Shop Window on Lifestyle Phuket October 2009

38ft performance sailing catamaran

andaman cabrioletby Composite Catamarans

FOR SALE

Designed for fast yet easy sailing Retractable cabriolet saloon roof Sleeps 6-8 people + 2 hot-water shower rooms 2 x 9.9hp Yamaha 4-stroke engines Nav gear, dinghy + outboard included Sail away for 10m Baht (approx 200,000 Euros) Build inspected by qualified marine surveyor (DipMarSur, Lloyds Maritime Academy)

FOR CHARTER

K 2009 ET RACEWEE ER - PHUK ARTER CL ASS WINN ULL for SALE & CH MULTIH Available information. ore Email us for m

ECO-FRIENDLY FEATURES: 4-stroke outboards with emission control Sani-Loo waste water treatment system Low toxicity I-CanNano anti-fouling paint Solar powered systems Low-energy lighting Sealed (non-fuming) batteriesemail. [email protected] Tel. +66 (0)81 797 9754 www.catamaransailingphuket.com Composite Catamarans Co., Ltd, 90/5 Moo 2, Chaofa Road West, Vichit, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand

BEACH RESTAURANT

Sarasin Bridge

Khao LakAo Luk

Thappud

Yacht haven Marina

Thepkassatri Road

Andanman Sea

Kok KloiJames Bond IslandSak Cape

Water Village

Khao PhanomKhao Phanom Benja National Park

Mai Khao Beach

ort Phuket Intl Airp

Phang-Nga Bay National ParkKoh HongThai Rat Cape

Sirinath National Park

Huay To Waterfall

Blue Canyon

Nai Yang Beach

Kung Bay Koh Panak

Mission Hills

atri Road

Sai Cape

Naithon Beach Po Bay

The pkass

Koh Reat

Koh Yao Noi

Krabi Airport

Kho Phra Taew National Park

Thalang

Bang Pae Waterfall

Krabi CityNua Klaong

Koh kala

Layan Beach Bang Rong Bay

Layan

Ton Sai Waterfall

Phuket Airpark

tri sa kas ep Th

Koh Yao Yai

Ao PranangKoh Poda Koh Kai

Klong Thom

Bang Tao Beach Yamu Cape

Laguna

Paklok

ad Ro

Son Cape

Heroines' Monument

Surin Beach

Cherngtalay

oad horn R Srisoont

Phuket IslandHua Lan Cape

Sing Cape

Tha RueaKoh Si Bo Ya Koh Rang Yai

Kamala Beach

Boat Lagoon Marina Royal Phuket Marina

Tha Ruea Bay

Pa

Loch Palm

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Kathu Waterfall

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Hin Cape Koh Maphrao

Koh Yung

Koh Phai

By

Kalim Beach

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ad a Baramee Ro

Kathu

Tourist Police

Thepkassatri Road

Sapam

Koh Pu

Koh Phi Phi DonKoh Sire

Patong Beach

Phuket Country Club

Homeworks

Bang Wad Dam

Koh Phi Phi Le

Freedom Bay

King Rama IX Park

Phuket City

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Vichit

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Relax Bay

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Koh Lanta Noi

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Karon Beach

Wat Chalong

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Phuket Bay

ad Ro tak Pa

Koh Pu

HomePro Village

Chalong

Koh LantaKoh Lanta Yai

Ao Makham

Kata Beach

Deep Sea Harbour

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Viset Road

Kata Noi Beach

Chalong Bay

Panwa Cape

Copyright 2004 Image Asia Events Co Ltd

Nui Bay

Koh Lon Tanod Cape

Rawai

Nai Harn Beach

Koh Man

Rawai Beach

Koh Aeo

Phromthep Cape

Koh Bon

ContentsRegularsPhuket Island map What's on : on & off Phuket (including the movies) Wi-Fi hot spots around town Social Phuket People profile : Peter Komposch Things to do in Phuket Health matters : Health Check Ups Useful telephone numbers

OCTOBER 2009

99 912-15 922-23 926-27 930 962-63 964-65 964

Yachts & YachtingYacht review : Ferretti 740 Southeast Asia Pilot : James Bond Island Yacht charters : Sunsail 916 918-19 920 Cover photos: Top: Sunset view from Joes Downstairs by Baan Rim Pa Group Bottom: Luna Phuket by Phuket Paradise Real Estate

CarsCar rentals : Pure Car Rent Car sales : Sure Motors 928 929

Shopping, Dining & LeisureMarketing Koh Som, a brand new Paradise A Marriage Made in Heaven Dining Around Phuket Recipe : Sienna Duck Phuket Vegetarian Festival Piling On The Airline Seats To Phuket Pensions Part 2 Shopping : Island Furniture 921 924-25 931-38 939 940-42 948 956-57 960

16 24-25 40-42 55Colour key for Shop WINDOW on Lifestyle listingsPower boats for sale Sail boats for sale Yacht charter Cars for sale Car rentals Houses & villas for sale Apartments & condominiums for sale Land for sale Property rentals

Spas & HealthThe Royal Spa Lemongrass House Sukko Spa Swasana Spa 944 945 946 947

Land & PropertyAllahead Phuket Villas Aelita Phuket and Thailand Resort Property overview Lynx Management Group Villa ONYX Tropical Homes Real Estate Baan Yamu Residences Tropical Properties Phuket Paradise Realestate H3 Digital Smart Homes 943 949 950 951-53 954 955 958 959 961 966

Advertising enquiries [email protected] Tel: +66 (0)76 264491Shop WINDOW on Lifestyle is created by Image Asia Events Co Ltd 90/5 Moo 2 Chaofa Rd West, Vichit, Muang, Phuket 83000 Thailand Tel: +66 (0)76 264491 Fax: +66 (0)76 264454 email: [email protected] web: www.image-asia.com

www.windowonlifestyle.com

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Phuket Surf Lifesaving Carnival 3 October @ Loma Park, Patong BeachThis event includes categories for all age groups, ranging from under-15s to over-50s. There is also a category for Thai nationals to promote water safety and skills within the local community. Tel: +66 (0)89 645 2576 (English), +66 (0)81 892 5549 (Thai). Email: jayne. [email protected]. Web: www.phuketlifeguard.com.

Punchline Comedy - Live Int'l Stand-up Comedy 14 October @ Holiday Inn Resort Phuket, PatongPunchline Comedy presents a fantastic bill of comedy headlined by Bob Mills, the star of the cult British TV show 'In Bed with Medinner' and Andre Vincent who once opened for the legendary American comedian Bob Hope and rising comedian on the UK circuit, Barry Castagnola. Performance time is from 8-11pm. Contact: Boom. Tel: +66 (0)89 646 9278. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.phuketcomedy.com

Phuket Vegetarian Festival 18 26 OctoberHeld during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar every year, this festival celebrates the Chinese community's belief that a strict diet of 'vegetables only' will purify mind and body and constitute merit-making. An exceptional fare of vegetarian food is to be found at roadside stalls especially in Phuket City. Sacred rituals are performed at all Chinese temples in Phuket City. The processions from each temple show strict vegetarians, known as devotees, ostensibly possessed by gods, piercing their tongues, cheeks and other parts of the anatomy with sharp implements. The devotees apparently feel no pain.

The Diamonds of Sher Kahn - Murder Mystery Dinner 3 October @ Karnasutra Restaurant, Phuket TownThe Andaman Players, Karnasutra Restaurant and Michaels Bar in Phuket City present The Diamonds of Sher Kahn, a murder mystery dinner theatre presentation. Tickets are 980 baht in advance, or 1,200 baht at the door. The show starts at 7pm at Michaels Bar, 12, Takua Pa Road. Contact: Denise. Tel: +66 (0)81 894 0794. Email: [email protected].

Beach Fun-Fest at Catch Beach Club 17 October @ CATCH Beach Club, SurinThe focus of this fundraiser is Children in Need. The event starts at 7pm and will go on all night and into the morning! Twinpalms will serve an exciting Beach BBQ and entertainment is from Job2Do. Tickets are only 1,000 baht, including the dinner of a seafood buffet and a lucky door prize and can be purchased from Woody's Sandwich Shops or from members of Rotary Club of Patong Beach. Contact: O.B. Wetzell. Tel: +66 (0)81 892 9207. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.rotarypatong.org/fundraiser-event.html.

Regular EventsRotary Club of Patong BeachDinner Out and Family Day on the 6th at 7pm at Les Anges Restaurant, Royal Phuket Marina. Weekly meeting on the 13th, 20th and 27th at the Aloha Villa Hotel at 7pm. Web: www.rotarypatong.org.

Phuket Yacht Club (PYC), Ao YonThe sailing season resumes on Sunday the 4th with both recreational sailing and racing with Race Day 2 on the 18th. Contact Katy Gooch, Tel: +66 (0)85 215 9185. Email: [email protected].

Our company has been established in Phuket for over 7 years with many satisfied clients. We provide quality service from start to finish by highly experienced and trained staff in packaging, shipping & transportation service.

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Ao Chalong Yacht Club (ACYC)The next race in the series, Race 13 is on October 11 and Race 14 is on the 25th. All are welcome to join, regardless of experience. Contact Scott Duncanson, Tel: +66 (0)81 892 4992. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.acyc-phuket.com.

British Business Association Phuket (BBAP)The pub night is held on the first Friday of the month and dinner on the third Thursday from 7pm. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.bbap.org.

The International Business Association of Phuket (IBAP)The monthly meeting is on October 9th at the Phuket Brewery, opposite Tesco Lotus. Doors will open at 6:30pm. Tel: +66 (0)81 412 5652. Register for email notifications at Web: www.ibap-phuket.net.

Phuket International Women's Club (PIWC)Meet & Greet at Starbuck's Central Festival is on October 8, from 10 to 12am. The monthly lunch is on the 15th at The Courtyard Kamala at 11:30am. The annual ball, "20 Years and Still Rocking" will be November 14 at Le Meridien Phuket Resort. Tickets are on sale now at 3,000 baht per person, which includes dinner, drinks, live music, dancing. Contact: Caroline at 087 280 5746 for information and tickets. Web: www.phuketiwc.com. Email: [email protected].

Entertainment October ChoicesReggae Music at Ska Bar, Kata BeachSka Bar is situated at the end of Kata Beach on the road to Nai Harn. It has become a very popular nightspot for sailors and visitors. Enjoy the sunset, great food, reggae music and regular bands.

