Bangkok Trader – Volume 6, Issue 10 – September 2012

SEPTEMBER 2012 • VOLUME 6, ISSUE NO. 10 READ BT @ ISSUU.COM/MANGOMANGOMEDIA

Destination: Krabi! Page 4

www.thaismileair.com

INSTANT THAI VISA

Call: 089-149-9200 [email protected]

INSTANT THAI VISA

Do you need a long-term Visa to stay in Thailand?

Do you have an overstay problem? We solve ANY immigration problem

you might have. We provide fast, professional

services at reasonable price. We require minimal documentation. Completely hassle-free for you!

NEED VISA? VISA ISSUES?

THAILAND LEGAL & BUSINESS SERVICES

FREE CONSULTATION - CONTACT USREALISTIC RATES - SUPERIOR SERVICE

WWW.INTERACTIVETHAILAND.COM | 02-653-0043

interactiveCOMPANY SET-UP

ACCOUNTINGWORK PERMIT

PROPERTY LAWCONVEYANCE30 YR LEASE

IMMIGRATIONFAMILY LAWCONTRACTS

FREE!

Volume 6, Issue No. 10SEPTEMBER 2012

Published byMango Mango Ltd. Part.124 Sukhumvit 38Prakanong, KlongtoeyBangkok 10110 • ThailandTel. 02 712 4052

Managing and Creative Director: Reid Nixon (Ad sales: English)Tel. 080 246 9000 • [email protected]

Publisher and Managing Director: Pavinee Chaymanee (Ad sales: Thai)Tel. 084 147 5550 • [email protected]

Business Development Manager:Andy HydeTel. 080 814 9080 • [email protected]

Graphic Designer: Au Laphat-radaTel. 089-229-4416 • [email protected]

Delivery and Messenger:Anan Boonma

In association with Siam Gazette Co., Ltd.Alan S. Verstein Tel. 081 761 9302 • [email protected]

Think daily

you know it.

Wine is a little like lovewhen the right one comes along

IL Ristorante Italiano

SUKHUMVIT

sukh

umvi

t 49

thonglor 9

thonglor 11

thonglor 13

thonglor 5

sukh

umvi

t 53

sukh

umvi

t 55

hosp

ital

thong lo

500m

t

motorbike motorbike taxitaxi

available for private partyoperating hours: everyday 11.30-14.30

18.00 - 22.30

131 soi sukhumvit 53 (thonglor soi9)tel: 027 129 129 / fax: 027 129 960

www.clubnove.comacebook.com/ clubnove

smoking area

For great Italian food...

facebook.com/bangkoktrader

Our next BT Party headquarters: Mystery location to be announced on Facebook!For more party details, including a map, head over to our Facebook event page at http://goo.gl/EnNbR and receive automatic updates for all our parties by adding yourself to our Facebook group at http://goo.gl/UBsgo

Networking

4 bangkok trader SEPTEMBER 2012

While she often hides in the shadow of her bigger sisters, Phuket and Koh Samui, Krabi is certainly the Cinderella of Thailand’s beach locations. Boasting more islands, fewer tourists, and some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the

country, Krabi is a destination with a multitude of sights, and every visit will have you eagerly planning a return.

The turquoise water of the Andaman is what has been drawing visitors to Krabi for years, and there are plenty of islands and destinations to choose from. Of course everyone is familiar with beautiful Koh Phi Phi, site of the film The Beach, and home to beautiful bays, swank resorts, and reputed to have some of the best parties around. Good diving is to be found off of Phi Phi, with reefs full of stingrays, moray eels, and a multitude of colorful fish. Tiny Phi Phi Leh remains uninhabited, except by sea swifts, famed for their nests collected to make Chinese bird’s nest soup.

Perhaps even more beautiful is nearby Koh Lanta, which has remained somewhat of a Robinson Crusoe escapist island, with its hidden bays and beaches and extremely laid-back and quiet vibe, along with several fashionable resorts to soften the hardships of being castaway. Places like Lanta are perfect for lazing and relaxing, and yet, you might not want to

KrabiThe hidden gem of the southBy Dave Stamboulis Additional photography courtesy of King Climbers

bangkok trader SEPTEMBER 2012 5

get too comfortable because the Krabi area offers some of the best adven-ture sport activities in the country.

Railay Beach, which is actually not on an island, but a peninsula near Krabi reachable only by boat, is home to some of the best sport climbing on the planet. Rock climbers come from all over the world to try their hand at the hundreds of routes that ascend the limestone karst pinnacles that tower above East and West Railay and Tonsai beaches, and give staggering views of the magnificent surrounding jungle and sea terrain.

Nowhere else in the world can one climb such outstanding and challeng-ing routes in just a swimsuit while gazing out at the emerald water of the Andaman just below. Best of all, you don’t even need to bring equipment, a climbing partner, or even know how to enjoy the thrills, as Railay is well stocked with ropes, harnesses, instructors, and even rope guns for a day if you know what you are doing but don’t have a friend. King Climbers has been guiding and bolting routes here since the beginning, and can ‘show you the ropes.’

Getting high above the ground is not the only way to enjoy the Krabi area. Sea kayaking is a popular activity, with trips around the islands or in the mangrove swamps near Krabi getting top billing. One of the best spots to explore is Koh Hong, which means ‘room island,’ known for its secret passag-es leading into freshwater caves and lagoons, along with sheltered white sand beaches and minimal tourist traffic, perfect for paddling. You can find kayaks for rent at most beach resorts, and for all inclusive day trips, there are plenty of outfitters to cater to your needs.

While beach activities take up the bulk of Krabi time, there are other des-tinations in the province to explore. Just outside of Krabi town, Wat Tham Seua (Tiger Cave Temple) is a popular stop. Perched atop a 300-meter-high rock, a giant Buddha image and chedi adorn this temple, with views of the surroundings seen otherwise only by airplane, and the 1,237 steps to the summit are worth the hot and sweaty climb. Wat Tham Seua is named for a tiger that entered the cave complex and yet refrained from harming the monk who was meditating inside.

