for annual Kamala surfing contest

KAMALA: Surf’s up at Kamala Kalim Surfing Contest in July, will Beach, where Phuket’s next be looking to fend off international open-invitation surfing event will opposition and do the double. be held August 25 and 26. Entry costs 300 baht, with The Kamala Surfing Con- competitors receiving a T-shirt test, organized by Kamala Go and a pass to the after-tourna- Surfing Club and Phuket ment party at the Best Western Boardriders Club, will take place Phuket Ocean Resort on August at the northern end of Kamala 26, starting 9 pm. Beach, near Laem Singh, from 9 To register visit www. am to 6 pm each day. phuketboardriders.com or send The island’s top wave rid- your name and entry fee to 371/ ers will battle it out in three divi- 41 Yaowarat Rd, Talad Yai, sions – longboard, shortboard and Phuket 83000 before August 24. bodyboard – for the chance to For more information con- win cash prizes and trophies. tact K. Joob (Tel: 081-9565854, Chalong Thong Suk, winner Email: joob@phuketboardriders. in the shortboard division at com). PATONG DARTS LEAGUE With Dog’s Bollocks already clinching the title, interest in the last Trang team snatch Dusit tennis victory week of play on August 7 focused on who would snag second place. CHERNG TALAY: The newly-upgraded tennis courts at the Dusit Laguna Resort were the site of the In the end, Queen Mary managed to claim the spot by taking all three Dusit Laguna Doubles Tennis Tournament 2007 held August 10 to 12. points against Valhalla. In the men’s open category, the team of Somporn Suwanarat (in blue shirt) and Somkiet Pahurat At the captains’ meeting held in the afternoon of the same day, (in gray shirt) from Trang walked away with first-place honors, bagging a trophy and one night’s stay it was decided to keep the league at the current eight teams and to at Laguna Holiday Club. play a 14-week schedule starting August 21 and ending November In the men’s hotel-workers competition, Preeda Thongpeng and Phanumat Thepthong of the 20. Several teams’ venues had shown interest in joining but weren’t Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket defeated Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort’s Prasan Insoi and sure if they could muster a full side every week. Praipan Riyapan for the first-prize trophy and one night’s stay at Allamanda Laguna Phuket Resort Among the changes agreed upon at the meeting was one provi- Hotel. sion to help out teams who only have five players on the night of competitions – not an uncommon occurrence during the low season. Rather than force them to automatically cede both a singles and th doubles game, which the captains agreed was too harsh, there will 9 Patong Cup soccer tourney set to kick off instead be a random drawing among the five available players to PATONG: The ninth Patong Cup Against Drugs, There are five divisions: Teams of any na- decide which player will play twice in singles and again as a partner organized by Phuket Municipality, got underway tionality will compete for the Gor Gai cup and a top in two different doubles matches. August 12 with 89 football teams from the region prize of 79,999 baht; Thai nationals and Patong na- Captains are to report each time this happens to league secre- entered to compete in the month-long competition. tives will battle it out for the Khor Kai cup and first tary Steen to ensure that teams do not take advantage of the situa- To officially launch the tournament, Phang prize of 40,000 baht; the Thai-only Khor Kwai 16- tion. Nga City Municipality took on Patong Municipality and-under cup has a winning purse of 25,000 baht Word has it that David Brook at Island Lager Bar is relocating in an exhibition match, with Phang Nga emerging on offer; Ngor Ngoo is the 13-and-under cup for from Soi Lion to Sukhumvit Road Entertainment Complex at the end victorious with a final score of 5-3. Thai students in Patong Municipality with 20,000 of August. The new bar will have one, and possibly even two, dart The first match of the tournament saw a team baht going to the winner; and the over-35s cup has boards. John Lowe will be back in January for around a month, dur- from Khok Makham edge 2-0 past a team from a winning prize of 25,000 baht. ing which time his wife will celebrate her 50th birthday. Chaiwat. Each division has individual prizes for the best In April, Swedish darts legend Stefan Lord is expected to visit The competition will take place daily with six player and top scorer. as well. When the time comes, the Patong Darts league will try to 40-minute matches between 2 pm and 7 pm until For more information call Patong Municipal- arrange some sort of special event allowing league players to take a September 17. ity at 076-342078. crack at some of these darts superstars. Players are requested to keep sending all results to Steen by 6pm on Fridays. Send additional information to: darts@phuketgazette. net

August 7 results. Offshore* 5 Piccadilly 4; Dog’s Bollocks 7 Shak- ers* 2; Queen Mary* 6 Valhalla 3; Simply Red* 3 Beach House 6.

Final standings. 1. Dog’s Bollocks (35 pts; 11 beer legs); 2. Queen Mary (27, 7 beer legs); 3. Offshore (26, 8 beer legs); 4. Shakers (24, 10 beer legs); 5. Beach House (23, 7 beer legs); 6. Piccadilly (18, 4 beer legs); 7. Valhalla (10, 6 beer legs); 8. Simply Red (5, 3 beer legs). 36 PHUKET GAZETTE PHUKET PROPERTY August 18 - 24, 2007

Home Works with Andreas Ruthe

Mechatronics locks such as this use a combination of computers, mechanics and electronics so that people given radio frequency identification (RFID) cards or keys are allowed access to certain parts of the house during specific periods of the day. MECHATRONICS: A new opening in home security ou’ve got an alarm sys there is no choice but to replace A recent development that tem on your Picasso all the locks it opens in order to bridges the gap is “mechatronic” and a safe for your keep the house secure. locking systems. Mechatronics Yblue diamonds, but the Locks were uses a combination first line of protection for your first developed by of computers, me- home may be woefully outdated the Ancient Egyp- chanics and elec- and prone to security breaches. tians nearly 4,000 tronics to provide The standard lock and key is pro- years ago, and pin- locks that will open tection only if only one person has and-tumbler locks with a radio fre- the key. have been around quency identification As keys can be copied in since 1778 with few (RFID) card or key. under a minute, the security this changes over the Just a few type of protection affords is years, so why are years ago RFID quickly limited when your key is we still using this locks would have given to your contractor, your archaic technology? put a big hole in your builder, your maid, your real es- One reason is that Home pocket, but with the tate agent and any neighbors who the alternatives – latest technology it’s took care of the house plants keypads, biometric WORKS possible to have this while you are away. scanners and com- By Andy Ruthe type of security by Any time a key is given out puter-controlled merely changing the there is a chance that it may have locks – are too expensive to be cylinders in your door. been copied, and if a key is lost practical in the average home. One of the main advantages of this technology is that you can specify when the lock will open for particular users. If your maid needs to have access to your home, mechatronic locks allow you to restrict when the maid can enter the property. The locks are powered by batteries, so island blackouts will have no effect. They can be con- trolled and programmed via com- puter or PDA to easily set limits on each RFID tag. Simple and effective.

Andreas Ruthe is Managing Director of Technical Construc- tion Materials Asia Co., Ltd. (TCM Asia) He has lived in Phuket for five years and con- sults with hotels, developers and home owners in using modern construction materials to solve environmental problems and re- duce costs. He can be contacted at [email protected] August 18 - 24, 2007 PHUKET PROPERTY PHUKET GAZETTE 37

Home of the Week Kamala Making the most of Kamala comfort his inviting Thai-style home is located within a private estate of 14 Thigh-quality homes with hill views set in a tranquil setting in Kamala. The home is situated on a 600-square-meter plot with land- scaped gardens featuring native tropical plants and a terrace sur- rounding a 50sqm private in- ground swimming pool. The home itself has 280sqm of living space spread across several single level pavilions. The property is bordered by a wall, giving its residents com- plete privacy. Access is by either the main separate, secure front This private three-bedroom home in gate or through a covered garage Kamala includes a pool and garden in suitable for two vehicles. addition to the many amenities within The spacious interior of the easy access of Kamala Beach. main pavilion includes living and dining areas that overlook the swimming pool and garden. Ad- jacent to these areas is a large, fully equipped Western-style kitchen. cludes a comfortable Jacuzzi septic tank and a mains water frames and tinted glass to help The home is for sale at 14.8 The home has three bed- bathtub set in a relaxing nook. supply and a water heater. keep interior temperatures low. million baht with Chanote title. rooms, each with an en-suite Each of the fully furnished The home was built in 2004 Although the home is al- bathroom and built-in wardrobe. pavilions have air conditioning fit- using quality materials in all as- ready set in a private estate, se- For details contact Richard The master bedroom is in its own ted throughout. Amenities include pects. Most rooms feature hard- curity guards are provided to give Lusted at Siam Real Estate at pavilion overlooking the pool and a laundry room, telephone line, wood flooring, with ceramic tile residents extra peace of mind Tel: 076-288908, or visit www. gardens and features a bathroom broadband Internet connection, flooring used where appropriate. when at home or away from their siamrealestate.com or email: that, in addition to a shower, in- UBC TV, three-phase electricity, All windows feature aluminum property. [email protected] 38 PHUKET GAZETTE PHUKET PROPERTY August 18 - 24, 2007

Construction by Janyaporn Morel Kamala Regent hits market with sales blitz KAMALA: Kamala Regent is a veloper of Kamala Regent, new residential development of- which is located on six rai about fering living solutions for long- 20 meters from the main road term residents and vacationers, through Kamala. When com- with a choice of pool villas and plete, the project will comprise six condominium units for sale and modern pool villas and four con- long- or short-term rental. dominium blocks containing a to- With the show units com- tal of 79 units. pleted since March, and nearly Project Manager Supatra half of the properties in the de- Maneepaisarn said, “Although velopment already sold, construc- Kamala Regent is our first project tion of the remaining homes and in Phuket, the developer has ex- condominium buildings is planned tensive experience, with involve- to commence in November and ment in eight condominium pro- should take just over a year to jects in Pattaya and Rayong. We The modern design of the Kamala Regent villas have proved popular with the Phuket market. complete. have several land plots at our dis- 10 guest-room units for posal here in Kamala and plan to for a brief vacation,” she added. three remaining available. furniture of various tones fits in holidaymakers are also under develop those, too. The pool villas cover 250 The contemporary three- easily, although buyers are free construction and should be com- “Kamala Regent is de- square meters on plots between bedroom villas come furnished to request any changes they like pleted in time for the start of the signed with young to middle-aged 320sqm and 476sqm costing be- with Modern Form furniture and and we are happy to advise on high season in November and will expatriates in mind and we feel it tween 8.9 and 9.9 million baht. include several built-in luxury decor and furniture to fit the over- be available for rental from 1,000 is ideal for foreigners who are liv- The package and pricing seem to features, including en-suite bath- all design concept,” she added. baht a day. ing and working in Phuket long be the right mix, as 50% of the rooms for all bedrooms, sun deck Communal facilities over- G-1 Land Co Ltd is the de- or short term, or just coming here villas have been sold with just on the top floor, private swim- seen by the on-site management ming pool and parking spaces include a swimming pool and pad- two cars. dling pool for kids, sauna and Four of the five-story condo gym. buildings will have sea views from K. Supatra expressed con- the top two floors and will fea- fidence that the development will ture four types of two- and three- compete well in the market due bedroom apartments ranging to its location. Kamala Beach is from 106sqm to 223sqm, with a 10-minute walk away and be- prices starting at 4.4 million baht. ing near a main road means easy The more exclusive pent- access to Patong and Surin with houses start at 9.3 million baht a 35-minute drive to the airport. and feature a private roof deck “Kamala Regent stands out with a Jacuzzi, a sunbathing area from other projects; not just in and an alfresco shower. design but by using industry stan- “We are pleased to report dard materials in the construction very good sales so far this year we are able to offer value for with 40% of the condominium money with affordable end prices units already sold since putting for the buyers. them on the market in May this “Although this project is year,” K. Supatra said. somewhat speculative on Phu- “Although our previous ket’s property market, we are projects have been of Balinese, confident that we are entering at contemporary-tropical and Thai a very competitive level, which styles, we chose to build ultra- is reflected in the number of sales modern looking condominiums so far,” K. Supatra said. for Kamala Regent because Phuket home buyers find contem- For details contact Kamala Re- porary styles and designs attrac- gent Sales Office. Soi Kamala tive and it matches the modern OrBorTor, Moo 4, Kamala, image of Phuket. Kathu, Phuket. 83210. Tel: 089- “We emphasize stylish black 9219983, 089-9219986. Website: and white in the decor, so that www.kamalaregent.com An artist’s impression of the completed Kamala Regent project. August 18 - 24, 2007 PHUKET PROPERTY PHUKET GAZETTE 39