Free Computer ClinicJoin "For Dummies" author Woody Leonhard at his weekly Computer Clinic. Every Sunday morning, 10am to noon, at the Sandwich Shoppes. The 4th at Sandwich Shoppe, Patong; the 11th at Sandwich Shoppe, Laguna; 18th and 25th at Sandwich Shoppe, Chalong. Web: www.khunwoody.com.

Trio Jazz @ Kan Eang @pierTrio Jazz perform every Wednesday to Saturday night from 7-10:30pm and Sunday from 12-3pm.

Wednesday Nights @ SALA PhuketSlow smoked pork ribs, crab corn chowder and bread pudding souffl Wednesday nights at SALA Phuket. Soulful sax and jazz guitar Rob playing chilled grooves live (every second Wednesday) starts at 7:30. Tel: +66 (0)76 338888. Email: [email protected].

Chicky Net PhuketChicky Net Phuket is a social network for girls of all ages living on Phuket to connect and have fun. Whether it's Ladies Muay Thai and Salsa, or picnics and sailing trips, it is all about discovering new things to do and making friends along the way. Email: [email protected] and [email protected]. Web: www.chickynet.com.

Hed Kandi @ Stereo LabOn the 30th of October, enjoy Dj Hed Kandi @ Stereo Lab, the hippest beach club with different upscale DJs every week. The house DJ spins a standard blend of chillout and upbeat turns for partygoers. Open from 11-2am. www.stereolabphuket.com.


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Upcoming MoviesCentral Festival Phuket, Tel: +66 (0)76 209000 Jungceylon Shopping Destination Patong, Tel: +66 (0)76 600555

The Vampire's Assistant(Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy) John C. Reilly, Ken Watanabe, Chris Massoglia, Josh Hutcherson, Patrick Fugit Pulled into a fantastic life of misunderstood sideshow freaks and grotesque creatures of the night, one teen vanishes from the safety of a boring existence and fulfills his destiny in a place drawn from nightmares. Cirque Du Freak tells the frightening tale of a boy who breaks a 200-year-old truce between two warring factions of vampires.

Surrogates(Action, Sci-Fi, Thriller) Bruce Willis, Radha Mitchell, Rosamund Pike, Boris Kodjoe, James Francis Ginty People are living their lives remotely from the safety of their own homes via robotic surrogates mechanical representations of themselves. Crime, pain, fear and consequences dont exist. When the first murder in years jolts this utopia, FBI agent Greer discovers a conspiracy behind the phenomenon and must abandon his own surrogate risking his life to unravel the mystery.

Law Abiding Citizen(Thriller) Gerard Butler, Jamie Foxx, Viola Davis, Bruce McGill, Leslie Bibb, Colm Meaney The film follows the story of a successful assistant D.A. who finds himself at the centre of a vigilante plot hatched by a traumatised victim of the legal system. Foxx's character is devastated to learn that because of a plea bargain, one of his wife and daughter's murderers will be set free so he unleashes revenge on the killers and those who made the deal.

The Ugly Truth(Comedy, Romance) Katherine Heigl, Gerard Butler, Eric Winter, John Michael Higgins, Nick Searcy A romantically-challenged morning show producer is reluctantly embroiled in a series of tests by her chauvinistic correspondent to prove his theories on relationships and help her find love. His clever ploys lead to an unexpected result when her bosses team her with Mike Chadway, a hardcore TV personality who promises to spill the truth on what makes men and women tick.

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Off Phuket EventsThe Illuminated Boat Procession

Upcoming EventsNOVEMBER 20091-2 3-8 2 Loi Krathong Sai Festival, Tak Phuket Thailand Open, Karon Beach, Phuket Loi Krahong Krung Kao (Old Ayutthaya Style of Loi Krathong), Thung Phukhao Thong Area, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya PIWC's annual fundraising event: '20 Years and Still Rocking' at Le Meridien Phuket Resort, Phuket Surin Elephant Roundup, Surin Elephant Show Stadium, Surin 4th Andaman Phuket Soccer 7s, FIFA Phuket Tsunami Football Center, Phuket Phuket Int'l Sportfishing Tournament 2009, at the Captain Hook Bar and Grill, Phuket 7th Phuket International Soccer 7s, FIFA Phuket Tsunami Football Center, Phuket

Until 15 October @ Mekong River, Nakhon PhanomThis festival was originally celebrated to pay respect to the Lord Buddha. Entries are invited for the boat procession. Contact: TAT Nakhon Phanom, Tel: +66 (0)42 513490-1. Email: [email protected]. Web: www.tourismthailand.org. Bangkok 11th International Festival of Dance and Music

Until 17 October @ Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre, BangkokThe festival features excellent performances. Entrance prices from 600 to 2,500 baht. Complimentary shuttle service. Contact: Thaiticketmajor. Web: www.thaiticketmajor.com. Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)

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21 - 22 21 - 22 25 - 28 27 - 28

4 - 5 OctoberThis extraordinary miracle occurs at the beginning of the full moon night in the eleventh lunar month (End of Buddhist Lent). It can be seen along the Mekong River in the districts of Mueang, Phon Phisai, Pak Khat, Bung Kan, Tha Bo, Si Chiang Mai and Sangkhom. Tak Bat Devo Festival

5 October @ Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri, Uthai Thani ProvinceThe tradition of 'Tak Bat Devo' was derived from the word 'Devorohana', which means the return of Lord Buddha from Heaven to Earth, and marks the end of Buddhist Lent. Theres also a display of local arts and handicrafts. Contact: Uthai Thani Municipality Office, Tel: +66 (0)56 512005. Loi Krathong and Candle Festival

28 - 5 Dec 23rd Phuket King's Cup Regatta, Phuket

DECEMBER 20096 6 Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2009, Laguna Phuket Resort, Phuket The 5th Tsunami Memorial Day and Lightup Phuket, Loma Public Park, Patong Beach, Phuket Times & dates of events are subject to change. Please contact the organiser for up-to-date information.

31 October - 2 November @ Sukhothai Historical Park, SukhothaiThe procession will consist of krathongs including hanging lanterns, a Krathong design contest, a Miss Noppamas Beauty Contest, light and sound presentation, firework displays, Sukhothai arts, culture performances, and the celebration of the Dawn of Happiness. Contact: TAT Sukhothai, Tel: +66 (0)55 611196. Web: www.loikrathong.net or www.tourismthailand.org.


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Boat Review

Ferretti 740: Master of EleganceFollowing the success of the previous model, the Ferretti 731, the new Ferretti 740 will be seen for the first time at the Genoa boat show, which runs from the 3rd to 11th October 2009.The Ferretti 740 is a yacht with a strong personality, created for an owner who wants to have spacious interiors with a decor where warm tones and expensive materials predominate a craft with wide sun zones and innovative features like the new design of the hull windows to offer spaces bathed in natural light. This yacht leans towards a classic style but with elegant and contemporary touches. As a result of research done by the shipyard, the new Ferretti showcases made in Italy excellence. The result is a master of elegance that cruises the sea. Exterior The external profile of the Ferretti 740 is sleek and streamlined thanks to the flowing lines of the windows that dominate the main deck. The design features a succession of sinuous curves and straight lines. In addition to the open view windows of the owners cabin, two new windows have been added to the hull forward to enhance the on-board experience by making excellent use of natural light. On the stern spoiler theres a comfortable sofa-bench with electro-hydraulic adjustment. The cockpit, with teak floor, is furnished with a sofa and a large table and chairs. To port, the stairs give access to the flying bridge, where the pilot station has been placed well back, and in a central position to give a broad view for navigation and piloting of the yacht. The pilot seat revolves through 360, allowing the owner to turn and share relaxing moments with his guests, seated in the U-shaped dinette behind. A large table and grill area complete the external living zone. The Ferretti 740 is also available in a hard top version. Opening and closing of the bimini top, is then electrically powered. Main Deck The wide salon of the Ferretti 740 is bathed in natural light and offers a cosy atmosphere created by the bleached walnut timber and the texture of the materials selected for the furniture, which are used for the first time on board a Ferretti yacht. The open-plan interior has two separate areas living and dining keeping a harmonious continuity of space. To port, a wide L-shaped sofa and a comfortable armchair are positioned around a low table. To starboard, theres a pop-up TV and an additional sofa for three and the stairs to the flying bridge. The dining area separated from the living area by careful furniture placement, features a tempered glass table and chairs for eight guests. The dining zone opens on to an area that connects galley, pilothouse, the exterior and the lower deck, giving access for the crew. The galley is located in a strategic position between the dining area and the pilot house, so the crew can go about their tasks without disturbing the guests privacy. The pilot house is located forward with dinette/chart zone and extendable table. On the lower deck, the Ferretti 740 cabins are distinguished by beautiful detailing. Bulkheads and walls are covered in light-coloured fabric which enhance the window proportions an elegant solution. All cabins have private en-suite bathrooms. The full-beam owners suite is located in the centre of the boat, with walkin wardrobe and bathroom and a wide semi-circular shower, which has a wonderful view of the sea through the panoramic window. The VIP cabin is forward, bathed in light from the newly designed windows. The two guest cabins also feature large windows and lie to port and starboard.

Interior Decor The timeless elegance of the Ferretti 740 comes from the perfect balance between a functional design and the use of the finest materials to create warmth, light and ultimate liveability. The very lightly grained bleached walnut carpentry makes the atmosphere warm, comfortable and elegant. The interior is highlighted by colour contrasts of decorative details. The ceiling panels are made with natural textiles, leather is used for the bed-heads and the doors are covered in a specially created blend of fibres. Motorization and Performance The Ferretti 740 comes with twin MAN 1360HP or twin MAN 1550HP engine packages. Both offer speeds in excess of 30 knots. For further information on the new Ferretti 740, contact: Lee Marine Boat Lagoon Marina Tel: +66 (0)81 891 7057 Email: [email protected] Website: www.leemarine.com

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2010 MODELS NEW TECHNOLOGY LAUNCH PRICE

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PRICES ACROSS THE RANGE CONTACT LEE MARINE FOR DETAILSDealership Office: The Boat Lagoon Marina Phuket Contact: Martin Holmes Mobile: +66 (0)81 891 7057 Fax: +66 (0)76 273 319 Email: [email protected]

www.leemarine.com

Southeast Asia Pilot, 3rd Edition : ExtractExtracted from The Southeast Asia Pilot (3rd Edition) cruising/sailing guide by Bill O'Leary & Andy Dowden www.southeastasiapilot.com

JAMES BOND IslandKOH PHING KAN (JAMES BOND ISLAND)Made famous by the filming of the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun, this island is now a major tourist attraction, visited by hundreds, sometimes thousands, of people daily. Most come by bus then longtail boat from Phang Nga, so it is best visited before 10:30 am or in the late afternoon, assuming you want to avoid the crowds. Koh Phing Kan has a stunning lagoon and some interesting rock formations, though it is no more impressive than many other islands in the area which the day tours ignore. Scores of food and souvenirs vendors come from Koh Pan Yi to set up stalls on the island during the day. A 200 baht per person fee is levied by the Park Rangers when going ashore.