If it is rainy or cool out, make sure you stop over at the ‘namtok rawn’ or ‘hot waterfall,’ as the Klong Thom hot springs is known. Located 40 minutes south of Krabi town, this spot features hot water from several geothermal springs flowing through a forest and then over a cliff, creating a hot water-fall. The rushing water and mineral deposits have created natural pools on the side of the river for bathers to soak in and enjoy the absolutely divine natural setting. Water temperatures range from 35º-40ºC, and there is also cool river water to jump into if it gets too hot. The Klong Thom springs are located nearby the gorgeous Sra Morakot Emerald Pools, a series of beauti-fully colored natural forest pools that are part of the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, and a visit to Klong Thom can be combined with Sra Mora-kot to make for an excellent full-day outing from Krabi.

Krabi Town itself is not on the beach; the nearest resort area for this is Ao Nang, a 15-minute bus or taxi ride away. But Krabi is noted for its excellent night market, with plenty of cheap seafood and local souvenirs to be had, and the city center has all the conveniences and transport and tour services necessary to move you onwards towards your preferred destination. Addi-


Stay.• The Houben Resort, 272 Moo 5, Koh Lanta Yai, Krabi

81150. Tel. +66 (0)75 665 144. www.thehouben.com• Ritz Carlton Phulay Bay Reserve, 111 Moo 3 T. Nongthalay, Krabi 81000. Tel. +66 (0)75 628 111. www.phulaybay.com

Eat.Ruen Mai – known as the best Thai restaurant in Krabi and is set in a nice garden. The menu is vast and each dish is made with fresh, high quality ingredients. 315/5 Maharat Road, Krabi Town, 2 km north of the center. Tel. +66 (0)75 631 797

tionally, the noted Ruen Mai restaurant is here, which attracts visitors from miles away for its award-winning food in a simple setting at local prices.

There are plenty of top-notch resorts in the Krabi area that will pamper and spoil to soften the edge of all the hard outdoor play. Try out Koh Lanta’s Houben Resort, a small family-run minimalist resort built on top of a cliff overlooking the stunning beach and bay of Ao Kan Tiang. The resort also provides cooking courses, jungle elephant rides, and other cultural pro-grams and tours around Koh Lanta. For something truly decadent, try some star treatment at the opulent Ritz Carlton Phulay Bay Reserve, nestled into a pristine seafront location along the Andaman, looking out at Koh Hong Island, and made famous by its appearance in the Hollywood blockbuster Hangover 2.

By The Way

Do.King Climbers – located at Flametree Restaurant in the Walking Street Plaza, Railay West Beach, 194/5 Moo 5, Tambon Saithai, Krabi 81000. Tel. +66 (0)75 662 096, (0)75 819 466, (0)81 787 8923. www.railay.com

Sea Kayak Krabi, 40 Maharat Soi 2, Ruenrudee Rd, Krabi 81000. Tel. +66 (0)75 623 395-6, (0)75 630 270. www.seakayak-krabi.com

Khlong Thom Hot Springs, Khlong Phon, Khlong Thom, Krabi. Tel. +66 (0)75 622 713, (0)75 622 624. Open daily 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., entry fee is 100 baht.

Fly.THAI Smile by THAI Airways offers four flights daily service between Bangkok and Krabi. Reservations can be made at www.thaismileair.com.

Route Flight No. Departure Arrival

Bangkok —

Krabi

Krabi —

Bangkok

TG741

TG742

TG745

TG746

TG743

TG744

TG747

TG748

08.00

13.40

09.50

15.30

12.05

17.40

13.55

19.30

09.20

15.00

11.10

16.50

13.25

19.00

15.15

20.50

LEGAL & ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONALS

COMPANY REGISTRATIONWORK PERMIT & VISAACCOUNTING & AUDIT

FREE CONSULTATION - CONTACT US

ENGLISH SPEAKING REPRESENTATIVES

WWW.INTERACTIVETHAILAND.COM | 02-653-0043TWO PACIFIC PLACE, 17TH FLOOR - NANA BTS

L E G A L & B U S I N E S S S E R V I C E Sinteractive

COMPANY SET-UPACCOUNTINGWORK PERMIT

PROPERTY LAWCONVEYANCE30 YR LEASE

IMMIGRATIONFAMILY LAWCONTRACTS


Remember Suan Lum? It wasn’t just the towers of cold beer served up by the girls in skintight beverage-branded outfits, nor was it simply the choice of multiple food stalls all lined up next to each other, nor was it even the live bands to entertain you while you

ate. Suan Lum was the top night bazaar of Bangkok, a must-go attraction complete with shopping stalls, cool pubs, and even its own Ferris wheel, eventually bought out and destroyed by Bangkok developers, leaving locals with one less nice and inexpensive evening hangout.

There has been an attempt or two to replace Suan Lum, albeit half-hearted until now, however the new Asiatique Riverfront Night Market, created by alcohol magnate and Thailand’s third richest person, Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, is making a full-on effort to fill the void and even beyond. Asiatique’s setting is certainly fantastic, spread out along the Chao Phraya a few kilometers south of the Saphan Taksin Bridge. Free shuttle boats whisk visitors down from the Saphan Taksin Pier, arriving to lots of neon lighting and a pleasant open plaza along the river that fronts the bazaar.

Boasting 50,000 square meters and 1,500 shops, with parking area for over 2,000 cars, everything is spacious at Asiatique. The market is

housed in ten giant warehouses, each one having their own set of shops, restaurants, and bars. The warehouses are divided by districts such as the Waterfront, Factory, and Town Square, all easily navigable with large lit-up maps that are conveniently placed in front of each warehouse. The theme throughout the market is retro and industrial, with plenty of giant sculptures of nuts, bolts, and gears hanging above and below. Narrow passageways run through each warehouse, with old trams, rickshaw statues, and fountains surrounded by park benches, making for some scenery other than boutique shops and eateries.

While the clientele and prices are certainly a lot more upscale than Suan Lum, there still are plenty of shops selling clothing and bric-a-brac at prices more akin to local markets, and there are a few hidden bars (meaning not on the riverfront), such as the 9E Furniture Bar, where one can get a cocktail for 120 baht or a Phuket micro beer for 80 baht. There are around 50 restaurants scattered throughout the complex, lots of them leaning

AsiatiqueReturn of the Night Bazaar


towards Japanese and Chinese food at a lot higher prices than Suan Lum ever charged, which is par for the course given the setting and rents.