Gardening by Bloomin’ Bert

think I must be showing my age. I recently asked some- one a few years younger Ithan me if he remembered Thinking of sweet Petunia the phrase, “Kids in water – they love it.” He didn’t have the faint- ents from other blos- growing them anyway. est idea what I was going on about soms to develop and One thing to watch for is with my cheesy Australian ac- open. Just pull a hanging baskets from garden cent. I was doing an impression dead flower off and centers. They look incredible of Rolf Harris, of course, telling have a look at when you first bring them home, the British public to teach their what’s growing but you may find that they quickly offspring to swim. there. lose interest and start to die off. I should probably start this You’ll probably The problem is that many flow- week with another apology, as find a cone-shaped ers you buy pre-potted are often what follows will only have pod, which will fairly root-bound. meaning to Brits who are middle- eventually open and The answer is simple: just aged or older. Youngsters, Ameri- drop little black buy another hanging pot and some cans, continental types and seeds all over the potting soil and separate the plant colonials should probably skip to leaves around them. in half, one in each pot. This gar- the plant bit or move on to the Pinch these pods off dening lark is hardly rocket sci- next page altogether. Unless, of and the petunia will ence; they’ll be as good as new, course, you’ve actually heard of bounce back with and you now you have two for British public-information films. even more blooms the price of one. They were weird, conde- than before. Joe and Petunia would have scending, hilarious, cheesy and Whether or not loved this. “It’s raht nahce in’t it, informative, all at the same time. to bother collecting Petunia.” How can anyone forget that old the seeds is debat- Who knows, they may well bloke on his push bike – 90 years able. There are gar- have made a public information old I think he was – who had deners who will tell film about it; “safe gardening”, managed to “stay alive for so you not since petu- perhaps, explaining the perils of long” by being extra careful on nias are hybrids. The a misplaced trowel. PURPLICIOUS: The bright colors of petunias are hard to deny, and sometimes the roads? hard to believe due to their overwhelming burst of color. natural offspring Or how about Jimmy these things produce Want advice on your garden? Saville, with his dodgy haircut, few of these things on-line; have One bit of treatment they are small flowers (if they bloom advising us to “Clunk, click, ev- a look at http://www.national especially appreciate is dead- at all) and will probably not even Email Bloomin’ Bert at: ery trip”? Then there was the archives.gov.uk/films/1964to1979 heading. Every time a bloom dies, bloom the same color as the [email protected] Amber Gambler, who always had /filmindex.htm they go to seed and rob the nutri- mother plant. Who cares? Try to be the first one away and the Unfortunately, I can never last one through traffic lights in hear the word “petunia” without his Ford Fiesta. Some of these 30- thinking about Joe and his lovely second classics cemented them- wife. Petunias aren’t just a plant selves in our brains more effec- for pensioners in the UK – tively than others – scarily, to this they’re common here, too. Thais day, I still remember the words, know them, not surprisingly, as “Only a fool breaks the two-sec- puh-toon-yur. ond rule” for keeping your dis- Do you remember that naff tance in traffic. TV show where contestants had The worst (or the best, de- to predict answers to surveys? If pending how you look at it) was they had to name a flower, I’d about a young lad in a park with bet that the petunia would be in his cat Charley. “Charley and I the top five. Predictable is its were in the park. Then this man middle name. Having said that, came up and said would I like to even cynics will admit that the see some puppies.” That really Petunia integrifolia is stunning. is what he said. Then, “Charley It would take a hard man to deny reminded me my mum says I that the purple hues of this drably- shouldn’t go off with people I named plant are among the most don’t know,” as the cat saves the vivid in the floral world. day. Kenny Everett did the voices This is one of the founding for that, by the way. fathers of modern hybrids. Origi- One of my favorite cam- nally from Mexico, the flowers paigns featured a couple of ani- are about five centimeters across, mated characters called Joe and with an intense, magenta color Petunia. They appeared in a lot coupled with an almost-black of ads. I remember the country throat. The Gazette’s photo edi- code one where they thought that tor is going to hate this photo – opening a farm gate so that the he’ll be desperate to turn down cows could “take themselves off the purple. Good luck. for a walk down t’road” was a It bursts with color and good idea. They then notice an style, blooming profusely and con- irate farmer with a purple face sistently. Best of all, you can hack jumping up and down and pre- it right back to the base, and with sumed he was “doing one of those a bit of added composty stuff, it country dances”. will return for a repeat perfor- Then there was the film mance. It does its job in pots, and about Joe and Petunia watching it’s spot-on at the edge of bor- a distressed gentleman flounder- ders. ing off the shore in his boat. “He’s Petunias can spread like having a lot of fun out there in his wildfire if left to their own devices little dinghy [pronounced dinjy]. at ground level. A single plant can That’s what they call them, you ramble over a meter. know – sailin’ dinjies”. It finishes As solid as these plants are, with a plummy voice-over telling they do make a few un-nego- us to dial 999 and ask for the tiable demands. Give them full coastguard in such circum- sun with good air circulation, and stances. Cheesy enough to be provide fertile, loose, well-drained superb. soil. That basically means avoid- I even managed to find a ing soggy soil. That’s it, really. 40 PHUKET GAZETTE CLASSIFIEDS August 18 - 24, 2007 Property Gazette

Properties AO POR LAND FAMILY HOME BEAUTIFUL NAI LUXURY HOUSE BLUEPOINT For Sale URGENT SALE YANG LAND WITH GREAT VIEW THE VIEWPOINT

AFFORDABLE LUXURY

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, aircon, security 5 mins to Phuket airport, House with the most amaz- You want the best? The 150 rai, Chanote, panoramic bars, quiet area. 1km from close to the beach, 10 rai. ing view of Patong bay for hotspot on the island is now sea view. From 2.3 million Heroines Monument. 2.9 120 million baht. Must see. sale or lease. 2 bedrooms, available. Bluepoint the baht per rai. Contact for million. Tel: 086-9510123. Tel: 089-7727012. Email: 2 bathrooms, living room. Viewpoint next to Baan Suan more information. Tel: 081- Email: wing_michael_77@ [email protected] This property, if improved Kamnan. Overlooking the Immaculate villa. Private 5597456. Email: se_rim@ hotmail.com slightly by adding an infin- sea with great views and area, big lush garden, pool, 4 hotmail.com ity pool, extending the liv- stunning sunsets. High price bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, liv- LAND WITH VIEWS NEW 3-STORY Quiet, green area. 970sqm ing area and doing some range. Come and pass by ing room, Scandi kitchen, general upgrading would for talks only. Call Edwin at huge patio, fully furnished, COMMERCIAL plot: 2.5 million baht. 732sqm building. 2 bathrooms. Price: plot: 2 million baht ono. Con- resell for minimum US$2 Tel: 086-7866350. Email: contemporary Bali-Thai style. million. Very sound invest- [email protected] Living area: 450sqm. Land 4 million baht. Please con- tact Tel: 086-2817605. Email: tact Tel: 086-7432011. [email protected] ment. Tel: 081-8921108. area: 1,400sqm. Near Hero- Fax: 081-345821. Email: ines Monument with scenic RAWAI BEACH CONDO NEW HOUSE giulio@phuketrealestate hill view. Chanote. 14 million solutions.com Visit our SOUTH END OF Sea view, foreign freehold. FOR SALE baht. Tel: 084-6907057. website: www.phuketreal PATONG BAY 550,000 baht. Tel: 086-940- 3 bedrooms, living room, estatesolutions.com 8914. Email: freeholdprop@ kitchen, swimming pool, sat 1 RAI KAMALA LAND yahoo.com TV, Internet, automatic doors, Chanote, electric, water, main fully furnished. Priced from 5 road access, 600m from Kamala 7 RAI OF LAND million baht to 9 million baht. JACUZZI LOVE center. 5 million baht. Tel: 076- FOR SALE Tel: 084-8516121. PADS IN BANGLA 292596, 086-2678477. Email: Chanote, Thai owner, 5 min to [email protected] JW Marriott, 50m to main LAND FOR SALE Patong Bay. Beautiful house RAWAI 2-STORY road. Sell: 2.3 million baht per in a top location. For detailed KATHU GOLF rai. Contact Pipop. Tel: 081- 10 rai in Bang Wad. 1 mil- VIEW LAND HOUSE information about this house 140sqm, 2 bedrooms, 2 5372599. lion baht per rai. Please 1.9 million baht per rai. Near and the location see our bathrooms, close to the contact K. Terawut at Tel: Loch Palm Golf Club and BIS. website. Tall, spacious, 4 beach. 1.5 million baht. Tel: 081-5361365. The land totals 70.5 rai (Nor bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 086-9408914. Email: LAND FOR SALE Pre-launch Bangla suites. All Sor 3 Kor). Quiet and scenic pool and amazing sea view [email protected] 8 rai in Patong. 1.2 million 1.5 RAI PRIVATE condos with Jacuzzi and lo- with access to water, elec- in the daytime and with stun- baht per rai. Sea view. Lo- LAND SALE cated in the heart of the ac- tricity and road (800 meters ning scenery over Patong in cated on 50 Pi Rd. Please 1.5 rai (2 x 0.75 rai) of se- tion. Own a condo from 1 is roadside). Contact Sumon NAI YANG LAND evening time. Located in contact Khun Terawut at cluded, flat land located at million to 20+ million baht. for details. Tel: 076-352069, for sale. 1km to the beach. Baan Suan Kamnan. A green, Tel: 081-5361365. Cape Yamu. Chanote. Tel: 32sqm to 94sqm, studio to 081-6919346. Fax 076- Three plots: 20m x 22m clean, quiet and lovely resi- 076-239432, 081-0879237. penthouse with sea views. 261028. Email: sumon@ (440sqm each), road ac- dential area at the south end Email: [email protected] Fully serviced with 5-year ridethailand.com cess. Price: 900,000 baht. FOR SALE OR LEASE of Patong Bay. House for sale Call Tel: 089-7241140. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1- rental guarantee and 60/40 at 30 million baht. Owner story, fully furnished, new NAI HARN LOTS shared income afterwards. also open for lease or rental BIG GOLF VILLA FOR SALE Make 30% in 1 year. Out- Big luxurious villas for sale RAWAI BEACH modern house on private road talks. Possibilities for first in Kathu. Electric gate, nice Taking reservations for ¼ rai right and fractional ownership mortgage directly from from 9 million baht. Only 25 DUPLEX available. Real fun in Patong - 30-year lease, 107sqm du- walled garden, large terrace, plots. Starting at 1.8 million owner. Partly off-shore pay- meters to Loch Palm Golf nowhere finer. Easy payment plex house with pool, parking, private parking, telephone and baht. Please call for details. ments are possible. Please Club. Please contact for de- terms and deposit. Helicopter garden. Price: 2 million baht. Internet. 6.2 million baht ono. Tel: 081-3709661. call Edwin at Tel: 086- tails at Tel: 081-9685963. landing pad - not for every- Tel: 086-9408914. Email: Must sell due to move to Bang- 7866350. Email: buurmanb Email: [email protected] one! Tel: 081-8957112, 852- [email protected] kok. Tel: 087-3865200. LUXURY APARTMENT @hotmail.com For further IN PATONG 98379227. Email: bl@ details, visit our website: NICE HOUSE with lots of elegant furniture. marbella.net For additional www.patongbluepoint.com LUXURY SEAVIEW information, please visit FOR SALE OCEANVIEW VILLA 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, our website: http://www. SHOPHOUSE CHALONG Direct from owner. 32 mil- well-equipped kitchen. Club Perfect house, 4-5 bed- banglasuites.com KOH YAO YAI lion baht or rent. No agents. house including swimming rooms, ready to move in. Fantastic location near 1 rai, Chanote, water, electric- Tel: 089-4742958. Email: pool, snooker, sauna and bar. Close to Central and Rawai Chalong pier with sea ity, close to the beach. Per- Beach. Please contact view from top floor and [email protected] Comes with new Toyota Fortuner. You can have private LAND AND HOUSE fect vacation home. Price: Tel: 081-8915296. Email: road access. 3 stories FOR SALE swimming, just open the side 800,000 baht. Please con- [email protected] with shutter gate. Tel: Leam sore. Southern area of door. Best views of Patong, tact for more details. Tel: 081- For details, visit our website 081-5544140. Email: NEW 3-BEDROOM Samui island. A great invest- especially when standing out- 8928208. at http://www.jikkycar.com [email protected] quiet home. Lovely outlook, ment for the right person. side on the balcony. 190sqm 2 bathrooms, pool, kitchen, This house is situated in in a nice location. Take your carport with storage. Land: Leam sore, 1km from beach. LAND FOR SALE baggage to stay immediately. 450sqm. 5.5 million baht. A Thai-style house on stilts, 756sqm in Jomthong village, Please contact the owner. Tel: 086-2817605. Email: located in an up and coming 15 mins from Phuket City, Tel: 085-1982577. [email protected] area. It was built about 1 150 meters from main road, year ago, a truly lovely house, suitable for villa or shophouse 2 double bedrooms, 2 en- 4.5 million baht. Please con- suite bathrooms, kitchen, tact Tel: 084-0908811. Email: split-level floor lounge, aircon [email protected] in all rooms, balcony halfway around the house, 1.6m- deep, 9m x 4m swimming HOUSE FOR SALE pool, underground filter & 2-stories in a desirable pump system, 70m deep, and secure estate. 3 bed- drilled well, guarantee you rooms, 3 bathrooms, will have no water problems. study, living room, kitchen, Originally on sale for 8 million laundry room, set in fenced baht, government electric, garden. Furnished, ABSL, concrete road. Bargain price UBC. Price: 7.0 million baht at 6 million baht. Full Chanote obo. Tel: 084-8439579. title. Please contact Roy at Fax: 076-323421. Email: Tel: 084-8519798. Email: [email protected] [email protected] August 18 - 24, 2007 CLASSIFIEDS PHUKET GAZETTE 41 Property Gazette