Rocks in the channel 2009 - Grenville Fordham

KOH PHING KAN (JAMES BOND ISLAND)1.5 0.1 6 1.1 2 238 3 5.9 4.1 439 Koh Raya Ring 375 0.2 0.1 0.1 2.6 0.2 Koh Ping Kan 2.6 2.7 5 0.9

A submerged rock, one not appearing on many charts, lurks in the channel between Koh Yang and Koh Daeng Yai. It lies just under the surface at low tide and has been hit many, many times. Beware!

0.7

0.1

A KOH DAENG YAI 19 miles from Yacht Haven

A2 8

3.5

2.5 5 Koh Yang

Koh Deng Yai 4 5.5 0.4 0.8 5

11

B1.9 1.9 Koh Lolo

The best anchorage in this group is found in the channel between Koh Raya Ring and Koh Daeng Yai. This is an exceptionally beautiful place to awaken in the morning, when sunlight strikes the sheer rock cliffs of Daeng Yai. The anchorage can be approached either from the south, via the channel formed by Koh Yang and Koh Daeng Yai, or from the southeast, passing east of Koh Yang, distinctive due its high, thin column of rock, visible from far south. There is a convenient transit approaching from the south, lining up Koh Lolo and Koh Khai to avoid the sand bars. Good holding is available on a muddy bottom in 5-8 metres. The sandbank east of the anchorage is very shallow and almost dries at low tide. There is a current of up to 2 knots in the channel, strongest at ebb tide.BILL OLEARY

2.5

0

1

A

816.593N 9828.965E

Looking south past James Bond Island

18


Southeast Asia Pilot, 3rd Edition : James Bond IslandKOH PAN YIKhao Khian 2009 - Grenville Fordham

B KOH YANG 18 miles from Yacht Haven

1.8 1.5 1.3 2 4.8 2.6

The lagoon on the north side of Koh Phing Kan can be entered by dinghy at high tide; otherwise access is possible by dinghy at most tides via the jetty on the southwest side. This is a delightful, well-sheltered anchorage on a small bay facing south with good holding on a muddy bottom in 4-5 metres. Approach from the deep channel on an easterly heading, taking care to avoid the shallow bank approximately 600 metres south of the anchorage which often has a bamboo stake to show its position. There is a small community of thatched houses on the beach, and a restaurant where coconuts, fish, crabs or prawns can often be bought from the villagers who maintain temporary fishing houses here. Again, if moving north from here, beware of the rock that lurks beneath the surface at all tides in the passage between Koh Yang and Koh Daeng Yai (see chart).A KOH PAN YI 22 miles from Yacht Haven

2 1.4 1.5 6.6 2 0.5 2.1 0.9 0.3 0.1 0.8 0.9 2.6 2 0.2 6.7 5 0.2 4.6 4.9

2.1 50

Khao Luk Nak

1.5 8 5 Koh Pan Yi

AKoh Khao KhaoKlo

3.2

ng

Koh Pan Yi

3.5 0.9

1.1 3.8 2.4 0.7

3.3 0.9 Koh Nom Sao Yai 10.8 7.1 5 Fl 3s 25m 7M 0.4 0.7 5

Koh Pan Yi, otherwise known as Sea Gypsy Village, is built almost entirely on stilts over water to the south of the sheer cliffs of the island. The people here are really Muslim fishermen, not Sea Gypsies as the tourist name suggests. The nearest real Sea Gypsies live far south on Phuket Island. The approach from the south is clearly marked by a light structure on a small rocky islet at the river entrance and the course to the village is straight. Favour the right side, if any, to stay in deeper water. Anchor in 4-9 metres to the east of the village, taking care to avoid the many floating cages used for raising fish. There are dinghy landings, many restaurants and souvenir shops in the village, which is usually packed with up to 3,000 tourists during the lunch period, but is quiet and peaceful in the late afternoon and evening. Further north on the east side of Khao Khian are cave drawings dating far back, perhaps to Neanderthal times. West of Khao Khian is a shallow mangrove river that passes through a tunnel in Khao Ra Ya, which is one of Phang Ngas most spectacular caves.Koh Panyi

8.4 10 0.8

0.7 0.3 1.4

0.1

0.6

0.1 1.3

Koh Nom Sao Noi 1.9

0.10 1

11.2

2.9

Longitude East A from820.017N Greenwich 9830.284E

BILL OLEARY


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Yacht ChartersNew Yachts now available for 20102010 New Yachts Now AvailableOWN THE YACHT OF YOUR DREAMS : You pay only 65% on a 5.5 year contract and Sunsail pays all other costs. At the end of the contract the yacht is yours with nothing extra to pay.

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Day Charters from only 18,000 BahtEXPERIENCE PHUKET FROM YOUR OWN CREWED PRIVATE YACHT : Sunsail Day Charters are available throughout October, offering a unique way to experience Phuket and its surrounding islands, without the crowds.

Koh Chang

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EXPERIENCE YOUR OWN ASIAN SAILING ADVENTURE : Book any new bareboat charter from Koh Chang, departing November and December and receive a 10% discount off the charter fee.

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(Advertorial)

Marketing Koh Som a brand new ParadisePhotos from www.helicam.asia

Left: Santos Asano (Marketing Director Orange Tree Island Co Ltd) alongside Helicam crew in Samui

Helicam helicopter overview of the island Samui Air Traffic Control with Helicam photographer Muo

Marketing Director Santos Asano from Orange Tree Island Co., Ltd set out for a Helicam mission to photograph the all new Shores Project that was about to undergo construction. The two main objectives were to capture imagery to be used for exterior 3D renderings of the property and classic key marketing shots showing the beautiful island destination. Hugh Kingsley Heath, Engineer and Design Consultant, had predetermined specific angles for the Helicam to photograph allowing the computer illustrations to be seamlessly integrated with the real photographic images. The Shores Koh Som The Shores is a Luxury Residential project located on the beautiful private island of Koh Som. Situated only 10 minutes from Samuis International Airport, Koh Som offers an unrivalled 360 degree private island experience with dramatic sunset and sunrise views.

The total property area for development is 12.64 rai or 20,219 sqm. The island is a stunning property with a diverse range of fauna and landscapes including 460 metres of private beach front, forest land, coconut grove and exhilarating rocky shores. No cars and just a small footprint of people over the years have allowed Koh Som to benefit from the evolution of its natural surroundings. Koh Som is arguably one of the best kept secrets in all of Thailand. For more information about investing in one of the 41 exclusive villas at The Shores, visit the website at www. theshoresthailand.com or call the Sales Office at +66 (0)8 7461 9734. Helicam Co., Ltd. 66/8 Moo 7, T. Chalong, A. Muang, Phuket 83130 Tel: +66 (0)76 604480, +66 (0) 8 4746 8753 Website: www.helicam.asia

Turtle Rock Island with Koh Samui in the distance

Helicam Crew liaised with Samui Air Traffic Control before launching the mini remote helicopter. "Since our photography location is near the flight path of the airport it was essential to inform the authorities," stated Philip the Helicam pilot.


21

Hotspots in PhuketPatong AreaHotels, Resorts and GuesthousesAbsolute Ceylon Pub Jungceylon, Patong Absolute Seapearl Beach Resort Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 341901-10 Andaman Beach Suites Tel: +66 (0)76 341879-83 Amanta House Boutique Hotel Tel: +66 (0)76 290401 Aqua Guesthouse Paradise Complex, +66 (0)76 346142 Bel Aire Resort Phuket Tel: +66 (0)76 296600 Baan Yin Dee Tel: +66 (0)76 294104-7 Burisari Resort Soi Ruam Jai, Tel: +66 (0)76 292929 Connect Guesthouse Paradise Complex, +66 (0)76 294195 Little Buddha Guesthouse Nanai Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 296148 Patong Paragon Hotel Prabaramee Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 290555 Royal Palm Resortel Tel: +66 (0)76 292510 Royal Phawadee Village Sawatdirak Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 345576 Summer Breeze Hotel Soi Sansabai, Tel: +66 (0)76 340464 Safari Beach Hotel Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 341171 The Bird CagePatong Guesthouse Tel. +66 (0)76 293196-7 The Royal Paradise Hotel Tel: +66 (0)76 340666 Valhalla V Plaza Soi Sunset, Tel: +66 (0)76 292556 Villa del Mar Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 345698 Yorkshire Inn Soi Sansabai, Tel: +66 (0)76 340904Jean Pierre's Restaurant & Bar Rat-U-Thit Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 343024 La Boucherie Restaurant Sawatdirak Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 344581 Molly Malone's Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 292771 Mai Thai Bar Soi Eric, Tel: +66 (0)76 292844 Nok & Chicken Sports Bar Patong Condotel, +66 (0)87 895 0620 Rio Music Bar and Grill Tel: +66 (0)76 294191 Khun Woody's Sandwich Shoppe Aroonsom-Plaza, Tel: +66 (0)76 290468 Scruffy Murphy's Soi Bangla, Tel: +66 (0)76 292590 Starbucks Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 600169-70 Subway Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 349009 Thai Basecamp Soi Paradise Inn, Tel: +66 (0)89 822 7921 Cape Panwa Hotel Panwa Cape., Tel: +66 (0)76 391123 Deang Plaza Hotel Montri Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 216428 Katina Hotel Sakdidej Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 223111 Metropole Hotel Montri Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 215050 Phi Phi Island Beach Resort Sathoon Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 215014

Restaurants and Caf154 Bakery Phang Nga Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 233333 B2S Central Festival, Tel: +66 (0)76 209073 Black Canyon Central Festival, Tel: +66 (0)76 249663 Chill Out Ong Sim Phai Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 225797 Coffee Max Ranong Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 258294 Eatzz Dibuk Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 213727 Juice internet Cafe & Juice Bar Phuket Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 223210 Kopi De Phuket Phuket Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 212225 Michael's Bar Takua Pa Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 256562 Siam Indigo Phang Nga Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 256697

Faulty Towers InnSoi Sunset, Tel: +66 (0)76 344061

OtherSunrise Diving Rat-U-Thit Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 292050

Restaurants and CafBYD Lofts restaurant Rat-U-Thit Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 343024-7 Coyote Beach Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 344366 Irish Times Jungceylon, Tel: +66 (0)76 366085

Holiday Inn PhuketTel: +66 (0)76 340608-9

K-Hotel, Rat-U-Thit Rd. Tel: +66 (0)76 340832-3 Leelawadee Boutique HotelSiriraj Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 346301-4

Phuket CityHotels, Resorts and GuesthousesBay Hotel Panwa Bay Village, Tel: +66 (0)76 391514

"New Cobalt 262 for sale in Phuket"

!Cranchi Mediterranee 43

Cranchi Zafro 36

STARSHIP YACHTS STARSHIP YACHTS

Marina

Boat Lagoon

Thepkassatri Rd.