Asiatique is still a work in progress though, and may prove very popular once it is completed. Plans are afoot for the legendary Joe Louis Puppet Theater, which closed its doors when Suan Lum went under, to reopen here, and there will also be a ladyboy cabaret show, as the popular Calypso will relocate to a stage here. It will be interesting to see exactly the demographic that Asiatique ends up pulling in. The out-of-the-way location and huge car park suggests a local upscale Thai crowd, and certainly, that has been the market thus far. However the cabaret and puppet theater are big tourist draws, and the free river shuttle makes getting here easy. There certainly is no shortage of advertising, as many of the Chao Phraya river ferries have big banner ads on the boats, and on the evening I went, there were an abundance of Chinese tourists en route to the night market.

For those living along in the CBD or beyond, even with public transport, it is still a long haul to get to Asiatique, and the new Mega Bangna complex might give it a run for its money. However Asiatique does have a very pleasant vibe and great spot along the Chao Phraya, complete with vistas and breezes, a big plus for most of the year. The place certainly is far cleaner, well laid out, and far easier to navigate than Suan Lum, not to mention plenty of fans and air conditioning circulating air throughout the warehouses, and although it might seem a bit sterile and more akin to something one would find in Singapore or KL, most visitors will probably give it a thumbs up. As the friend I went with remarked, “Bangkok needs a lot more places like these that are actually pleasant to come and hang out.”

Asiatique The Riverfront, 2194 Charoenkrung Road, Wat Prayakrai District, Bangkor Laem. Tel. 02-108-4488. www.thaiasiatique.com

INSTANT THAI VISA

Call: 089-149-9200 [email protected]

INSTANT THAI VISA

Do you need a long-term Visa to stay in Thailand?

Do you have an overstay problem? We solve ANY immigration problem

you might have. We provide fast, professional

services at reasonable price. We require minimal documentation. Completely hassle-free for you!

NEED VISA? VISA ISSUES?


Some time ago, Thailand hosted its first-ever sumo wrestling com-petition with the participation of nine Japanese professional sumo wrestlers. It was an event meant to promote cultural exchanges and the political-economical relationship between Japan and

Thailand. Thais have been sharing their history with the people of Japan for about 600 years and have had diplomatic relations for more than 125 years.

But, regardless of the political significance of such an event, the biggest winner of them all was the sport of sumo itself, which had been missing from the Thai sport scene for quite some time. Half a decade ago, Chiang Mai hosted the 2007 Sumo World Championships, and ever since, nothing has really happened on the national level. Until recently!

A full-contact sport, sumo has always been associated with very large wres-tlers known as rikishi who fight in a circular ring called doyho. The objective is to force your opponent out of the ring or to trip him (or her!) to the ground. Once a sumo wrestler steps over the boundary of the ring or touches the ground with anything else other than the soles of the feet, the bout is over. It can all take up to only a few seconds, and Japanese professional sumo athletes can reach stardom status. But before anyone can achieve that, each sumo wrestler has years and years of practice at a sumo training ‘stable.’

Literally, the word sumo means ‘strength in combat,’ with the ideogram su meaning ‘combat’ and mo standing for ‘strength.’ It is a traditional Japanese

sport that few know can also be practiced in Thailand. The Sumo Associa-tion of Thailand was established in 1993, and its current president and head coach (known as sensei to his students) is Sumio Kurasawa, a Japanese na-tional who has been living in Thailand for 30 years.

After practicing sumo in Japan for six years, where he reached the title of a regional sumo champion, Sumio Kurasawa moved to Thailand where he opened Tokyodo Books, a Japanese language bookstore that has several branches in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. But, apart from knowledge, he also brought from his home country his passion for sumo and helped Thailand build its sumo association. In 2010, Sumio-san received a certificate for ‘Ex-cellence in promoting sumo wrestling in Thailand’ from the Japanese Am-bassador to the Kingdom.

Alongside 87 other countries, the Sumo Association of Thailand is an organization that is part of the International Sumo Federation (www.ifs-sumo.org), which, unsurprisingly, has its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. Most ASEAN countries are also part of this Federation, while Asian sumo com-prises of over forty nations. The mission of the Federation is to promote sumo worldwide and organize international championships for amateur athletes.

In Bangkok, the instructor in charge of both the new and more experi-enced sumo wrestlers is Tassama Chalearmthip, a 39-year-old former member of the Thai judo national team. Tassama had practiced judo for

Forget the Land of Smiles.It’s the Land of Sumos!By Voicu Mihnea Simandan

+66 (0)8 9993-3689


ten years, but she retired from competitive judo after she won the gold medal at the 2001 Southeast Asian Games in Malaysia. “The transition from judo to sumo was not difficult at all,” she confesses. “I had been in-volved in judo for many years, and now that I’ve switched to sumo, I’m loving every minute of it.”

And indeed, she has good reasons to be proud of her sumo achievements. At the Women’s Sumo World Championships in 2008, she came in third in the middleweight division (under 80 kg) after Japan and Taipei. In 2009, Tassama lost the match in the 1/16th-elimination bout to an Estonian wrestler, but in 2010, she reached a well-deserved fifth place.

It is important to mention that Tassama participat-ed in tournaments opened to amateur sumo athletes, also known as shinsumo or ‘new sumo.’ Professional sumo excludes women from competitions and all related ceremonies. The biggest visible difference between amateur and professional sumo events is the lack of ceremony that we’re all used to seeing on TV or YouTube. Still, successful and talented ama-teur sumo w r e s t l e r s can join the ranks of pro-fe s s i o n a l s , but this hap-pens only in Japan where a rig-orous rank-ing system is followed at all levels and divisions. Only Japan has profes-sional sumo sta-bles, where wrestlers live and train.

There are only two places in Thailand where one can practice sumo, and the second one is 140 km north of Bangkok, in Baan Mee in Lopburi province. Here, at a government school, Jakkrapong Chaorung-metee, a Thai national sumo wrestler, is coaching about 20 children from upper primary to high school in the Japanese sport of sumo. Also coming from a judo background, a sport Jakkrapong had practiced for ten years, the instructor from Lopburi has been a sumo wrestler for the last eleven years.