LUXURY BEAUTIFUL HOUSE LAND AT SAI YUAN 3-BEDROOM HOUSE FOR SALE

Sea view over Rawai Beach Thalang/Ton Sai water- with private access. Nor Sor fall area. Luxurious 3 bed- Sam Kor. 7-3-81 rai at 6.5 rooms, all with aircon and million baht per rai. Contact en-suite bathrooms, spa- Tel: 081-5384989. Email: cious living/dining rooms, [email protected] swimming pool, beautifully landscaped, fully furnished, 58 RAI ADSL, UBC, phone. Off the 51.47sqm, in Chanakran BEACHFRONT LAND beaten track (not a housing Property Village, 3 bed- On Koh Yao island. Chanote. development). 1,600sqm rooms, 3 bathrooms. Be- Half the land is flat with 300 of land, 10 mins to BIS, air- hind TOT Public Co Ltd meters of beach front and be- port, 15 mins to Central. (Chalong). The house is un- hind a calm river crossing. Ideal 6 RAI IN KAMALA Tel: 076-321062, 086- LUXURY VILLAS 3-STORY HOUSE der construction and will for yacht pier. The rest of the FOR SALE 8194373. Email: cswift1 be ready within one month. land has a little slope with nice @swift-mail.com For fur- Price: 3.9 million baht. sea view. Thai owner. Price: ther details, please visit Please call for more de- 3.5 million baht per rai. Contact our website at http:// tails. Tel: 081-9562406. Sakorn. Tel: 087-6050365. www.swift-images.com/ Email: tim.kamalaparadise phukethome/ LAND INVESTMENT @hotmail.com 30 rai full of palm trees in Close to Laguna. Best ne- Nice land with sea view and Kapong, Phang Nga. Priced LEAM SORE LAND Land for sale. South side of gotiable price. Brand new. good road access. Chanote KARON LAND at only 120,000 baht per rai. Samui. Plots range from 0.5 1,100sqm land, 4 bed- title. Thai owner. 6 million FOR SALE Financing available. Email: rai plots to 2.5 rai plots. The rooms, pool, lotus pond & baht per rai. For more info, [email protected] land is situated in a great and garden. Contact K.Gai. please contact Sakorn at up-and-coming area. Gov- Tel: 081-7344324. For Tel: 087-6050365. Email: PATONG CENTER ernment electric, 100m con- more info, please visit our tim.kamalaparadise@ HOTEL crete road. Last few years website: www.phuket hotmail.com for sale. 1 year old, proven many houses and flats have greenlandvillas.com 405sqm, fully furnished, 3 success. 18 rooms. 60 mil- been built in this area. Out of bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, lion baht. Tel: 085-7839062, the 20 rai sub-divided, more aircon, garage for 2 cars. ABSOLUTE BEST 15 million baht per rai, 086-2767510. than seventy percent have Good location for your busi- BEACHFRONT Chanote, hillside, pan- been sold in the last year HOUSE FOR SALE ness. For info, contact Tel: Land and villas for sale at the oramic sea view, quiet 2 BEACHHOUSES alone. ½ rai plots from New 2-story house with 089-8742960. Email: best prices in Thailand. Email: area. Please contact for FOR SALE 800,000 baht. 1.5 plots: 1.4 open-plan kitchen, dining [email protected] [email protected] For info, additional information. Kamala: 15 million baht. million baht. 2.5 plots: 3 room, living room plus 2 please visit our website: Tel: 081-5597456. Email: Rawai Beach: 29.5 million seperate living rooms, 4 http://www.thaisunshine millon baht. All of this land is LAND IN KAMALA [email protected] baht. Both are ready to move of great value. Chanote title bedrooms, 3 en-suite bath- developments.com All with Chanote. 5.5 rai in the in. Contact Marc at Tel: 085- for all. A great investment rooms, laundry room, big most exclusive area near Ka- 7839062. for the right person. Contact verandas, 2 carparks. Cha- mala center on flat land: 8.5 K.Roy. Tel: 084-8519798. long area. Call Frank. Tel: BEACHFRONT million baht per rai. Also, 6 rai LUXURY VILLA Email: [email protected] 086-6831964. SEAVIEW LAND 4.5 RAI with good sea view: 6 million AT KATA HILL 25 rai of fantastic beachfront LAND FOR SALE baht per rai. 20 rai with best sea Set in the exclusive gated land. 5-200 rai sea view plots Prime location in Trang off RAWAI LAND estate of Beverly Hills, this PROPERTIES FOR SALE view in Kamala: 6 million baht in Patong and all over Phuket. main road & near university. 3.25 rai development site per rai. Tel: 086-2742308. villa comes with a pool, 3-5 Price: 14 million baht. Also, 2 Condos, apartments, and Tel: 081-5395454. Fax: 076- for condo, etc. Good sea view Email: [email protected] bedrooms, modern Western- 260311. Email: mk@phuket- rai at same location. Price: from 2nd floor, power on the townhouses. From 3.7 mil- style kitchen, etc. Show no1.com For further details, 7.5 million baht. Please con- block. 6 meters from road. lion baht. Tel: 087-2650118. house is now open. Only one please see our website at tact for specific details at 5.5 million baht per rai. Tel: For more information and BEACHFRONT HOUSE villa left with completion due http://www.phuket-no1.com Tel: 089-6513479. 081-0825707. photos, email: ant_p_clark@ at Kamala. 2 bedrooms, 2 in September. Price: 15 mil- yahoo.co.uk, or visit our stories. Only one left. Price: lion baht. Contact Tel: 084- website at http://houses 15 million baht. Contact Tel: 0639223, 081-7888280. 25% Discount on Classifieds for Shopper Card Holders forsalephuket.blogspot.com/ 085-7839062. IF YOU... Place your ad in these pages; Present your Shopper Card; and Pay for the ad at our offices, you’ll enjoy a 25% discount* AND have your ad appear free of charge in the Phuket Gazette Online.