Boat Lagoon Marina 23/112 Thepkasattri Rd, Kohkaew Phuket Thailand 83200 Tel: +66 (0) 76 273 378, +66 (0) 8 4442 5460 www.starshipyachts.com, www.cranchi-asia.com

STARSHIP YACHTS

Resort

Mini Mart

22


Hotspots in PhuketStarbucks Central Festival, Tel: +66 (0)76 345716 The Books Phuket Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 211115 Rockin Angels Jammin' Cafe Yaowarat Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 210828 Tea House Yaowarat Rd,. Tel: +66 (0)76 258022 CC Blooms Kata, Tel: +66 (0)76 333222-3 Centara Karon Resort Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 396200 Club Med Kata, Tel: +66 (0)76 330455-9 Evason Phuket & Six Senses Spa Rawai, Tel: +66 (0)76 381010-7 Mom Tri's Villa Royale Kata Noi, Tel: +66 (0)76 333568 Mom Tri's Boathouse Kata Beach, Tel: +66 (0)76 330015 Mom Tri's Kitchen Kata Noi, Tel: +66 (0)76 333569 Mom Tri's Oasis Kata, Tel: +66 (0)76 330423 Novotel-Panwa Beach Resort Aoyon, Tel: +66 (0)76 393300-10 Pacific Club And Spa Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 398350-2 Phuket Sports & Tennis Club Rawai, Tel: +66 (0)76 289714 Serene Resort Kata, Tel: +66 (0)76 330148-50 SouthSea Karon Resort Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 370888 The Aspasia Phuket Kata, Tel: +66 (0)76 333032-3 The Little Mermaid Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 396580

Restaurants and CafAmazon Caf Chaofa Rd., West Dos Fringos Chalong, Tel: +66 (0)76 280289 Happy Days Chalong, Tel: +66 (0)89 472 7304 Jimmy's Lighthouse Chalong Pier, Tel: +66 (0)76 381709 Kan Eang@pier Chalong Pier, Tel: +66 (0)83 173 1187 Khun Woody's Sandwich Shoppe Fisherman Way Park, +66 (0)76 282403 Locanda Restaurant Kata-Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 330087

Khun Woody's Sandwich Shoppe Laguna, Tel: +66 (0)76 324313 Lambert Brothers Boat Lagoon, Tel: +66 (0)76 273385 Lady Pie Srisoontorn Rd., Tel: +66 (0)76 271409 Les Anges Royal Phuket Marina Tel: +66 (0)76 360803-5 Liquid Lounge Surin, Tel: +66 (0)81 537 2018 Liquid Lounge Bar Surin Beach Rd. Mom Tri's Boathouse Regatta Royal Phuket Marina, Tel: +66 (0)76 360855 Skippers Royal Phuket Marina Tel: +66 (0)76 360890 The Club Kamala, Tel: +66 (0)76 279111 Watermark Bar Restaurant, Boat Lagoon, Tel: +66 (0)76 239730

OtherBangkok Phuket Hospital Yaowarat Rd,. Tel: +66 (0)76 254425

Phuket SouthHotels, Resorts and GuesthousesAlpina Phuket Nalina Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 370999 Angus @ O'TOOL'S Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 398262 Arfur @ O'TOOL'S Kata, Tel: +66 (0)76 284405 Baan Kiki Chalong, Tel: +66 (0)89 586 1098 Baan Karon Resort Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 286251-8 Bel Air Panwa Resort Ao Makham, Tel: +66 (0)76 396580 Bougainvillea Hotel Kata-Karon, Tel: +66 (0)76 330087

Phuket NorthHotels, Resorts and GuesthouseJW Marriott West Coast, Tel: +66 (0)76 338000 Kamala Bay Garden Resort Kalim, Tel: +66 (0)76 325722 Laguna Phuket Cherngtalay, Tel: +66 (0)76 324416 The Residence Kalim Bay Kalim, Tel: +66 (0)76 342211

OtherPhuket International Airport TOT Hotspot Tel: +66 (0)2 575 9425

Restaurants and CafKamala Beer Garden Kamala, Tel: +66 (0)81 797 8451

If you know of any other wifi locations, please advise us at [email protected] and we will do our best to include them.


23

Feature

Marriage Made in Heaven.Frank Sinatra famously crooned that love and marriage, go together like a horse and carriage. Unfortunately, the sacred institution has taken a bit of a bashing since Frank articulated this profound observation in the Sands casino in Las Vegas, which is not far from Reno, famous for quickie divorces.In the UK, nearly fifty per cent of marriages end in divorce within five years. Indeed a significant proportion of young couples are now choosing to eschew the arrangement entirely, electing rather to live in what earlier generations called, with a lascivious wink, sin. The icing it seems is right off the wedding cake. One of the first casualties of this change in social mores is, of course, the traditional white wedding in June, followed by a slapup bean feast for all in the TA hall. Those marrying for the second time (the triumph of optimism over realism) may recall the agony of that excruciating ritual, and not wish to repeat it. Then, of course, with the world facing financial doom and gloom, the fact is that newlyweds of whatever stripe, have better things to do with their money like going on holiday, perhaps. So lets take a look at current wedding costs in the UK. The average price of a ceremony and reception (this is the average, mind you) is in the region of 20,000. Did you know that a wedding cake alone can now tip the scales at a thousand quid? Then youve got more hands held out flowers, choir, wedding gown, bridesmaids, taxis and on and on the list is endless.

24


Feature: Weddings in Paradise

And for what, exactly? The bride and groom are bit players in a tragic comedy dominated by others. The reception allows feuding relatives to re-visit past schisms, whilst at the same time knocking back your vintage champagne at 40 quid a bottle. At the end of it, all theres left to do, is pick the rice out of your ears, untie the tin cans from the back of the rental limo and count the cost, of course. Theres got to be a better way. Many Brits are now choosing to tie the knot in more congenial surroundings, far removed from their extended families and Aunt Agnes insatiable thirst for gin. We talked to the Laguna hotel people here in Phuket. Like most units in the group, Laguna Phuket offers a combined marriage and honeymoon package in surroundings which are just not available in the sceptred isle. Without wishing to give a detailed price list rest assured, the actual cost of the ceremony is a fraction of what it would be in Europe. As for the hotel and airfares well youre planning to go on honeymoon anyway, arent you? In addition, in these times of reduced occupancies, there are all sorts of special offers and promotions, which hotels like Laguna would wish to press upon you. Moreover, its not just the dollars and cents side of it. Theres the quality of the arrangements. Lagunas fully air-conditioned, glass-walled chapel is an exquisite gem nestling on the lake shore. The couple arrives by boat, everything is personalised and theres no time constraints to worry you. Sparkling wine, flowers, the photographer and a candlelit dinner-for-two afterwards are all included. Dress informality is the order of the day. Rather than stuffy satins and starched collars, be comfortable in light cottons and silks for her and linen for him. Leave the tie at home. After the great day, Laguna Phuket can offer the newlyweds fivestar accommodation and superb cuisine. The hotel is situated amid 1,000 acres of parkland dotted with scenic lakes and theres three kilometres of stunning white sandy beach. Resisting the temptation to indulge in any smutty honeymoon jokes, well only mention that if youre here for a couple of weeks,

the island has got much more to offer than superb beaches and luxury hotels. There can be no better way of starting married life than a round of golf at one of the islands splendid courses! If you fancy a bit of shopping then weve got world-class department stores and trendy boutiques by the dozen. Why not take a trip round the bay in an open long-tail boat? If youve got the energy theres everything from whitewater rafting to Muay Thai gyms. You like Thai cuisine? The little woman can even do a short training course on the basics. Splendid idea, I here you say. Well, there you have it. Theres an old saying that marriages that start well, last long. The choice is up to you. The Registry Office, Aunt Agnes and a weeks B & B in Bognor or Paradise. Tough call. Photos and story from Laguna Phuket Website: www.lagunaphuketweddings.com


25

SocialonPhuket What WAS in PhuketPhuket Junior Golf Foundation Inaugural Charity Golf Day(From left) Matt Partridge, Mark Norris, Oliver Bates and Rory Byrne. Rory and Matt were the team event winners.

Columbia Crest Two Vines Afternoon BBQ on Sunday @ Sala Phuket(From left) Graham Haslam, Avnish Dhall winner of individual Stableford. (From left) Janette Kelley from Impiana Villas; Executive Chef, Jan Hollister and Kirk Stucker from Bill Bentley Pub.

The Holme Place Thank You Party White Party at White Box(Third from left) Marc Antoine, General Manager and Manatsavinee Racharit (first from left), PR Sales & Marketing Manager of White Box Restaurant & Roof Top Bar pose for a photo during White Party themed party. (From left) Sirichai Holme Owner of the Holme Place Project; Chanticha S. (Kee) Marketing Executive, Image Asia Events.

Northern Chicky Net Brunch at Crpes VillageThe girls came out in full force to the first Northern Chicky Brunch held at Crpes Village in Cherngtalay on Saturday August 22.