Soon after he took up sumo, Jakkrapong won a gold medal in the middle-weight division (under 115 kg) at the 2002 Asian Sumo Championship. More recently, he reached the ninth place at the Sumo World Championships in 2010 in the lightweight division (under 85 kg). In comparison, in 2008, he came in at a modest 19th place. “I started training in sumo because I think it’s a very exciting sport,” says Jakkrapong. “At the very beginning, I was highly impressed and influenced by our sensei’s kindness and his willingness to instill the spirit of sumo here in Thailand.”

Sumo is for everyone, regardless if you have a robust physique or if you’re light. Both boys and girls who are at least five years old can start practicing

sumo, and at an amateur level, there’s no need for a special weight-build-ing diet or even gym training. “I keep telling my students that, in sumo, it doesn’t matter if you’re big or small. Never be afraid of a bigger opponent; a skill is more important than strength in sumo,” says the children’s coach.

Using a series of well-tuned and perfectly placed slaps, punches, and knee strikes, a smaller rishiki can bring down a bigger opponent, but in the case when the sumo wrestler manages to grabs his opponent’s belt and lifts him up and out of the fighting area, then definitely, size and weight does matter.

Boys and girls can train together with no problems, and during a regu-lar training session, the wrestler’s condition is automatically

strengthened using the routines and special exercis-es taught and repeated time after time. A lot of

emphasis is placed on balance, flexibility, and the conditioning of leg muscles.

There are about 20 sumo stu-dents training at the Bang-

kok facility, all Thai. None-theless, anyone can

join them, regardless of nationality, gen-

der, fitness level, or body weight. There is only one training session per week, on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The ses-sion includes w a r m - u p , skills prac-tice, and fights, fol-lowed by short meet-

ings when important an-

n o u n ce m e nt s need to be made.

The lessons are free of charge, and the

Japanese coach pro-vides all newcomers with

a mawashi, a sumo belt that is wrapped around the

waist and groin during training and competitions. Female wrestlers

wear a T-shirt and tight shorts under the mawashi, while shier men can also choose to

wear tights.

The Thai national sumo team is now preparing for the 2012 World Sumo Championships, which will take place between 27-28 October in Hong Kong, China. Three men and three women in both the junior and senior divisions will represent Thailand. We wish them good luck!

In Bangkok, sumo training takes place at the headquarters of the Sumo Association of Thailand, which is located in a specially modified house on Sukhumvit 71, Soi Pridi Banomyong 20. To reach their dojo, you can either take a motorbike taxi on the corner of Soi Pridi 20 or drive up the soi until you reach St. Andrews International School. From here, go down Panitchakun Yaek 1 for another 100 meters, and you will see the Sumo As-sociation on a corner on your right-hand side.

For more information, join their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/sumo.thailand.3) or call 084 123 8364.


Head over to www.facebook.com/bangkoktrader to check out all the pix from the great time we had at Tenderloins Sports Bar & Steak House!

Networking


It seems like every other day a new spa opens in Bangkok. Spa treatments have become de rigueur for tourists, and with more and more folks needing a bit of stress relief, it’s no wonder the spa industry is booming. Yet while every spa might offer a nice stint of relaxing and pampering,

face it, most of the treatments are the same. An herbal compress, a bit of massage, and off you go. With this in mind, it might be well worth it to make the trek up north for a weekend to sleepy Mae Hong Son, where Thailand’s only mud spa will offer you something completely different.

Despite sounding a bit dirty, mud treatments are actually one of the oldest spa therapies known to humans. The most well-known mud in the world comes from the Dead Sea in Israel (and Jordan), the lowest point on earth at over 400 meters below sea level. The water in the Dead Sea is ten times saltier than any ocean, containing no life due to the salinity of the water. This, combined with the abundance of oxygen (much more than at sea level) makes for an amazing mix of salts and minerals. The mud here has been used for treatments for thousands of years, ranging from the Caesar’s Romans to present day, and Queen Cleopatra was said to have established one of the earliest spas along the Dead Sea’s shores.

The Dead Sea’s brine mud is composed of a heavy dose of magnesium, bromide, and sulfur, all of which combine as a great source of relaxing the nervous system and healing the skin, thus making mud treatments excellent for skin problems such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis, along with moisturizing and rejuvenating the skin. Mud treatments have also been shown to be effective for sufferers of osteoporosis, arthritis, and rheumatism.

So what does any of this has to do with Thailand’s mud? Well, the area around Mae Hong Son is known for having plenty of geothermal activity, with hot springs having had a place in local bathing and therapy for years. In 1995, a group of vacationing Thai and French geologists were travelling through the region and thought they had discovered another potential

The Dirty Truth about Mud


SUKUMVIT SOI 23 (OPPOSITE SOI COWBOY) Tel. 02 661 7417 www.queenvicbkk.com

GREAT PUB FOOD SNACKS & THAI FAVOURITES FROM OUR OPEN PLAN KITCHEN

OUTDOOR GARDEN AREA with TV’S IDEAL FOR WATCHING LIVE SPORT with SOUND

ALSO FREE WI-FIDAILY HAPPY HOURS 4.30 - 7.30 / 11.00 pm

TIL’ CLOSING FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES

The Queen VictoriaBritish Pub and Restaurant

thermal source. They told a local tour company owner, who proceeded to buy the land and dug into it, finding not only a thermal spring, but one with mineral rich mud underneath it.

The geologists had the mud tested and found that its mineral content was similar to that of the mud in the Dead Sea, and all of a sudden, Asians didn’t need to traipse all the way to the Middle East to have a real mud bath.

The Phu Klone Spa was set up on the property, promoted in the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Unseen Thailand book, and soon foreigners and locals were heading up to Mae Hong Son for a bit of black gold.

At Phu Klone, visitors can opt for full-body mud scrubs or just facial masks. Spa attendants coat you with mud mixed with aloe vera and citronella oil, leaving the cool mixture to cake and harden for about fifteen minutes. Despite looking like a B-grade zombie movie character, patients are asked to refrain from laughing at their appearance, as this will crack the mud and lessen its effects. After the mud is rinsed off, one’s skin feels soft, rejuvenated, and renewed.

Besides getting a mud treatment, the Phu Klone spa also has a large hot spring swimming pool to soak in, with great views of the surrounding rice paddies and the lush Mae Hong Son countryside, especially verdant in the rainy season. As it is often cool up in the northern mountains, the 35º-40ºC water is pleasant for prolonged bathing, and all that Bangkok smog and traffic-induced stress will be a distant memory.