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*Ads may be submitted in person or online (phuketgazette.net/classifieds), but must be paid for at the Gazette offices. The discount is not available when payment is made at our agents. The Phuket Gazette Co Ltd 367/2 Yaowarat Road, Phuket City Tel: 076-236555 Fax: 076-213971 42 PHUKET GAZETTE CLASSIFIEDS August 18 - 24, 2007 Property Gazette

1 RAI ON KAMALA PATONG TOWER 2 BEDROOM HOUSE FOR SALE Properties For Rent BEACH ROAD SEA VIEW DELUXE APT IN SAI YUAN NEW CHALONG HOME Furnished, 2-bedroom home KATHU HOUSE for rent with telephone, UBC, and aircon. Contact for details and pricing information. Tel: 089-6521473. Private sale. Located in Bang Good for hotel, apartment Offered at 6.5 million baht. Single house built in mod- Tao Beach area, 2 bed- PALM GARDEN or resort. Chanote title on Furnished, 1-bedroom, 1- rooms, 1 bathroom at Club ern style and designed 76% of the land. Thai bathroom condo on the with European conve- New 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom Lersuang. 120sqm includ- 3-bedrooms (2 w/aircon), owner. Price: 36 million 15th floor with full-length nience, features 2 spa- in Thalang gated community. ing 10sqm balcony. Second den/study, 2.5 bathrooms, baht. Contact Sakorn at balcony, ready to move in, cious bedrooms with air 24-hr security, swimming floor, secluded, secure storage room, washing ma- Tel: 087-6050365. Email: great condition. Quiet loca- conditioning, 2 en-suite pool, furnished, cable, phone lease structure. 7,500 baht chine, UBC, DSL, 15 min- tim.kamalaparadise@ tion in the heart of town. bathrooms, living room line. 13,000 per month. Tel: per month management fee utes to BIS and Patong, 2 hotmail.com Elevated, unobstructed furniture, well-equipped 081-8928208. includes gym membership, minutes to Central. Fully fur- panoramic sea view, 100 kitchen, large garden and ADSL connection, 24-hour nished. 18,000 baht per meters from Patong surrounded by wall and security, fully furnished & month. Contact for more Beach, shops, dining and gate. Parking space for PATONG RENTALS REPOSSESSION much more. Very good AVAILABLE information. Tel: 076-321- SALE-APARTMENT banking just steps away. rental returns. Price: 6.5 car is available. Ideal for A number of listings that 062, 086-8194373. Email: Pool, indoor parking, 24-hr million baht. Tel: 076- those seeking privacy Beautiful new 1-bedroom may appeal to you. Prices [email protected] th security and reception. A 270750, 081-7370722. and solitude lifestyle. apartment on 5 floor over- starting from 15,000 baht rare chance to secure a Fax: 076-270751. For more Facilities include: looking Kata Beach. 5-star per month. Contact Tel: one-of-a-kind location. details, visit our website: APARTMENT hotel service, including pool, - Air conditioning 081-7196088 (English) Tel: 087-2761225. Email: www.phuketvillarentals. FOR RENT gym and international bis- - 2 bedrooms or 089-6498703 (Thai). [email protected] com/clublersuang_d54/ New apartment with swim- tro. Was 5.9 million baht, - Living room space Website: www.garden now reduced to 4.9 million index.php ming pool and security - Bathroom with bathtub islandphuket.com baht. Tel: 084-0639223, KATHU HOUSE NOW guard. From 18,000 baht & shower 081-7888280. ONLY 3.2 MILLION KATHU HOUSE per month. Call for more Nice 2-story house with 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, - Swimming pool PHUKET CITY CENTER info. Tel: 081-9685963. open ground floor, European lounge, dining room, big kitch- - Furniture 250sqm, all renovated perfect Email: [email protected] LAND FOR SALE kitchen with ceramic cook- en, corner house. Firm price: - Tablewares, cutlery for a gift shop, art gallery or 8 rai coconut farm near Tapee MODERN HOUSES, ing plate, dining, living, bath- 1.55 million baht. Tel: 085- - Oven design furniture shop. Located River in Surat Thani. 80m room, storeroom, terrace 4733409. in the heritage area of Phuket. QUIET LOCATION wide. Electricity and water. and balcony. The upper floor - Electric hot plates Tel: 081-8924885. Contact: 2 houses in Nai Harn for long- Price: 4.5 million baht. Con- has 2 bedrooms with bal- URGENT SALE - Water storage tank [email protected] term rent only. 2 bedrooms, en- tact for more information. cony, 1 aircon, bathroom. Khao Lak. Bang Niang bunga- - Garden suite bathroom, UBC, ADSL, alarm, full aircon, ceiling fans, Tel: 089-0927697. Email: Garden around the house, low-apartment resort. 8 bunga- - 80sq wah parking space SPACIOUS HOME big terrace, tropical garden, [email protected] carport. Fully furnished. 4 lows with 2 rooms and 2 bun- Beautiful view, 4 bedrooms, Price: 5.5 million baht fenced in, small pets allowed, mins to Big C and Lotus. Big galows with 3 rooms. 6m x 4 bathrooms, pool, aircon. Please contact Miss Kob. garage w/ 100sqm storage. 5 RAWAI LAND house, small price. Only 3.2 12m swimming pool. Sauna, Long term. Price: 60,000 Tel: 081-2733303. Email: minutes to the beach, beautiful Chanote, 1,446sqm. Flat, million baht or best offer. Jacuzzi, restaurant. All rooms baht per month. Tel: 086- [email protected] view. Only 25,000 baht per square plot. Mountain, wood- Email: [email protected] For with aircon, color TV, DVD 2817605. Email: nigelnpixie@ month. Tel: 089-8744050. land aspects in residential additional details, please player and ADSL. Parking avail- yahoo.com.au area. 3.5 million baht ono. visit our website: http:// able. 9 million baht. Tel: 076- APARTMENT BUILDING Email: [email protected] Tel: 081-6910391. Email: home.planet.nl/~duang000/ 346065, 081-8914844. Email: Profitable business, return- [email protected] house.htm [email protected] ing a healthy 12% yield. KARON STUDIO PALAI, GREENHOUSE Apartment building, consist- APARTMENT AND BIG GARDEN ing of 21 studios, manager's New, luxury rooms. Good Fully furnished, 2 aircons, cottage, mini mart and other price & 5 mins to Karon associated businesses. Cur- 2 bedrooms, hot shower, Beach. 5-rooms, ADSL. living room, kitchen, gar- rently trading at 75% occu- From 550 baht per day, pancy. A great business age. Price: 11,000 baht 9,000 baht per month. per month. Palai area. with scope to expand profits Tel: 076-398436-7, 086- further. Tel: 087-9484300. Contact for more informa- 5945121, 089-7247148. tion. Tel: 081-8924311. Email: grants.construction@ www.karonstudio.com gmail.com BEACHFRONT HOUSE LAND IN RAWAI SEAVIEW HILLSIDE for rent. 1-4 bedrooms. Con- 1rai 43 talang wah. Secluded APARTMENT tact for specific details. Tel: high-end hillside plot. Private 5-star seaview studio apart- 076-381181, 076-381189. access. Superb location. ment with swimming pool Chanote. 4.6 million baht. Tel: near Lotus. Daily, monthly, or 2-BEDROOM NAI 076-521005, 085-7827551. yearly rates available. Only HARN VILLA 12 units in apartment. Yearly 24,000 baht per month. 1- rate: 12,500 to 44,500 baht. BANG TAO SEAVIEW year rental. For details, call Tel: 081-8779292. Email: Tel: 081-3709661. LAND PLOTS [email protected] For Approx 1,000sqm, fantastic further details, please visit sea view, ready to build, 3 3-BEDROOM HOUSE our website at http://www. 3 aircons, fully furnished, Eu- million baht and up. Contact to gracegardensphuket.com view. Email: bannuaton@ ropean kitchen. Long-term yahoo.com rent: 12,000 baht. Tel: 081- 4-BEDROOM VIP 3705956. KATHU VILLA RAWAI POOL VILLA for rent. Pool, aircon, maid. New resort of 6 villas for POOL VILLA 4km to BIS school. Lake, golf sale. 4.5 million baht each. FOR RENT & valley views, quiet on pri- Tel: 086-9408914. Email: Bang Tao, new building, 3 vate hill, 1-year rent: 65,000 [email protected] bedrooms, big living room, baht per month. Contact Noi. 2 car parks, 2 stories. Call Tel: 087-2698492. Tel: 084-8516121. RAWAI POOL VILLA 2 bedrooms, 150sqm, fur- KAMALA LUXURY VILLA nished, ready to move in. APARTMENT FOR RENT Price: 4.3 million baht. Long-term, 1-year rent: in Patong. 3 bedrooms, 3 bath- Please contact for more 10,000 baht per month. Wi-Fi, rooms, pool and spa. Avail- information. Tel: 085- other amenities. 150m to the able August 26. 60,000 baht 7839062. beach. Tel: 081-7193962. per month. Contact K. Yeun. Email: [email protected] Tel: 087-8950362. August 18 - 24, 2007 CLASSIFIEDS PHUKET GAZETTE 43 Property Gazette

