Staff Welcome & May Birthday Party at Palai Seafood

Fresh off the heels of our Asia Pacific Property Awards team-building weekend, the Kata Rocks team finds yet another reason to celebrate.  As progress accelerates with our luxury Phuket property development, we’ve welcomed a few additional members to the KR family:

Khun Jeerabute Suannatut, Project Engineer

Khun Ukrit Kwansai, Project Architect

Khun Sarayoot Junmai, Project Coordinator

Khun Decha Samosorn, Mechanical Engineer

Khun Nongnuch Toprapat, Operations Consultant

New staff were treated to a lively welcome dinner at well known south Phuket restaurant, Palai Seafood, where the meal was both plentiful and delicious.

Another cause for celebration that evening was the birthdays of two esteemed KR team members–and one honorary one! Kata Rocks Developer and MD Richard Pope, Senior Project Manager Apisit Lerdkamolrak and our Site Architect from Original Vision, Tony Young celebrated their birthdays with cake and a toast to a new year, surrounded by the entire team.

The Ladies of Kata Rocks enjoy the evening's meal

Make a wish!

Team Kata Rocks at the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2012

Phuket properties have once again scored significant wins in the Asia-Pacific section of the International Property Awards.

The biggest local winner was Kata Rocks, whose team brought home six awards. Four of these were in the Thailand category, for Best Apartment, Best Development Marketing, Best Developer Website and a Highly Commended in the Best Development segment.

The development also won Best Development Marketing and Best Developer Website accolades for Asia-Pacific.

“Adding six awards to our list is pretty outstanding,” says Kata Rocks Developer and MD Richard Pope. “We couldn’t be any more proud of what we are achieving with our project and with the level of recognition it’s bringing to Phuket.”

Bluepoint Condos won two awards in the Thailand category, for Best Development Multiple Units, and Best Architecture Multiple Residence.

Architects Original Vision won a Highly Commended for Architecture Single Residence, for their work on Sava at Natai.

Hunter Sotheby won Best Agency Website, Thailand, while Banyan Tree won Best Development Multiple Units for Banyan Tree Residences at Laguna.

Article courtesy The Phuket News.

At the prestigious International Property Awards, Asia Pacific 2012-2013 in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, Hunter Sotheby’s International Realty was thrilled to win two awards: Winner of Best Real Estate Agent Website Thailand and Highly Commended in the Best Real Estate Agent Thailand category.

The Asia Pacific region produced a record number of entries from 17 different countries for this year’s International Property Awards. No other region has come anywhere near matching this feat in the entire 18 year history of the International Property Awards.

Covering residential as well as commercial categories, the prime focus of the prestigious International Property Awards is to seek out the best real estate professionals across the globe.

Kata Rocks, the multi-award winning boutique development located between Phuket’s Kata and Kata Noi beaches, brought home six awards:

Best Apartment Thailand

Best Development Marketing Thailand

Best Developer Website Thailand

Highly Commended Best Development Thailand

Best Development Marketing Asia Pacific

Best Developer Website Asia Pacific

”Adding six new awards to our list is pretty outstanding,” says Kata Rocks Developer and MD Richard Pope. ”We couldn’t be any more proud of what we are achieving with our project and with the level of recognition it’s bringing to Phuket.”

Phuket’s Bluepoint Condos also won highly coveted awards in two competitive categories: Highly Commended Best Development Multiple Units Thailand and Best Architecture Multiple Residence Thailand.

Stuart Shield, president of the International Property Awards, said: ”We were amazed and delighted by the enormous number of entries received for the Asia Pacific region this year.

”The standard was also extremely high. Any company to win one of these awards has shown exceptional levels of professionalism and competence in their respective field.”

This year’s judging panel consists of more than 70 professionals from across the industry, including Fiona Nixon, chairman of the Australian Institute of Architects; Peter Bolton King, group chief executive of the National Federation of Property Surveyors; and David Darby of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Article courtesy Phuketwan.com

Kata Rocks at the 2012 Asia Pacific International Property Awards

Kata Rocks, the multi-award winning boutique development located between Phuket’s Kata and Kata Noi beaches, has brought 6 new awards home from the 2012 Asia Pacific International Property Awards.

At the gala presentation dinner held 27^th April at the JW Marriott in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kata Rocks added to their growing list of accolades the following titles for 2012:

Best Apartment Thailand

Best Development Marketing Thailand

Best Developer Website Thailand

Highly Commended Best Development Thailand

Best Development Marketing Asia Pacific

Best Developer Website Asia Pacific

“Adding six new awards to our list is pretty outstanding,” says Kata Rocks Developer and MD Richard Pope.  “We couldn’t be any more proud of what we are achieving with our project and with the level of recognition it’s bringing to Phuket.”

The aim of the International Property Awards, over the last 18 years, has been to seek out the best real estate companies from around the globe.  This year’s judging panel consists of over 70 professionals from across the industry, including Fiona Nixon, chairman of the Australian Institute of Architects; Peter Bolton King, group chief executive of the National Federation of Property Surveyors; and David Darby of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

About Kata Rocks

Kata Rocks is a luxury oceanfront development situated on the west coast of Phuket alongside Kata Beach in Thailand. 34 Sky Villas are under construction, ranging from the one bedroom Ocean Lofts to the award winning, four bedroom Club Penthouses, previously named ‘World’s Best Apartment’  by the International Property Awards.  All Sky Villas have uninterrupted sea views over their own private infinity swimming pools and with construction well underway, 75% of the project has already been sold.  Completion is expected in late 2012. For more information, please visit www.katarocks.com or contact Jennifer Diaz on jennifer@katarocks.com.

About the International Property Awards

For more information on the International Property Awards, please visit www.propertyawards.net or email info@propertyawards.net.

Team Kata Rocks began traditional Songkran activities today

One of the Thailand’s most eagerly awaited national holidays, Songkran (Thai New Year), begins tomorrow, 13th April 2012.

Songkran is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year’s holiday, from 13th to 15th April.  It is considered a time to pay respect to elders, with visits to family, friends and neighbors playing a large role in the festivities.  During these visits, the young bless the old, offering jasmine garlands and gently pouring scented water over their hands. After the elders have been shown due respect, it is then their turn to bless the young, wishing them happiness and good fortune for the New Year.

(L-R) Nook, Mam and Rachanee prepare for Songkran visits with neighbours

This year, Team Kata Rocks got a head start on the celebrations by visiting with neighbours on 12th April. The area near Kata Rocks is lined with the homes and businesses of many Kata locals who have been integral in helping Kata Rocks achieve the success it has today.  As a result, the Team organised to pay respects and bring good wishes to those who have helped us through the year.

“This is a part of our Thai culture,” shares Nook Khooaroon, Kata Rocks Procurement Manager, “but it is more than that.  We visit our neighbours today to say thank you because they are important to us.”

Nook was joined by Kata Rocks Project Management (KRPM) Director John, KRPM Project Manager Apisit, KRPM Project Engineers Yod, Jeerabute and Damkerng, as well as KRPM Site Secretary Rachanee.

Kata Rocks Design Manager Mam took special care to share the experience with some beach-bound tourists, who were curious about the affair.  ”It’s fun to share our culture with tourists, who wanted to know what we were doing,” said Mam.  ”We explained the holiday, shared garlands, took some photos with them and wished them a Happy New Year!”

Team Kata Rocks visit with one of the elders of Kata village

Over the years the Songkran holiday, though family-oriented in nature, has evolved into what some call “The World’s Largest Water Fight.”  Hundreds of thousands of people throughout the country take to the streets in a playful yet extreme version of the “pouring water” aspect of the holiday.  These “water fights” count water guns, buckets of water and even water balloons as “ammunition” and last up to a week in places such as Chiang Mai. In Phuket, however, it is mainly “played” for one day.

The best places to “play Songkran” are both about 20 minutes from Kata Rocks.  The first of these is in Phuket Town where Thai locals typically play or in Patong, where locals and tourists mix to the beats from DJ booths on the street.  The best way to experience Songkran is wearing a bathing suit under your clothes, with all your gear in a waterproof bag–and with LOTS of water at the ready!

Sawasdee pee mai Thai–or Happy Songkran, 2012!

The project director of luxury property Kata Rocks tells Greg Lowe what lured him to Phuket

Project Director David Frost at the Kata Rocks site

Phuket’s heady mix of southern Thai culture, pristine beaches, azure waters and a host of world-class golf courses, marinas and spas has proven intoxicating for a growing number of visitors. As a result, a vibrant luxury property market has emerged here during the past 10 years. For those considering making Phuket a full-time home, the island boasts a solid infrastructure supported by cutting-edge telecommunications and internationally accredited hospitals and schools, which ensures the perfect balance between work and play.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO PHUKET?
After a few years of working as a project manager at a property development in Bangkok, an opportunity arose to work on some individual owners’ villas here in Phuket. The quality of the projects, along with the allure of living and working on a tropical island, won me over without much hesitation. Phuket is now my primary residence and the focus of my work.

HOW DOES THE LUXURY PROPERTY MARKET HERE STAND OUT FROM THOSE IN OTHER DESTINATIONS?
Phuket’s luxury property market has been predominantly a coastal market, with buyers preferring villas and apartments with stunning views of the island’s gorgeous beaches or outlying islands. It’s a lifestyle that many dream of, and in Phuket, it’s possible.

WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT KATA ROCKS?
Kata Rocks is a development made up of 34 luxurious apartments, each offering views over the Andaman Sea towards Ko Phu island. It’s being developed by a team of consultants and contractors tasked with ensuring that the highest quality standards are maintained throughout the property, which also includes a spa, gym, bar and bistro.

WHAT’S THE CURRENT STATE OF DEVELOPMENT?
The Kata Rocks development is currently under construction, with 40% of the structures complete and mechanical/engineering installations taking place. Also, interior fit-outs have commenced on completed structures.

WHO ARE THE MAIN INVESTORS IN PHUKET? WHAT’S DRAWING THEM HERE AS OPPOSED TO OTHER DESTINATIONS?
I believe the main investors in Phuket are entrepreneurs of various nationalities looking for the lifestyle benefits that come with living and working on a beautiful island. Phuket is a great base for conducting business throughout the region, as it’s within a five-hour flight of major economic centres, not to mention roughly half the world’s population.

WHAT DO YOU THINK PHUKET WILL BE LIKE IN FIVE YEARS? TEN YEARS?
As the island gains popularity, I expect that over the next few years the island will offer even more services to support the growing number of visitors and residents, while maintaining the natural allure that brought us here in the first place.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR LEISURE TIME?
In an average week I cycle around 180km along Phuket’s roadways, usually in the company of other riders, be they the Beach Boys from the Kata bike shop or the Thanyapura peloton that heads off from Thalang. We keep to the northern roadways and head over the Sarasin Bridge into Phang Nga and back.

After spending most of my days at a desk or walking around the project site, leisure hours are critical to a balanced lifestyle. Being on Phuket surrounded by water also provides plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and – hopefully for me this year – a bit more sailing.

INSIDER PHUKET

Tourists flock to this island paradise for a host of reasons. Here are David Frost’s top tips when on holiday here

Must-Do Activities?
You must get on the water and enjoy Phuket’s incredible coastline from the sea, visit a few of the lesser-known surrounding islands, or grab a bike and a guide and spend some time cycling around.

Top Three Places to Eat?
For Thai fare and seafood, visit Kata Mama Seafood on the southern end of Kata Beach where you can enjoy great flavours on one of the island’s finest beaches. For a more international, upscale experience stop by Mom Tri’s Villa Royale in Kata Noi. Lastly, for some of the best brick oven-baked pizzas on the island, you’ve got to try Capannina in Kata Town.

Your Picks of the Island’s Hidden Gems?
Phuket’s hidden gems are many, and the more you explore, the more you find.My list includes the many secluded beach-dining spots across the island, great snorkelling off some popular beaches including Kata, Laemsing and Naithorn, and lastly, Phuket’s markets where you can mingle with the locals and enjoy a real “taste” of Thailand.

Best Bars for Sundowners?
Along the island’s southern end on Viewpoint Road is the After Beach Bar, where you can enjoy excellent sunset views with an ice-cold drink. Back down on the southern end of Kata Beach is the Ska Bar, which has a really fun, reggae vibe. Last but not least, in Kata Town, RE KÁ TA Beach Club is a new, upscale establishment right on the beach.

Kata Rocks is located between Kata and Kata Noi Beaches in Phuket

Kata Rocks Beachfront Clubhouse

In our latest video, meet some of the people from our Head Office and Project Management teams who work day in and day out to bring the Kata Rocks project to light.  With their varying specialties, these individuals come from all over the world to form a dynamic team focused on delivering the very best experience for all our owners and resort guests.

“What’s special about the team is that everyone is very excited to be part of the project,” remarks Kata Rocks PR Manager Jennifer Diaz, “and very excited about making it the very best that it can be.”

Screenshot of Kata Rocks 'Meet the Team' Video

Even some camera-shy staff were recognized.   Khun Apisit Lerdkamolrak, Project Manager of the Kata Rocks Project Management Team (KRPM), received excellent praise from KRPM Director, John Vivian.  ”In my team I have Khun Apisit who is my senior right-hand man,” he shared.  ”We needed a competent senior Thai who could bridge that gap between the foreign side and the Thai side.  I can do no better than have someone like Khun Apisit working with me.”

The clip also features Kata Rocks Project Director David Frost and Sales Manager Dome Yodsapakphionyo.  Take a look at the short film to hear in their own words why they are proud to be part of the Kata Rocks team.

Bottles of Armand de Brignac champagne chill as guests arrive at Phuket's Sri panwa Resort

A select few of Phuket’s movers and shakers gathered at the Sri panwa resort for the launch of prestige champagne brand Armand de Brignac (Ace of Spades) earlier this week.

Set high above the resort with 360-degree views over Cape Panwa, the recently unveiled Baba Nest rooftop bar played host to the intimate event.  As the sun set, guests gathered around Armand de Brignac CEO Brett Berish to hear about the champagne’s provenance.  Using old-world techniques, he shared, only 8 master winemakers craft the highly sought-after drink at the Champagne Cattier chateau in Chigny-des-Roses, France.

Such a small production team can only mean there are limited quantities to go around.  To further amplify this point, Berish compared Armand de Brignac to other well-known champagnes such as Dom Pérignon and Cristal.  Whereas Dom Pérignon produces 550,000 cases of champagne a year and Cristal produces 150,000—Armand de Brignac produces only 5,000.

Its rarity and exclusivity make it the current favorite of many A-list personalities.  The latest of these is pop star Rihanna, whose February birthday festivities in Beverly Hills included 20 bottles of the drink for her guests.  The champagne is also a known favorite of hip-hop legend Jay-Z (né Sean Carter) and his songstress wife, Beyoncé Knowles.  It has even earned the moniker “Champagne of Champions” after being the drink of choice at various NFL, MLB, NHL and Grand Prix championship sporting events.

Yet it’s not all hype and savvy product placement with Armand de Brignac.  In a blind taste test of 1,000 champagnes, the brand’s Brut Gold was rated No. 1 by FINE Champagne magazine and has even earned glowing reviews from renowned wine critics Jose Peñin and Jancis Robinson.

The high praise is certainly no surprise.  I found the prestige cuvée to be vibrant and fresh, while its tight bubbles created a silky, almost creamy mouth-feel.  The smooth taste, coupled with its equally sleek packaging, made for a delightfully indulgent sensory experience.

The multi-vintage blend is comprised of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.  It comes in a chic gold-leafed bottle and is adorned with the company logo, a pewter ace of spades, from which the champagne’s nickname is derived.  Each of these is applied by only one person at the chateau, furthering its hand-crafted appeal.

Out of the 5,000 cases of Armand de Brignac champagnes produced, only 50 have been allocated for Thailand.  The company has appointed Siam Winery as its local distributor.

Aside from being an enjoyable evening surrounded by Phuket’s natural beauty and some of its most fascinating inhabitants, this event further solidifies Phuket as one of the top places for luxury brands to make their mark in the South East Asian region.

Armand de Brignac displayed over Cape Panwa Phuket

Guest mingle and await their first taste of the champagne at Baba Nest

L-R: Air Vorachun (Sri panwa), Brian Woulfe (Designed by Woulfe), Jennifer Diaz (Kata Rocks) and Claire Bensley-Bromilow (Sri panwa) in Baba Nest's indoor dining area

Photo credits: Sri panwa Resort and Phuketindex.com.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong

During 10 turbulent years in Thailand, Kittiratt Na-Ranong tackled jobs ranging from president of the stock exchange to manager of the national soccer team, an underperforming outfit nicknamed the War Elephants.

Now, Kittiratt, 54, has taken on a task with significant implications for fund managers such as Templeton Emerging Markets Group Executive Chairman Mark Mobius, for market-leading companies such as Intel Corp. (INTC) and Toyota Motor Corp. (7203) and for consumers of the world’s most important staple food, rice, Bloomberg Markets reports in its March issue.

As deputy prime minister and finance minister, Kittiratt says, his task is to convince investors that the government can build defenses to prevent the recurrence of floods that last year inundated thousands of factories critical to global supply chains as well as a swath of the paddies that supply 29 percent of international rice shipments.