ABBATASTIC Party(From left) Lena Graff, PHBGTU and Arnaud C.M.C. Verstraete who bid for ABBA plaque, raised 130,000 Baht. Peter Webber of Les Anges and the children of PHBGTU.

(From left) Sue Ultmann, E.A.M & Director Marketing Communications, Baan Rim Pa Group; DJ Sniffer FM 91.5 and Lena Graff, PHBGTU.

26


Disco Vintage Night at White Box(From left) Manatsavinee Racharit, PR Sales & Marketing of White Box Restaurant & Bar; (third from left) Yupaporn Kaewsawee, Jr. Account Executive of Pernod Ricard Thailand Company with resident guest from Russia posed for a photo during Disco Vintage themed party.

Central Festival Phuket 5th Anniversary Celebration(From left) Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree, Consultant-Marketing & Leasing Central Festival Phuket; Rawee Poorpornpong, Marketing Director, Central Retail Corporation; Songphol Pongrapeeporn, General Manager-Marketing Central Festival Phuket; Phuket Governor Wichai Praisangob; Phuket Red Cross Chairwoman Thaisika Praisangob; Thanapon Tangkananan, Vice President for Business Development, Central Retail Corporation; Panat Pookpho, Store General Manager Central Department Store (Phuket Branch).


27

Trusted Suppliers of Phuket's Finest Quality Vehicles

Cars for Sale

SURE MOTORSThe Jor Charoen Motor Dealership Est. 1993

Open: Monday to Saturday 08:00 17:30 : +66 (0)76 224632 : +66 (0)76 216243 Email: [email protected] Website: www.suremotor.net

Honda Accord i-vtec

785,000 THB

Toyota New Camry (V) 1,350,000 THBPRE-OWNED : Gold, 2007, 2,400 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS,TV Monitor, Leather Seats, CD Player, 28,xxx KM.

Toyota Altis (G)

638,000 THB

PRE-OWNED : Bronze Gold, 2004, 2,400 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 79,xxx KM.

PRE-OWNED : Grey, 2005, 1,800 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 40,xxx KM.

Toyota Wish (Q)

799,000 THB

Toyota Yaris (S) Limited

540,000 THB

Toyota Camry (E)

699,000 THB

PRE-OWNED : Silver Bronze, 2004, 2,000 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 93,xxx KM.

PRE-OWNED : Red, 2006, 1,500 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD/MP3 Player, 66,xxx KM.

PRE-OWNED : Silver Bronze, 2004, 2,000 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 81,xxx KM.

Toyota Yaris (G)

575,000 THB

Honda New Civic i-vtec 799,000 THBPRE-OWNED : Silver Bronze, 2006, Leather Seats, 2,000 CC, Auto, CD Player, ABS, Airbag, 16,XXX KM.

Nissan Teana (JM V6)

830,000 THB

PRE-OWNED : Grey, 2007, 1,500 CC., Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 48,xxx KM.

PRE-OWNED : White, 2007, Leather Seats, Auto, CD Player, ABS, Airbag, 74,XXX KM.

Honda CRV I-VTEC

580,000 THB

Honda Jazz I-DSI

440,000 THB

Isuzu D-Max iTEQ

670,000 THB

PRE-OWNED : Blue, 2002, 2,000 CC., 4x4, Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 94,xxx KM.

PRE-OWNED : Grey, 2006, 1,500 CC., Auto, Standard Seats, CD Player, 74,xxx KM.

PRE-OWNED : Gold, 2007, 3.0TurboVGS 4X4, Auto, Airbag, ABS, Leather Seats, CD Player, 90,xxx KM.

To Kao Rang

To Wachira Hospital

To Airport Merlin HotelSatree Phuket School

Mae Luan Rd Yaowarat Rd Patipat Rd

Thung Ka Rd SURE MOTORS

Damrong RdEsso Gasoline

These are just some of over 100 cars that we have in stock. Come to our showroom and see the rest or visit our website: www.suremotor.net: +66 (0)76 224632 and +66 (0)76 216243

Thepkasattree Rd

28


Car Rentals: +66 (0)76 211002, +66 (0)76 217797, +66 (0)76 256797 Email: [email protected] Website: www.PureCarRent.com 75 Ratsada Rd., Phuket Town, Phuket Thailand

Pure Car RentYo u r Best Choice Car Rental

Group A

1,100-1,600 Baht/Day

Group B1

1,200-1,800 Baht/Day

Group B2

1,200-1,800 Baht/Day

TOYOTA SOLUNA / HONDA CITY : Manual Transmission, 1.5 Litre, Air Condition, 4 Doors, 4 Seats

TOYOTA SOLUNA / HONDA CITY : Automatic Transmission, 1.5 Litre, Air Condition, 4 Doors, 4 Seats

HONDA JAZZ : Automatic Transmission, 1.5 Litre, Air Condition, 5 Doors, 4 Seats

Why choose - Pure Car Rent? All our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards. Honest, reliable & friendly business. The longest reputation in car rental in Phuket (Established in 1974). No hidden extra costs - what you see is what you pay (tax, insurance all included in rental rates). Full comprehensive insurance included (with excess of 5,000 baht).

Group C

1,400-2,000 Baht/Day

Group E

1,400-2,000 Baht/Day

TOYOTA COROLLA : Automatic Transmission, 1.6 Litre, Air Condition, 4 Doors, 5 Seats

TOYOTA AVENZA : Automatic Transmission, 1.3 Litre, Air Condition, 5 Doors, 5 (7) Seats

People Profile

Peter KomposchFor most visitors the face of Phuket which they remember is their hotel. A bad experience can spoil an otherwise excellent holiday. This month we talk to Peter Komposch, an expert who has made a career out of delivering what the brochures promise. Lets here what he has to say.Where are you from originally? Austria. What made you decide to come and live here? Ive always been interested in Asian people and culture so when I got job offered from Dusit, I took the opportunity and left my job in Jamaica to move here in 2007. How did you get into the hotel industry? I have spent almost 30 years in the hospitality industry. After graduating from a hotel college in Austria, I worked my way up and became an Executive Chef. During those times, I also worked on an 80-foot yacht and sailed around the world for a year and a half. After coming back from the long trip, I went to Cornell University in the States before starting as Food & Beverages Director at Hyatt Regency, Maui, Hawaii. Then I became General Manager at El Dorado Park Hotel in Vienna, Austria. Three years later, I moved back to California to become vice president of the famous Highlands Inn in Carmel. During this time I was also responsible for two other hotels under the same umbrella. After that I moved to Bermuda as Vice President and General Manager at The Princess Hotel where I stayed for 10 years. Throughout my career, I not only met World famous celebrities such as Clint Eastwood, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Paul Newman, Dustin Hoffman, but also President Nixon, President George Bush, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Princess Diana, Prince Faisal of Saudi Arabia, King Fahd and the current Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton. I was also nominated twice as General Manager of the Year for the Carabic area. Please tell us about your job. How do you go about running a huge fivestar hotel? Its very interesting and at the same time, challenging. Youve got to have great discipline and a strong work ethic and enjoy what youre doing. Ive learned that if you approach the Thai staff in the right way theyll do their very best for you. Because of the current economic crisis, the focus on cashflow has become even more important. This is the time for hotels to use their revenue management skills and technology to offer flexible rates, without being seen to be giving away discounts. During this time, its a essential to know how to deal with your employees. When times are hard its crucially important to motivate and train them and provide them with job security so theyre able to focus on delivering the quality of service which our guests deserve. Whats the secret? Youve got to be straightforward in every thing you do. The leader has to motivate, but this can only be achieved if hes a team player who sets clear objectives, and supports as well as directs. Its obviously important to be able to supply the level of service that discriminating customers want and then deliver a bit more on top. As you can see, Ive been in the hotel business for many years all over the world and the main thing Ive learnt is that luxurious premises, comprehensive facilities and superb cuisine are all important, but what makes or breaks any hotel is the performance of the staff. A hotel is a living, breathing organism. However, its also a business. The boss must be achievement-oriented and focused on the bottom line. Theres obviously got to be a lot of pressure and stress in all this. How do you cope? As I say, youve got to enjoy what youre doing, but for me the secret to survival is to be able to relax with my family and play sport whenever I get the chance.

Whereabouts do you live in Phuket? The Laguna Town Home development. Its very secure. The Laguna area is a really great place to live. Its close to the beach and has some first-class retaurants. Its very quiet, clean and of course, its close to where I work. What kind of car do you drive? I run a Toyota Fortuner. What do you like most about living in Phuket? I like the people, the fusion of cultures, the ocean and the golf courses. A great place to live. How old are you? 60 years old. How about your family? Im married with two grown-up children. My wife is living with me here. How do you spend time together? We enjoy boating, sailing, golfing, skiing and travelling. I love to enjoy good food and good wine. Do you like Thai food? Yes, I do. Tom Yam Goong is my favourite dish. The person who has the most influenced you? Heinz E. W. Simonitsch is my idol. He is a self-made man who started as a waiter and became one of the owners of the famous Half Moon Hotel in Jamaica as well as the Grand Hotel in Lienz. Heinz was all about the accomplishment, a strong leader, a team player who took satisfaction in seeing the people around him excel. He was very much involved with the guests. Entertain them and make sure they and their family would return for generations to come. Are you involved in any associations? Yes, I am a member of Rotary, Skl, La Chain des Rotisseurs and Thai-Austrian Society. For more information contact: Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket Within Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Cherngtalay www.dusit.com/dtlp

30


Around Phuket Baan Rim PaThai

Patong Seafood

International

'Location, location, location' as the saying goes. It doesnt matter how good you are, if youre not in the right location, forget it. Baan Rim Pa has become one of Thailands best-known restaurants, with a reputation stretching much further. It is perched on a cliff, with teak floors and the constant swish of the surf downstairs. There are some restaurants that just encapsulate the word romantic and here, with Tommy Doyle playing classics on his grand piano, the sea breeze and the delicate aromas of world-class cooking in the air, this House by the Sea is one of the most romantic places to eat in Phuket. Situated on a rocky outcrop, overlooking the Andaman Sea, Baan Rim Pa prides itself in superb, authentic Royal Thai Cuisine, an ambience second to none and the most spectacular views on the island. Baan Rim Pa is the winner of the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence seven years in succession.Open Thu-Tue 12:00-24:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 340789, +66 (0)76 341768 On the coast road just north of Patong www.baanrimpa.com