HOUSE FOR RENT RAWAI/NAI HARN TROPICAL VILLA HOUSE FOR RENT HOUSE FOR RENT HOUSE FOR RENT Private, relaxed, 2 bedrooms IN CHALONG w/ aircon, large living and din- ing area, large balcony over- looking bay. Furnished, 24" TV, cooker, refrigerator, microwave, grill, rice cooker, utensils. Long-term rent: 14,700 baht per month. New, large, luxury house for near Rawai Beach. 2 bed- 2-story furnished house, 3 From Heroines Monument, Please contact Tel: 076-200- rent. Large swimming pool, rooms, 2 bathrooms, Euro- bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 1km to Paklok. New single Fully-furnished house for 440, 083-5046565. Email: garden, 5 bedrooms, 6 bath- pean kitchen, aircons, UBC 2km from Lotus on the way house, 3 bedrooms, 2 bath- rent in Chalong. 3 bedrooms, [email protected] rooms, big sala. Minimum TV, telephone, furnished, to Patong. Located in safe rooms, furnished, 60sq wah. 2 bathrooms and 2 aircons. 1-year lease: 75,000 baht private pool and garden and ville. Tel: 089-6458463. 16,000 baht per month. The house is 2 years old, set HOUSE FOR RENT OR per month. 30-year lease: fully maintained. Minimum Tel: 086-6900626. Email: in the quiet and beautiful FOR SALE 18 million baht. Contact Tel: 6-month lease: 35,000 [email protected] Baan Maneekram Estate. We currently have 2 houses 081-3971835. baht per month. Tel: 087- STUNNING SEAVIEWS The home comes with its available. For more details, call 2810452, 087-8931180. Colonial mansion set in gar- own private garden, TV, Tel: 089-4740222. Email: dens with amazing views in HOUSE FOR RENT 4-STORY BUILDING DVD, fridge, microwave, [email protected] every direction. Recently re- washing machine, telephone Website: http://www.the Fully furnished, 3 bedrooms, 2 BEACHFRONT HOUSE stored to high standard. 3 for rent. 6 bedrooms, oppo- bathrooms, aircon, cable TV, line & internet access, etc. hoteldeals.com/photos/ with a wonderfully unique, large bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, site Tesco Lotus. Please ADSL. 18,000 baht per month. Rent is 15,000 baht per breathtaking panoramic furnished, swimming pool. In contact for more details. Contact for more information. month, with a minimum 6- BUILDING FOR RENT seaview. 2 stories, 220sqm, Cape Yamu area, central east Tel: 089-4743575, 085- Tel: 089-9732917. Email: month contract. For more 3-story shophouse for rent on fully furnished, telephone, coast. 10 mins to BIS. No 9095191, 089-4744839. [email protected] details, please email Marc Soi Bangla in Patong. Contact ADSL, sat TV, cold + hot dogs. 80,000 baht per month. Husted or call Chris after 7 for information. Tel: 081- water, only 20 meters to the Tel: 086-2796283. RAWAI BEACH PATONG 2-BEDROOM pm. Tel: 087-8874659. 7875121, 089-5929908. beach, located in a very nice APARTMENT Email: marc_husted@ STUDIO and quiet area (dead end Furnished, kitchen, ADSL, UBC, BEACHFRONT CONDO Large, fully furnished, close to yahoo.com lane). Yacht owner has pos- Kalim Patong, high standard. PATONG aircon. Price: 4,500 baht per Bangla Rd, aircon. Price: sibility to moor the yacht di- fully furnished, 2 bedrooms, APARTMENT month. Contact Khun Noki. 25,000 baht per month. Con- rectly in front of the building. kitchen, pool, many facilities. STUDIO APARTMENT 300m to the beach, clean, Tel: 086-6865567. tact Tel: 087-8817600. Master bedroom: 58sqm For more details, please call W/ INTERNET modern decor, aircon, pool, Modern apartment off Nanai with seaview, Jacuzzi, ward- Tel: 081-8920038. CHALONG COUNTRY fridge, double bed, parking. CHALONG HOUSE robe, bathroom, shower, Rd. Fully furnished including Tel: 081-0825707. Visit our for rent in Land & Houses. HOMES TV, DVD, large fridge, hot toilet and a 40sqm terrace KATA HILL HOUSE Single house for lease: 2 website: www.phuket- 3 bedrooms, fully furnished, next to pool. 2 kingsize bed- water, fan, aircon and kitch- accommodation.info aircon, TV, UBC. Tel: 081- FOR RENT floors, 4 airconditioned bed- enette. From 7,500 baht per rooms, living room, dining My village has 2 houses avail- rooms with bathrooms w/ 9560241, 089-4740645. room, kitchen, storage, 1 month. Internet an option. able. First: 2 bedrooms, 2 bath- hot water, living and dining Tel: 087-2650652. Email: bathroom with shower and rooms, 18,000 baht per month. areas, European kitchen. THE ONE B.L. APARTMENT toilet, guest toilet, 33sqm [email protected] New in Kathu. Big rooms, 1 Second: 1 bedroom, 1 bath- Fully furnished, phone/fax. AND ONLY terrace (15sqm under roof). Beachfront house directly bedroom, 1 living room, room, 9,500 baht per month. Please make an offer. Avail- Private 7m x 4m pool, 4 HOME FOR RENT/SALE on Kamala Beach. Available aircon, cable TV, ADSL, hot Both houses: living and dining able immediately. Email: aircons, parking space. Located on quiet, private es- now. Newly decorated, 2 shower, garden, car park. areas, kitchen and fully fur- [email protected] Asking price: 89,000 baht tate by Central Phuket. 3 bed- bedrooms w/ aircon, 2 bath- Price: 8,000 baht per month. nished. Located on Soi Patak 4. per month. Minimum 1-year rooms, 3 bathrooms, hot/cold rooms, open plan, fully fur- Contact for more information. 5 minutes to Kata Beach. Tel: VILLA FOR RENT lease. Call K. Bhatayanond. shower, 5 aircons, Western nished, ceiling fans through- Tel: 081-6923163. 076-216036, 081-6062827. Beautiful boutique villas with Tel: 081-2596052. Email: Email: [email protected] kitchen, fully equipped and out & ocean breezes offer a [email protected] private pool, 2 or 3 bedrooms furnished, laundry, office, available on daily, weekly, or fresh-air alternative. Dining CHALONG ADSL, UBC, 24-hr security, 2 sala, huge upper sundeck. SHOPHOUSE SHOPHOUSE BLOCK monthly basis. Contact Tel: car parks. Tel: 085-3449976. PATONG SEAVIEW 5 terraced houses for rent on 076-282394, 086-0043008. Western kitchen w/ameni- This new 3-story shophouse Email: [email protected] ties. 200sqm of privacy. is available for long-term APARTMENT the bypass road. 35,000 baht Email: [email protected] 2-bedroom apartment with per month. Please contact K. Aug-Nov: 50,000 baht per lease. Ideal for home office/ month; Dec-Feb: 85,000 shop accommodation. Inquir- kitchen, aircon, UBC, swim- Vachira. Tel: 081-3269495. SECLUDED VILLA ming pool, quiet location. BRAND NEW baht per month; 6 months: ies at Tel: 089-6521473. One of three sharing a beautiful PATONG CONDO 55,000; 12 months: 50,000 20,000 baht per month. Tel: HOUSE AND CONDO swimming pool and tropical gar- 086-2790837. Beautiful 1-bedroom condo baht per month. Price ex- PANWA BEACH Rawai location, 2 stories, 8 den near Rawai Beach. 2 bed- in best location, quiet. Sea cludes utilities, UBC, ADSL. HOUSE rooms, aircons, 170sqm, ideal rooms, full aircon, furnished, and hill views, all amenities. Includes cleaner, gardener. 2 rooms, nice terrace. For RAWAI FLAT for 2 families. Long-term rent: UBC, TV, telephone. Minimum Long-term rent. Call for de- 3-month minimum booking. rent in September or for long for rent. 2 bedrooms, 2 bath- 2,800 baht per month. Condo 6-month lease. Price: 25,000 tails. Tel: 081-9701479. Tel: 081-8943839. Email: term: 12,000 baht per month. rooms, Internet, cable TV, fully with aircon. Rent: 5,000 baht baht per month. Tel: 087- Email: [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 081-2717071. furnished. Tel: 081-6067410. per month. Tel: 084-4454614. 2810452, 087-8931180.

Agents for Classified Advertising

PHUKET K.L. Mart Tel: 076-280400/3 Patak Rd, Chalong Fax: 076-280403

Earth Language School Tel: 076-232398/9 Phang Nga Rd, Phuket City Fax: 076-232398

Sin & Lee Tel: 076-258369 Thalang Rd, Phuket City Fax: 076-211230

Taurus Travel Tel: 076-344521/2 Aroonsom Plaza Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, Patong Fax: 076-344523

41 Minimart Tel/Fax: 076-324312 Srisoontorn Rd, Cherng Talay

Deli Supermarket Tel: 076-342275 Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, Patong Fax: 076-344314 44 PHUKET GAZETTE CLASSIFIEDS August 18 - 24, 2007 Property Gazette

ALL AROUND PATONG LUXURY Property RENTAL HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE PATONG apartments. Located in central Building I'm looking for a house in a For your cleaning problems APARTMENTS & Patong, 1 or 2 bedrooms. For Products Wanted quiet location with Internet call Spick N' Span professional ROOMS information and photos, call access in Kata, Karon, Nai cleaning service for your Monthly: 8,000-25,000 Tel: 076-341827, or email: & Services Thon or Nai Yang. Needed house, office, hotel, apart- baht. Daily: 600-1,200 baht. [email protected] from December 2007 until ment or condo for daily, Contact receptionist. Tel: LONG-TERM March 2008. Maximum weekly or monthly services at 076-512151-2. Website: RENTAL WANTED CHALONG ROOM payment per month: 30,000 affordable prices. Tel: 076- www.brommathaihouse.com Hot water, aircon, TV, DVD, The Stone Doctor Retired British couple pres- baht. Please contact me 280801, 084-0581217. Fax: Wi-Fi and fridge. 5,500 per ently living in Phuket require with details and photos. 076-281067.Email: legalinside SMALL SAIYUAN PLOT month. Tel: 089-4727304. Specialist in European stone- a 2- to 3-bedroom spacious Email: [email protected] [email protected] care products and services: villa or apartment with 13 plots in Saiyuan. Only pool, all in secure environ- 400,000 baht per 27sq ALLAMANDA • Restoration LAND WANTED NO JOB TOO BIG Cherng Talay duplex apart- • Sealing/Protection ment. Internet and cable TV or too small. Looking for some- wah. Please contact for Cash buyer would like to pur- ments, 1-2 bedrooms, 80- • Maintenance required. Must be of high one to take care of your home more details. Tel: 076- chase around 2 rai of seaview 135sqm, 6-13.5 million baht. All your maintenance, standard and well present- when you're here or away? 381755, 083-3888076. land, preferably sea and island Short- or long-term rent. protection & cleaning needs ed. Your property will be Need someone for odd-job Fax: 076-381755. Email: views, on the northeast coast Please contact Tel: 081-802- for natural and manufactured very well taken care of! work? Need someone to clean [email protected] of Phuket. Land must have 2131. Email: nprateepasen@ stone. Contact via email: phuket the house? Tel: 076-282485, [email protected] electricity and good access yahoo.com • Marble • Sandwash road. Should not be overlooked 089-5878173. Email: info@ • Granite • Terracotta phuketLP.com VERY PRIVATE and should be suitable for build- VILLA • Slate • Terrazzo ing a house. Immediate decision PATONG • Sandstone • Ceramics, etc PATONG TOWER and payment offered for right Walled, good-sized garden JUST ASK ME with pool and electronic en- GUESTHOUSE Prevent: rust, stains, mildew, condo with a sea view. plot. Prefer details by email. algae, scratches what kind of property you try. 2 double bedrooms, one Newly renovated mini-suite Keen buyer ready to pur- Tel: 086-9446288. Email: Remove: builders’ residue, want to buy and I'll find it for single, study room, 3 bath- with kingsize bed, aircon, incorrect sealants, rust, stains, chase. Please contact if [email protected] you. Contact Marc Tel: rooms, aircon in all rooms. bath, cable and security. Util- mildew, etc. Daily care & cleaning you have one available for 085-7839062.Email: Fully furnished. Telephone & ities included. Lawan Resi- products also available. sale. Tel: 084-4471978. RESTAURANT [email protected] UBC. Available until mid- dence, 191/3 Rat-U-Thit Rd Tel: 087-2824930, 076-271217 Email: diggerresort@ WANTED October. Contact Tel: 076- (behind The Gym and across Fax: 076-271218 hotmail.com for rent. Guesthouse or room 200923, 081-8452160. from Water World Asia), just Email: [email protected] for open restaurant only. Accommodation Fax: 076-200924. Email: 2 minutes from Jungceylon. Patong beach road around KARON BUILDING PLOT Available [email protected] Great value. Must see! Price central Patong area. Please 6,000 baht per month. Call We want to purchase a build- contact for more information. Tel: 085-7932477. Email: ing plot in or around Karon or Tel: 084-8448353. [email protected] Kata suitable for one small Household house or bungalow. 200 to Items 400sqm plot size ideal. Must KATA SMALL LAND have Chanote, electricity, Property PLOT FOR SALE water and telephone avail- Services 244sqm land in the center of able. Owners only. Please Kata for sale. Contact Tel: TEAK GARDEN email with your complete 076-381755, 083-3888076. furniture. Eight lounger-style details. We will reply to all Fax: 076-381755. Email: chairs with 4 accompanying responses. Email: ken.devitt@ HANDYMAN [email protected] side tables. Very comfort- btopenworld.com SERVICES able. 24,000 baht. Tel: 076- Installation, repair & main- 381515, 087-2632294. tenance of electrical, plumb- ROOMS WITH POOL, Email: satmanmarcinfo@ LAND WANTED ing and boiling systems. WI-FI, ETC yahoo.com Realistic long- or short-term Suitable to build house, quiet Painting & pool cleaning. rates. Free wireless Internet, area with trees, prefer sea Reasonable prices. Contact swimming pool, bar, etc. Tel: view, near electricity/water, for more details. Tel: 086- 076-292907. Fax: 076-344- access to road, proof of own- 9487489 (Thai), 081- Household 608. Email: info@club-coconut- ership. Will pay up to 1.5 mill- 5384989 (Eng). Email: Services resort.info Visit our website: ion baht. Please contact [email protected] David at Tel: 085-7908241. www.phukets.info/ccr.html PHUKET HOME BEACH FRONT HOTEL PATONG 2-BEDROOM maintenance, construction, Low season, long-stay pro- apartment large, fully fur- renovation, electricians, plumb- Classified Advertisements motion, pool, spa, free Wi-Fi, nished, close to Bangla Rd, ers, carpenters, painters, tilers, Please use this form to write your classified advertisement. 18,000 baht per month. Con- aircon. 25,000 baht per month. gardeners, aircon servicing tact for more information. Tel: Contact for more details at and electrical repairs. Contact Then hand it to any of our agents. 081-8920038. Tel: 087-8817600. K. Rin at Tel: 084-1935124.