“We have learned from the pain and will not let this happen again,” he says.

As the waters slowly receded, they laid bare this Southeast Asian nation’s extraordinary economic importance to the rest of the world.

In a Bloomberg Markets ranking, Thailand is second only to China among the world’s best emerging markets for investors. The ranking looks at a series of measures such as market transparency and prospects for growth over the next four years.

Successful Industries

Thailand’s tiny, $303 billion stock market as of Feb. 22 accounts for just 0.6 percent of the market value of world equities. As of 2011, its gross domestic product per capita was a mere $5,281, less than half that of Mexico’s. The country is prone to disruptions ranging from coups d’etat and civil strife to tsunamis and floods.

And yet Thailand has developed such successful electronics and auto industries that it now produces from 35 to 40 percent of all computer hard disk drives and, in 2010, built more light trucks than Japan.

In agriculture, besides being the world’s biggest rice exporter, Thailand ranks No. 1 in rubber and No. 2 in sugar. The country that brands itself the Land of Smiles has consistently remained one of the world’s top 20 tourism destinations, attracting more visitors in 2010 than Greece.

‘No Idea’

“Until these floods, people had no idea how important Thailand is in the global marketplace,” says Thiraphong Chansiri, 45, president of Thai Union Frozen Products Pcl.

Thiraphong’s Bangkok-based company, which owns the Chicken of the Sea brand in the U.S. and John West in Europe, is the world’s No. 1 producer of canned tuna.

Even as the government of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra begins spending a promised 480 billion baht ($15.7 billion) on dykes and post-flood reconstruction, it’s working on a longer-term goal: the transformation of an economy heavily dependent on cheap-labor exports into a more consumption-driven model.

Its populist strategy is to give 67 million Thais more spending power by raising urban wages by 40 percent to about $10 a day and guaranteeing farmers they will receive a price for their rice that’s as much as 44 percent above the market rate.

Such government initiatives, on top of the chaos caused by the deluge, could inflict a big extra cost on Thai-based manufacturers, rice exporters and their customers worldwide.

Hit by Floods

“The issue is the timing, coming when companies have already been hit by the floods and the global slowdown,” says Santitarn Sathirathai, a Singapore-based economist at Credit Suisse Group AG.

While Kittiratt predicts that Thailand’s economy will grow as much as 7 percent this year, Santitarn says the rate may be only 3 or 4 percent.

The Thai rice price surged 28 percent from July to mid- November, when it reached a three-year high of $663 a metric ton.

Asked if government policies would push up the price of Thai rice on global markets, Kittiratt says over a breakfast of chili-laced rice soup, called khao tom, in a Bangkok hotel:

“I hope they do. Why should a bowl of rice in a restaurant cost only one-third the price of a bottle of mineral water?”

Templeton’s Mobius, who oversees more than $40 billion, is making a big bet on the government strategy’s paying off — and on the Thai economy.

Thai stocks comprised 21 percent of the $16.9 billion Templeton Asian Growth Fund as of Jan. 31 — second only to Chinese stocks.

Surviving Downturns

Mobius’s calculation that the floods wouldn’t sink the Thai economy is borne out by the numbers.

In the fourth quarter of 2011, despite the floods, the SET Index jumped 12 percent to become the world’s fourth-best performer. It has risen a further 11 percent this year as of Feb 22.

“Many investors have questioned our investments in the country,” Mobius says. “However, we have found good companies that could survive downturns and rise even stronger afterwards. Those companies have now proven their resilience.”

Mobius isn’t alone is his optimism.

As Kittiratt and Yingluck, Thailand’s first female prime minister, implement their reconstruction program, Thai companies such as cement makers and banks will cash in on a construction- led boom this year, according to Aberdeen Asset Management Plc, Scotland’s biggest fund manager.

King Bhumibol

“The building-materials sector is bursting at the seams,” says Adithep Vanabriksha, who helps manage $4.5 billion from Aberdeen’s office in Bangkok, the Thai capital.

Among his picks: Siam Cement Pcl (SCC) and Siam Commercial Bank Pcl (SCB), two blue chips controlled by the Crown Property Bureau, which manages the assets of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Thailand, the only Southeast Asian country never to be colonized, has come a long way in recent decades.

A feudal absolute monarchy until 1932, it had a per capita income of just $200 as recently as the late 1950s, according to United Nations figures.

As the Vietnam War raged in the 1960s, the U.S., an ally of Thailand, built military bases, roads and ports.

Successive Thai governments offered incentives, including tax breaks, to foreign investors who were also lured by a combination of cheap labor and, more recently, Thailand’s strategic location in a region of 575 million consumers.

Toyota opened its first factory in 1962, and other Japanese titans, such as Canon Inc. (7751)and Sony Corp. (6758), followed.

U.S. Automakers

In 1983, Cupertino, California-based Seagate Technology Plc (STX), the world’s biggest maker of hard disk drives, began production in Bangkok.

Western Digital Corp., its Irvine, California-based rival, followed suit, as did U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co. (F) and General Motors Co.

Hundreds of Thai companies sprang up to supply parts. From 1971 through 2010, Thailand’s annual GDP growth averaged 6 percent despite being buffeted by coups and financial crises.

As buoyant as the Thai economy is, the human and economic cost of last year’s floods has been immense.

Some 800 people died, economic growth in 2011 probably plunged to 0.1 percent from a forecast 4 percent and total damage to the $346 billion economy could reach $46 billion, according to government estimates.

Thailand has a history of pulling itself back from the brink.

Spectacular Comebacks

In 1998, in the wake of the Asian financial crisis, its economy contracted 10.5 percent before rebounding to grow 4.4 percent the following year.

Since then, the country has staged spectacular comebacks from a 2004 tsunami and a 2006 coup — and the debilitating political protests that followed.

While Kittiratt says the recent flood-related damage will be short-term, Thailand will always be threatened by inundation: After all, much of the Thai economic miracle takes place on flood plains that are just 2 meters (6-1⁄2 feet) above sea level.

Bangkok is at the best of times a watery place.

The broad, brimming Chao Phraya River laps against many of the capital’s luxury hotels, sacred Buddhist temples, the gold- spired Grand Palace and even Siriraj Hospital, where King Bhumibol, 84, has spent the past two years receiving treatment for spinal and other ailments.

Man-Made Canals

The city and surrounding areas are also crisscrossed by a network of man-made canals.

In July, torrential rains started falling in northern Thailand. By October, reservoirs north of Bangkok became so full that authorities decided to release 9 billion cubic meters (318 billion cubic feet) of water into the Chao Phraya basin, the Thai heartland.

An area larger than Greece became a world of water. Factories operated by companies such as Honda Motor Co. and Canon were swamped. Even those companies that stayed dry, such as Toyota, couldn’t escape the impact as their parts makers went under.

Although many companies predict that 2012 production will bounce back, the effect on their bottom lines was not easily erased.

On Dec. 12, Santa Clara, California-based Intel, the world’s biggest chipmaker, reduced its fourth-quarter revenue forecast by $1 billion, saying a shortage of hard disk drives as a result of the floods had cut production of personal computers.

In January, Intel reported sales of $13.9 billion for the fourth quarter after earlier predicting revenue of as much as $15.2 billion for the period.

On Jan. 10, Ford said its Asia-Pacific and Africa operations would post a loss for the same reason.

Biggest Investor

Japanese companies fared even worse. Japan is the biggest foreign investor in Thailand; it pumped $3.15 billion into the country in 2010.

In December, Toyota said the Thai floods would cost it $1.53 billion as the automaker slashed its profit forecast for the year ending in March by 54 percent.

Nonetheless, Toyota Chief Executive Officer Akio Toyoda said in November the company wasn’t considering reducing investment in Thailand.

Other major Japanese companies are unlikely to leave either, says Setsuo Iuchi, president of the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) in Thailand.

What they may do, though, is spread the risk by also looking at neighboring countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam for future expansion.

Selling the Plan

“Many companies are now reviewing the location of resources,” Iuchi says. “They want to see a proper water management plan from the Thai government.”

In January, the government announced its plan. It approved 350 billion baht for flood defenses.

Kittiratt, the man selling the plan, worked as a banker, stockbroker and asset manager, overseeing $500 million, before founding his own company, zinc oxide maker Univentures Pcl.

From 2001 to 2006, he served as president of the Stock Exchange of Thailand during a period when the market capitalization tripled, though he quit after failing to secure what might have been the country’s biggest-ever listing: Thai Beverage Pcl, a beer and whiskey maker that sold $865 million of shares in Singapore.

Kittiratt then spent a year managing the national soccer team. On his watch, the War Elephants’ global ranking improved to 98th from 122nd. Kittiratt left after Thailand failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup.

In dealing with the floods, he says, there’s no room for failure.

“Any administration that lets this happen again cannot survive,” he says.

Historical Challenge

Survival is a historical challenge for Thai governments. Since 1946, Thailand has been rocked by 15 successful or attempted coups and 28 changes of prime minister.

The last coup, in 2006, overthrew the elected government of Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck’s brother, for what the military claimed was corruption. He fled the country in 2008 and is living in exile in Dubai.

Since then, Thai society has split, pitting the minority urban elite against the pro-Thaksin rural poor. Tensions culminated in 2010 in violent street protests in which 92 people died.

Yingluck, a 44-year-old rookie politician, assumed office in August. Her victory, which drew on support for her brother, made her the sixth prime minister in as many years.

A Bigger Risk

Any new bout of revolving-door leadership could threaten flood-prevention efforts, Aberdeen’s Adithep says.

“Such large projects require a lot of will and continuity, and there’s a risk that government instability could be a constraint,” he says.

A bigger risk to Thailand’s stability could be the royal succession.

King Bhumibol is the world’s longest-reigning monarch, having ascended the lotus throne in 1946. As military and civilian strongmen came and went, Bhumibol remained Thailand’s sole stabilizing presence.

Though his powers are limited by the constitution, he wields much influence, and many Thais regard him as semidivine.

By comparison, his heir, twice-divorced Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, 59, has had to fight off unwelcome publicity about his personal life.

A more immediate concern is the performance of the present government.

Baptism of Fire

For Yingluck, who has a master’s degree in public administration from Kentucky State University, the floods were a baptism of fire. Seventeen years younger than Thaksin, she entered politics only last year after a career as an executive in the family’s property and telecommunications companies.

Abhisit Vejjajiva, opposition Democrat party leader and a former prime minister, questions Yingluck’s qualifications as a head of government.

“It’s not a job you should learn on the job,” says Abhisit, 47, who’s a career politician.

Jetro’s Iuchi says his meetings with Yingluck gave him some confidence in her abilities.

“She doesn’t have much experience politically, but I think she’s smart,” he says. Yingluck declined to be interviewed for this article.

Along the Chao Phraya River, hulking black barges wait to have their holds filled with Thai rice.

In 2010, Thailand was by far the biggest rice exporter, shipping 9 million tons. During the same period, its nearest rival, Vietnam, shipped 6.7 million tons.

Overtaken by Vietnam

At a waterfront warehouse, veteran rice exporter Chookiat Ophaswongse says he’s worried. He predicts that in 2012, Thailand’s rice exports will plunge by 30 percent and may be overtaken by Vietnam.

The reason: Apart from the disruption caused by the floods, the government’s willingness to pay above-market rates to farmers is making Thai rice noncompetitive, says Chookiat, 57, whose family-owned Huay Chuan Rice Co. has been trading the grain for 50 years.

“Thailand will be in a very bad position,” he says.

As of Feb. 22, the price of Thai rice, an Asian benchmark, had fallen about 15 percent from its November peak.

Investor Marc Faber is more optimistic. He says he doesn’t expect the floods to have any impact on Thailand’s long-term prospects.

In 2000, Swiss-born Faber, who oversees $300 million at Hong Kong-based Marc Faber Ltd., moved his family home to Chiang Mai, a 1,000-year-old walled city 700 kilometers (435 miles) north of Bangkok.

‘Second Thoughts’

In October, floods seeped into the teak house he built on the banks of the Ping River. Faber, 66, publisher of the Gloom, Boom & Doom Report, says he’ll continue to invest in Thailand.

“Some companies will have second thoughts about expanding their Thailand operations, but the majority will continue to operate here,” he says.

Similarly, U.S.-born Bill Heinecke, who owns hotels managed by Four Seasons Hotels Inc. and Marriott International Inc. in Thailand as well as his own Anantara-brand resorts, has made a bigger bet on the country than most.

The son of a Voice of America correspondent, Heinecke, 62, gave up his U.S. citizenship in 1992 to take Thai nationality.

Since then, his Minor International Pcl (MINT) has been rattled by the Asian financial crisis, the tsunami and a political protest in 2007 that closed Bangkok’s two airports for a week, stranding 400,000 travelers.

‘Bouncing Back’

During the worst times, Heinecke’s hotel occupancy rates plunged to less than 20 percent, he says. And yet his business has grown from a single hotel to 70 resorts; 1,200 restaurants, including a Burger King franchise; and 200 retail stores, including Gap Inc. outlets.

Shares of Minor International, in which King Bhumibol owns a 2.2 percent stake, rose more than 12-fold in the 10 years ended on Feb. 22 — five times the increase in the benchmark index.

In November, Heinecke went ahead with the opening of his latest, riverside Anantara hotel. This was at the height of the floods, with the swollen Chao Phraya reaching the edge of the hotel’s lawns.

“We weren’t going to change the plan,” Heinecke says. “Thailand has a habit of bouncing back.”

Working with JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa some 10 years ago at the start of their project to release young endangered sea turtles back into the sea each year, Mr Panton realised that there was no agency co-ordinating the protection of the environment in Phuket.

With the backing of Klaus Hebben of Thanyapura, Mr Panton joined Nick Anthony, both British, to form SEEK three years ago. “So that my son can still surf in the future as I can now,” Mr Panton said.

Short for Society, Environment, Economy and Knowledge, SEEK describes itself as an “organisation set up to work with local community, local government, the private sector and residents of Phuket to communicate and lobby to keep Phuket a leading sustainable destination for the future.”

“The response has been unbelievable. Everyone wants to do something but don’t quite know how to do it,” Mr Panton said.

The group aims to promote sustainability on the island, coordinate and communicate on issues such as waste and water management, social and economic development and educational initiatives.

The group’s president, Dr Robert Mather, Asian head of the International Union for the Conservaton of Nature, and long-time environmental guardian of Phuket, Dr Chamniern Vorratanchaiphan, of the Thailand Environment Institute, hosted a SEEK seminar January 20-21 at the Thanyapura Mind Centre.

The group has now built a supporting coalition of 25 key community individuals from Governor Tri Augkaradacha outwards.

SEEK Phuket says it aims to work as a platform and service to create working links for all local forces to work together to benefit the environment.

Mr Anthony, a personal friend of Mr Panton for 12 years, does a lot of the groundwork for the group with his many contacts in the environmental movement in Phuket.

What does Phuket need most of all now?  A high-level sustainability plan is the answer, the green group says.

The group is following the Compass model developed by the Atkinson Group: north for nature, west for well-being, east for economy and south for society, and, if all the directions can be in harmony, then sustainability would be achieved.

Last week’s workshop was designed to come up with 48 sustainability indicators, used all over the world by the Atkinson Group, that SEEK would now use to measure progress of environmental sustainability in Phuket.

There will be a two-day SEEK expo in August which will again measure progress in this promising environmental campaign.  This monitoring will happen every year.

Already interest is being shown in this initiative elsewhere in Thailand such as in Chiang Mai, said Mr Panton.

Information courtesy The Phuket News

Market research by C9 HotelWorks, the asset management and hospitality consultant company, said the low season in Phuket, normally between May and October, was not so sleepy last year.

During the first nine months of 2011, the hotel occupancy rate in Phuket was more than 70%, up from 59% the same period in 2010, while Bangkok was at 62%, up from 52%, and Chiang Mai stayed unchanged at 45%.

The Accor chain sees bright prospects for Phuket as tourists from mainland China, India, Russia, and Singapore flock there even during the low season.

Mainland Chinese tourists were the largest group of visitors in the first half of last year with 103% growth to almost 150,000 from the same period the year before. They overtook Australians, the largest tourist group since 2005, while Russians grew by 109% to almost 150,000.

Accor will introduce the 303-room Novotel Phuket Vintage Park on March 1 and the Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach in the third quarter of this year, as the fourth property under the Pullman label in Thailand.

“Phuket still has potential to grow, especially during the so-called green season [low season]. Patong remains the hub of Phuket tourism by demand and room numbers, and has shown solid year-round growth in occupancy during the past four years,” said Paul Stevens, the director of operations for Accor Thailand.

He added the challenge is to expand demand during the green season beyond Patong into other areas of Phuket.

Accor expects the number of rooms and tourists will increase in the coming low season.

“Phuket remains a desired destination for much of Europe and Asia, and a brand which could be sold year-round,” Mr Paul said.

As of June 2011, 33,306 hotel rooms or 76% of the total supply on Phuket were on the west coast of the island. Patong houses 61% of the total hotel rooms. New destinations are on the east coast such as Koh Siray, Cape Panwa and Cape Yamu, which now have 851 rooms.