Take a journey into the home of real Thai food! Patong Seafood Restaurant was the first seafood restaurant to open in the then village-like Patong. It has changed very little from those days except for a major refurbishment after the 2004 tsunami in which major damage was sustained. The restaurant was rebuilt as it was in original Thai style with open dining area and a high circular design ceiling. Only the freshest seafood is brought straight from the boat and market to give you the finest selections, which are on display chilled and ready to eat. The kitchens at Patong Seafood Restaurant are a place to behold, where their chefs with simply so many years of experience, prepare your seafood and other Thai delicacies to perfection. The first thing that you will notice are the friendly staff. The smiles, the attentiveness and the helpfulness in making your choice are something you will appreciate and you will then know why many visitors and locals come back time and time again to enjoy this real taste of Thailand.Open daily 08:00-24:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 341244 Beach Rd, 200 metres north of Soi Bangla in Patong www.wheretoeat-phuket.com


31

Around Phuket Mom Tri's KitchenInternational

Sala Bua

International

Enjoy fine dining in an award winning restaurant set just above the rocks and overlooking Kata Noi Beach. Panoramic sea views combined with the sound of the waves below create a peaceful, sensually indulgent and romantic setting. European favourites and Thai dishes are served either on the open-air terrace, covered patio or Thai sala. An exuberant menu offers delicious creations from talented Executive Chef Sura. Popular dishes include hot crab souffl, and light and savoy appetiser, tuna carpaccio, Phuket lobster and Angus beef tenderloin. Mom Tri's Villa Royale is the winner of the Wine Spectators Award of Excellence for three years in a row and has over 350 labels including an extensive organic wine list and 16 wines by the glass. Also enjoy watching the sunset during happy hour from 5:30 to 6:30 and receive 50% discount cocktails and beer. Situated on the only road into to Kata Noi, the entrance can easily be found on the hill between Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach.Open daily 06:30-24:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 333569 On Kata Noi Beach www.momtriphuket.com

There are only a certain few select restaurants that can offer an evening of enjoyment with unsurpassed sophistication. A superb cuisine prepared by an award-winning chef, along with warm hospitality in a luxurious but relaxing ambiance, set the stage for an ideal and memorable evening out. With a seating of al fresco and outdoor dining by the sea, and the soft sounds of the musicians, the setting for the discerning diner or those seeking a romantic interlude, is complete. A unique evening at Sala Bua can include an array of culinary delights prepared by Executive Chef Ronnie Macuja who steered Sala Bua into winning a coveted Best Restaurant award granted by Thailand Tatler from 2002 to 2007. His superb entres include the Open Lasagna of Rock Lobster with white truffle mash potato and new season garlic cream and Hoisin Roasted Duck Breast with maple-glazed pears, charred asparagus and cherry-grappa sauce. Sala Bua offers the ultimate in elegant dining providing cuisine that is innovative and unparalleled. With a warm ambience and service, this place to dine provides an extraordinary and unforgettable evening out.Open daily 12:00-24:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 342100 ext 8301 Impiana Phuket Cabana & Resort. Entrance from Beach Rd, Patong. www.sala-bua.com

P Perfect detail-oriented homes for privacy and q quality living that are tremendous value for money.

P Prices start from 5.3 million baht.Two storey houses with a combination of Bali & Modern Tropical designed building in harmony with surrounding nature, providing a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle for you and your family.

Tel: +66 (0) 76 373 199 Fax: +66 (0) 76 373 188 E-mail: [email protected] www.thepthanee.com

32


Mom Tri's Oasis

Mediterranean

Beachfront dining becomes a whole new experience at this tropical, sophisticated and yet relaxed setting which enjoys gorgeous panoramic sunset views from the restaurants and live music in the tapas bar. Mom Tris Oasis introduces a new kind of Mediterranean cuisine to Phuket with tantalizing dishes served in the open air restaurant. Choose lighter fare from the Oasis Spring Tapas Bar or casual beachfront dining at the Oasis On the Sea Restaurant. Tapas include glazed scallops with spinach, feta cheese and sun-dried tomato samosas, and goat cheese and tomato meatballs. For those seeking something light and healthy there is a good selection of generous salads. Oasis On The Sea offers some original dishes such as sea bass baked in a banana leaf and classics including braised lamb shank with sun dried tomato and grain mustard mash. There is also a good selection of vegetarian items. Free wireless internet also makes Oasis a great place to come, relax on the sofa and enjoy some authentic Lavazza coffee.Open daily 10:30-23:30 | Tel: +66 (0)76 330423 Kata Beach, adjacent to the Boathouse www.momtriphuket.com, [email protected]

Kan Eang@pier

Seafood/Thai

Kan Eang, meaning feel at ease, invites you to unwind with the soothing sounds of the waves, enjoy a stunning view of Chalong Bay and savor freshly caught seafood, local Thai delights and selected Japanese dishes. Kan Eang@pier is more than a restaurant, it is a destination. Originally called Kan Eang 1, the name was changed after renovations. Kan Eang 1 with more than 30 years of preparing great seafood dishes had long been a favorite among both locals and visitors from around the world Kan Eang@pier is no different and continues the tradition of satisfying any palate with their selected fresh seafood and local specialties. Kan Eang@pier has the flexibility to cater for everything from intimate dinners to special events and large banquets. This restaurant with its friendly and attentive staff and seaside tables and chairs in an idyllic setting offers a relaxing and pleasant dining experience day or night. Enjoy a panoramic view of the yacht harbor and close islands.Open daily 10:30-23:00 | Tel: +66 (0)83 173 1187, +66 (0)76 381212 The pier of Chalong Bay www.kaneang-pier.com, [email protected]


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Around Phuket The Kamala Restaurant Thai/International

La Boucherie

French/Steaks & Grills

Take a break and enjoy the sea breeze on a hot day in an outdoor or indoor setting with strolling musicians serenading you as you enjoy a wonderful meal. The Kamala Restaurant at the The Print Kamala Resort offers a relaxed and casual dining experience in a stylish setting close to the beach. The resort has a reputation as the perfect hideaway for honeymooners and holidaymakers. What better way to celebrate than by starting with an exotic cocktail created by the bar staff? PS I Love You, a blend of dark rum and amaretto, is an enticing drink that helps set the ambience for a great stay. Choose from the menu of International and Thai food a mix of dishes as the colours and taste combinations are sure to please. The Shrimp on Garlic Toast and Calamari make for well-known Western favourites and the Spare Ribs with a spicy Thai sauce provide a piquant twist. Not to miss are the Kao Pad Talay Sapalot, seafood fried rice served in a pineapple, the Spicy Seafood Salad and Gung Sarong, vermicelli noodles wrapped around deep fried prawns. Try a taste of the exotic in an intimate and warm atmosphere.Open daily 06:30-23:00 | Tel: +66 (0) 76 385396-8 ext 700 7 km from Patong Beach on Beach Road To Kamala Hill. In front of the Kamala Park. www.printkamalaresort.net/restaurant1.php

La Boucherie is a French steakhouse located in the Royal Phawadee Village a sumptuous and quiet boutique resort in Patong. An intimate and relaxed ambience offers a welcome escape from the nearby busy and bustling area. Unwind with a glass of wine at an outdoor table or in airconditioned comfort and enjoy great steaks and French specialities. Appetizers of Beef Carpaccio and Basil and Warm Goat Cheese Salad are delightful delicacies of a perfect combination of meat and cheese with complimentary textures and delicately spiced tastes. The Steak Tartare served with fried potatoes with garlic and butter and vegetables and the Entrecte with a Bearnaise sauce and a baked potato and vegetables are sure to please. A varied menu of wonderful food that includes perfectly cooked steaks and dishes from France is a good reason to stop at La Boucherie. Top it off with a cosy and relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, and you have a restaurant that provides a very pleasant and satisfying experience.Open daily 12:00-24:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 344581, +66 (0)81 607 0191 Royal Phawadee Village, 3 Sawatdirak Rd., Patong. Free Pickup (Conditions Apply) www.laboucherie-asia.com, [email protected]

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Baluchi

Indian

LIM's Restaurant & NINE Lounge and Bar

Thai

Baluchi is located in the heart of Patong and in Karon yet the relaxed atmosphere of both restaurants with soft background Indian music, creates a great ambience to relish a hearty meal with your family or to entertain your friends or clients. They take pride in using only authentic and fresh Indian spices, freshly ground in their kitchen and fresh, not frozen, meat. Homemade paneer (cottage cheese) and yoghurt, tandoori kebabs, naan and rotis, Mughlai curries and the best Indian long grain basmati rice dishes are just some of the specialties which their Indian master chef serves daily. One can taste the most mouth-watering tandoori kebabs in town, not to mention the variety of breads baked freshly in the tandoor or a delicious variety of prawn, chicken, mutton or vegetable biryani. Baluchi is the only award winning Indian restaurant on the island, serving authentic Indian cuisine using original ingredients imported from India. Karon is open 15:00 to 23:30 except Saturdays.Open daily 13:00-23:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 292526, +66 (0)76 284555 Horizon Beach Resort, Patong and Karon Soi 2 next to the Karon Football Stadium www.wheretoeat-phuket.com

LIMs at Kalim Bay is an elegant custom-designed restaurant and a gallery of bold, very abstract art, built on a tropical hillside garden beside one of Phukets few natural rivers. Call it a hidden treasure. LIMs has special offerings of generous portions that combine interesting textures and tastes. Theres a pomelo salad with shrimp that has a fresh, very clean taste. The slices of marinated duck breast rolled in cucumber are very light and match either the Australian or New Zealand red or white wines offered on the menu. Traditional, popular curries can be found on the menu with large king prawns, chicken or duck and theres a section for vegetarians. Along with NINE Lounge and Bar, this is a restaurant to relax in, to take your time between courses and enjoy the company of your dinner companions. Until now, the pleasure of an evening at LIMs, a favourite of Thai and expat residents, has spread mostly by discreet word of mouth as the chosen elegant hideaway for the discerning diner. Now the word is out.Open daily 18:30-22:30 (Kitchen, Bar until late) | Tel: +66 (0)76 344834 From Kalim Beach Road, enter Soi 7 at Orchid Hotel and drive up the hill for 500 m www.lim-thailand.com