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|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_|_| Classified ads are charged per line. Each line is 95 baht, with a minimum of 4 lines (heading included) per ad. All advertising must be paid for in advance. Deadline for Property Gazette page: Friday 3 pm. Deadline for all other ads: Saturday 12 noon. August 18 - 24, 2007 CLASSIFIEDS PHUKET GAZETTE 45 Boats & Marine

CROWTHER 9M CATAMARAN CATAMARAN for sale. No engine, no mast YACHT 17.4-meter Crowther high- and no sails. Price: 270,000 AND CHARTER performance cruising catama- baht. Call for more informa- BUSINESS ran. Built in 1992 with foam tion. Tel: 087-8919620. Well-established yacht core and epoxy. Ready to charter business featuring cruise the world. US$550,000. lovely 60ft Ketch, based in Tel: 086-4707812, 081-837 INDONESIAN BOAT Phuket. 4 guest cabins 5774. Fax: 086-4707812. For Thai-registered wooden boat sleeping 8 pax, 1 large crew further details, please see our for sale or rent. 65ft long, cabin, 2 shower/heads, 2 website: www.katani2.com 18ft wide, 30 tons. Email: generators, dive compres- [email protected] or sor, 2 kayaks, tender, and NEW FISHING BOAT [email protected] much more. High-traffic Take a look at our Gazette- website included. Bookings homepage banner 'Boating & for 2007/2008 season al- Fishing Help' for info. Email: ready placed. Turnkey busi- [email protected] DIVE & FISHING ness, ready to sail. Owner BOAT retiring, but full handover 17.5-METER Teakwood, 42ft, Hino 160, support available. Price: 6.5 diving boat. For sale or char- nicely furnished, fish-finder, million baht. Contact us for ter, width 4.5m. Diesel en- rack for 14 tanks, awning, full details. Email: tropical. gine, 320hp generator at licensed 13+2. Price: [email protected] 20kW. 30 person capacity. 850,000 baht. Please con- Great buy. Price: 950,000 tact for more information. baht. Call for more informa- Tel: 087-2841071 SAILBOAT tion. Tel: 081-9680571. (English), 1968 ISLANDER 089-9711292 (Thai). for sale. 44ft world cruiser, 17' BOSTON WHALER Email: julie2606asia@ lying in Yacht Haven Ma- 17-foot (5.18m), center con- yahoo.com.au rina. US$50,000. Email: sole, fiberglass with 90hp [email protected] Mercury outboard and trailer, 1 year old, very clean. Price: 63-FT LUXURY 550,000 baht. Please con- power cruiser. Fully equipped, FERRY FOR SALE tact for more information. water maker, aircon, GPS, ra- Length: 30m. Gross: 322 Tel: 076-248120. Email: dar, life jackets, tender, full gal- tons. 244 passengers. [email protected]. ley, bedding, towels, plus much 12.2 million baht. Please Specs for Montauk 170 avail- more. All for a very low price. contact dock in Phuket. able by visiting out website: Must be seen. Tel: 081-939- Tel: 081-4084991. http://www.whaler.com 0176. Email: [email protected] 46 PHUKET GAZETTE CLASSIFIEDS August 18 - 24, 2007 Island Job Mart

SECRETARY WANTED SECRETARY/ with flexible schedule, per- ASSISTANT TO GM fect English skills and project Foreign GM requires single sales experience. Tel: 081- Thai person to assist in the 5376866. Send CV to: info@ running of a residential condo- platinumresidencepark.com minium property. Account- ing work (petty cash, ac- counts payable, payroll taxa- tion). Thai-English translation. General secretarial work, knowledge of Microsoft Of- fice (Word, Excel). Liaising with owners, tenants and staff. Previous experience essential. Tel: 076-344350, 087-2646354. Fax: 076- 344350. Email: brendon@ kalimresidence.com

CHALLENGING MODEL CASTING Challenging model casting for 3- to 13-year-old boys and girls, Western-mixed Thai and Thai at MyClip Studios. Please contact K. Varintara. Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm. Tel: 076-380610, 081-7370623. Fax: 076- 380612. For details, please visit our website: http:// www.myclipstudios.com ENGLISH TEACHERS COMPUTER FULL-TIME urgently required. Qualified KINDERGARTEN CONSULATE TEACHER NEEDED COOK/CREW TEACHER SECRETARY ADMINISTRATOR English teachers to teach at Computer teachers need ur- Full-time position for an ex- local schools in Phang Nga. Full time. Fluent English and wanted. Thai university wanted with good English gently for local primary perienced Thai cook/crew Salary and work permit will experience is a must. Thai graduate with excellent skills, aged 18-25, single and schools in Phang Nga. Thai for charter-luxury motor be provided. Please contact national OK. Please con- written and spoken English. must have driver's license. nationals only. Tel: 076- yacht. Contact for details. for additional information. tact at Tel: 076-225942, Computer literate. Able to Also, teacher for children. 263926, 081-5925260. Tel: 084-8381866. Email: Tel: 076-263926, 081-592- 081-8951131. Send CV to start immediately. Please Please contact for additional Fax: 076-486636. Email: pmgyachtservices@ 5260. Fax: 076-486636. email: edouardfam@ contact for interview. Tel: details. Tel:076-239209, [email protected] gmail.com Email: [email protected] access.inet.co.th 076-281084. 084-1885828.

Looking for a job? Still haven’t found the perfect candidate? Find more Recruitment Classifieds at www.phuketgazette.net! August 18 - 24, 2007 CLASSIFIEDS PHUKET GAZETTE 47 Island Job Mart

ADMIN ASSISTANT Thai national with excellent English skills, able to translate English/Thai, responsible and self-motivated, computer lit- erate, have driver's license and able to travel within Thailand. Please contact for additional information at Tel: 076-263926, 081-592 5260. Fax: 076-486636. Email: [email protected]

BUNGALOW RESORT ALL POSITIONS * Restaurant manager * Receptionist * Cook * Waiter/waitress * Cashier * Maid * Beach boy/girl * Trainees and more... You should be motivated, service-minded, with pleas- ant personality, an energetic individual, have minimum of 2 years' experience and good command of English. Please email your resume, expected salary and recent photo to: pia@phuket- bangtaolagoon.com

2 THAI CHEFS WANTED Seeking two highly qualified Thai chefs, one expert in Thai cuisine and one in sushi. Must be creative, artistic, and a cu- linary advocate with good ex- perience. Must have the abil- ity to create specials, sug- gest weekly menus,and man- age kitchen, inventory, and food and labor costs. Must also be able to speak English and meet requirements in sanitation and food handling. Job is located in new, upscale Asian restaurant in Casa- blanca, Morocco. Travel ticket, contract, housing and excellent salary and bene- fits are offered to the right candidate. Please send your CV and contact details to email: rlabriny@moroccan restaurant.com

SERVICE MANAGER PCS require a service man- ager for a rapidly expanding cleaning division. Preferred applicants are female, aged 27 or over, possess an appropri- ate degree and have house- keeping or F&B management experience. Positions available in Phuket and Koh Samui. Tel: 076-3765579, 081-958 6879. Fax: 076-376560. Email: [email protected]

Gazette Online Classifieds – 10,000 readers every day! 48 PHUKET GAZETTE CLASSIFIEDS August 18 - 24, 2007 Tout, Trader & Trumpet