Sopa Sorn-In, director of sales and marketing for Novotel Phuket Vintage Park, said that although the average room rate during the green season is 40-60% lower than the high season, reservations remain healthy for the whole year.

“I think the average room rate in Phuket should increase this year. Three- and four-star hotels have much room to grow, thanks to demand from emerging markets like China and India, as their rates are affordable.

The older Novotel Phuket Resort remains fully booked until the end of February,” Ms Sopa said.

Luxury hotels in Phuket account for 12% of all accommodations, mid-priced hotels 56%, budget 12% and 20% are others such as serviced apartments.

Article courtesy Bangkok Post

"Thailand is a good base for British companies," says former UK PM Tony Blair at the Thai Board of Investment’s CEO Forum in Bangkok

In an exclusive interview with Ensign Media, publishers of Property Report South East Asia and Business Report Thailand, former prime minister Tony Blair said Thailand is an ideal base for British companies wanting to access the rapidly growing ASEAN markets, while in turn, the UK still presents great opportunities for Thai investors. “I think Thailand’s potentially a great gateway for the UK into ASEAN,” he said. “As the ASEAN countries become more powerful, Thailand is a good base for British companies.”

In terms of reciprocal trade, Blair highlighted the UK’s continued appeal as a global financial capital, an appeal that is borne out by continued investment in London property by Asian investors, despite wider economic concerns.

“We have a pre-eminence in financial services in the UK that we should be keeping and be very proud of,”he said. “The UK is still a good place to invest. Europe and the West is going through a very troubled economic time. It will have to take some fundamental decisions about the single currency but there are still fantastic opportunities in the long term.”

Blair was speaking after addressing the Thai Board of Investment’s CEO Forum in Bangkok where he gave a keynote speech on The Challenges and Opportunities in a Globalised World. He also pointed to the British education system as a continued strength, citing “English language, higher education and the reputation of the British as open-minded and willing to get out in the world on our merits”, but also added a note of caution.

“We’ve got great connections to the past but you can’t trade on those. You’ve got to use those by showing that you’ve got a modern minded attitude to the future. We’ve got great advantages in this region and we should use them.”

Article courtesy www.property-report.com.

Kata Beach Headland

Knight Frank LLP, a London-based global property consultancy, apprehends that Phuket condominium developments will blossom in Kata and Karon beach. Knight Frank Thailand’s research indicated that this shift to the Southwestern area of the island would account for 59 per cent of the property growth.

Nattaha Kahapana, the director of Knight Frank Phuket, believes that this shift in location on the island is due to the large influx of foreign buyers. While in the past Phuket’s buyers have been British, German, and Scandinavian passport holders, the early morning flights from Phuket to Hong Kong and Singapore has made this location accessible for expatriates working abroad. The emerging market is also attributed to Russian and Middle Eastern buyers, which demonstrates how Phuket is becoming an international hub.

Due to its sizzling nightlife, research has indicated that the target group of buyers prefers Patong beach. Yet, the abundant land availability and affordable prices in Kata give way to the development of condominiums in this new, growing market.

Kahapana’s research also indicates a shift in guest demographic. New vacation-goers are leaving the family behind to travel to Phuket as either a couple or group of friends for only four to five days. Thus, the preferable unit type are studios and one-bedrooms which are accounting for 70 per cent and 18 per cent respectively of the demand.

Article courtesy Property Report South East Asia

The Heights Kata

According to Phuket property firm Tropical Homes Real Estate, 2011 saw a significant increase in enquiries with respect to both sales and rentals on the Andaman isle. “Many of our enquiries were in the mid- to high-end prime west coast condo market, traditionally our bread and butter,” said David Wade, the company’s managing director, “and it was reassuring to see mostly second home buyers returning.”

Tropical Homes made three sales at The Heights Kata and one at Kata Rocks in recent weeks, which Wade says indicates the current strength of this market. “Perceived value is still to some extent driving the market and most of these sales were negotiated by buyers looking for a good buy if not a bargain,” he said. “We are noticing however that ‘bargains’ are becoming harder to find and several owners have recently actually increased the asking price of their properties.”

Recent sales have been to Canadians, British and Russian buyers, but Wade says most of the sales in 2011 were to ex-pats based in Singapore. “There is certainly an increase in the number of Russian buyers,” he added, “but I think it is exaggerated in the media. There has also been a great deal of interest in prime waterfront land from wealthy Thais and Singaporean ex-pats and we were fortunate to secure a couple of high-end seafront land plot sales last year.”

Based on the high number of enquiries and the fact that many clients have already booked to view properties on Phuket in the coming months, agents are confident 2012 will see further growth, but with global economic doubt still a major factor, guaranteed sales remain illusive. “We have witnessed a big improvement in rental demand for villas this high season,” said Wade, “particularly in the luxury sector for sea view villas in prime locations. We expect this trend to continue into next high season.”

Article courtesy Property Report South East Asia

LIFE’S A BEACH: 2012 will likely be The Year Of The Beach Club. Graphic: Angsana

PHUKET: For globetrotting party-goers, the line-up of posh beach clubs has led them for years from Ibiza, to Miami’s Nikki Beach and down to the Caribbean for sundowners on St. Barts.

Asia’s beach club evolution kicked off with the iconic Ku De Ta, and has now shifted into top gear with Cocoon, Potato Head and the Rock Bar at the luxurious Ayana Resort. A recent visit to the latter hallowed spot came complete with a night-club-like-queue that hit three digits.

Here in Phuket, Twinpalms’ Catch was an innovator along with Baba at Sri Panwa, which continues to draw a “hi-so” crowd from Bangkok and abroad with star- studded events.

One new project that has caught my eye is the pairing of the Angsana Resort (formerly Sheraton Grande Laguna) with Attica entertainment from Singapore. The two are teaming up on the Xana Beach Club in the center of popular Bang Tao beach. Construction is underway and an April opening is on the cards.

Attica is best known for their popular outlet in trendy Clark Quay, which is under the same moniker and specializes in buzzy events.

Looking at plans for the project, some of the cool hardware includes an Olympic sized swimming pool and thirty meter swim up bar. Double sun loungers are also a feature, but the “killer apps” are the cabanas, which hold up to 14 people and are equipped with service callers for when you simply can’t make it up from the day bed to order another round of drinks for your new best friends.

A special party boat will ply the Laguna Phuket lagoons with onboard drinks. The ultimate destination for the boat will be a view of the west coast sunset and yes, cocktails and food will follow.

Eating options are highlighted with an Australian fusion menu, barbecue, seafood and for the healthy few–a raw foods option.

Mission possible for the group is creating the big vibe of Ibiza, with imported DJs from Europe and some type of secret nightly show. We have no idea what it is, so we’ll have to wait just over three months to find out.

On an island gone into convulsions with massive amounts of visitors quenching their lips with those tasty cocktails, beach club mania is set to dominate the next year or so’s storyline.

Another recent Bang Tao opening was Bliss Beach Club. Early reports are that the build-out and fit is done nicely and the food is getting a thumbs-up too. Drinking, dining, lounging, yes and the inevitable setting of the sun are drawing interest.

In the South, Re Ka Ta at the Boathouse rolled out just in time for the King’s Cup. Designed by Bali-based Fredo Taffin, who incidentally worked on Bali’s Ku De Ta, the Re Ka Ta, with new management and ownership of the hotel and outlets from the group behind Trisara, is gaining followers already.

Turning the table up North, Malaiwana unveiled “Up” on December 17th with an imported chef and a concept that was kept hush-hush. Located on the glamorous Nai Thon Golden Mile, expect this to draw an upscale crowd.

There remains a number of excellent and established beach spots from the casually hip Reggae Bay on Bang Tao and Siam Blue, to Kalim’s IndoChine and of course, sunset watching does not get any better than at Joe’s Downstairs.

There will be more to come, and 2012 will likely be The Year Of The Beach Club.

Writing this, my toes can almost feel the waves lapping with a warm gentle swell and…where is my mojito? Time to head to the beach it seems.

-Bill Barnett is Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks and can be contacted through www.c9hotelworks.com.

Richard Pope at Kata Rocks

As the year winds down, it’s time to look at the people putting their footprints in the sand and actively participating in the island’s future.

One of those is Richard Pope, the developer of Kata Rocks.

Aside from a string of international awards and high quality promotions was the backing of the film Phuket Future – Luxury Living.

The video is a burst of energy into the property market and certainly more positive statements like this help raise the impression of Brand Phuket.

Richard and his glamorous team in Kata continue to add value to the business environment and certainly take a longer term view towards investing money to make money.

-thephuketinsider.com

Richard Pope of Kata Rocks addresses guests at the film's launch

PHUKET: A select gathering of about 50 people were given a taste on Monday at the Royal Phuket Marina of Phuket: Luxury Living, a short “insight” video about the island’s high-end lifestyle.

Produced by Robin Block and his London-based digital production company Red Sky, the video featured a dozen or so of Phuket’s movers and shakers.

They include hotel owners and developers Narong Pattamasaevi (Trisara), ML Tridosyuth Devakul (Baan Kata), Richard Pope (Kata Rocks), Allan Zeman (Andara) and Gulu Lalvani (Royal Phuket Marina), along with commentators such as Bill Barnett (C9 Hotelworks) and Jules Kaye of Property Report Asia magazine.

Many more, including the proprietor of The Phuket News, Simon Samaan, were consulted in the making of the video.

Mr Barnett sets the scene with his opening message, “You can walk into a restaurant and be sitting next to a multi-millionaire in flip-flops.” Footage of the participants talking about why they like the island are interspersed with shots of the high life in Phuket – beachfront villas, glossy motor yachts and spa treatments – and local culture.

The movie emphasises Phuket’s absolutely fabulous high-end lifestyle – particularly property – but also addresses some of the annoyances, such as land ownership, political instability, charges of overdevelopment and the 80-metre rule.

Tuk-tuk and taxi problems are not mentioned, though this is perhaps because the kind of people likely to be attracted to Phuket by the video will have their own car with driver.

The video was underwritten by Kata Rocks. Although tweaks were made to the video following suggestions from Monday’s audience, Kata Rocks MD Richard Pope declared himself delighted with the result.

The video will be spread through the internet and social media, the hope being that it will “go viral” and attract many more high-end visitors to the island, who may in turn buy into the lifestyle.

Phuket: Luxury Living can be seen at phuketfuture.com.

Phuket News clipping showing (L-R) Gulu Lalvani (RPM), Richard Pope (Kata Rocks) and Robin Block (Red Sky Vision)

Images courtesy Angel Eyes Image

Chantal Fernandes (Kata Rocks) with guests before the film's screening

Guests have a first look at the film at the Royal Phuket Marina

(L-R) Jennifer Diaz, Richard Pope and Dome Yodsapakphinyo of Kata Rocks, Chutipapha Sukhphipat of Royal Phuket Marina and Robin Block of Red Sky Vision

Sailors enjoyed a well-earned rest day at the 25th Phuket King's Cup Regatta yesterday, after three days battling fickle winds and tricky seas

With two days of racing still ahead, crews took the chance to relax, either by playing golf, shopping, getting a massage, or simply catching up on sleep.

Wednesday night saw sailors celebrate their third-day results with a poolside buffet at the Phuket Orchid Resort, which is sponsoring the regatta. The Thai food was washed down by cold beer, courtesy of the race day sponsor.

Races resume today, with boats in several divisions aiming to make decisive moves on the penultimate day of competition. The forecast is for conditions similar to the last three days: east-northeast winds of 12 knots-plus in the morning easing towards early afternoon.

After six races, Hannes Weimer’s Team Premier still leads the IRC Zero class. The skipper from the United Arab Emirates has crafted three wins to carve out a comfortable lead with seven points.

Trailing in second, third and fourth places are three boats from Hong Kong – Sam Chan’s Freefire 52 (11 points), veteran Neil Pryde’s HiFi (12) and Frank Pong’s Jelik II (15).

In the IRC I Class, Japanese skipper Yasuo Naramori’s Karasu leads the pack with eight points from six races, followed by Singaporean Davis Ross’s Kukukerchu and Nick Burns’s EFG Mandrake with 12 and 13 points. Kevin Whitcraft, president of the regatta organising committee, has led his Won Ma Rang crew to a distant seventh with 31 points.

Wiwat Poonpat’s Royal Thai Navy I has utilised his knowledge of wind and sea conditions in the Andaman to lead the IRC 2 pack with seven points. Bill Bremner’s Foxy Lady 5 and Peter Dyer’s Team Kata Rocks share second with 13 points.

In the Firefly 850 class, Briton Roger Kingdon’s Moto Inzi is cresting the wave with six points from six races. Voodoo Child, helmed by Hans Rahmann, and Twin Sharks with John Newnham skippering, are trailing in second and third with nine and 15 points.

Australian Alan Carwardine’s Sidewinder has the lead in the Multihull class with six points, while Mick Coleman’s Da Vinci and David Liddell’s Miss Saigon are in second and third with 10 and 14 points respectively.

Four races into the Premier class, Briton Richard Dobbs’s Titania of Cowes is ahead with five points, with Peter Sorrenson’s BabyTonga Strongbow and Chinese Wang Bin’s Chao Ren Plus One in a close battle for second with 10 and 12 points respectively.

The Bareboat Charter class, whose 19 boats is the largest field at the regatta, sees Briton Oliver Heer’s Sai Plane in pole position with nine points. Hot on his heels is Aussie Mike Crisp’s Venture with 11 points, while Russian Maxim Titarenko’s Uhuru is trailing in third with 21.

In the Modern Classic, Nicholas Smith’s Free Wind and Bo Sondergaard’s Patrice III are out in front after collecting six points from three races. Peter Wood’s Windstar is in second with nine points.

Aquacraft Asia’s Odin made a clean sweep in the first three races to lead the Cruising class with three points. Jack Cristensen’s Linda (eight points) and William Sax’s Astraeus (nine points) are in second and third.

The Kiteboards class was due to compete yesterday, but unreliable light winds saw the contest cancelled. That left Frenchman Olivier Darsin in the lead after two races with 1.4 points. Thailand’s Narapichi Pudla, with four points, and Filipino Ken Nacor on eight, are vying for second place.

Newspaper Section: Sports

From left: Kata Rocks, Piccolo and Endeavour of Whitby enjoy fabulous sailing conditions on the third day of the 25th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta yesterday. Credit: Guy Nowell

PHUKET : Local hopeful Wiwat Poonpat took the lead in the IRC 2 after securing two wins on the third day of the 25th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta yesterday.

Skippering the Royal Thai Navy 1, Wiwat was on seven points, one better than Singapore’s Bill Bremner while overnight leader and defending champion Peter Dyer’s Team Kata Rocks dropped to third on 13 points after five races.

With the wind expected to blow in the remaining two days, Wiwat said his team stood a good chance of winning the title for a fifth time although he has five new crew members.

The competition remained tense in the IRC 1 Class after six races.

Yasuo Nanamori of Karasu was on eight points while David Ross’ Kukukerchu stayed second on 12 points.

Three-time defending champion Matt Allen was on 26 points, 18 points behind the leader, while King’s Cup president Kevin Whitcraft dropped to seventh on 31 points in the 13-team competition.

“We have been struggling. Today we lost a crew member who is sick,” said Whitcraft.

“With only two days to go, a top five finish would be nice for us.”

In the IRC Zero Class, Hannes Weimer’s Team Premier strengthened its lead by winning two races and finishing fourth in the other.

The UAE team scored seven points total, four better than Hong Kong’s Sam Chan, who had two second and one third finishes.

Hi Fi skipper Neil Pryde landed his first win in the 25th King’s Cup Regatta when he crossed the finish line first in race six. With 12 points, the team stayed third in the four-team class with Hong Kong’s Frank Pong, who has competed in the event since 1998, eight points behind leader Weimer.

The best performance of the day was in the Multihull Class when skipper Alan Carwardine’s Sidewinder triumphed in all three races.

Sharing him at the top of the table on 15 points was Mick Coleman’s Da Vinci. Defending champion David Liddell’s Miss Saigon, who led the race after two days, dropped to third on 19 points.

In the Premier Class, Titania of Cowes, skippered by Richard Bobbs, was the leader on five points after four races. He finished second in race three and first in race four.

In the Bareboat Charter, skipper Oliver Heer’s Sail Plane remained leader with nine points.

In the IRC Zero class, Sam Chan’s team from Hong Kong got off to a flyer with the handicap win on ‘Freefire,’ staking an early claim for the title. The team placed third in the second race, yielding to ‘Team Premier’ by just three seconds on corrected time. Frank Pong’s team suffered a torn spinnaker, resulting in Jelik II finishing fourth in both races.

In IRC1, Japanese Skipper Yasuo Nanamori and ‘Karasu’ were strong in the first race with a clear win but slipped to sixth place in the second race of the afternoon as they struggled in the lighter breeze. Nick Burns skippered ‘EFG Bank Mandrake’ team to first place in Race Two by a mere three seconds on corrected time from ‘Katsu’.

Matt Allen, Skipper of ‘Ichi Ban’ which was damaged when it ran aground on Kata Beach last week, said, ‘I’m so proud of the guys; we had only 24 hours to repair the rudder and carry out repairs to the keel whilst underwater. We were not sure if we would be able to start, and that was fifteen minutes before we started. We finished fifth and ninth, but when I consider what everyone’s been through, I’m fairly happy. The level of competition has not gone up a notch this year – it’s probably gone up three.’