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Around Phuket Ruen ThaiThai

Salvatores

Italian

Be treated like a royal at Ruen Thai, one of the best reputations on the island for its excellent food, romantic setting and exceptional Thai services. This fine place to dine is set in a charming, old teak house with Thai design and dcor in a beautiful garden overlooking the crystal clear lagoon and the mountains on the west coast of the island. The renowned Ruen Thai occupies a classic Thai ambience featuring mouth-watering Royal Thai cuisine with specially selected ingredients and professionally prepared and overseen by our experienced Thai chef. Unique in the Laguna and around the island of Phuket, all our recipes are original and ingredients we use are the freshest available. Enjoy a wide range of la carte or set menus, classical Royal Thai dishes for your dining pleasure nightly. Dine in comfort in the beautifully decorated and air conditioned room or in the open-air area where you enjoy the breezy lagoon. Enjoy and experience the taste of Thai culture. Ruen Thai also offers a Thai cooking class.Open daily 18:30-23:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 362999 ext 7303 Within Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Cherngtalay www.dusit.com/dtlp, [email protected]

Looking for a break from the tourist spots on Phukets west coast and the best pizza on the island? Follow the locals to Salvatores, a rustic 'trattoria' in Phuket Town. Salvatore offers traditional Italian cuisine using only the finest fresh ingredients, such as linguini alla bottarga, sea bass in salt crust, gnocchi with fresh sausage and pizza baked in a wood-burning oven. Other specialties are created with local shellfish, like mouth-watering lobster ravioli and fettucini with crab. Start with the bruschetta, with delicately skinned tomatoes and fresh herbs and beef carpaccio with olive oil. The food is prepared under the careful eye of the Sardinian executive chef and owner, Salvatore Cossu, a fixture on Phukets restaurant scene for his cooking skills. He personally shops for the vegetables and fish in local markets. The bread is baked daily; the pastas and sausages are home-made. Ask him about daily food specials as well as wine suggestions. Salvatore offers about 60 labels, including Sardinian wines. The service is warm and the ambience is friendly. But the real star is the food.Open 12-14:00, 18-23:00 Closed Mondays | Tel: +66 (0)76 225958 Near the circle and fresh market in Phuket Town. www.wheretoeat-phuket.com

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Plum Fine Dining / Vanilla Sky

Eurasian/Tapas Bar

The new chic modern resort Cape Sienna Hotel & Villas brings the sophisticated style of city living to the tropical beauty of Phuket Island. Cape Sienna awaits you in our two unique dining venues, both with outstanding service, fine cuisine and views to match. Its chic! Its modern! Its hip! Its laidback! Its Cape Sienna Hotel & Villas. At Plum Fine Dining, Executive Chef Indrajit Saha offers an exotic experience with tantalizing Oriental dishes and more familiar dishes with a hint of tropical spices. Slip into our sleek dcor and treat your palette with fusion cuisine for an unforgettable experience. Vanilla Sky Bar & Lounge the pinnacle of the resort serves distinctive cocktails and interesting Tapas together with a breathtaking view of Kamala Bay. Stepping out on the terrace and slipping into one of the chairs will give you a sensation of having reached a small piece of heaven on earth. Come for the Cape Sienna experience and be surprised by the amazing location, delicious food, great drinks, good music and stunning viewPlum Fine Dining18-23 Closed Mon&Wed Vanilla Sky 1700 | Tel: +66 (0)76 337300 Cape Sienna Hotel & Villas, Kamala Cliff at the beginning of Millionaire's Mile! www.capesienna.com, [email protected]

Da Vinci

Italian

Conceptualisations and ingenuity in the form of Italian cuisine come to Nai Harn! Relish an authentic style of cooking of a diverse array of favourites and new combinations served in a cozy ambiance or savour pizzas in a separate casual seating area by a wood-fired oven. Welcoming tastes and sights abound at Da Vinci with tantalizing temptations served from the kitchen with fresh ingredients as signature items in every dish. The Lasagne Al Forno, home made lasagne layers of pasta made with beef and tomato sauce and the Spaghetti Neri Pomodorini Calamari E/ Gamberi, black spaghetti with tomato, squid and prawn offer unique tastes and texture combinations with the richness of their flavours reflected in the quality of the ingredients. The Scaloppine Al Vino Bianco Con Patate are two appetizing escalopes with white wine served with potatoes were perfectly cooked fillets of pork. For superlative Italian cuisine with the freshest of ingredients, be sure to try Da Vinci and discover a renaissance of food.Open daily 17:30-23:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 289574 Center of Nai Harn on the road to Rawai www.davinciphuket.com


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Around Phuket Jean Pierre Bar & RestaurantInternational

Mom Tri's Boathouse Regatta

International

Superb food and warm hospitality that are creatively prepared and generously offered and served in a hip and chic setting are the ingredients that set the stage for a wonderful evening out. This fusion of exquisite and inviting elements provide for a memorable occasion, and is a place that tempts patrons to return again and again. The Large Grilled Prawn with two truffle-based sauces is one delicacy to be savoured. The mushroom condiments were a surprising complement to the prawn with a hint of mint in one offering a unique touch. The Tuna Fillet with spinach ravioli in a Parmesan walnut sauce not only paired different textures and taste combinations but was also a pleasing dish to the eye and the Rack of Lamb and Rib Eye Steak on a bed of mushrooms are ideal partners. A stylish and upscale setting with exquisite food and a warm ambience, make Jean Pierre Bar & Restaurant a place to go to get a taste of that something special.Open daily 10:30-23:00 | Tel: +66 (0)76 343024 In front of Andaman Beach Suites in Patong www.wheretoeat-phuket.com

Treat yourself to a fine dining occasion that calls for remarkable and fresh ingredients such as ambiance, setting, service and food! Top up these elements with a marina-side venue on the boardwalk of Royal Phuket Marina with a view of luxury yachts and the extraordinary cuisine famous to Mom Tris Boathouse Wine and Grill in Kata, but at a much a lower price, and these are the makings for an exceptional evening. Mom Tris Boathouse Regatta boasts a dcor that is representative of signals used in yacht racing and regattas with portholes and other items symbolic of yachting appear on the white walls. The true and tried tastes and sights, dishes from Chef Tummanoon and Matre-Cuisinier de France Chef Jean-Nol Lumineau of the Mom Tri's Boathouse Wine & Grill, are to be found in the form of a fusion of seafood and French Mediterranean cuisine at the Boathouse Regatta. Set the sail for a regatta enjoy the food and the views on the boardwalk!Open daily 11:00-23:00, Closed Tuesdays | Tel: +66 (0)76 360855 Royal Phuket Marina, Thepkrassattri Road, Koh Kaew. www.momtriphuket.com

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Recipe

Sienna DuckSous Vide Asian Marinated Duck Breast, sweet potato hash, green pea pure and burnt plum sauceServes 4Marinade for Duck 900 gm duck breast 5 gm star anise 10 gm cinnamon 20 gm Sichuan peppercorn 10 gm red dried chili 5 gm salt 1 egg white

Method: Slow roast the spices and salt and grind the spices a little coarse. Dip the duck breast in egg white and marinate with the spice mixture and put in a vaccum pack bag. Seal the bag and steam it at 52C for 15 minutes. The duck is then ready for deep frying at the last minute.

Green Pea PureIngredients: 100 gm green peas 10 gm salt 5 gm pepper 30 ml cream 4 gm oregano 10 ml extra virgin olive oil

Sweet Potato MashIngredients: 200 gm sweet potato 10 gm salt 10 gm pepper 25 gm chives

Method: Bake the potato at 180C for 25 minutes with aluminum foil and take the skin off after baking. Add salt, freshly crushed black pepper and chives.

Method: Boil and pure with salt, white pepper, cream oregano and extra virgin olive oil until the sauce has thickened.

Fried OnionIngredients: 100 gm onion 300 ml oil for frying 100 gm snow peas

Burnt Plum SauceIngredients: 100 gm palm sugar 40 ml water 25 ml fish sauce 60 ml tamarind juice 50 gm fresh plum 30 gm Hoisin sauce

Method: Slice the onion thin and blanch in water and then fry until it obtains a uniform colour.

To serve: Deep fry the duck to get a crispy texture. Put the sweet potato inthe mixture in the ring and add the sauted snow peas on the sweet potato. Place the halved tomato (already cooked) on top of the sweet potato. Slice the duck breast, drizzle the plum sauce and green pea pure around the plate as shown in the photograph and garnish it fried onion.

Method: Caramelize the palm sugar with the fresh plums halved and pitted and then add the other ingredients. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the sauce comes to a coating consistency.

About Chef IndrajitOriginally from Bombay, India, Chef Indrajit was drawn to European food early in his career, especially its presentation and texture. At an Oberoi hotel in India, he opened the Italian restaurant Frangipani, after having flown to Italy to study Italian cuisine for a couple of months. Then the Anantara hotel group tasked him with opening an Italian restaurant in the Maldives. While there, he learned many marvelous and wonderful ways to use tuna including tuna curry for breakfast and tuna spring rolls for afternoon snacks. In St. Lucia, he learned how to prepare Creole food such as breadfruit and Caribbean chicken wings. Then in Djibouti he learned how to prepare Afro-Arabic food. Indrajit is known for using different cooking techniques and influences in his menu. For example, he prepares sous vide (vacuum-packed) chicken, a classical French dish with rendang sauce from Indonesia a European cooking style with an Asian flavour. He also likes to use trios and quattros, multiple variations of the same food: lamb chops, lamb loins and lamb sauce are a good example of the former while steamed, pan-fried, grilled and broiled tuna are good examples of the latter. For more information contact: Cape Sienna (Plum Fine Dining and Vanilla Sky Bar) Tel: +66 (0)76 337300 Website: www.capesienna.com

Chef Indrajit


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Feature

Phukets Vegetarian FestivalEa Each year, at this time the area around Phukets Fresh Market becomes congested w with food stalls and everywhere is festooned with red lanterns and Chinese dragons, all centred on the Jui Tui shrine. One of the fascinating aspects of Phukets cultural traditions is the complex fusion of Chinese religious beliefs, with those of the original inhabitants of the island.It all began in the early 1900's when tin ore was discovered in the Kathu area and hundreds of Hokkien Chinese were drafted in to do the mining. They either brought their families with them or intermarried with the locals. A thriving community blossomed, and in 1825 the Governor Praya Jerm moved the capital town from Ta Reua to Kathu. The Chinese community had such critical mass that an itinerant Chinese opera company visited to entertain them. Here the story gets a little confused but basically the whole area was struck by a major epidemic and almost everybody except the opera players became sick. Following their beliefs, the players had stuck to their religious calendar, which at this time of year required that they observe a strict vegetarian diet and offered prayers to two Chinese gods, Kiew Ong Tai and Yok Ong Sone Teh. The residents attributed their invulnerability to these religious observances. An alternative explanation may be that since Kathu was a swampy jungle and it was the time of the monsoon rains, the visitors may have introduced a malarial strain to which they themselves were immune, to the local mosquitoes which thrived in the damp conditions. When the rains stopped the insects breeding ponds disappeared and the epidemic abated naturally. Be that as it may. The following year, the Haio Lan and Lian Tui regalia and sacred scripts were brought from China. When this precious cargo arrived at Bang Niao, the whole community went there to welcome the ship. The tradition of processions was thus born.