Tariffs at Phu Klone are quite reasonable, ranging from 60 baht for a 15-minute facial mud mask to 900 baht for a full package that includes a facial scrub and massage, full-body mud mask, a tamarind body scrub, and a hot mineral bath to finish. Thai and oil massages are also available for 200-400 baht per treatment.

Phu Klone Mud Spa and Country Club, 132 2 Mok Jum Pae, Mae Hong Son. Tel. +66 (0)5 328 2579. www.phuklon.co.th

Phu Klone Mud Spa is located 15 kilometers from Mae Hong Son town. Heading from town on Hwy 1095 to Pai and Chiang Mai, there is a turnoff to Koong Sai Mak and Ban Rak Thai on the left, with the spa on the right side after another 4 km.

RAJA

H HO

TEL

parking park

ing

2 3

7 8

1

6

5

Heineken & San Miguel, 99Bt a pint

Free Mixers for Black or Red Whisky from 9pm 80Bt Bottle Beers

Nana’s Biggest Bar!

Pool Play Discounts + 75Bt Local Beers80Bt Bottle BeersTequila Shots – 45bt

Rajah Complex enteRtainment

aREA5

18 7

23

6

Soi 4

(Nan

a)Sukhumvit


The BT Pop QuizTake a look through this month’s advertisements in Bangkok Trader to find the answers to these 5 questions. Email your answers to [email protected] before October 1 and those ‘lucky’ enough to get them all correct will be ‘lucky’ enough to go into our ‘lucky’ draw for prizes from some of our most-generous and ever-gracious advertisers!

1. Where can you get a dessert with a name shared with a country and a U.S. state?

2. Who seems to have been around since the time that Atlantis fell into the sea?

3. Where has Smiley gone a-piratin’?

4. Where can you find your fine wine, or find your fine love, or find that your love for fine wine is fine enough?

5. Where can you sing for your supper but more likely find it easier after a scotch or two?

Strikers Sports PubCome & enjoy Nana’s BIGGEST bar!

Rajah Hotel Complex18 Sukhumvit Soi 4 (Nana)

Sukhumvit Rd.

Rajah Car ParkSOI 4

* Cold draft beer* 5 Brunswick pool tables* All your favourite sports* Lovely ladies

...& a great service staff

Join the Fun!


Jasmine Nights by Thai-American author S.P. Somtow is a coming-of-age, semi-autobiographical novel that was first published in 1994 and has recently been republished by Diplodocus Press. For those who follow the Thai classical music scene, the author is also well known by his full name, Somtow Papinian Sucharitkul, a renowned

composer and conductor at Bangkok Opera, where he spends most of his time as their artistic director.

The action of Jasmine Nights takes place in the Bangkok of the early 1960s and follows the adventures and misadventures of Justin, a 12-year-old inquisitive boy, who feels he’s ‘an alien’ in his own country. Out of the fifty-three books Somtow has published ever since he took up writing – at least in Thailand – Jasmine Nights is one his most well-known books.

Internationally, as a writer, S.P. Somtow is mostly known for his science fiction, fantasy, and horror writings. In 2002, he was the recipient of the World Fantasy Award for Best Novella for The Bird Catcher, a story based on the Thai serial killer Si Oui, whose mummified body can be seen at the Forensics Science Museum at the Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok. He has won and been nominated for many other awards, and in 2011, The Nation named Somtow Sucharitkul as one of the most internationally acclaimed Thai citizens. His novels have been translated into many languages, thus reaching an even wider international readership.

The storyline in Jasmine Nights has quite a complex plot structure and deals with the main character’s philosophical musing, time shifts, metaphysical dialogues, visions, imaginary dialogues, and historical cross-references. Although Justin is Thai, he speaks no Thai and refuses to make any effort at learning the language.

Jasmine NightsBy Voicu Mihnea Simandan

While his parents are abroad on some unspecified diplomatic mission, Justin is left in the care of aging relatives living in an idyllic compound in Bangkok: “It is January of the year 1963, and I am a creature of two worlds. In one of these worlds, I am a child. The world is circumscribed by high stucco walls topped with broken glass. By day, the sun streams down and the mangoes glisten in the orchard behind the blue Gothic mansion with its faux Corinthian columns, the houses of my three grandmothers and of our familial patriarch. Evenings, the jasmine bushes bloom, and the night air sweats the choking sensuality of their fragrance. Three other houses stand on the estate: my bachelor uncle’s, uncompromisingly Californian in its split-level ranch style and adobe brick walls; the wooden house of my three maiden aunts, whom I call the three Fates, with its pointed eaves, backing out on to a pavilion above the pond, where I live among intimate strangers; and last, the ruined house, which is the entrance to my other world.”

Although the novel abounds with numerous Thai words, which are clearly explained at the end of the book in a comprehensive vocabulary, Jasmine Nights is a very easy book to read. At a superficial level, one can say that this is due to the fact that the book is structured into short chapters, fifty-two in number, each of them not more than twenty pages long. According to the writer himself, “The book is written in short chapters because it was serialized in the Bangkok Post, and each chapter was not allowed to be longer than two thousand words and had to end in a cliffhanger.”

One of the most captivating chapters is the 41st one, titled “Inferno.” It deals with one of Justin’s psychedelic dreams. In this dream, he has an interview with his dead chameleon and his great-grandmother who, in real life, was struggling between life and death. The title of this chapter also reveals one of the major themes of the novel: death.


The book was written in English and is littered with references from Greek mythology and Western pop culture. The fact that S.P. Somtow grew up in several European countries and studied at Eton and Cambridge might be one of the reasons why he makes reference to so many Western philosophers, as well as motion pictures, such as Spartacus, starring Kirk Douglas, or Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. It is also worth mentioning that Somtow directed a few low-budget movies during his stay in Los Angeles.