The ‘Royal Thai Navy 1′ also put in a superb performance in IRC2, with Wiwat Poonpat’s crew winning the first race. The second race went to Peter Dyer’s ‘Team Kata Rocks,’ who are looking strong. Dyer said, ‘Halfway through, you get this feeling as if you know you’re going to win. If the winds pick up, it will suit some of the other teams more. You can see what the boats in front owe in terms of corrected time; you can work out where you’re going to finish.’

The stunning 82-foot Swan, ‘Chao Ren Plus One’, with an all-Chinese crew put on a majestic display in her first ever Phuket King’s Cup and finished third on handicap, after fighting a close battle with ‘Titania of Cowes.’ Eventually, the smaller Swan 68 won on correct time with ‘Baby Tonga Strongbow’ second.

In the Cruising Class, Aquacraft Asia’s ‘Odin’ crossed the line first with enough lead to ensure the handicap win ahead of ‘Astraeus.’ In the Firefly 850 Sports Class, Roger Kingdon’s ‘Moto Inzi’ took top spot, sealed by the team’s second victory in race two. The eleven competing entries in the Multihull Class offered close racing with the Thai-registered ‘DaVinci’ just beating out Alan Carwardine’s ‘Sidewinder’ team by 90 seconds. ‘Sidewinder’ came back strongly in race two, taking it by over seven minutes on corrected time.

In the Bareboat Charter Class, ‘Venture’ took the win from ‘Sail Plane’. In the Modern Classic Class there was just 12 minutes separating the top four finishes; ‘Windstar’ beat out ‘Poco’ by just 20 seconds.

The International Dinghy Classes raced a three-day series which concluded today; Akapoj ‘Tik’ Kankaew claimed two first place Optimist finishes and a raft of runner-up spots, putting him ahead of nearest rival, Sutida Poonpat. In the Laser Class, Patteera Mee-u-Samsen had a tearaway victory, taking four wins from the six races.

Sponsors of the 2011 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta include Kata Group Resorts Thailand, PTT Group, Siam Winery, Singha Corporation, AIA Thailand, PTT Global Chemical, PTTEP, Thai Oil, Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, Boathouse and Sunsail. Media Partners include 91.5FM, Helm Superyacht Asia Pacific, The Nation, Phuket Best Group, Phuket Gazette, Phuket Magazine, Sail-World.com, SEA Yachting and YachtStyle Asia.

PHUKET: In the first of five days of stiff competition in the 25th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, Peter Dyer’s Team Kata Rocks went top of the table in the IRC 2 class on three points, after taking second spot in race one and winning race two yesterday (December 5).

In second place is Bill Bremner of Singapore aboard Foxy Lady 5, while local hopeful Royal Thai Navy 1, skippered by Wiwat Poonpat, holds third place on six points after winning race one but finishing fifth in race two.

“We are better than last year even though we have five new crewmen in the team,’’ Wiwat said. “We also made a lot of changes to the vessel which was damaged by storms last year.”

Wiwat added that it was hard to predict a result for the class, which was going to be tough, with many good newcomers.

Fred Kinmonth and Nick Burns of EFG Bank Mandrake continued their form after winning the Raja Muda International Regatta two weeks ago as they took a lead of five points in IRC 1. Despite finishing fourth in race one, they regrouped to win race two.

Japan’s Yasuo Nanamori on Karasu finished the day second on seven points following a race one victory and a sixth-place finish in race two. Defending champion Matt Allen’s Beneteau First 44.7 Ichi Ban had a poor start, finishing the day seventh on 14 points.

Phuket King’s Cup President Kevin Whitcraft’s Won Ma Rang remains sixth on 12 points while Jonathan Mahony’s Humphreys 42 Zanzibar is lurking in the wings ready to pounce when the opportunity arises.

In IRC Zero, Hannes Waimer’s Team Premier ended the day one point ahead of Sam Chan’s FreeFire, with a second in race one and an improvement to take the win in race two.

The traditional leaders in the class, Neil Pryde on HiFi and Frank Pong on Jellik II, were left behind in third and fourth place respectively.

In the Firefly 850 Sports class, Roger Kingdon’s Moto Inzi won both races to take a two-point lead over defending champion Hans Rahmann’s Voodoo.

In the hotly contested Multihull Class, Alan Carwardine’s Stealth 12.6 Sidewinder, which recently won at the Raja Muda International Regatta, came in first place after two races, taking three points.

In the final day of the International Dinghy Classes, Thailand sailor Patteera Mee-u-Samsen cruised to victory in the Laser Class.

The 19-year-old sailor from Chon Buri won four out of six races to take the title on nine points. Second place went to Jittawat Boonrat who was eleven points behind the champion. Chut Dawruang was a point behind in the third place.

“I really enjoyed the race and was happy to win it,’’ said Patteera who also won a gold medal in the Optimist class at the 2007 SEA Games.

In the Optimist Class, the title went to Akapoj Kankeaw of Trang who finished on 11 points, four better than second-placed Sutida Poonpat of Chon Buri.

It was a disappointing result for Sutida who triumphed in four races but suffered a seventh finish in race four and third in race three.

“It is a great finish for me in Optimists before I move up to the Laser Class,’’ said the 15-year-old Akapoj.

Before racing began, all the competitors took part in the traditional sail-past to honour HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 84th birthday. The sail past ceremony took place to the south of Pu Island at 08:30 where the Royal Thai Navy ships, led by HTMS Chonburi, received salutes from participating vessels.

The sail past has become a tradition in honour of the Regatta’s Royal Patron, an award-wining sailor who won the gold medal at the 4th South East Asia Penisular Games (now known as the SEA Games.)

“It is another way for us to express our respect for the King,’’ said Kevin Whitcraft, President of the Organising Committee. “The tournament is held at this time of the year because it is an event for the King who loves sailing.’’

Team Kata Rocks (left) and participating vessels salute Royal Thai Navy ships, led by HTMS Chonburi, in a sail past ceremony held south of Pu Island. Credit: Guy Nowell

The 25th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta made an impressive start with a sail past to honour His Majesty the King on his 84th birthday, which was followed by hot favorites in each Class preparing to deliver their best form.

The sail past ceremony took place to the south of Pu Island at 08:30 where the Royal Thai Navy ships, led by HTMS Chonburi, received salutes from participating vessels. It was the official start for Asia’s most prestigious sailing event, at which more than 1,000 sailors from 35 nations are participating.

The sail past has become a tradition in honour of the Regatta’s Royal Patron, an award-wining sailor who won the gold medal at the 4th South East Asia Pennisular Games (now known as the SEA Games.) “It is another way for us to express our respect for the King,’’ said Kevin Whitcraft, President of the Organising Committee. “The tournament is held at this time of the year because it is an event for the King who loves sailing.’’

In the first of five days of competition, local hopeful Royal Thai Navy 1, skippered by Wiwat Poonpat, holds third place on six points in the IRC 2 class after winning race one and finishing fifth in race two. “We have a better standard than last year even though we have five new crewmen in the team,’’ Wiwat said. “We also made a lot of changes to the vessel which was damaged by storms last year.’ Wiwat added that it was hard to predict the result and that it is going to be a tough class since there are many good newcomers. Peter Dyer’s Team Kata Rocks stayed top of the table on three points after taking second spot in race one and wining race two.

Fred Kinmonth and Nick Burns of EFG Bank Mandrake continued their form after winning the Raja Muda International Regatta two weeks ago as they took a lead of five points in IRC 1. Despite finishing fourth in race one, they regrouped to win race two.

Japan’s Yasuo Nanamori of Karasu finished the day second on seven points following their race one victory and sixth place finish in race two. Defending champion Matt Allen’s Beneteau First 44.7 had a poor start finishing the day seventh on 14 points.

Phuket King’s Cup President Kevin Whitcraft’s Won Ma Rang remains seventh on 12 points while Jonathan Mahony’s Humphreys 42 Zanzibar is lurking in the wings ready to pounce when the opportunity arises.

In IRC Zero, Hannes Waimer’s Team Premier stayed one point ahead of Sam Chan’s FreeFire, with a second in race one and an improvement to take the win in race two.

In the Firefly 850 Sports class, Roger Kingdon’s Moto Inzi won both races to take a two point lead over defending champion Hans Rahmann’s Voodoo.

In the hotly contested Multihull Class, Alan Carwardine’s Stealth 12.6 Sidewinder, who recently won at the Raja Muda International Regatta, came in first place after two races taking three points.

In the final day of the International Dinghy Classes, Thailand sailor Patteera Mee-u-Samsen cruised to victory in the Laser Class. The 19-year-old sailor from Chon Buri won four out of six races to take the title on 9 points. Second place went to Jittawat Boonrat who was eleven points behind the champion. Chut Dawruang was a point behind in the third place. “I really enjoyed the race and was happy to win it,’’ said Patteera who also won gold medal in the Optimist class at the 2007 SEA Games.

In the Optimist Class, the title went to Akapoj Kankeaw of Trang who finished on 11 points, four better than second placed Sutida Poonpat of Chon Buri. It was a disappointing result for Sutida who triumphed in four races but suffered a seventh finish in race four and third in race three.

“It is a great finish for me in Optimists before I move up to the Laser Class,’’ said the 15-year-old Akapoj. Meanwhile, event manager Pornprom Sakultem said the three-day International Dinghy Classes series was successful with a large number of skilled local participants. ‘Our goal is to encourage local involvement and we did it here,’’ he said. “Next year will be bigger and we will have more young sailors.’’

Peter Dyer (L) and Richard Pope: Team Kata Rocks

Powerhouse racing sloop Madame Butterfly teams up with Kata Rocks at the 25^th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, held 3^rd-10^th December 2011 on Kata Beach.

As this year’s sponsor of Madame Butterfly, Phuket property development Kata Rocks has assembled a dynamic, international racing team comprised of experienced sailors from as far as the UK, Italy and Germany.  During the Regatta, the team will compete under the name Team Kata Rocks.

“This is our second time participating in the King’s Cup, but our first sponsoring a racing yacht,” says Kata Rocks developer Richard Pope. “Every year, competing yachts are moored just off our site on Kata Beach, making it an ideal place to enjoy the event. We are pleased to sponsor Team Kata Rocks to help support an event that does so much to promote Phuket and Kata Beach on an international scale.”

After five years of intense competitions, including three King’s Cup wins, Kata Rocks have outfitted Madame Butterfly with a new mainsail and spinnaker for the prestigious event.  Madame Butterfly is due to be launched after final preparations this week.

“I have been aware of the Kata Rocks project from the start and have admired the high standards the company has set,” says Peter Dyer, owner and skipper of Madame Butterfly, now Team Kata Rocks. “I like to associate Madame Butterfly with successful brands, as she is a successful racing yacht. Therefore, I look forward to a partnership of success in this, the 25^th anniversary year of the King’s Cup.”

Kata Rocks will also be hosting its own VIP spectator boat during the Regatta week. Guests will enjoy canapés and drinks onboard while taking in the sights of the day’s races.

Fah Thai's Nov/Dec 2011 cover

The Art & Design section of Fah Thai‘s November/December 2011 magazine affirms what many living in the East already know: Asia is where architecture is thriving!

The two-page feature singles out seven projects that will bring even more acclaim to the region’s architecture and design scene.  Among those listed are the Phuket villas at Kata Rocks:

Kata Rocks deserves a place on this list primarily because of the ingenuity of its design, and the fact that it raises the bar for coastal developments in Thailand.  Situated on a dramatic headland overlooking Phuket’s stunning west coast, Kata Rocks’ 34 villas are set to redefine luxury on Thailand’s largest island.

Other properties listed from Thailand are Bangkok’s Mahanakhon and Mode Sathorn Hotel as well as Pattaya’s Ocean 1 Tower, slated to be number 15 on the list of the world’s tallest buildings upon completion.

Rounding out the list are India Tower in Mumbai, Vattanac Capital of Cambodia and Opus Hong Kong, designed by architectural legend Frank Gehry.

Soaring Success: Asia's Future Stunners

"Phuket's Luxury Supply Chain" takes an in-depth look at the island's current market

In the November 2011 issue of Property Report South East Asia, writers Jules Kay and Bill Gladstone take an in-depth look at Phuket’s luxury property market.  The article, titled “Phuket’s Luxury Supply Chain,” compares existing properties, upcoming properties, who’s buying and who’s likely to buy in the months ahead.

It has become apparent in the island’s high-end property market that the buzzword du jour is quality.  As prime real estate locations are limited, especially on the island’s favoured west coast, the writers affirm that only those developers “with deep pockets and a commitment to quality” will succeed long term.  Phuket’s current investment climate is described as “pro business and pro property,” where well-financed, quality projects are seen as safe investment options.

Kata Rocks is described as “one new major west coast development attracting high-end buyers.”  Its developer, Richard Pope, credits the rising levels of quality and lifestyle options for the island’s success.  ”Given the level of design and build quality being achieved on the island,” he says, “Phuket is fast becoming the newest playground of the region’s rich and famous.”

Other projects highlighted in the article include Allan Zeman’s Andara Resort, which continues to draw interest, the residences at Laguna, Malaiwana’s private estates and Thanyapura’s residential community, which includes Phuket International Academy and its world-class Sports and Leisure Club.

For the full article, please see the images below.

Page 65 of Property Report SEA's Nov 2011 issue

Images from top: Kata Rocks Club Penthouse, Laguna Village Deluxe Residence, Malaiwana

Phuket Vocational College Deputy Director Nuchaporn Kongkapun (left) and Education Minister Adviser Sopon Petchsawang (center) inspect some of the meal packs. Photo credit: Pimwara Choksakulpan

The cafeteria at Phuket Vocational College in Phuket Town has been dedicated to cooking at least 12,000 meals a day to be delivered to flood victims in Bangkok.

“The Ministry of Interior has asked all provinces with the potential to help to provide assistance to flood victims in Bangkok,” said Phuket Vice Governor Somkiet Sangkhaosutthirak.

“Phuket has been assigned to distribute food to flood victims in the Klong Samwa district,” he added.

The district has a population of 164,000 living in 97,000 households, and has 18 flood refuge centers, said the vice governor, adding that the Phuket Provincial Administration Organization (OrBorJor) has dedicated five million baht to buy ingredients.

“The initiative will continue until November 30,” said Vice Governor Somkiet.

The meals will be flown from Phuket to Suvarnabhumi Airport by Thai Airways. Lunches will take off at 7am and dinners will depart Phuket at 11am.

“We cook fried and dried food to prevent food going bad, such as fried eggs, fried sweet crispy fish, fried chicken and stir-fried spicy curry chicken,” said Nuchaporn Kongkapun, Deputy Director at the college.

Ms Nuchaporn called on the people of Phuket for donations of time, effort and ingredients.

“We work all day, all night on four six-hour shifts, so we still need volunteers for this and we need ingredients such as eggs, garlic, red onions, seasoning and rice – because we use 36 20-kilogram packs of rice a day,” she said.

“Call the college at 076-214818 or my personal number 081-964 0096 for donations or more information.” she added.

Meanwhile, Phuket Governor Tri Augkaradacha today presented 200 boats donated by Phuket people to Education Minister Adviser Sophon Petchsawang at a ceremony at Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Town.

The boats, donated to help people affected by the floods, were provided under funds donated by many government offices and private businesses, including the Phuket Provincial Office, the OrBorJor, Phuket City Municipality, Phuket Vocational College, Phuket Technical College, Thalang Technical College, Phuket Polytechnic College, the Northern People’s Club of Phuket, and local residents.

Source: Phuket Gazette

Crowds and Participants enjoy the 2010Phuket Thailand Open

For the 6th successive year, Karon Beach in Phuket province hosts The Phuket Thailand Open powered by PTT, the final round of the FIVB Beach Volley SWATCH World Tour. From the 1st through 6th November 2011, the world’s top players will compete in order to to qualify for the 2012 Olympic Games to be held in London next year.

Annually, the tournament attracts over 500 participants, team members and media to Phuket from Asia, Australasia, Europe and the Americas. Over 50 teams from 25 countries originally entered the tournament, including: the reigning Olympic Champions, the current World Champions, the 2010 World ranked No. 1 team and the powerhouses of the sport; Austria, Brazil, Germany, and the USA.

However, a lack of clarity in understanding which parts of Bangkok were flooded and how travelers could transfer on to Phuket-bound flights resulted 15 teams pulling out of the event. Tournament Director Geoffrey Rowe of Pentangle Promotions pointed out that the teams who canceled were eligible for the qualifying rounds only.

“The cancellations have had no effect on the top teams competing in this world-class event,” he said. “[. . .] Bangkok has two airports. When the news went out that Don Mueang Airport was closed, people sent emails to me asking how could they get to Phuket if Bangkok airport was closed.”

Despite the confusion, the top 32 teams confirmed to compete in the main draw remain unaffected.

Admission to The Phuket Thailand Open powered by PTT is free, with matches starting at 09.00 daily except on the finals day, Sunday 6 November, when the competition begins at 15.00. The action will be broadcast live to over 700,000,000 households worldwide from 15.00-17.00 on the final two days of competition.