Schedule for street processions from Chinese Shrines 2009 Wednesday, Oct 20 Thursday, Oct 21 Friday, Oct 22 Saturday, Oct 23 Sunday, Oct 24 Monday, Oct 25 Tuesday, Oct 26 Sapam Shrine Samkong Shrine Ban Tha Rve Shrine Bang Neow Shrine Cherng Thalay Shrine Jui Tui Shrine Kathu Shrine Yokkekeng Shrine Sui Boon Tong Shrine

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Feature : Phukets Vegetarian Festival

If you wish to practise a strict observance during the festival, here are the rules: Maintain maximum body hygiene Use specified kitchen utensils only for the festival Dress in white or in very light colours Behave yourself: physically and mentally Abstain from eating meat, fish, eggs and milk No sexual intercourse Stay away from alcoholic beverages and tobacco People in mourning should not attend any ceremonies Pregnant women should not attend any ceremony

On the first night of the ninth lunar month (October the 20th in the Christian calendar), the sacred ten-metre lantern pole is raised to facilitate the arrival of the gods, and at midnight, nine lanterns are suspended, one for each god. In a slightly anomalous add-on, the Hindu god Shiva is also believed to be present, and just to be on the safe side, offerings are made to Lam Tao and Pak Tao. The festival then continues for nine more days with much burning of incense, banging of drums and letting off of fireworks to ward off evil spirits. One of the strange and even controversial aspects of the various processions (see the timetable below) is the

Continued on page 42


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Feature : Phukets Vegetarian FestivalContinued from page 41

activities of the Ma Song or possessed horses. These religious zealots transform themselves into a trancelike state and perform acts of mortification which range from climbing ladders with steel blades for rungs, walking across red hot coals and immersing themselves in hot oil. In a further rather gruesome practise, adherents pierce their faces and tongues with everything from skewers to bicycle spokes. Oddly enough, this self mutilation results in little bleeding or subsequent scarring. Stranger than fiction. However its not for the queasy so its probably best not to bring the kids! For most, however, the festival isnt so fraught. Many restaurants and stalls all over the island will fly yellow banners decorated with red script, proclaiming that they are offering authentic vegetarian dishes, and they are delicious. Somehow the cooks manage to prepare dishes which are just as tasty as the normal fare which includes meat.

Phukets Vegetarian Festival18-26 October 2009

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(Advertorial)

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GE Simon 3 Security system has been developed to bring together Intruder, Fire and Panic alarms into one easy to use system using high quality components which ensure zero false alarms and superb reliability and conforms to Security Industry Authority standards. With six user entry passwords, the Simon 3 system can help you to ensure the safety of your family as the system can be programmed to call you if one of your children or an elderly family member has not arrived back home at a predetermined time. This is a great facility for the busy working family and only found in high level security systems. GE Simon 3 Intruder or fire or panic alarms will send phone messages giving details of what and where the alert originated from, allowing a much more intelligent response to the alarm. GE Simon 3 is both attractive in design and easy to install by our qualified and professional engineers. Being wireless, there are no ugly wires and units can be fitted in the most effective locations making for efficient operation. Central Monitoring is available as an option to ensure that your property is watched and cared for if you are away traveling. For more information contact: AheadAll Phuket Company Limited Tel: +66 (0)76 249905 Fax: +66 (0)76 249906 Mobile: +66 (0)86 965 5483 (English/Thai) Email: [email protected]

The GE Simon 3 Smart Wireless system is a very intelligent security system and brings you real piece of mind for you and your family with the reliability and support that you would expect from a large international company.

No. in USA


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Spa

Open daily 9:00 22:00 hrs. Tel: +66 (0)76 236663, +66 (0)76 236056 367/63-64 Yaowaraj Rd., Muang, Phuket 83100 Email: [email protected] Website: www.theroyalspa.com

The Royal SpaTo experience The Royal Spa is to feel the true beauty of nature and reflect on the power of body, mind and spiritual connections.The Royal Spa and Health ClubIn the heart of bustling Phuket Town lies a quiet haven of heavenly peace. With the continuous sounds of water, trickling, bubbling and steaming, and with the sweet fruity scents that fill the air, the being is enticed into a flowing stillness of body and mind. The Royal Spa and Health Club is a popular tropical day spa with both locals and visitors alike, which is managed by the Royal Spa Development and Management Company. With an excellent reputation in the spa development industry through its experience and attention to detail, the Royal Spa and Health Club offers a distinctly personal experience. Of the signature treatments, the Royal Stone Therapy is one that is particularly interesting. The Hot Stone massage technique, founded 5000 years ago, uses black volcanic stones, which are heated and placed on the body, producing a profound effect, stilling the mind and easing the body. Unlike many of the high-end spa complexes on the island, which market themselves exclusively to tourists, the reasonable prices and relaxed but professional staff at the Royal Spa, means that many local Thais, as well as tourists, are beginning to use the spa. This has helped to erase the often stiff, and over-formal atmosphere at many of Phukets spa resorts, giving the Royal Spa an ambience of authentic relaxation and pleasure. All the therapists working at the Royal Spa have been trained at the in-house 'Phuket Spa Academy', established in 2004, to provide a comprehensive spa training course. The curriculum and assessments provide a measurement of therapist expertise and knowledge within the Thai spa industry. Since then, the Royal Spa Development and Management Company have provided comprehensive and professional spa management, and development programs, for spa retreats throughout Thailand. Their aim is to provide a standard of service and expertise throughout the Thai spa industry, to ensure a high quality of service and standard of treatment, throughout Thailand. It truly offers the one stop services for Thai spa business and a quality of relaxed professionalism, rarely found in luxury spa resorts. Right now The Royal Spa have 12 branches that are managed in resorts in Patong, Kata, Karon, Panwa, Ao Chalong and Phuket Town and you are welcome to experience our spas with us anytime. As a special for our 8th year anniversary, we offer 'BUY ONE GET ONE FREE' value.

Some treatments & packages at The Royal Spa

Prices range from 1,200 to 6,500 BahtThe Royal Ayurvedic Massage 90 min Ayurvedic Massage or Abhyanga is a full body massge with medicated oils to balance specific conditions. Hot Stone Massage 90 min

Hot Stone Massage is a specialty massage that uses black volcanic heated stones to make you feel deeply relaxed, allowing you to let go of all the stress that is held within your body. The Royal Signature package The Royal Honey Body Treatment (scrub and wrap) The Royal Experience Massage The Royal Facial Milky Bath 4 hrs

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE AT EVERY BRANCHThis Privilege applies to the 12 following locations: The Royal Spa & Health Club, Phuket Town The Royal Spa Ao chalong Villa Resort& Spa, Ao Chalong The Royal Spa Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort, Karon The Royal Spa Karon Seasands Resort & Spa, Karon The Royal Spa The Village Resort & Spa, Karon The Royal Spa The Front Village, Karon The Royal Spa Sugar Palm Resort & Spa, Kata The Royal Spa @ Malisa Villa Suites, Kata The Royal Spa The Beach Boutique House, Kata The Royal Spa Absolute Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Patong The Royal Spa Absolute Patong Ville Resort, Patong The Royal Spa Bel Air Panwa, Rawai

Location

Bypass Rd.

Tesco Lotus Bangkok Phuket Hospital

Sam KongYaowarat Rd. To DowntownVachira Hospital

The Royal SpaKhao Rang

Index

For TAXI: 44


Open daily 9:00 20:00 hrs. Tel: +66 (0)76 271233 10/2 Srisoonthorn Rd., Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83100 Website: www.lemongrasshouse.com

Spa

Lemongrass HouseTo visit this home of award-winning spa oils, creams, soaps and so many other exquisite products is a delight. The aromas are enchanting. At Lemongrass, you can enjoy a spa treatment to sample and choose from their huge range, then take home your choice to enjoy at your leisure. They even have a great range of kids spa products.Based on his years of experiences at some of the top spas in Southeast Asia, Bobby has developed a full line of healthy skin care products. For example, his hydrating face and body creams have 25 per cent aloe vera, white orchid and cucumber extracts. And hes developed a revitalizing mineral muscle soak made from Andaman Sea salt crystals, blended with white orchid and chamomile extracts, to help draw out impurities and soothe and revive tense muscles. People are sensitive to different scents at different times of day. Its a good idea to get a variety of essential oils and experiment with what smells and feels good to you, he says. Our aromatherapy massage and body oils can be either uplifting or calming to the spirit. Theyre carefully balanced handblended oils created by adding pure essential oils to nourishing, vitamin E enriched, sweet almond and jojoba base oils. Lemongrass has won many awards, including Cond Nast Hot List 2007, and has been featured in several top magazines, including Time Magazines Best of Asia. According to Time, If you want to smell like no one else, try mixing a selection from the more than 90 natural scents at Lemongrass House. Lemongrass House is located in Cherngtalay, Surin Beach and Chalong, where you can buy their full range of spa products at modest prices, making perfect gifts for friends and family who can enjoy the aromatic scents of Asia in the privacy of their homes no matter where in the world they live.

Bobby Duchowny studied aromatherapy a healing art that promotes massage, when combined with specific herb and spice oils, as a method to reduce stress, boost energy and heal certain physical ailments at the American Aromatherapy Association. Some years ago while on holiday in Thail

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Shop Window on Lifestyle Phuket October 2009