Affectionately referred to as Little Frog, S.P. Somtow writes, “Despite having absorbed so much from books, Justin’s quite immature in many ways, especially compared to kids today.” Here’s why: “In my other world, I am not a child. I am what I choose to be. I speak the language of the wind. I have synthesized this world out of images in history books and story books and books of poetry and from half-remembered scenes of England. There is a room with as many books as there are stars. There is an attic where I have fought the Trojan War a thousand times over, fine-tuning the outcome with my fellow Olympians. There are more rooms in the ruined house than I have ever counted. I have lived inside the walled universe for almost three years. Travel in and out of the universe is accomplished by means of a silver-green Studebaker driven by a man in a khaki uniform, whose name I have still not learned. I am an alien here. I sweat like a pig all the time. I forget to bathe. I have never uttered a word of the language; my tongue will not form the words, even though over the years I have begun to grasp their meaning. My

numerous relations do not know I understand them, and they address me in a stilted Victorian English, which I refer to as ‘eaughing’, since it so frequently makes use of the phoneme ‘eaugh’. Some of the servants have begun to realize I am not deaf; they regard my refusal to speak Thai as an eccentricity, one of the many inscrutabilities of the privileged. They call me Master Little Frog.”

Jasmine Nights also explores Thais’ beliefs in ghosts, in spirits, in shamanism, and their religious piety. The books also takes a stand against social injustices and tackles the issue of dark skin vs fairer skin, of poor people vs rich people, of the social acceptance of transsexuals (katoeys), and Thais general attitude towards sex.

George Axelrod, Oscar-winning writer of Breakfast at Tiffany, called S.P. Somtow the ‘J.D. Salinger of Siam,’ and Jasmine Nights has often been compared with The Catcher in the Rye. It is thus not surprising that, a few years ago, Jasmine Nights was compulsory reading in the Master of Arts program at Assumption University of Bangkok. But, I believe the novel should be on the reading lists of all international (and why not government?) schools in the Kingdom. After all, the year 2012 is the Year of English Speaking in Thailand, and UNESCO has designated Bangkok as the World Book Capital 2013.

S.P. Somtow’s soon-to-be released book, The Stone Buddha’s Tears, will be published by Post Books, while his next book, one that he’s been working on for years, is called Jade, and it’s part of the Dragonstones Trilogy. But until these can be found on bookshelves, you can purchase Jasmine Nights at most bookstores in Thailand, while Somtow’s other books can be found on his online bookstore (somtow.net/bookstore.html), at Diplodocus Press (www.diplodocuspress.com), and some at Amazon’s Kindle Store. To read more about his work, visit S.P. Somtow’s official websites (www.somtow.com and www.somtow.org) or look for him on Twitter (@somtow) and Facebook.


MARKETPLACEAdvertise or announce anything for... FREE!

Email your ad to: [email protected]

Maximum 75 words. Listings run as space allows or until cancelled.

DESIGNERS OWN HOUSE for sale in Bangkoks green, flood free peninsula “Bangkachao”. 2-story house 192 sqm, 100 twl land, built 2008. Minimalist Scandinavian style 2 bed (easy upg. to 3), 3 WC, garden, solar heated hot water all taps, double walls, CCTV. Only 30-40 min. to Asoke / Sukhumvit, it’s truly an undiscovered oasis in city. See www.bomancreative.com/house - 8,8 mill baht by owner. Call 08 3859 3336. (I)

SIVER COINS: US Dollar 1971, UK Crowns: Coronation (x2) 1953, Churchill 1965, Charles & Diana 1981, Florin 1947 & 1948, Shilling 1949. Haitian 50 cents 1908, Dominican 12.5 centavos 1973. Total price Bt. 2,500 o.n.o. Sterling Silver royal jeweller Mappin & Webb cigarette box circa 65 years old Bt. 6,000 o.n.o. Please contact [email protected] (H)

NEWLAND CONDO (SALE) 4,300,000 Bht – Location: Sukhumvit soi 33 (BTS promphong station) connecting soi 31, 35, and petchburi road. Size: 73 square meter. Allocation: 1 bed, 1 bath. Condition: ready to move in. Nearby amenities: The Emporium, Villa market, restaurants. Parking: includes 1 permanent space. For: ideal for living and long term investment. Location: walking distance to BTS / Villa Market, Queens Park and the Emporium (grand mall). For inspection please call 0817350954 / 0875559848. (I)

94 SQM DUPLEX AT SOI 13 sukhumvit two bedrooms two bathrooms spare toilet nice kic / dining flat tv very big pool for rent the price 39000 bathplease call 087 800 9370 (I)

CASA CITY Ramkhamhaeng main Rd. close to Soi 76 Ramkhamhaeng Rd. Huamark, Bangkapi Bkk. 10240 3 stories home office, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, Living room, kitchen and dinningroom, 2 car parks, Fully furnished with air condition in every room. Corner unit. 23 wah. House nos. 1056/39 Sale 6 Million. Contact Naree 086-537-2557 (I)

HOME OFFICE in Ramkhamhaeng Soi 24/3. Rankhamhaeng Rd,Huamark,Bangkapi Bkk 10240. Close to ABAC university, Ramkhamhaeng University, and Airport Link Sky train.3 stories, 3 bathrooms,and 3 bedrooms. First and second Floor can be used as office with 2 parkings for each unit. We have 3 separate unit 165 sqm for each unit. Lease each unit is 1.35 Million. Rent is 23,000 per unit Panasin Place. Contact Naree 086-537-2557 (I)

WWW.PERFORMINGEARTH.COM – A ‘must see’ website for all actors in Bangkok. Individual Acting classes can be arranged or take part in a scheduled theatre workshop. All native English speaking or English learning people welcome. A variety of skills offered by a professionally trained English actor. Contact; [email protected], www.performingearth.com, BKK 0842365922 (I)

WANTED FOR RENT. 2 bedroom apartment in Bangkok near bts a good location for 3 year at a god price phone English 08 69006744 phone Thai 08 92167099. (I)

FREE VIDEO presentation reveals how to get paid while surfing the Internet! Since your on the Internet everyday, wouldn’t it be cool to have it pay you? Free to join. What you need to do is visit www.smartchoice.gosmartmedia.com . To get full details of this unique opportunity. (I)ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING THAI

with teacher who has experiences? If you want to learn thai but dont have time to go to school also school’s price is expensive. This is a good choice. Time is flexible. Private lesson. 1 hour is 400 bath. 2 hours is 350/hour. 3 hours is 300/hour. Location: Your office or your apartment. Contact:087-904-4683. Give us a try. We will not disapointed you. (I)