Central Thailand, including some parts of Bangkok, are experiencing some of the worst flooding seen in half a century.  Thus, if you are traveling or planning a trip to Thailand at this time, you are advised to stay well informed. 

There are many places you can travel very safely to, and have a normal, wonderful Thai holiday. There are also some things that you should stay tuned in to in order to avoid any unexpected developments.

This FAQ is provided to answer some important questions, and to give you the information you need to keep up with the developing situation:

What tourist destinations in Thailand are NOT affected by the floods and are okay to visit?

While several major tourist attractions in a few central provinces have been temporarily closed due to the floods, they represent a very small portion of the many thousands of tourist attractions throughout Thailand. All other tourist attractions in central Bangkok, as well as elsewhere in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi, Hua-Hin, Pattaya, Rayong, Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, and all provinces in the south, have not been affected by the flooding.

What is the status of Thailand’s airports?  Could they possibly be closed soon?

Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok has not been affected by the floods and is operating as usual. The airport has considerable flood protection measures in place and officials are monitoring the situation closely. Don Muang Airport, which is located in a northern suburb of Bangkok and handles domestic airlines serving a small number of provinces, has been closed until November 1st due to flooding. All other airports in Thailand are opened and operating normally.

Will there be any difficulty to visit all the important tourist places in Thailand now due to the flooding?

At present, no.  The only two centers that have closed are Dream World and Future Park Rangsit.  Both are in the northern suburbs of the city, which has already become affected by rising waters.  The floods are mainly affecting the provinces in central Thailand including parts of Bangkok and a few provinces in the north and northeast.  Flood waters in several provinces in northern Thailand have begun to subside.  Provinces in the south of Thailand have not been affected by the floods.  Ayutthaya has been the only tourist destination widely affected by the floods, while other provinces where tourists generally go have been slightly impacted.

Does the severity of this year’s floods mean it’s better to avoid Thailand for holidays this year, even in the high season?

No, as the floods are a result of the annual rainy season, which is over before high season. The rainy season is now coming to an end, which will allow the flood water to clear out and provide for restoration of the affected areas well before high season. It is early to cancel trips planned for December 2011 through February 2012, the normal tourist high season in Thailand.

What advice do you have for travelers who want to travel safely around Thailand at this time?

Stay abreast of all the latest news, including the TAT’s www.thailandtourismupdate.com. There are many websites and phone numbers listed on the site that you can use to travel safely at this time, and enjoy your holiday. Simply travel by air out of Bangkok to any of Thailand’s major tourist destinations and you’ll be fine.

Are most hotels and tourist destinations throughout Thailand operating as normal, or is it very quiet now throughout Thailand?

Tourist destinations outside of the flooded areas of the central provinces are reporting near-normal occupancy and booking rates for accommodations. The government is putting tremendous effort into protecting central Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport, which are two key tourist areas, from flooding. Key tourist destinations in the south, north and northeast, as well as destinations in the central provinces such Hua Hin and Pattaya, have not been affected by the floods so we are confident that they will see the tourist numbers that are expected for the high season.

Prime Minister Yingluck has declared Bangkok to be a disaster area. This sounds like the situation is very serious, so why should people risk coming to Bangkok?

The Prime Minister did not declare Bangkok a disaster area – she invoked the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act of 2007, which is not the same thing. Invoking this act gives the Prime Minister greater flexibility and authority in coordinating the actions of all levels of government agencies in dealing with the floods, and provides for greater assistance from the military in flood preparation and relief; offering government assistance to those affected by the floods; and planning the use of government resources for the restoration of flooded areas afterwards.

What are foreign government travel advisories saying about the situation in Thailand? Are they warning people to stay away?

Various governments issue travel advisories based on what they feel is in the best interest of their citizens. The TAT encourages travelers to review these travel warnings, as well as consult several sources of information, and make a personal decision about traveling to Thailand at this time.

What are some useful numbers more information?

TAT Call Center:     1672

Thai Airways:     02-356-1111

Bangkok Airways:    02-265-8777

Air Asia:     02-515-9999

Nok Air:    1318 or 02-900-9955

Orient Thai Airlines:    1126

Tourist Police    1155

State Railway of Thailand (SRT) Call Center:     1690

Transport Co., Ltd. Hotline:    1490

(Inter-provincial bus service)

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Hotline:    1555

BMA’s flood response centre:    02-2485115

Highway Hotline:    1586

Highway Police:    1193

Animal rescue:     1362

Please remember to stay well-informed until the flooding subsides. There is much information available, and you should print out or make note of these websites and phone numbers. There are people everywhere willing to help and assist you, should you need it. If you do find yourself in need of official assistance, the Thai Tourist Police are well-trained and able to assist you; they can be reached by calling 1155.

Chances are that you will not need any of these emergency numbers, but it is best to be prepared and not caught unawares. That way, you’ll get the most out of your time in Thailand, and be able to fully enjoy your time here.

Sino Portuguese Architecture in Phuket Old Town

Earlier this year, we shared that the Senate Tourism Committee were pushing for the opportunity to list the centuries-old Sino Portuguese buildings of Phuket City, as well as the island of Phuket itself, as a UNESCO World Heritage site.  The recent visit of Yukio Nishimura, urban planner and Vice President of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), signals a positive step forward in the process yet leaves some to wonder: Does Phuket City need World Heritage status?  Here is the latest on the subject, with excerpts provided by The Phuket News:

The face of modern Phuket is constantly changing.  Shiny new developments dot the island’s coast, and many infrastructure projects are in the pipeline.  However, beneath all this prosperity lies a rich history, albeit one slowly disappearing.

Professor Yukio Nishimura, urban planner and Vice President of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), whose functions include evaluation of World Heritage sites, visited Phuket Town in a major step forward in its bid for UNESCO World Heritage status.

In the immediate term, bestowing World Heritage status would bring two key things to the island: funds from the World Heritage Trust to assist with restoration work, and an influx of tourists to Phuket Town.  However, the long term effects of attaining such a status are not always positive.

Phuket Town’s heritage is closely intertwined with that of Penang, Malaysia.  It shares the same Peranakan ancestry, and much of the architecture in the Old Town was modeled on that of its Malay counterpart.  The historic capital of Penang, George Town, was awarded World Heritage status in 2008, but it hasn’t necessarily been ‘smooth sailing’ since.

Alex Ong, native Penangite and organiser of the annual George Town Festival, which celebrates the day of the Town’s inscription into the World Heritage list (July 7, 2008), believes it has been a positive thing.  ”The [inscription] has favoured the development of George Town…in terms of awareness, conservation, and protection of both our tangible and intangible heritage.  On the other hand, livelihoods in inner city George Town are getting tougher due to rising rental costs.  The people are moving out to the suburbs and townships, and some streets are dead at night.”

Dr Kosol Taeng-uthai is the President of the Thai Peranakan Association, an NGO leading the charge for Phuket Old Town to attain World Heritage status.  He is convinced it would bring beneficial results, but says the process must be done slowly to ensure it is done right.  “At least two years” is his estimate.

“I think it’s a world standard, and the power of globalization that UNESCO brings can help…people preserve their heritage,” he said.  “We are trying to preserve the ‘hardware’ and the ‘software.’ Hardware means the heritage sites, software means the intangible culture.  It’s important because if locals do not start this programme, then it will not be successful.  It should come from the local people.”

If there is one concern seemingly shared by everyone involved with Phuket’s heritage, it is the younger generations.  With bigger and better opportunities for education and employment in Bangkok and overseas, it is becoming difficult for Phuket’s Peranakans to ingrain their cultural traits into their youth.

Phuket Old Town Community Head Khun Yindee Manosuntthorn says that because so many children go off to study and live abroad, it has become difficult to keep the Peranakan culture alive.  She also thinks World Heritage status would help restore cultural values.  It could encourage people to take pride in their ancestry and learn more about their past, in the same way Penang has embraced theirs.

Khun Kritichaya Na Takuathung, who runs guided tours for tourists through Phuket Old Town through Heritage Trails, also sees it as a definitive factor.  She says in Penang, young people are proud and knowledgeable about their history, a trait not widely replicated in Phuket.

“The most important thing I think is not UNESCO, and it is not Penang or Malacca.  The most important thing is the local people here in Phuket Old Town.  We should discuss together more and liase on how to preserve our culture, and how to plan our economy, and plan how to educate our children to ensure our heritage can live beyond the buildings.”

Overall, she gives a qualified yes to World Heritage status.  “If you ask me ‘do you want the UNESCO title’ I would say yes.  But I don’t think we are ready.  The buildings are not ready, the people are not ready.  We need to educate our own people first, and make sure we are talking about the same thing before we open up the door and welcome more people here.”

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that if it is granted, UNESCO World Heritage Status is not recognition of work already done, it is a contract of obligation to the future of heritage preservation, a contract that must be signed by every resident and curious tourist alike.

(Photo Credit: phuket.com)

The newly updated Boathouse Wine & Grill

Last night, Phuket’s architectural and culinary landmark Boathouse opened it doors to a select group of locals to unveil its recently redesigned restaurant, The Boathouse Wine & Grill.

Updated by renowned French designer Fredo Taffin, the restaurant is now a bright, modern space complemented by touches of Thai, color and nautical themes throughout.  Of special note is their new open kitchen concept, where diners lucky enough to book the Captain’s Table will get a bird’s eye view into all the behind-the-scenes action.  Rumour has it that these guests may even be treated to surprise menus, not to be known until the finished dishes have reached the table!

The new Wine Cellar

Another impressive addition to the restaurant is a brand new wine cellar, which proudly displays the upwards of 800 labels on offer. The Boathouse’s impressive list has been distinguished with Wine Spectator Awards since 1995, and was the first winner of the Wine Spectator ‘Best of Award of Excellence’ in Thailand in 2006.  Since then, the awards have kept coming, and there is no doubt they will continue to do so long into the future.

Here at Kata Rocks we are honored to have such an esteemed establishment right on our doorstep, within easy reach of all our residents and guests.  We congratulate The Boathouse Wine and Grill on its decades of success as well as its fresh new look.

Photos courtesy phuketindex.com

Phuket is starting to tap into this lucrative market with the opening of the Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club (TSLC), which hopes to create a major sports hub on the already popular destination.  As a training centre, the facilities have the potential to draw in a new group of local and international professional athletes.  Its serves as a convenient stop-over for European groups en route to southern destinations.  One key could be Phuket’s already obvious lure and reputation as a tourism zone, complete with modern infrastructure and direct flights throughout Asia.

The complex houses some impressive accredited facilities including a FIFA-standard pitch that can double for rugby and football, six Plexicushion tennis courts, a 25 and 50 meter Olympic standard swimming pool, heavy lifting equipment suitable for rugby squads and a hypoxia room for high altitude training.

In September, Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club announced their facility would be hosting one round of the Chang International Tennis Federation (ITF) Thailand Pro Circuit 2011 Tournament.

The competition will run from October 29 to November 12 and is the very first tennis event of this caliber to be held in Phuket.  One of the many factors which ensured TSLC the tournament was the advanced Plexicushion surfaced tennis courts, the same surface laid at Melbourne Park, the venue for the Australian Open tennis tournament.

“It is an honor to host Phuket’s first ITF event and it is a great indication for the future of the sport at the Thanyapura Sports and Leisure Club,” said TSLC Vice President, David Roberts.

According to Mr Roberts, the ITF tournament will act as a platform to bring more tournaments to the club and increase the facilities’ attraction as a training venue for professionals.

Information courtesy Business Report Thailand, Phuket Gazette and Thanyapura.

Phuket, Thailand's Kata Noi Beach

The full 2011 Expat Explorer survey results are coming in November, but here are a few initial findings from the largest global expat survey of its kind in the world. This is the fourth year of the survey and despite some significant global events in the past year – from economic turmoil to widespread political and social unrest – 3,385 expats from over 100 countries have taken part.

This year’s number one country is Thailand when compared globally across economic and lifestyle factors, with Egypt and Saudi Arabia ranking second and third.

When asked about the survey’s findings, Phuket real estate developer Richard Pope says, “Everything that’s happening here in Thailand and its potential going forward can be seen in the luxury property sector, with Phuket being especially successful at events such as the International Property Awards.  A number of developments have done very well, and it really shows where Phuket is going.  It will very much become the French Riviera of Asia.”

The full results of the 2011 survey will be released in late November and will look at some new expat trends such as:

Despite the economic uncertainty in 2010, expats remain fairly optimistic about the economic outlook in the country where they live. Despite this optimism only 64% of expats intend to stay in their current country compared to 87% in 2010.

The economic benefit of becoming an expat: in 2011 63% of expats report having more disposable income since relocating compared to 56% in 2010.

Language barriers are becoming less problematic for expats with only 27% reporting this as an issue compared to 30% in 2010.

In 2011 expats are less concerned about feeling lonely and missing their friends and family with only 31% reporting this in 2011, compared to 34% in 2010.

“Ultimately, there are pros and cons to living and doing business anywhere in the world, but personally speaking I think the drawbacks here in Thailand are a small price to pay for the quality of life I get in return,” says Pope.  ”It’s certainly encouraging to see that this survey agrees.”

A different view of Kata Rocks

Multi-award winning Phuket villa development Kata Rocks brings a touch of Infinite Luxury to the October cover of Window on Lifestyle Magazine.

The image shows two models relaxing on the namesake rocks of the project, highlighting a quality of the Kata Rocks site that, despite its name, some may not readily be aware of.  The smooth granite rocks which adorn the front of the site serve not only their natural purpose of protecting the beach below, they also add a stunning additional platform from which to take in the dramatic sea and sunset views.

“It’s usually not until people come on to the site that they truly understand how impressive these boulders are,” says Kata Rocks developer Richard Pope. “Everytime you come on to the site, you take a bit of a breath when you actually see them.  It’s still a wow for me.”

The rocks provide a scenic alternative to an average sunset BBQ

The stunning rocks of Kata Rocks at night

International Property Luxury Collection September 2011 Cover

The latest edition of International Property Luxury Collection magazine sees members of the Kata Rocks team photographed with Stuart Shield, President of the International Property Awards.  The team were on location at the 2011 Asia Pacific International Property Awards in Shanghai to receive a number of awards from the organization, most notably “Best Apartment Asia Pacific 2011.”

The photo is featured in The Informer, the bi-monthly magazine’s roundup of the latest events on the international property scene.  Also highlighted was the launch of PGA Catalunya’s show villas in Spain, architect George Clarke joining forces with conservation & restoration experts City & Country Group, as well as F1 racers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button unveiling McLaren Automotive’s first retail location, the McLaren London, at One Hyde Park.

Click here to view the 2011 Asia Pacific International Property Awards video produced exclusively for Kata Rocks.

Top Image, L-R: Stuart Shield (International Property Awards), Dome Yodsapakphionyo, David Frost, Jennifer Diaz (Kata Rocks)

Main page of Informer Feature in Sep 2011's International Luxury Collection Magazine

September 2011 Cover

Window on Lifestyle magazine, one of the many publications produced and distributed by Image Asia, is a monthly magazine which highlights the latest and greatest in products and services on Phuket island and its surrounding areas.

This month’s People Profile features Richard Pope, MD of the award-winning Phuket development, Kata Rocks. In the piece, he explains how stumbling across a plot of land on the south of the island enticed him away from his ‘big city’ lifestyle in London’s Notting Hill.

On the benefits of living in Phuket, Richard says, “I like the food, the beaches, the friendly people. The quality of life is very good. The unfortunate thing is I am working too hard at the moment, but I do see a light at the end of the tunnel.”

“Overall, however, life is easier here than in the UK, where there are all these underlying pressures and stresses you’re often not even aware of. Here, there’s more of a focus on enjoying life, and I look forward to doing more of that soon.”

For the full article, double click the file below, visit the Window on Lifestyle website or pick up a copy at one of the 300 venues that carry the magazine.

Richard Pope's Interview in Window on Lifestyle Magazine, Sep 2011

Speaking at an industry event sponsored by Property Report South East Asia (PRSEA) last week, Longlom Bunnag, chairman of Jones Lang LaSalle Thailand, said investors had started to return after the general election was called because they thought it was a good sign for the country. At Kata Rocks, enquiries have shot up since the July election, signaling a positive start for the approaching high season.

Jones Lang LaSalle Thailand are negotiating two transactions for office buildings in Bangkok with two investment banks and one Phuket transaction with an institutional investor involving a hotel. All of the buyers are Hong Kong and Singapore-based investors that feel now is a good time to take advantage of Thailand’s promising yield outlook.

Patima Jeerapaet, managing director of the property consultant firm, Colliers International Thailand said that especially in Pattaya tourist numbers are up with some high end resorts and hotels reporting occupancy rates of 95 per cent. The hope is that tourist numbers will drive property sales in the area.

Patima said South Korean, Chinese, Australian, Indian and Middle East tourists were fueling the boom, some of them equaling the numbers of more traditional tourists such Japanese, Germans, British, Taiwanese, Americans and Singaporeans.

“Buyers from the Middle East, India, Russia and China are looking at Thailand. Some Chinese investors have bought a block of condos on Ratchadaphisek Road, while Russians are eyeing Pattaya and Phuket,” Patima said.