SPONSOR A NEEDY SIMPLY THE BEST Articles CHILD value in Patong. 12 studio For Sale The Phuket International apartments to be sold. Up- Women's Club is a voluntary market resort. 5 minutes to organization raising funds for beach, Jungceylon, Bangla Rd PIANO FOR SALE educational scholarships. We and use of fantastic facilities. rely on the goodwill of our Great investment opportunity Fazioli, 7-foot acoustic grand donors and sponsors - small at 2.5 million to 2.7 million piano, one user, 5-years old, and large. If you would like baht. Contact Jeff. Tel: 083- great condition, fantastic to put something back into 2807152. sound. New: 3.9 million the community in which you baht. Sell: 2.6 million baht. live, contact us to find out Tel: 02-2461912, 089- SALE OF POST CAFE more about giving a prize or 4888199. Business for sale at 650,000 being a sponsor. Contact baht with ten-year lease. Carol (Tel: 087-4178860 or FRIENDS BAR Rent: 30,000 baht per [email protected]) or FOR SALE month. Please contact for TREK 1000 Sue (Tel: 087-2776948 or Very successful 50-seat bar details. Tel: 087-0261362. RACING BIKE [email protected]). off beach road established Fax: 076-281293. Email: over 20 years. Inside enter- [email protected] Business tainment zone. Current owner for the past 8 years, HIGH INTEREST Opportunities so good repeat business. Earn 10-15% interest per Fully equipped, own music. annum. Invest 200,000 baht SHOP FOR SALE Owners willing to stay for to 1 million baht. Contact for Fully furnished beauty salon up to 6 months to ensure more information. Tel: 086- for quick sale. Good location smooth transition. One time 2878966. Almost new, 24 gears, Dis- on Nanai Rd in Patong. 8- payment 2.5 million baht covery paint, digital moni- month lease remaining, new plus 750,000 for 1st-year CHALONG CAFE/BAR tor and many extras. Excel- 3-year lease available. Fair lease. 50% partnership con- Wholesale & retail. Pies, fish & ONLINE TRAVEL BIZ Business sidered. No monthly rent. lent condition. 20,000 baht. price: 390,000 baht. Please chips, etc. Cheap rent includes Profitable and reputable online Tel: 081-2715311. Email: Products & Tel: 084-8507170. Email: contact for more information accommodation 2+2-year hotel-reservation business for [email protected] [email protected] at Tel: 087-0916382. Email: lease. Loyal staff, all training & sale. Established 2002. In- Services princessfisher538@ recipes. 995,000 baht. A cludes 15 related websites hotmail.com TEACHING OFFICE must see. Tel: 087-0245036. targeting customers globally. BEDROOM SALE for sale the place is ready for Large existing client database. Kingsize concept bed, cup- teaching or to make an office. ONLINE BUSINESS VISA & LEGAL Excellent opportunity for an in- SERVICES board, dressing table, shoes, GUESTHOUSE AND Includes parking. 32sqm, 2 Perfect for an expat. Includes vestor seeking a fully opera- furniture. Tel: 081-0895412. RESTAURANT aircons, telephone and Inter- website and stock, ready to tional online-business system, Located opposite the main net with ADSL. Contact for go, and can be run from any or for an existing company to FENDER AMP entrance from Royal Para- more details. Tel: 076-292- location with Internet access. grow. Serious inquiries only. for guitar. 100W. Great con- dise Hotel. 6 guest rooms, 883, 083-3906709. Email: Owner selling due to other Tel: 081-5375544. Email: dition. New: 20,000 baht. water, shower, aircon, TV. [email protected] commitments. 250,000 baht. [email protected] Sell: 12,000 baht. Call Tel: Luxurious, beautiful res- Contact for more information. 085-7649413. taurant. 14 million baht. BAR FOR SALE Tel: 085-1956522. Email: Tel: 081-8956587, 081- Bangla Rd, long term, estab- [email protected] 8949060. Email: rudolf lished bar with long lease. Call CHALONG [email protected] Tel: 087-2732429. BUSINESS DIVING 5 shophouses with accom- COMPRESSOR BEER BAR FOR SALE/LEASE modation. Includes restau- Coltri-Sub MCMC with BARGAIN BUY rant, beauty shop. Low rent, Company registration 2,229 Honda engine. Portable. INVESTOR WANTED Kata area. Furnished, full Bar/restaurant for sale on well-established business baht; 1-year visa 7,900 baht; 3.5cfm. Price: 80,000 counter, office equipment. for beachfront condo com- Nanai Rd, fully stocked, center, fully equipped. Sell- retirement visa 7,900 baht; baht. Please contact for Great layout. Price: 550,000 plex. Your 8-million-baht in- own soundsystem, large ing everthing cheap due to work permit 7,900 baht; more information. Tel: 089- baht. Contact Khun Nida at vestment will yield a net kitchen, two rooms, pool relocation. Tel: 085-785 UK&US visa 19,999 baht. 0047326. Tel: 081-6590439. return of 50 million baht. table, TV, 3+3-year con- 0074. Email: tonydudley@ No more visa runs, get a Tel: 084-4422510. Email: tract. 800,000 baht. Tel: eznet.co.nz 1-year visa for only 7,900 admin@thaisunshine 085-7973904. EXCELLENT baht. Establish your Thai Bulletins developments.com TOURISM BUSINESS company today to buy land Good office area with a big bed- FRIENDS BAR or start your business for PATONG FOR SALE room and private bathroom. FOR SALE only 2,229 baht. Property NANAI ROAD BAR Well-known go-go bar in a 3- Inventory includes: Very successful 50-seat bar off title search, sales contract Pool table, dartboard, 42" story building with a second - 18 automatic motorbikes, all beach road. Established for over and land registration. Plasma TV, own sound sys- bar on second floor. Owner's new 20 years inside entertainment Thailand's largest legal ser- tem, ready to open. Now bar- apartment on third floor. Tel: zone. Current owner for the - 5 new computers with UPS vice network. Always low gain price: 350,000 baht. 081-0833231. past 8 years so good repeat prices by our licensed Thai - 2 printers Contact for more information. business all year. Fully equip- lawyers. Call Tel: 076- Tel: 084-8520862. RESTAURANT & BAR - big tour counter in front of the ped, own soundsystem. Own- 290376, 076-290487. For sale/lease. Rawai area, fully shop ers willing to stay for next 6 Email: [email protected] equipped, ample customer - big refrigerator months to ensure smooth tran- For additional information, PIZZA RESTAURANT parking. Contact for more in- - 2 air conditioners in the office sition. Key money is 2.5 million please visit our website: plus bar for sale on Nanai formation. Tel: 089-9711038. and 1 in the bedroom baht for new 3-year contract www.siam-legal.com Rd. Ready to open. Now Email: [email protected] plus 750,000 for first year's - 29" TV in office and 21" TV in lease. No monthly rent. Contact bargain, low-season price: bedroom 150,000 baht. Contact Tel: 081-2715311. Email: Tel: 084-8520862. BOUTIQUE - 1 book case, big counter inside [email protected] CHIROPRACTIC the office, big cabinet GUESTHOUSE Dr. Richard Cracknell. - 1 Internet line, 1 office line, 1 Center of Patong, very long BEACH BAR PATONG Tel: 076-330889. INVESTMENT WANTED lease, 1st class. For more fax line for rent on the sand at Patong Investor/partner required for www. info, click on our Gazette- - electricity monitor with bill di- Beach with seating for 100. busy bar on Bangla Rd. 50% homepage banner ‘Boating rectly from the government Prime location. Contract for 31 chiropractic-phuket.com share. Please contact for & Fishing Help’. Email: months. 5.5 million baht. Email: more details. Tel: 087- - 1 small storeroom, 1 closet. [email protected] [email protected] 8947406. All contracts are good to go, just AMAZING DOMAIN need to transfer name. Price: NAMES FOR SALE 2.5 million baht. Contract for RETIREMENT INCOME phuketADSL, phuketjetski, another 4 years and 5 months. Easy-to-learn Forex hedging phuketmotorbikes and many All included, it comes up to strategy yields substantial other sites available. Tel: 089- Need help finding a lawyer? 14,000 baht per month rent. residual income while minimiz- 2350969. Email: lreynolds Free water contact. Tel: 076- ing risk. Watch the video at [email protected] For more www.phuketgazette.net 512037,081-272 9714. Email: our website: www.bluepoint info, please visit our website: [email protected] investments.com www.lfr-asia.com August 18 - 24, 2007 CLASSIFIEDS PHUKET GAZETTE 49 Tout, Trader & Trumpet

2 COMPUTERS SATELLITE 10,000 and 32,000 baht. 2.8 PERSONAL CABLE TV GHz and 4 GHz Dual Core. COMPANION/ True + Multichoice: 3,600 Warranty. Tel: 089-9087350. ASSISTANT baht per year. Movies, Email for details. Email: Retired American business- sports, music, Arabic, Euro- [email protected] man wants to hire an intel- pean and Asian news, etc. ligent, educated female Hotels, condos, apartments. companion/assistant. Good Resort repairs and upgrades Dive Gear compensation for the right are welcome. person. Tel: 321-7777447. Please contact for Fax: 321-7777717. Email: SUNNTO STINGER [email protected] additional details. DIVE COMPUTER Tel: 089-9092387, Excellent condition, 16-month 089-7947078. warranty remaining. Everything Email: ITEMS FOR SALE in box. 17,900 baht. Email: [email protected] Aircon: 16,000 BTU: 8,000 [email protected] baht. 80x80x70cm safe: Website: 7,500 baht. IBM-server X226 www.mpsattv.com with 2x74GB, DAT backup, Miscellaneous Windows server 2003: 25,000 baht. IBM-PC TC-M52 Desk- for Sale COUNSELING top, 3GHz, 80GB, Windows US-trained therapist for XP Pro, 15" LCD: 10,000 baht. adults, couples and children. All items approximately 1 year Please contact via by email: old. Computers never used! Tel: [email protected] 084-8507310. Email: pererik [email protected] ANDAMAN LEGAL Personals ADVISERS Cameras & 26 Hongyok-Utit Rd, Talaad Equipment Yai, Samkong, Phuket. Asso- ciated with Advocates and LADY COMPANION Solicitors Bangkok, Phuket I am an international single and UK. We provide a wide SAMSUNG businessman and have range of high-quality and spe- CAMERA come to live in Phuket. I live cialized legal services to indi- 7.2 megapixels, 2-months- a five-star lifestyle, and I vidual and corporate clients. old. New: 14,000 baht. Sell: Personal would like to meet a lively, - Legal consultations 9,000 baht. Also, Nokia Services intelligent and attractive - Conveyancing and 6020 for only 3,000 baht. lady for companionship. If commercial Please contact for more you are interested please specific details. contact me via email: - Alien business THAI LADY phuketwanderer@ establishment Tel: 086-2767510. gives Thai language lessons. At your home or hers, Wat googlemail.com - Notarial certifications Chalong area. Prepared text - Trademark and patent books and introductory licenses Computers course of 10 lessons. I can BACKGAMMON - Immigration and work permits also give English courses to Retired businessman looking - Court disputes your Thai staff or service for backgammon players in - Wills and Probate personnel. Please call me Phuket. Please contact for for further information. Tel: - Employment contracts more information. 081-7971497. Email: Tel: 076-236124, 02- [email protected] Tel: 081-5778443. 5113264, 081-9377219. Email: Andaman [email protected], ENGLISH LESSONS SWEET LADY for your staff. Thai lady teacher [email protected] European man, financially experienced in teaching staff & Website: stable, looking for honest service personnel. English with www.Haroldstock.com and attractive Thai lady up to specific application to their jobs 30 years old. Please contact and serving your customers. In- via email: phktfrng40@ dividual or group courses with hotmail.com BILINGUAL your business requirement in NURSERY mind. Call me for further infor- Nature Kids Nursery opening mation. Tel: 081-7971497. Pets in September in Mai Khao Email: [email protected] area for children aged 2-5. Contact Michelle for infor- mation. Tel: 081-8936001. TAROT WORKSHOP ENGLISH BULLDOG Sunday session 3 pm - 5 AKC English bulldog pup- pm. September 2. Only 9 pies. Very playful and ac- spaces available. 3,990 tive. Big heads, beautiful baht. Please contact for and loveable. Contact at more information. Tel: 089- Tel: 508-4760291. Email: 6478519. [email protected]

ADVANCED HOSTING SERVICES We are dedicated to providing Take reliable Web-hosting solutions EUROPEAN KITCHENS DESIGN WORLD of the highest quality. All of our me Built-in furniture. Woodwork plans come with a 99.9% up- and 3D model design. specialists, high-quality work- time guarantee. Our focus is home - 3D model for product manship. Contact Realwood on reliability, uptime, and presentation at Tel: 087-9785804. customer support. For further with - Graphic design details, Tel: 076-296443. you! - Web design TEFL TEACHER Fax: 076-296427. Email: Training language school. [email protected] Contact for more information. please visit our website: Tel: 086-7432011. Please visit our website: Soi Dog Foundation Tel: 081-7884222 www.ttt-tefl.com www.gasserweb.com 50 PHUKET GAZETTE CLASSIFIEDS August 18 - 24, 2007 Wheels & Motors

Saloon Cars Pickups

TOYOTA COROLLA CHEVROLET AVEO 1997 MAZDA TOYOTA WISH 2004 FORD RANGER ISUZU D-MAX CAB4 1995 ASTINA 1.8L Open cab, blue, 12,000km, first owner, great condition, CD/VCD, TV. 350,000 baht ono. Tel: 081-5395948.