73 SQM STUDIO at the markland soi 1 in pattaya sea view flat tv new bathroom very nice pool very near big c for rent for only 20000 bath a month please call 0878009370 (I)

74 SQM TWO BEDROOMS tow bath spare singile bed for rent at soi 18 sukhumvit for only 25000 bath a month please call 0878009370 (I)

WORLD SPA & WELL-BEING 2012 – The eyes of the world will be on Thailand in September, when the inaugural World Spa & Well-being Convention comes to town. A three day showcase of the very best that the ASEAN Spa industry has to offer, in Thailand the home of spa. For more details www.worldspawellbeing.com or [email protected] 19th & 20th September – Trade only 20st September – General Public Venue: Hall 4, IMPACT Exhibition Centre, Bangkok (H)

I-PAD ALERT - The battery is reaching the end of life cycle (18 mos). Smart Power Pack is the perfect solution. Priced right/no repair downtime / guarantee (1 yr). For more information e-mail [email protected] (I)

URGENTLY RECRUIT! 100-200K per month. A leading automotive parts manufacturer is now looking for a Japanese Senior Sales & Marketing Manager who has at least 5 years’ experience in sales & marketing in management level and has wide connection among Japanese society in automotive industry. More details call Anna at 086-3784251 or [email protected] (I)

FOR HIRE: high quality intermediate level English speaking Thai maid. I am an intermediate level English speaking Thai maid with an eye for taking care of details. I offer friendly, reliable and custom care to suit your needs. I am currently available for daily and half day hire. For more information on my services and for references please send a short text message with your name and phone number to 085-921-6924 (H)

NEED A VISA? VISA ISSUES? Do you need a long-term or short-term Visa to stay in Thailand? Do you need to extend or transform your current Visa? Do you have an overstay or blacklist problem? We solve ANY immigration problem you might have. “ANY” means ANY! We provide fast services at a reasonable price. We require minimal or NO documentation. We do everything: completely hassle-free for you! Call 089-149-9200 or email to [email protected] (I)

EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL GRAPHIC and book/magazine designer for print and web. I can create a professional looking identity, look, or brand for your business needs. Contact AU. (‘oo’) at [email protected] or call 089 229 4416. (I)

DROP SHIP BIZ – Seeking partners: Qualifications: base/have network in non-asean countries, can open L/C or TT to suppliers, have sales team, warehouse, transport, IT, admin. support already set up or can easily find, outsource to handle. prefer to do wholesale not retail. Interested parties who meet these requiremets, please e-mail: [email protected] (I)

VIP CONDO CHAIN PATTAYA – studio fully furnish, seaview. 10th Fl. Room A 1009. 40 sqm. Large swimming pool, 2 tennis court, jogging track and private beach front. On main Sukhumvit Highway. Sale 1.7 Million. Contact Naree 086-537-2557 (I)

PARTNER WANTED to expand oversea markets for baby items made in Thailand. Please contact: [email protected] (H)


NEW 45SQM STUDIO. Located Cozy Beach, Pratumnak Hill in the prestigious area of Pattaya. 200m to Beach, close to shops, bars, restuarants. Fully furn, Aircon, fitted euro kitchen, oven hob, microwave. Balcony overlooking swimming pool with views Koh Larn Island. sauna, pool bar, restuarant, gym, conference room, rooftop garden, 24hr security, cctv, underground parking. Also Lcd Tv, Wifi Internet, Telephone. Sale 2.8m baht or 14,000b mth. Contact Nick Green 0800 959 002 (Pattaya). Email: [email protected] (I)

SOLID WOOD F&B KIOSK FOR SALE. ideal for coffee, cakes etc. on six wheels. dimensions: 2.4 meters wide x 2.2 meters tall x .80 meters deep. serious inquiries only. please call for further details. price: 29,900. mobile: 081-562-3825 (I)

CREAM AND LOTION LABORATORY – specialist creams and lotions developed for personal use and wholesale to reatail outlets, spas and other related businesses. Our laboratory develops both basic and luxury products for all markets. For more infomation please contact Ken on 086324 0082 (I)

SEEKING A SMART, hard-working individual to share in building franchises related to genetic research and technology, focus is on Thailand and Vietnam. Soon to be in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. If interested send CV or outline of experience and personal goals to [email protected] (I)

THAIS – YOUR ENGLISH IS GOOD, but you want it better. Socialize with other Thais at an excellent restaurant at Bang Na and let a professional American IELTS instructor help you improve your pronunciation and grammar. You will have an enjoyable time and improve your English for travel abroad or visiting with foreigners in Thailand for business or pleasure. You will be proud of yourself. Classes are forming, so e-mail your preference of time to [email protected]. (H)

EXPERT APPLE/MAC HELP – have less frustration! Be more productive! Macintosh troubleshooting and instruction, IT support. All Apple products. (Only basic Windows help.) Setup, backup, installations. There are no dumb questions! Your place or mine, 15 years experience. (Sorry, no hardware repairs.) Dave, 085-141-5627, BangkokMac.com (is contact form on website; or email [myname]@bangkokmac.com) (I)

THAILAND SPA & WELL-BEING AWARDS 2012 – Voting is now open for the Thailand Spa & Well-being Awards 2012. Invitations have been sent to all registered Spa Operators for the Industry Categories, but People’s Choice Categories can be voted for on line at www.thailandspaawards.com. Voting closes 17th September 2012. (H)

REMARKABLE – do u want beautiful skin / hair / nails? Get visible results in short time! Have u tried rice germ oil (Oryzanol)? We have the strongest, cold press rice germ oil in Thailand. to nw re e-mail [email protected] (I)

LUXURY FOR PENNIES AT S & S CONDOS – the best value in the new BTS extension area. Stroll through the spacious breezy garden area, then lounge at the beautifully landscaped salt water pool. It is located in the most modern neighborhood past BTS Phrakhanong which includes Starbucks, McD’s & Top’s Market. Call Randy (086-733-1495 English) or Khun Nuch (084-321-7101 Thai / Japanese). (I)

HOUSE SALE – On-Nuch 44, Arena Garden, 2nd Floor House (about 300sq meters), 4 bedrooms, 4 bath, 2 park, big garden with 6 air, partially furnished. Flood free and safe area. Urgent sale at under market value at B7.9M. Contact: 081-916-4726 (H)