Despite the bright outlook, some obstacles remains in the market. They include insufficient financing for foreigners, domestic politics and limited leasehold and ownership structures. Patima said the property committee of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce was updating a white paper that proposes extending leaseholds from 30 years to 60 years and was confident that PM Yingluck, who has a background in real estate, would welcome the proposal.

Lost in Paradise, sponsored by Kata Rocks, airs Sundays at noon on 91.5 Phuket FM Radio

Phuket real estate company Kata Rocks are proud to announce its sponsorship of Lost in Paradise, an afternoon radio show broadcast every Sunday at 12 pm on 91.5 Phuket FM Radio.

Hosted by well-known Phuket local Chantal Fernandes, Lost in Paradise is modelled on the long-running BBC Radio 4 programme ‘Desert Island Discs.’ First broadcast in January of 1942, the show asked its guests to choose eight pieces of music, a book and a luxury item for their imaginary stay on a desert island and to chat about the reasons for their choices.

91.5 FM’s adaptation of the programme asks popular Phuket figures, or ‘castaways,’ to imagine if they were ‘Lost in Paradise’ and could only hear 10 songs during their stay, which would they be and why? The enlightening answers serve to shed light on some of the interesting personalities and histories of those that inhabit the island.

During its few weeks on air, Lost in Paradise has hosted two Kata Rocks team members. The inaugural guest of the programme was Phuket property developer and programme sponsor Richard Pope, followed later by Sales Manager Dome Yodsapakphionyo. Their shows can be downloaded in the ‘Podcasts’ section of phuketfmradio.com, as well as the shows of all past guests.

As part of Phuket FM Radio’s community strategy, the station donates the airtime of this show and Chantal volunteers her time to both organize and host it. With each broadcast, the show aims to highlight a charitable organization, giving island-wide as well as international exposure to some great local causes.

Tune in to Lost in Paradise, sponsored by Kata Rocks, every Sunday at 12 pm on 91.5 FM or online from anywhere in the world at http://www.phuketfmradio.com.

Phuket Tatler's 'Home Security' Feature, Issue 1/2011

In the latest issue of Phuket Tatler, writer Bill Anderson takes a look at how the luxury property market in Phuket has helped the island retain its status as one of the world’s pre-eminent luxury resort destinations, despite the economic upheavals of recent years. He consulted a few of the island’s leading developers, including Kata Rocks‘ Richard Pope, for more insight. Says Richard about the future of Phuket:

“Naturally, the reasons for buying at Kata Rocks vary with each purchaser. The Phuket lifestyle is probably the primary reason to buy. It’s also safe to say that rental returns and capital growth are set to increase over time, given the boom in the Asian economies. Phuket is ideally situated to benefit from this, being the natural holiday island of the region. I have no doubt that in coming years, Phuket will become the French Riviera of the East.”

The article also features an image of the Kata Rocks Club Penthouse, named ‘Best Apartment in the World 2010,’ as well as images and insight from the teams at Kamala Bay Project, Istana Phuket, Royal Phuket Marina and Malaiwana Beach Club.

To view the article in full, please double click the images below.

'Home Security' Article feat. Kata Rocks' Club Penthouse Interior Image

Page 2, 'Home Security' Feature

The Kata Rocks Team pose with their 2011 Asia Pacific Property Awards in Shanghai, China

Current “World’s Best Apartment 2010” titleholders Kata Rocks are pleased to announce the addition of five more International Property Awards to its growing list of industry accolades. Among these is the title “Best Apartment Asia Pacific 2011,” which places the Phuket development in the running for the title “World’s Best Apartment” for a second consecutive year.

“To be Asia Pacific’s nominee for the ‘World’s Best Apartment 2011’ award is excellent, but to be the first ever company in the region to be nominated two years in a row is outstanding,” says Richard Pope, developer of Kata Rocks. “That the project can stand up against a record number of entries for a second year in a row truly demonstrates the level of design and quality we are achieving with our project here in Phuket.”

Kata Rocks will be up against the best of Africa, Arabia, UK, Europe and the Americas for the prestigious “World’s Best” title. The company also sees their website nominated in the “World’s Best Developer Website” category.

Kata Rocks currently hold the title “World’s Best Apartment 2010” and add “Best Apartment Thailand,” “Best Developer Website Thailand,” and “Highly Commended Best Development Thailand” to its 2011 list of industry acknowledgments.

Cover of the 'Dream Designs' article featuring Kata Rocks' Pool Condo interior

Phuket property development Kata Rocks is featured in the May/June 2011 issue of Bangkok Airways‘ in-flight magazine, Fah Thai.

In the ‘Dream Designs’ feature, Kata Rocks developer Richard Pope discusses how design impacts every day life, the merits of good design over bad design, and even offers some insight on what to look for when investing in property.

Fah Thai is the bi-monthly magazine of Bangkok Airways, Asia’s only ’boutique airline’ and Thailand’s second biggest carrier. Produced in both English and Thai, the magazine focuses on travel, culture and lifestyle. Destinations covered include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Phuket, Sukhothai, Trat, Guilin, Hangzhou, Hong Kong, Jinghong, Luang Prabang, Maldives, Phnom Penh, Shenzhen, Siem Reap, Singapore, Xi’an, Yangon and Zhenzhou.

'Dream Designs' editorial featuring an interview with Kata Rocks' Richard Pope

All proceeds from the ticket sales, silent auctions and live auctions held on the evening benefit the Foundation, which through the help of volunteers and donations, provides high quality English language education for children in government schools on Phuket. The organization aims to provide these children the opportunity to engage in English language conversation, with the ultimate aim being to help them acquire the language skills that will offer opportunities for future success.

The evening got underway with a drinks reception, allowing guests to meet and mingle, followed by a delicious four-course meal. Guests were entertained by The Jazz Creators band, followed by a series of fun celebrity impersonators.

After the dinner and entertainment, the live auction began with luxury hotel packages and even a plum viewing spot at the 2011 Singapore Grand Prix up for bidding. The evening’s efforts saw the Foundation raise over 2 million Thai Baht for the Foundation’s schools in Kamala and Kalim.

There are many ways to become involved with Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. Visit their website to find out about ways to donate time or funds to this very worthy cause.

PHBGTU executive thanks guests for their support and generosity

Guests toast a lovely evening for a great cause

Kata Rocks' Dome (L) and Jennifer (R) pose for a photo

Kata Rocks Developer Richard Pope and Lek enjoy the festivities

Opening screen shot of Kata Rocks' March 2011 Construction Update

In March 2011, Kata Rocks invited longtime collaborators Red Sky Vision from the UK to film a series of update videos for the website. Normally construction update videos are filmed in-house, but this latest update is a more polished walk-through of the latest goings-on at the Thailand villa site.

The clip focuses on key members of the project who talk us through present and future building stages of the project. Some new members of the award-winning team are introduced as well, as there are many individuals whose collective efforts are making the villas at Kata Rocks a reality. More detailed videos on these individuals will be produced in the coming months, but until then, meet some members of the Kata Rocks design team here.

We hope you enjoy watching this latest videoclip and look forward to hearing your feedback on Facebook or Twitter.

He also notes some of Kata Rocks’ past accolades, most notably the title “Best Apartment in the World 2010,” awarded by the International Property Awards.

Also featured in the article is The Heights, Phuket as well as Hayman Marina Residences, Queensland AUS.

To view the full article in .pdf, please click: STHomes-Apr 2011

AVC Engineering will create and install programs that control the lighting, adjust the blinds and air conditioning, as well as support the audio/visuals of the apartments at Kata Rocks. The final product AVC will deliver is a luxurious and intelligent state-of-the-art home automation system, all controlled at the touch of an iPad screen.

AVC Engineering was established after the completion of Phuket FantaSea, Asia’s largest theater, where they installed the lighting, sound and automation systems that remain in use today at Phuket’s “cultural themepark.” AVC also counts among its clientele upwards of 150 homes, high-end residential villas and hotels on Phuket and its neighboring islands.

It was only after 2 years of detailed discussions with a number of parties that Kata Rocks appointed AVC Engineering to the role. Says Kata Rocks developer, Richard Pope, “The home automation at Kata Rocks is going to be groundbreaking for a development of this type and we have taken a considerable amount of time to ensure that we had the right partner on board with a proven track record in Phuket.”

Kata Rocks is a luxury oceanfront development and resort situated on the west coast of Phuket between two of the island’s finest beaches. Each of the 34 Sky Villas feature full sea views and private infinity swimming pools. Construction is now underway and the development is expected to be completed in 2012.

Monday, 18 April 2011 is the first business day of the Thai New Year at Phuket property office, Kata Rocks. The office, as well as our construction site, was closed for four days to allow everyone to partake in one of Thailand’s most anticipated holidays, Songkran.

Songkran is a festival celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year’s, from 13 to 15 April. Until 1888, the Thai New Year was the beginning of the year in Thailand, and thereafter 1 April was the date used, until 1940. 1 January is now the official beginning of the year.

The most famous Songkran celebrations take place in the northern city of Chiang Mai, where the festivities continue for six days or longer. This holiday/party has been embraced by many foreigners as an additional reason to visit Thailand. Today’s most obvious celebration of Songkran is the throwing of water. Thais roam the streets with containers of water or water guns and drench each other and passersby. Though popular, this was not always the main activity of this festival.

Songkran is traditionally a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends, neighbors, and monks. The water is meant as a symbol of washing away the bad and is sometimes scented with fragrant herbs, when celebrated in the traditional manner. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to people, by capturing the water after it had been poured over the Buddhas for cleansing, then using this “blessed” water to give good fortune to elders and family by gently pouring it over the shoulder.

Among young people, the holiday has evolved to include splashing strangers with water to relieve the heat, since April is typically the hottest month in Thailand. This has evolved further into light-hearted water fights and even splashing water over people riding in vehicles.

In Phuket, there are two main places to participate in these water fights, both within a 20-30 minute drive from Kata Rocks. The first of these is Phuket town, which some claim is a more calm celebration amongst Thai locals. The second place is Patong, the famed nightlife center of the island. Here, DJs hosted by neighborhood nightclubs play the latest music while tourists and locals partake in the revelry.

After having 5 days away from the office, I have to say I’m happy to be back! Judging by the flurry of activity at everyone’s desk here at the Sales Office, it looks like I’m not the only one…

Hope you had a Happy Songkran!

Chartered Bank, Phuket City

The Senate tourism committee has asked the Culture Ministry to push for listing the century-old Sino-Portuguese buildings in Phuket city as well as the resort island itself as United Nations World Heritage Sites.

Culture Minister Nipit Intarasombat said yesterday that he had assigned the Fine Arts Department to see whether the old town and the island matched the selection criteria of the World Heritage Committee.

The Senate committee’s panel for following through on the country’s world heritage development for tourism had proposed two options, he said. 
The first is world heritage registration of the Sino-Portuguese buildings. The ministry was asked to conserve and restore the structures as close as possible to their original condition while improving the environs by burying all wires.

Phuket would join with Malaysia’s Malacca and Penang, as they all shared this traditional architectural design. 
The second option is the registration of Phuket island on its own, citing its outstanding cultural and natural features along with Phang Nga Bay and Krabi.

The Sino-Portuguese style, with influences from the East and West, appeared in 1511 on the Malay Peninsula. Similar buildings can be seen in Malacca and Penang as well as Singapore and Macau. 
Thailand has such buildings in Phuket, Ranong, Krabi, Phang Nga and Trang. Most were built during the time of Phraya Rassadanupradit Mahissarapakdi (Khaw Sim Bee Na Ranong), who governed Phuket from 1901-1913 during King Rama V’s reign.

In 1994, Phuket Municipality designated the Sino-Portuguese town, just 25 minutes from Kata Rocks, covering 210 rai on Rassada, Phang Nga, Yaowarat, Krabi, Deebuk and Thalang and Thepkasattri roads as a conservation area and prohibited buildings more than 12 metres high.

Source: The Nation

Phuket at sunset on the way back from Phang Nga

Nothing says “I’m spending the festive season on a tropical island!” quite like taking a boat trip around Phuket just days before Christmas. As a native New Yorker, the festive season equals being bundled up in coats and heavy knits, warm frothy drinks, and trudging through the snow to make those last-minute holiday gift purchases.

Suffice it to say I experienced a significant paradigm shift spending my first Christmas in the tropics–swimwear, sunnies and sun cream were the order of the day! I arrived with friends in tow to Boat Lagoon (about 40 minutes from Kata Rocks) at the office of Limestone Adventures, the company who’d be hosting our day. We hired a sports cruiser to take us out to Phang Nga Bay to enjoy the beauty of the sea as well as the limestone caves that dot the region.

Our first stop on the trip was to a hidden lagoon, where we got to admire up-close the natural splendour of these magical caves. But just moments into our observation–we realized WE were being watched! Little monkeys came out of their hiding places to say hello, and after we ooh-ed and aah-ed at the little guys, we were on our way to the next stop.

Before we knew it, we were face to face with ‘James Bond’ island of “The Man with the Golden Gun” fame. As many can attest, it’s much smaller in person, but not any less impressive. Soon after, we stopped at Naka Island for a quick frolic on its white sandy beach. There, we hired jet-skis and proceeded to try and out-do each other with some fun tricks on the water. My first time driving a jet-ski was made all the more memorable by the limestone caves that I could see in the distance–truly a beautiful sight.

Once done with our racing, we decided to wind down the day with some drinks by the beach bar. Beers and the water of fresh coconuts cooled us down as we prepared to head to the boat for the sunset ride back to Phuket island.

The final verdict on my first warm Christmas? I could definitely get used to this! It truly was a great day filled with memorable sights and I would highly recommend booking this trip at any time of the year.

Kata Rocks' Jennifer Diaz (center) and friends aboard Limestone Adventures' sports cruiser in Phang Nga

The prestigious trophy was presented to developer Richard Pope and his team from the Kata Rocks, at the gala dinner held at the Lancaster Hotel in London on November 27th, with several ambassadors also amongst the 500 guests in attendance.

The International property awards are sponsored by Bloomberg Television and Google, and are independently judged by 54 international experts from all areas of the real estate industry. Kata Rocks competed with entries from over 110 countries to win the award.

“To not only have the best apartment in the world for 2010, [but also for] our first our development in the Asia Pacific region is really fantastic for us”, responded Jennifer Diaz, PR & Marketing Manager for Kata Rocks, on the night, who was part of the team from Kata Rocks in attendance.

The Kata Rocks Club Penthouse covers an area of 460 square metres over two floors and has a sizable terrace with private infinity pool and uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea and Koh Pu Island on Phuket’s west coast. The penthouse apartment was designed by developer Richard Pope and architect Adrian McCarroll, founder of multi-award winning Hong Kong based firm Original Vision.

www.katarocks.com

]]> http://www.katarocks.com/blog/loft-magazine-hk-kata-rocks-worlds-best-for-2010/feed/ 0 http://www.katarocks.com/blog/seasons-greetings-from-kata-rocks/ http://www.katarocks.com/blog/seasons-greetings-from-kata-rocks/#comments Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:42:01 +0000 KataRocks http://www.katarocks.com/blog/?p=424 Click the image below for our message wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at Kata Rocks!

Santa gears up for the big day at our award-winning Kata Rocks Club Penthouse!

]]> http://www.katarocks.com/blog/seasons-greetings-from-kata-rocks/feed/ 0 http://www.katarocks.com/blog/kata-rocks-wins-%e2%80%9cbest-apartment-in-the-world-2010%e2%80%9d-at-the-international-property-awards-in-london/ http://www.katarocks.com/blog/kata-rocks-wins-%e2%80%9cbest-apartment-in-the-world-2010%e2%80%9d-at-the-international-property-awards-in-london/#comments Thu, 02 Dec 2010 08:26:12 +0000 KataRocks http://www.katarocks.com/blog/?p=416 Continue reading →]]>

Developer of Kata Rocks Richard Pope accepts award for 'Best Apartment in the World 2010' along with Kata Rocks architect, Adrian McCarroll (R)

Kata Rocks are proud to announce that on Saturday, 27 November 2010, the Kata Rocks Club Penthouse was awarded the title of “Best Apartment in the World 2010” at the World Finals of the highly respected International Property Awards, held at a gala dinner at the Lancaster Hotel in London.

The dinner was attended by over 500 guests, with several countries sending their ambassadors as representatives. Most members of the Kata Rocks team attended, including developer Richard Pope, who was presented with the award.

The International Property Awards, sponsored by Bloomberg Television and Google, are independently judged by 54 international experts from all areas of the property profession. In order to win the title “Best Apartment in the World,” Kata Rocks had to beat entries from 110 countries.

The Kata Rocks Club Penthouse was conceived and designed by developer Richard Pope and architect Adrian McCarroll. This impressive apartment covers 460 sq m over two levels and boasts a private infinity swimming pool with uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea and Ko Phu island.

Of the award, Mr Pope said, “It is an honour for us to have received the title of ‘Best Apartment in the World 2010’ for our Kata Rocks Club Penthouse. To have been judged by an independent panel of international experts who have deemed our apartment as ‘Best in the World’ on this, our first development in the Asia Pacific region, is simply astounding.”