LOW SEASON DEAL! 1994 Mazda pickup for sale. Only 70,000 baht. Contact 2003. 100,000km, perfect For sale. New condition, Great condition, 55,000km. Tel: 086-1205536. Email: condition, good runner, 3.0L, 1.5L, manual,140,000km. 5,000km, special model, un- One of the nicest cars to drive Price: 790,000 baht. Tel: [email protected] automatic, only one owner. Well-maintained and ser- wanted gift, take over pay- in Phuket. 120,000km, 5- 081-6935169. Price: 470,000 baht. Con- viced, good condition. Price: ments. Please contact Tel: speed, full Mazda service his- tact for more information. 105,000 baht. Must see. 084-0548122. tory. CD player, aircon, electric NISSAN NV 1995 Tel: 087-2709093. Email: [email protected] Tel: 087-2709093. Email: everything. Great power and TOYOTA CAR pickup. 140,000km, blue. [email protected] RED HONDA JAZZ easy to drive. 260,000 baht Price: 150,000 baht. New FOR SALE ono. Tel: 076-270750, 081- engine. Please contact for 70,000km, 3 years old. Price: 737 0722. Fax: 076-270751. details. Tel: 081-4151875, TOYOTA 92 TOYOTA 450,000 baht. Please contact Email: [email protected] 084-6032361. HILUX TIGER CORONA GL Tel: 081-4763242. Email: 2000, low mileage, clean, Manual, 113km, Pioneer CD [email protected] HONDA CIVIC perfect condition, very re- 2006, 2.0L, 25,000km, sil- player, aircon, very good 2006 MITSUBISHI liable. Owner is relocating. condition. Price: 90,000 NISSAN SENTRA ver. Price: 880,000 baht. Asking price: 320,000 Tel: 089-7241140. TRITON baht. Please contact Tel: 1995, 1,600cc. Good cond- 1989, 4-door, manual trans- baht. Tel: 076-281479, 085-2476172. Blue, CD, 18,000km, loaded 087-0190852. Email: ition. Price: 160,000 baht. mission, excellent condition, with extras. Price: 435,000 Call Tel: 081-5775719. DAIHATSU MIRA no rust, new blue book, road [email protected] 2-door, hatchback, very eco- baht or finance. Contact Tel: TOYOTA YARIS tax & insurance paid until nomical, 5-speed, aircon. 085-7959105 (English). New condition, auto., airbags, 2008. Must see this great Price: 110,000 baht. Contact red, 9,000km, MP3, spoilers, MITSUBISHI LANCER deal! Price: 64,000 baht. ISUZU 2003 4-DOOR Michelle for more details at no accidents, 1 year old. Price: 1993, 1.5L, manual, good Contact for details. Tel: 081- TOYOTA MIGHTY X Tel: 087-3811577. Auto., 60,000km, like new 500,000 baht ono. Contact condition, runs great. Price: 7375909. 1994, 4-door, 120,000km, condition. Price: 495,000 Tel: 086-6833964. 160,000 baht. Please call runs excellent, clean interior, baht. Please contact for ad- Tel: 086-7432011. MAZDA 3 FOR SALE great deal. Price: 185,000 ditional details.Tel: 084- TOYOTA COROLLA HONDA CRV 2.0L baht obo. Please contact at Black, 6 months old, CD 2003, black, 72,000km, full 4413633. 1990, great condition, runs Tel: 076-341827. player with 6-disc changer/ service, no accidents, extras, well, very clean. Please call CHEVROLET ZAFIRA mp3, rain sensor, automatic top condition, insurance paid Tel: 087-2816275. 2.2L SPORT FORD RANGER TRITON MEGACAB 2D lights, full options package. for 1 year. Price: 620,000 2006, 2+2, new condition, Only 30,000km, black, new 4-door, 2006, like-new condi- For more details, please call baht. Call for more inform- blue, low kilometers, CD, model, never been damaged. tion, low kilometers, runs Tel: 081-7371687. ation. Tel: 084-8444228. farang owner. Must sell. HONDA ACCORD 830,000 baht (negotiable). great. Must see and drive! Price: 435,000 baht. Contact 3.0L V6 2003 Perfect condition, engine Price: 385,000 baht. Please CHEVROLET contact Tel: 084-4413633. Tel: 085-7959105 (English). Metallic gold, powerful eng- runs great, all checks done BMW 330I ine, 220psi. Good condition. by Chevrolet. Please con- FOR SALE 800,000 baht. Tel: 076-239- tact me via phone or email Optra SS 16, 1 year old, very 31,039km, 1 private owner, good condition, warranty left. immaculate condition. Price: TOYOTA FORTUNER FORD RANGER XLT 820, 081-7373720. Fax: for additional information. Great condition. 50,000km, Price: 495,000 baht. Please 1.5 million baht. Contact K. 2002, 71,000km, diesel 076-239828. Email: chaiya Tel: 081-8512280. Email: 2-years young. Less than contact for detailsTel: 089- Bow or K. Mira for info. Tel: engine, runs great, excel- [email protected] [email protected] 50,000km. 2.7L engine. Dark 2262612. 076-317017-18, 081-894- lent condition. Price: gray. Price: 850,000 baht. 0096, 087-2709750. Email: 270,000 baht. Call Tel: Tel: 086-7866350. Email: [email protected] 086-2812899. Wheels & Motors [email protected] Advertisements

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Classified ads are charged per line. Each line is 95 baht, with a minimum of 4 lines (heading included) per ad. All advertising must be paid for in advance. Deadline for Wheels & Motors page: Saturday 12 noon. Need wheels? Check out www.phuketgazette.net August 18 - 24, 2007 CLASSIFIEDS PHUKET GAZETTE 51 Wheels & Motors

4 x 4s Motorbikes Rentals

MOTORBIKES TOYOTA TIGER ISUZU CAB 4, 4WD FOR SALE SUZUKI HAYABUSA A1 CAR RENTAL P.M.P. CARS 4-DOOR 4WD Yamaha Mio: 23,000 baht. 1,300 GSXR FOR RENT Excellent, impecably main- Nouvo MX: 24,000 baht. Special rate for green season. tained, 2001, one owner, Nouvo (red): 20,000 baht. Starting from June 15 until 119,000km. 3.0L, manual. Nouvo (blue): 20,000 baht. September 30. Toyota Vios: Comes with Carryboy, cush- Air Blade: 39,000 baht. 14,000 baht per month. ions, aircon, speakers, 10-CD Honda 125: 20,000 baht. Tel: Honda Jazz: 15,000 baht per player, new tires. Price: 087-0720200. month. Suzuki Caribian: 9,000 420,000 baht ono. Contact 2001, 56,000km, manual Cars, trucks, jeeps that are all baht per month. Tel: 083- Tel: 076-321062. Email: gears, 3.0L, good condi- Production year 2004, black fully insured for rental. Best 1743880, 087-2646808. [email protected] tion. Price: 430,000 baht. TIGER 125 TRAIL and gold, 22,000km. Dual prices for long-term rental: Tel: 087-2709093. Email: 4 months old, 1,300km, lug- Akrapovic slip-ons, steering 12,000 to 20,000 baht per TOYOTA FORTUNER [email protected] gage box, road tires. As new damper, Galespeed gold month. For more information wheels, race clutch/rear brake, on specific vehicles, contact NEW VIOS 2.7L VVTI, 2005, silver, condition. 28,000 baht. Tel: FOR RENT 45,000km. 850,000 baht. 084-9165809. original Hayabusa tank cover, Tel: 089-8314703. Email: Tel: 089-5944017. RANGE ROVER sport windshield replacement, [email protected] 4.6 HSE convertible passenger seat. Permanent positioning lights, HONDA STEED 600CC NEW JAZZ FOR RENT CHEVROLET custom plate frame, etc. 15,000 baht per month. COLORADO Tel: 081-0862112. Email: Tel: 084-8516121. Email: [email protected] Nov. 2004, 4-door, auto., [email protected] 59,000km, 4x4. 580,000 Many types of cars for long- baht. Tel: 086-2773899. HARLEY-DAVIDSON HONDA CIVIC 2002 term rent. Price: 10,000- 18,000 baht per month. British racing green, excellent Rent: 15,000 baht per Tel: 081-5388567. Email: TOYOTA FORTUNER condition, only 77,000 miles, Great custom chopper, well- month. Sell: 575,000. Black [email protected] 2.7L VVTI full insurance until March maintained, includes green color, leather interior. Please 2008, only 2 previous owners book, tax, insurance. Price: contact for more details. Automatic, January 2007, (chauffeur driven). Reluctant 265,000 baht. Call Tel: 085- Tel: 089-9708281. Email: 11,000km, gray, Toyota spe- sale. Please contact Alasdair 2999435. [email protected] Vans cial wheels, tinted windows, Junor for more information. full leather with wood trim, Tel: 083-9889507. 2000 Softail standard, front bull bar - all in new con- 44,000km. Price: 690,000 dition with 3-year Toyota HONDA WAVE HONDA CIVIC VW VOLKSWAGEN 110CC baht. Tel: 076-388311, FOR RENT CAR warranty. Owner leaving. 086-1206964. Price: 950,000 baht, firm. 1990 SUZUKI 2000 model: 10,000 baht. Nice & new Honda Civic for Tel: 084-844 5328. Email: CARIBIAN 2002 model: 15,000 baht. short- or long-term rental. [email protected] Aircon, manual, white, runs Please contact Tel: 076- HARLEY DYNA Price: from only 17,000 baht well. 69,000 baht. Please 388311, 086-1206964. 1998, 1,340cc. Top condition, per month. Tel: 076-234- contact for additional infor- all original. 440,000 baht. 010, 081-5376689. Email: MITSUBISHI mation at Tel: 076-289- Kata area. Please contact [email protected] G-WAGON 412, 085-7833426. Email: Tel: 085-7959160. 2004 Evolution 2. This is a [email protected] BLUE HONDA WAVE 2.8L turbo. Only 3 years old, 125 JIKKY CAR RENT Avanet tax insurance and 80,000km. Just serviced with Overhauled last year with HONDA SHADOW Many types of new cars. original book. 195,000 baht 2 new tires. One owner, one new chain, sprockets, al- 750CC Low price and good condi- ono. Tel: 087-1466622, 087- SUZUKI CARIBIAN loys, tires, rear brake assem- year tax and insurance. Asking 4X4 Good condition, only one tions. Insurance included. 2714388. price: 725,000 baht. Tel: 081- bly. 20,000 baht. Please owner, blue & silver. Price: 1994 white Caribian in great Tel: 081-8915296. Email: 0854514, 089-4584143. contact for more details at 310,000 baht. Please con- [email protected] Email: [email protected] running shape. This wonderful Tel: 081-0907617. Email: tact Alan for details at Tel: Wanted beast has registration and in- [email protected] 089-4727588. surance up to date and will get JEEP BARGAIN BUY you where you need to go. MOTORCYCLE 1967 Willys, Toyota rear gears, Leaving Phuket, so must sell. HONDA PHANTOM RENTAL SECOND HAND registered with blue book. Price: 75,000 baht. Please 200CC HONDA WAVE 125 Honda Wave 125 from 1,950 FORTUNER Very good condition, 2 foreign Looking for second hand Runs well, great fun. Please contact for more information. Disc brakes, electric starter. month, Mio auto. from 2,400 owners, well cared for. Price: Fortuner. Priced at around contact for more information. Tel: 087-3865734. Email: Price: 20,000 baht. Contact month. Contact K. Suwan at 44,000 baht. Contact for 800,000 baht. Contact Tel: Tel: 086-2766626. Email: [email protected] Gerhard. Tel: 086-9483503. Tel: 081-9781793. [email protected] details. Tel: 085-0648681. 081-7190379. 52 PHUKET GAZETTE August 18 - 24, 2007

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