GOOD NEWS! For God so loved the world… And I am looking for a couple of English-speaking Thai [potential] partners / associates for my [pursuing of a possible] new business venture here in Bangkok; with or without venture capital / seed money. Please contact Alfred at Mobile Handphone / Viber / WhatsApp: 0-900-317-371 (Bangkok) or E-mail: [email protected] (H)

FOR SALE BANGKOK THAILAND – luxury studio condo, 35sq metres. River view 11th floor. Fully furnished, automatic washing machine on balcony, fridge, oven, microwave, tv, bedroom sliding partition, built in closets, parking, security, mini mart, wifi in lobby. CCTV, 600 metres from Saphan Thaksin BTS. Near Asiatique Riverside Complex. Many transport options on doorstep. 2.9m baht. Tel: 087-0065-272 Email: [email protected] . Call damian and mention bangkok trader. (I)

HOME OFFICE SALE – On-Nuch main road, Nirvana Suwannaphum 4th Floor Home Office 4 rms, 5 bth, 2 parking, 8 air, wallpaper, tel & lane lines, ready to move in at flood free area. 5 min to Ring Road and high ways, 15 min to Suwannaphum airport and 20 min to downtown. Urgent sale at under market value at B7.9M. Contact : 081-916-4726 (H)INTERNET WEB DESIGNER wanted to design a page for me. please contact n.barrett tel. 0871053664 huay kwang bangkok (H)APT FOR SALE – Baan Siri 24, 1 bedroom, 1 living room 60.5 sqm for sale: 7.8 mil contact: lee 0813070618 (H)

CONDO FOR RENT – downtown Sathron, Soi Yenakat. 72sqm, fully furnished 2 beds & 2 baths, living room & kitchen. Quiet and Cozy. Rent 30,000 baht/month for 1 year contract. Call 081-1721783 (Mimi) or Email: [email protected] (I)

VALUE ORIENTED APT in a private setting – Located in a beautiful quiet part of Sukhumvit (Thonglo/Ekkamai), is a beautiful new apartment complex which is likely one of the best value apartments on Sukhumvit. Nice pool, easy access to the BTS & in a quiet estate like setting with an owner who is modest and easy to talk to. If this what you are looking for, call Randy (086-733-1495-English) or K. Nuch (084-321-7101 Thai/Japanese). (I)

PATTAYA CONDO FOR RENT – beachfront Jomtien - Dong than beach, view talay 5c, studio 48m2, floor 9, sea view, jomtien side, big balcony, fully furnished, european kitchen, air con, big swimming pool, 24 hours security, CCTV cameras. please call 087 6117 001 or [email protected] (H)

RENTAL HOUSE IN BANGKOK central 3 bedrooms with pool and garden for at least 3 years, at a good pris phone english 08 69006744 phone thai 08 92167099 (H)

MIELE HOOD, hob and oven and Siemens dishwasher SE35M553EU for sale! Miele hood, hob, oven for the whole set 25,000 baht and Siemens dishwasher 5,000 baht (original price 33,000 baht). All items are 2 years old but the quality still good as brand new. Please contact TK 0895699451 or [email protected] (H)SHARP CASH REGISTER FOR SALE. model: XE:A102. like new. with set of keys. with several rolls of paper. with manual. price: 2,900. mobile: 081-562-3825 (I)

HEAVY DUTY ELECTRIC conveyor toaster oven for sale. from taiwan. clean. works well. price: 9,900. mobile: 081-562-3825 (I)

RENTS & SALES 14 LUXURY ROOMS: started 120 sq.m to 300 sq.m, price in 60,000 Baht per sq.m to 78,000 Baht per sq.m (cheaper in Thonglor area), in Royal Castle at Sukhumvit soi 39 (BTS close Emporium). *Also sales BMW 520i dark blue (Year 2006) price in 1.2~1.3 million Baht. Whats App & Viber: 0898101950, SMS & Call in: 0844515723. (H)

FIGHT OFF JET LAG WITH AN HERBAL MASSAGE – there’s nothing better to help you relax than a great herbal massage. This month, we are offering a 1 1/2 hour thai & herbal combo massage – special price of 299 baht. We offer all the spa massages for great prices starting from 149 baht / hour for foot / thai massages. Located around the corner of Sukhumvit 64 at BTS Punnawithi station (Exit 4). Call 086-733-1495 for info or reservations. (I)

♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣ GOLF PUTTERS – Brand New Prokennex golf putters – Left or right handed, ex promotional items, never used, retail at Central for approximately Bt3,800. For sale at Bt750 each. Photographs available. Contact Andy: 0808149080 or email to [email protected] ♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣ (I)

BIG CONDO LOW PRICE! Bangkok, Bang Na area, 64sq m 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, corner room, nice views and bright. low maintenance 800 THB per month, cable TV, internet with True vision, Use of 3 swimming pools and 3 gyms. Reduced price for quick sale 2.2 million, will except good offers! Phone 0879907626 – 0890533143 (I)

POOL TABLE FOR SALE: All in new condition “Professional Competition Size ( 8 foot by 4 foot )”. 3 piece slate table. Balls, Rack, 4 sticks&wall rack, bridge,chalk, ball cloth,and table brush. 40,000 baht Call 084-439-9631 : [email protected] (I) SUPER-CHARGE YOURSELF! See yourself

as a more elegant communicator! Does NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) ring a bell? No matter if you studied it from books or already attended life seminars or not, you still desire practicing it, don’t you? Luckily NLP has helped millions of people achieve greater success, increase confidence, relationships and overcome fears! Now join 4-Free www.Meetup.com/NLP-Bangkok . Check out the monthly NLP practicing meetings. (I)

OKONOMIYAKI ANYONE? If you have been looking for a perfect spot for a Okonomiyaki or pancake restaurant, this is your chance! This restaurant is situated next door to a Korean and Japanese restaurant. The kitchen set up is unbelievably clean, new and top quality. It showcases the preparation of the house specialties and even has a viewing window from the 2nd floor. Call Randy at 086-733-1495 for inquiries. (I)

BOOK SALE – 20th century books. name your price within reason. Contact [email protected] (I)

Documents

Bangkok Trader – Volume 6, Issue 10 – September 2012