Kata Rocks is a luxury oceanfront development situated on the west coast of Phuket, alongside Kata Beach. 34 Sky Villas are being constructed ranging from 1-bedroom to the 4-bedroomed Club Penthouse. All units have amazing sea views and their own private infinity swimming pools. Sales have been strong with sales agreed on nine out of the ten Club Penthouses. Construction is underway and completion of the development is expected in early 2012. For more information, please visit www.katarocks.com.

Nearly all of the Phuket-based team are here to represent the Kata Rocks project, including members of our architectural firm Original Vision, the MD of our main contractors DCM Solutions, Kata Rocks lighting designer Rob Clift and honorary members of the KR team, Red Sky Vision, who are here to help us record the day.

It’s a full-on event with many people dropping by our stall enquiring about our project. Notable visitors to our stand include some UK-based investors of the project, Kata Rocks developer Richard’s parents and British rugby star Jeremy Guscott.

One of the last visitors of the day was Stuart Shield, chairman of the International Property Awards. My colleague Dome and I had the pleasure of chatting with Mr. Shield about the success of the day and what we were looking forward to from the next day, which would end with the gala prize-giving dinner.

Of particular interest to Mr. Shield that day was our online approach to marketing the Kata Rocks project. We spoke at length about the opportunities and limitations of marketing a development in this way, and how this particular approach works for Kata Rocks, resulting in sales of approximately 60% of the development whilst still under construction.

Overall, it’s been a successful day, learning from and chatting to fellow members of the industry. Without a doubt, there were many impressive projects on display from all over the world, and clearly, the International Property Awards attracts the best of the best. We are very proud to be considered in this category and look forward to bringing even more international prestige to the beautiful island of Phuket, Thailand.

To watch the clip we created of our International Property Awards weekend, click here.

Chris King (Phuket King's Cup Regatta Organizing Committee) and Richard Pope (Kata Rocks) make the sponsorship deal official

The Team at Kata Rocks are pleased to announce its sponsorship of the first Race Day at this year’s Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, to be held from the 4th-11th December 2010.

The King’s Cup Regatta is an internationally renowned event within the sailing community and is held annually in Phuket. Created in 1987 to commemorate the 60th birthday of His Majesty the King Bhumipol Adulyadej of Thailand, the King’s Cup has since grown to become the premier yachting event in Asia. The King bestowed his royal patronage upon the event during its inaugural year and the Cup itself, awarded at the end of the race week, bears his name and royal emblem.

As a co-sponsor of this year’s event, Kata Rocks will be hosting the very first Race Day of the weeklong Regatta on Monday, 6 December. As such, the Kata Rocks Team and notable contributors to the project will be presenting awards to the winners of the twelve race classes who compete earlier on in the day.

Kata Rocks will also be hosting the closing party that evening, which will be held at the Katathani Beach Resort. At the party, there will be a casual Kata Rocks ‘Chill-Out Area,’ designed to informally reflect the look and feel of the completed development. Guests of the party are welcome to enjoy the space, which will offer complimentary massages and a cool Kata Rocks signature drink.

“Every year, the competing yachts are moored just off our site at Kata Beach,” says Kata Rocks developer Richard Pope, “and upon completion, Kata Rocks will become THE place to enjoy the event. We are excited about this partnership and very much look forward to hosting our Race Day at this year’s event.”

If you are in Phuket for the above dates and would like to join us on our Race Day, please RSVP to info@katarocks.com before Saturday, 4 December.

To keep up with all the latest Kata Rocks news, follow us on facebook and twitter (also on twitter are MD & Developer Richard Pope as well as PR & Marketing Manager Jennifer Diaz)

Sign for the JJ Market in Chatuchak Park

Hands down, one of the benefits of living in Phuket (besides the beaches, sunshine, friendly people, great food, etc.) is that within the span of a few short hours, you can be at any of the region’s top cities for a good dose of urban hustle and bustle.

Last weekend I had the pleasure of taking a quick break to Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city. At the top of my list was a visit to the infamous Weekend Market—and while I’m generally not a fan of markets, I’m happy to report that this one did not disappoint!

The Weekend Market (also known as JJ or Chatuchak Market) is located in Chatuchak Park and covers 70 rai, or 35 acres. An easy way to get there is to catch the Sky Train to Mo Chit station, which is the route I took. When you get to the station, there’s no need to ask for directions–just follow the crowd for the short walk through the park to reach the Market.

Once there, grab a map but be prepared to get lost! There is so much to see, it can be overwhelming and easily disorientating for first timers. To give you an idea of what you’ll encounter, the Market plays host to 15,000 shops and stalls and greets upwards of 200,000 visitors a day.

The Market offers everything you could possibly need or want, from housewares and clothes to art, antiques and books. The Market also caters to wholesalers Friday nights, so if you’re after bargains in bulk, be sure to visit then.

Vintage clothing stall

Chatuchak Market is roughly organized by grouping similar goods in the same general area. Despite this, it will be hard to keep track of where you’ve been, even within the same section. So—if you see something you like, it’s best you take it because you’ll likely not see it again!

Besides offering an exhaustive list of goods to choose from, the Market is most known for offering very high-quality goods at cheap prices. As a native New Yorker, I only believe things when I see them—so when I got to the market and was saw the quality of the merchandise and the prices for myself, I was very, very pleased!

I honestly found the whole experience to be a great one and I would thoroughly encourage anyone spending time in Bangkok to visit. One of the main reasons I dislike markets in general is because I find haggling to be quite an irritating experience. But at this market, I felt like everybody knew the rules of the ‘game’ and were happy to play. Every shopkeeper I encountered was happy to barter to the point that both parties were satisfied, and I never felt pressure to buy anything.

Without a doubt, this market surpassed my expectations and I will definitely be returning upon my next trip to Bangkok. I’m sure that with 15,000 stalls I’ll find a few new things next time I go!

Kata Rocks is a luxury oceanfront development and resort situated on the west coast of Phuket between two of the island’s finest beaches. Each of the 34 Sky Villas feature full sea views and private infinity swimming pools. Construction is now underway and the development is expected to be completed in early 2012.

Handmade jewelry at the Market

The food area of the Market

Kata Rocks Developer Richard Pope

The November 2010 issue of Tiger Airways’ in-flight magazine features a business profile on award-winning Kata Rocks developer Richard Pope.

Highlights of the piece include what led British-born Pope to become a Phuket villa developer, his suggestions for how to spend your days when visiting the island and tips on buying property in Thailand.

Tiger Tales is distributed bi-monthly on all Tiger Airways flights traveling throughout the airline’s Asian and Australian network. It aims to deliver to its readers relevant and useful information about the airline’s many destinations in an educated yet informal way.

Click here to see the article in full: TIGER_BUSINESS_NOV10

The new site prompted just over 1,000 hits in the first 24 hours of going live and currently maintains a fifteen day average of 220 unique visitors. Of these visitors, 4% register to receive information from Kata Rocks in the form of property details and general updates about the build.

Compared to the former website, the updated site’s format makes it easier to navigate, with information more readily available to the user. Wide-angle images help convey the look and feel of the completed project, while hidden text keeps the pages clean and modern. The site’s cool color palette of white, blues and greys reflects more closely what the finished development will be like.

The high quality and high resolution videos, produced in partnership with digital communications company Red Sky Vision of London, England have been designed to give viewers a sense of the project from the inside out. For example, under the “Team” tab on the homepage toolbar are individual videos of Kata Rocks’ design & construction teams, namely developer Richard Pope, architect Adrian McCarroll, interior designer Kelly Hoppen MBE, lighting designer Rob Clift and main contractor, Julian Olds.

The site is designed to offer visitors a truly interactive experience while providing all necessary information about the build and aims to deliver fresh Kata Rocks and Phuket related content regularly.

The Kajonkiet group of schools, already the largest provider of private bilingual education in Phuket, hopes to open its first international school in time for the start of the international school calendar in September.

The new school will be housed in one of four new buildings now under construction on a 45-rai plot in Kathu.

The other three buildings will house kindergarten, primary and secondary-level students who currently study in the English program (EP) at Kajonkietsuksa School in Wichit.

The Kajonjkiet EP uses the Thai curriculum translated into English, but with all core courses taught in English by native-English-speaking teachers.

Kajonkietsuksa EP students are scheduled to move into the new Kathu facilities as soon as they are completed.

The name of the international school has yet to be announced, but administrators say it will follow a British curriculum.

The move follows the announcement that Kajonkietsuksa School has been approved as a Cambridge International Center, the only one in southern Thailand.

The approval allows the school to offer a range of internationally recognized qualifications, including the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education, or IGCSE.

Kajonkiet aims to initially offer the international program to children aged three to 12, with a long-term goal of extending its program to secondary classes.

The English Program will be available to three- to 18-year-olds from the outset.

“We decided to branch out into international education because our EP program, initiated in 2000, has done very well. We recognize that there is a growing market for international-standard education in Phuket. We want to provide our students with options and the best quality education we can,” a school spokesman said.

Buildings at the Kathu site will occupy 10 rai of the plot when complete.

Other facilities will include a range of sports and academic facilities including a swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball and volleyball courts, a football pitch and science labs.

Kajonkiet’s existing network of schools are spread around the island. The flagship school, Kajonkietpattana, was established in Phuket Town in 1954.

Since then the school’s expansion has seen the establishment of Kajonkietsuka, with two large buildings in Wichit.

Kajonkiet also operates an English-language nursery in Cherng Talay and a Thai-language nursery in Pa Khlok.

Source: Phuket Gazette

With more pros signing up, organizers of the 2010 Phuket Property Dot Com Pro-Am Invitational expect a total of about 30 professionals to take part.

Among the star-studded lineup are Simon Yates (Scotland) and Scott Hend (Australia) – each of whom has won the PGA Asian Tour five times. They will be going head-to-head with 10-time PGA Asian Tour winner Gerry Nordquist (USA).

Singapore’s top-ranked player, Lam Chih Bing, and top-ranking Thai golfer Udorn Duangdecha have also signed on.

Amateur golfers from all over Thailand are welcome to join and challenge the pros in the 18-hole tournament, which tees off at 11:20am at the Blue Canyon Country Club.

The total prize package is valued at more than US$150,000.

Proceeds will go to the Phuket Has Been Good To Us foundation, which provides free English-language education to more than 700 underprivileged children.

Mr Duangdecha, known for his bright dress sense on the course, says he’s looking forward to taking part.

“It’s great to see an event like this in Phuket that supports a worthy cause. Blue Canyon’s Course is always a challenge and I’m sure all involved will enjoy the event,” he said.

Blue Canyon has been voted Best Golf Course in Asia by FinanceAsia for four years in the past decade. It is the only course to have hosted the Johnnie Walker Classic tournament three times: in 1994, 1998 and 2007.

Once described by Fred Couples as one of the best par-3s in the world, Hole 17 is one of two holes where substantial prizes are up for grabs at the tournament.

Anyone who hits a hole-in-one at hole 17 will win a 3.1-million-baht condominium, and hole-in-one hitters at hole 13 will walk away with travel vouchers worth one million baht.

All of this is on top of prizes for the nearest to the pin on each hole, prizes for overall tournament winners and a gift bag worth 3,000 baht for each participant.

Entry for members of Blue Canyon Country Club is 7,000 baht, and 9,000 baht for non-members.

Source: Phuket Gazette

The overall package was announced yesterday by TAT governor Suraphon Svetasreni.

Australia and New Zealand were chosen as the first overseas mission for the agency in the new fiscal year to bring back tourists by enhancing cooperation between the TAT and business partners in those countries.

Even though Thailand has faced challenging times recently, Australia and New Zealand have remained supportive of the Thai tourism sector, as evidenced by the increase in the number of visitors over the past year.

In Australia, the TAT will promote eco-adventures and Thai culture holidays through joint marketing with tour companies. These initiatives will offer real-life experiences focusing on soft adventure, culture, Thai cuisine and local lifestyles, he said.

The agency will also encourage Australians and New Zealanders to break up their long-haul trips to Europe by stopping over in Bangkok for a few days.

“We have such programs as ‘72 Hours in Bangkok’, which offers a short-time package in the capital and nearby areas. Visitors can get into the city quickly and easily for some sightseeing or shopping,” Mr Suraphon said.

Meanwhile, the TAT is urging Thais living in Australia to help reinforce the Thailand brand by working with Thai communities to organize festivals such as Loi Krathong and Songkran.

From January to August, Thailand received 440,000 Australian visitors, up 11% over the same period last year.

Of these, about 63% were repeat visitors. They stayed an average of 12 days and spent an average of 4,725 baht per person per day, according to TAT statistics. This contributed about A$1.32 billion in tourism revenue to the economy.

Australians tend to be all-year-round visitors, which benefits the industry in the low season.

In the same nine-month period, Thailand welcomed 57,000 New Zealand visitors, up by 2% year-on-year. About 63% were repeat visitors, and they stayed an average of 12 days and spent an average of 3,945 baht per person per day.

New Zealand visitors are increasingly interested in Thai tourism products, including spas and wellness, golf, diving, eco-tourism, “soft adventure”, trekking, mountain climbing, Thai cooking classes, weddings and honeymoons.

“In 2011, we will continue the national Amazing Thailand campaign, with an ‘Always Amazes You’ tagline to reinforce the positive emotions visitors have in relation to the Thainess that differentiates the country from other holiday destinations. New Zealand is one of the key markets for these products,” Mr Suraphon said.

There are currently 71 direct weekly flights between Thailand (Bangkok and Phuket) and the Australian cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane.

“The TAT will take Phuket’s popularity in Australia and New Zealand to the next level. We are positioning Phuket as the gateway into other parts of Thailand and the neighboring countries of Cambodia, Laos, Burma and Vietnam, as well as southern China,” Mr Suraphon said.

According to official data, international arrivals in Thailand from January to August were more than 10 million, which is 13% higher than the same period last year.

The TAT hopes to see 14 million arrivals for the full year.

Source: The Nation

The scene at Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2010

The famed Phuket Vegetarian Festival: where to start? I could write about the food stalls stocked with vegetarian fare lining the roads, the yellow and red colored flags scattered all over Phuket town (just 20 minutes from our site at Kata Rocks) , or the neon-lit temple at the closing night of the Festival. I could even write about the noisy firecrackers, the lanterns people lit and sent into the sky, or the way families gathered with picnic-like offerings of food and tea for the departing gods by the beach.

But what really stood out to me, having attended the Festival for the first time, was the overwhelming feeling in the air. It’s hard to describe, but just thinking about it now, the feeling comes back. The best way to put it is that the air was filled with a sort of somber excitement–and it was truly memorable.

In short, the Festival is a span of 9 days in which the Buddhists of Phuket believe the gods come down to earth to mingle with mortals. They bring with them luck and good fortune for those who observe the rules of the ritual: namely, keeping a vegetarian or vegan diet and abstaining from most carnal pleasures. Devotees see these few days as a time of spiritual and physical cleansing, in effect earning them favor from the gods.

Temple at the Festival

I arrived by speeding motorbike with a friend to a very smoky Phuket town at about 9 pm, with no plan and no expectations. We found what seemed to be the only parking spot available right by a temple. Dressed in white from head to toe, we wandered about for a bit until we had the courage to get closer to the temple to try and decipher the hustle and bustle.

Mah Song (spirit medium) blessing devotees outside Temple

Once there we saw a mah song (spirit medium) dressed very ornately in red, surrounded by devotees, chanting and giving out bracelets as good luck charms. Somehow, we ended up with two for ourselves. As we stood watching the woman in the trance, a bell rang and a few men came running out of the temple towards the beach, carrying a small wooden boat on their shoulders. We followed them and saw that they had sent the boat out to sea, as the gods who had descended for the Festival were now making their way back up to the heavens.

People lantern-watching on the beach

On the beach, many people were lighting lanterns with Chinese writing on them and releasing them into the sky. We were invited to light one, as the symbolism of the lantern is that you send your written wish into the heavens in the hopes it comes true. It was quite a wistful sight; seeing the lanterns go up into the night sky, wondering what everyone wished for.

Kata Rocks' Jennifer ready to light some firecrackers

Afterwards, we walked to the main strip in Phuket town and joined the crowds who were lining up to enjoy the parade portion of the closing night. Before leaving the office that Saturday afternoon, I had been advised by my Buddhist co-workers at Kata Rocks that I should take a surgical mask and earplugs to the parade. At the time, I didn’t quite understand why, but I should have taken their advice! The air was acrid with the smell of incense and freshly lit firecrackers, and the resulting noise was at times overwhelming. That evening I learned (the hard way!) that the louder the noise the better, as it scares away evil spirits.

Lit sparkler

People at the parade were so kind and generous, offering my friend and I crackers so that we could join in the festivities, while explaining to us what we were witnessing. We watched along with them as men carried idols of Buddhist gods down the road while spectators threw crackers in their direction. It was something akin to watching men walk on fire and it was quite a sight!

Men carrying idols through the 'fire' created by spectators' crackers

Crackers alight, my friend and I happily joined in the fun—after all, how could we resist? It was such an interesting evening, experiencing the intensity of a religious event combined with the joyful send-off of the gods back to the heavens. After the parade we grabbed a quick bite at a nearby roadside stall and just sat and recounted what we had witnessed. We were both so impressed and moved by the event—we arrived with no expectations and left with so many great memories and experiences. I would definitely recommend that anyone staying at Kata Rocks take part in the event…in fact, I’m sure I’ll take a few people there myself and share what I learned the year before!

Kata Rocks' Jennifer makes a new friend at the Temple

Making wishes and lighting lanterns on the beach

Last night the Kata Rocks team joined serious sailors, boating enthusiasts and general Phuket party people at IndoChine Kalim Beach to celebrate the launch of Helm Superyacht Asia Pacific Magazine, the newest monthly publication being offered by Ensign Media.

Helm Superyacht Asia Pacific is the region’s only dedicated superyacht magazine, providing essential news, features and interviews from around the region for superyacht owners, captains, crew, charterers, HNWI’s and marine industry professionals. A flick through their latest September/October issue and you can find information about the Asia Superyacht Conference taking place in Singapore (12^th-14^th October), highlights of some up-and-coming yacht designs (including Phuket-based Ruea Yacht’s first 60m, six-deck superyacht) and even a handy pull-out map listing not only the region’s marinas, but their proximity to service facilities as well.

If last night’s great fête was anything to go by, Helm Superyachts Magazine will be attracting a great deal of attention from both the region and the industry’s ‘movers and shakers,’ as it positions itself to become the go-to directory for visitors of Asia’s leading superyacht destinations. With Phuket’s marinas gaining in prestige and popularity, there’s no doubt we’ll soon be offering this magazine to sailors staying at our Phuket villas at Kata Rocks.

(Images courtesy phuketbestevent.com.)

Phuket hotels are back on track from the low point of last year. Passenger traffic though Phuket International Airport in H1 2010 surged 28% from a year ago, and 13% from the latter half of 2009 signaling a solid return in its tourism industry.

A significant sign of recovery can be seen in the improvement of hotel wide performance. Hoteliers saw higher occupancies rise from 61% in H1 2009 to 70% in the same period this year. This came at a cost resulting in a decrease in room rates by 9%.

Market dynamics are evolving with a game-changing shift in tourists’ profile from a historical ‘Eurocentric’ dependence on long haul European visitors to short haul Asian travelers.

There might be blood as the hotel pipeline still shows development resilience and investment confidence with an additional 4,538 rooms or an 11% spike over the next four years. A concern on oversupply could be cushioned by induced demand and larger trading volumes come into play in long-term prospects.

The key storyline of infrastructure enhancements aimed at supporting a mass tourism model continues to create controversy about the future of Phuket 2.0.

Source: Bill Barnett, C9 Hotelworks

Phuket's own DJ Tank (center) surrounded by revelers at the all-night affair

On 18 September 2010, Kata Rocks’ resident party-ers were just some of the nearly 2,000 guests that attended the Twinpalms 6th Anniversary White Party at Catch Beach Club, Surin Beach.

The event started in the early evening with revelers trying to catch the last glimpse of the sunset before the real party got started. There were complimentary margaritas and mai-thai cocktails on offer, as well as a sumptuous buffet spread that included lamb on the spit, a cold seafood & oyster bar, chicken satay, roast beef, sushi, crème brulée and tiramisu.

Phuket's own DJ Tank (center) surrounded by revelers at the all-night affair

Guests were entertained by House/Trance music mixed by international DJs. Thailand’s ‘Percussion Legend’ Num T-Bone was also at the party to bring an extra punch to the tracks being played. Judging by the fact that call time was 2 a.m. and the party ended more towards 3 a.m. goes to show what a great job they all did and how much fun was had!

The gathering of tourists, expats, locals, and even some Thai celebs was a true demonstration of Phuket island at its finest–bringing together people from all walks of life to have a great time. After a night as fun as this one, we can truly say we look forward to hosting events of this magnitude at our own luxury oceanfront bar & bistro at Kata Rocks!

Thailand's Percussion Legend Num T-Bone adds extra energy to the soundtrack

Performers at the White Party

Kata Rocks' Jennifer with friends (L-R): Eva, Phuket's Sunset Sounds radio show host DJ Andrew, Phuket Best Event's Khun Pai

(Images courtesy phuketbestevent.com.)

Our newly redesigned website www.katarocks.com features a great new ‘Introducing Kata Rocks’ video clip.

This video goes into great detail about the concept for our development and includes magnificent views of our site and of Phuket. The clip also introduces the team behind our project, including developer Richard Pope, architect Adrian McCarroll, interior designer Kelly Hoppen MBE and main contractor Julian Olds.

On our new website we’ve added many new features, such as interactive maps and site plans, Twitter and blog feeds for the latest updates, as well as a Kata Rocks Team page so you can learn more about the individuals and companies whose collective efforts are making Kata Rocks a reality.

Also on our home page is the Asia Pacific International Property Awards video, featuring developer Richard Pope’s interview with Bloomberg Television discussing the awards we’ve won and plans for the future.

You may also notice that we’ve completely redesigned our branding as well. This was done in order to better align our corporate image with the product we are going to deliver—contemporary, tropical living space that is Infinite Luxury.

Kata Rocks is a luxury oceanfront development and resort situated on the west coast of Phuket between two of the island’s finest beaches. The 34 Sky Villas all have fantastic sea views and private infinity swimming pools. Construction is now underway and the development is expected to be completed at the end of 2011.

Models wearing Zeman's "Nude is Rude" collection

On a bright Sunday afternoon, the Kata Rocks team and approximately 250 of Phuket’s locals and tourists descended on the manicured grounds of Andara Resort & Villas to enjoy an afternoon of fun, food and fashion to raise funds for a great cause.

The “Passion for Fashion” fundraising event was hosted by Silk Restaurant at Andara to benefit the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation. This young but dedicated charity provides English-language schooling for approximately 700 children in the nearby areas of Kalim and Kamala. Among the Foundation’s practical goals is to help the youth become capable and confident English speakers, so that in the future they can secure well-paying employment and remain close to their families in Phuket.

Michael Weinstein (PHBGTU's Board of Directors), Jiab (Andara Resort & Villas), Jennifer (Kata Rocks)

Tina Hall, the Foundation’s Director of Operations, said the money raised would help the Foundation employ a new full-time teacher for six months. “We are looking to take on more teachers and volunteers and the money raised from the event will help us hire a new mattayom teacher,” she said. Resort General Manager Andrew Whitaker said the event was a “win, win” for all involved, with 100% of proceeds from all tickets going to a worthy cause.

Guests at the event were treated to two runway shows as Hong Kong-based designer Marisa Zeman debuted her “Nude is Rude” collection. Dressed in the line’s island-chic looks, local models strutted around the resort’s infinity pool as their family and friends in the crowd gave rapturous, supportive applause.

Models pose with designer Marisa Zeman (center) to celebrate the afternoon's successful fundraiser

The Kata Rocks team enjoying the event (L-R): Lek, Richard, Jennifer and Dome

Images courtesy phuketbestevent.com

Additional information provided by Phuket Gazette & Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation

This collaboration saw Red Sky’s production team fly out to Phuket in order to capture the best images for our ‘Introducing Kata Rocks’ video, as well as for our Kata Rocks Team clips. For two weeks, the Kata Rocks and Red Sky Vision teams traveled throughout the island, scouting the best locations to film with the aim to reproduce the concept for our development whilst it is still under construction.

After a fun albeit taxing two week shoot, Red Sky were back to London to edit the footage down for the Kata Rocks team to review. At this stage Click Innovation had begun to lay the foundations for what would become our new website. Over the following weeks new features were built and added, such as interactive floor plans and maps, image slideshows, a Team page and Twitter feeds on the bottom of each web page.

With the website built by Click Innovation, footage produced by Red Sky Vision and content created by Kata Rocks, we hope that the website now lends itself to a more user-friendly, visual, and overall informational experience. We also welcome any feedback you have regarding the information on our site. Please email info@katarocks.com.

On the one hand the sale of the US$24 million Beyond Villa and subsequent commission windfall has the potential to attract unwanted attention for the agent, however the missed public relations opportunity is one that will likely not be repeated for some time. It must have been a tough decision – privacy versus opportunity. What would you have chosen?

The mainstream media hasn’t really picked up on this news to any great extent, and that could be down to a lack of on-the-record comment from anyone connected to the sale. If that’s the case then Phuket and Thailand as a whole is also missing out on a great opportunity. Thailand’s top property sells is a headline that should be seen around the world – especially in light of some of the more negative stories about potential buyers “fleeing” the country after the street clashes. That sale – along with the record-breaking land sale in March – indicate the property sector in Thailand isn’t really in bad shape.

These kinds of stories aren’t getting the exposure they deserve – but then again bad news always sells more, right?

Source: Property Report South East Asia

Thai massage is known the world over for its emphasis on acupressure and stretching. The technique itself is a centuries-old fusion of Indian Ayurvedic treatments, yoga and ancient Chinese medicine. The combination of these renders the Thai style of massage a simultaneously relaxing and invigorating experience.

This past Monday I had the pleasure of receiving a Thai massage in the comfort of my home. Joon, a former therapist of the Amanpuri Resort, spent two hours stretching, kneading and massaging away all the tension that had built up since my last treatment. Known amongst my close friends and family to be a bit of an anxious giggler in these situations, I was surprised by how quickly I had relaxed and eased into the treatment. I credit this to the fact that I did not have to acclimate to a new setting, as my search for the best spas on the island has yet to result in a repeat visit to any one place.

At Kata Rocks, we’ll be offering our occupiers and guests the opportunity to enjoy their spa treatments either in the privacy of their Sky Villas or in the luxury of our on-site spa, designed by Kelly Hoppen MBE. Thai massage will definitely be on our spa menu as well as other treatments, including soothing Vichy showers.

Be sure to visit this blog regularly for other Phuket spa reviews, as well as updates on our own spa at Kata Rocks.

The ocean-front property has been on the market for several years and was initially listed at around US$27.5 million.

Located on a 10-rai (4 acre) beach front estate on quiet Natai Beach in Phang Nga, the four-bedroom villa has one of the best home gyms in the world, thanks to its former owner. It incorporates glass, steel and granite into its uber-modern and light-filled design which was created by Hong Kong architect Branko Pahor.

Outside its doors Villa Beyond has a two-hole golf course, 37-metre infinity swimming pool, barbecue terrace and covered outdoor massage and dining areas. Notable inside amenities include a 24-seat cinema, hidden kitchen, meditation room and a spa. The master bedroom is 500 sqm in size and boasts its own private swimming pool.

The home gym – with more than 80 pieces of equipment – is located in a separate pavilion on the property, as is a 750 sqm games room complete with bowling alley and karaoke room.

The property was being marketed extensively by local and international agents, and had been featured in the pages of global newspapers and magazines, including The New York Times.

1. Best Apartment in Thailand

2. Highly Commended for Best Development in Thailand

3. Best Apartment in Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific Property Awards 2010, in association with Bloomberg Television, is part of the International Property Awards. Established 16 years ago, these are the world’s most prestigious property awards whose prime aim is to seek out the best of real estate across the globe, in both residential and commercial categories.

We are honoured that this distinguished panel has chosen Kata Rocks as the best in Phuket property. Also, as the recipients of the Best Apartment in Asia Pacific award, Kata Rocks will represent the Asia Pacific region at the World Finals, to be held in London on 26^th November 2010. The Kata Rocks Club Penthouse will be judged against the best that America, Arabia, Europe, Africa and the UK have to offer.

We hope you enjoy the video and look forward to your feedback.

Click here for a picture and brief description of each course:

Acqua Restaurant is located in Kamala Beach, a short 30 minute drive from our site at Kata Rocks. We were honored to be invited to partake in such a special evening, and it inspired us to think about the menu of our own on-site Bar and Bistro menus!

We sincerely hope you enjoy watching these videos as much as we enjoy making them. We also look forward to your feedback and hope these clips offer a glimpse of life at Kata Rocks.

Kata Rocks Team at Phuket Raceweek Closing Party

The 21^st of July saw the start of the seventh annual Six Senses Phuket Race Week, the first regatta of the 2010-2011 Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship season.

Only a 10-15 minute drive from Phuket property Kata Rocks, Rawai’s Six Senses Resort hosted the events, which consisted of four days of world-class sailing and five nights of gala parties by the sea. Every evening after the day’s races, sailors joined both their competitors and local sailing enthusiasts to enjoy great food, free-flowing drinks and lively entertainment at the Evason’s ‘Into the Beach’ venue.

For three out of the four race days, I had the pleasure of being invited to sail with a fantastic crew. It was my first time sailing and what a way to start! I learned very quickly that the best course of action as a novice is to listen closely… and move swiftly.

The third race day I was joined aboard by our Sales Manager Dome who couldn’t pass up the opportunity to join in on all the Raceweek fun. As the crew prepared the boat for the start of the race, she and I waved to our Managing Director Richard who was taking in the views along with others aboard the designated VIP spectator boat, The Siam Junk.

From the calm seas to the blustery winds…the early call times to the great parties that lasted until the small hours of the morning…this action-packed Raceweek was definitely one to remember!

A very special thank you to Captain Bob and his crew for their hospitality aboard their boat and to Image Asia for putting together such a great event.

Construction at Kata Rocks is entering a new phase with our main contractor, DCM Solutions, gearing up for the main build. They have been working on site for the last few weeks alongside Island Construction Ltd. who are finishing the rear retaining wall, the last of the necessary pre-works contracts (see the photos below). The temporary entrance, the wells and the silt barrier have all been completed.

DCM Solutions have been the main contractor on some of Phuket’s most prestigious building developments and have a track record that speaks for itself. Some of their most recent projects include Baan Yamu (2007), Twinpalms (2008), Villa Mayavee (2010) and the Hafele Design Centre (in progress).

In addition to their history of high quality, high-profile builds, DCM Solutions are ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified. This ensures that Kata Rocks will be built not only on-time and to the highest standards, but also with the utmost care for the surrounding environment.

“I’m very pleased to be working on the Kata Rocks development, with their very professional development team and consultants. This will undoubtedly be one of the most significant projects in Phuket and we are delighted to be a part of it,” says Julian Olds, Managing Director of DCM Solutions.

Richard Pope, the developer of Kata Rocks adds, “To have the finest quality of build was the most important consideration for us and DCM Solutions have a proven track record of delivering this in Phuket. A financially sound company with a reputation for being professional, flexible and delivering on time, we knew they were the company to trust with our project.

Kata Rocks is the multi-award winning luxury oceanfront development situated on the west coast of Phuket
between two of the island’s finest beaches. With world-renowned architect
Adrian McCarroll of Original Vision and celebrity interior designer Kelly
Hoppen, the contemporary design gives each of the 34 Sky Villas fantastic sea
views, private infinity swimming pools and excellent facilities.
Completion on Kata Rocks is expected in late 2011.

Kata Rocks Club Penthouse (CG image) won
the Best Apartment in Asia Pacific award.

Phuket usually grabs a stack of silverware in the Asia Pacific section of the annual International Property Awards. But this year, possibly in the aftermath of the Global Financial Crisis, entries from the island were thin on the ground, and just two Phuket entrants won their classes.

Each year, the various entries are ranked with either five stars or a “highly commended”. Of the five-star entries, one is chosen as winner in the category, but all five-starred entries go through to the international finals, sponsored this year by Bloomberg TV.

Kata Rocks took first place in the Best Apartment class for its Club Penthouse. It also received a “highly commended in the Best Development” class. It is currently under construction at the tip of the headland between Kata and Kata Noi beaches, at the behest of investors headed by British developer Richard Pope.

The clifftop Villa Amanzi won the Best Architecture
(Single Unit) for Originla Vision.

Winner of the Best Architecture (Single Unit) award was Hong Kong-based Original Vision (which has an office in Phuket), for its design of the six-bedroom Villa Amanzi at Cape Sol on millionaires’ mile in Kamala. Like Kata Rocks, this huge private villa perches high over the sea, with wide views of the ocean.

In terms of exposure, Original Vision are probably the biggest winners in the contest – they are also the architects for Kata Rocks, with the Phuket office handling project management.

Baan Yamu Phase II received five stars in the Best Architecture (Multiple Units) class – design by Tierra Design. It also picked up a highly commended in the Best Development class – as did Kata Rocks.

One final Phuket award: realestate.phuket.net, the real estate arm of hotel booking giant Phuket.Com, snagged a highly commended in the Best Real Estate Agency Website category.

Kata Rocks Wins Top International Property Awards

With entries from 21 countries, Thai development company Kata Rocks has won the Best Apartment in the Asia Pacific region for the Kata Rocks Club Penthouse. The Club Penthouse will now go on to be Asia Pacific’s entry in the World Finals of the highly respected International Property Awards 2010, with a chance of being independently judged to be the Best Apartment in the world.

Kata Rocks won 3 awards in total:

1. Highly Commended for Best Development in Thailand
2. Best Apartment in Thailand for the Club Penthouse
3. Best Apartment in Asia Pacific for the Club Penthouse

The Asia Pacific Property Awards 2010, in association with Bloomberg Television, is part of the International Property Awards. Established 16 years ago, these are the world’s most prestigious property awards whose prime aim is to seek out the best of real estate across the globe, in both residential and commercial categories. The objective of these awards is to recognise excellence in the property industry worldwide and to promote an international standard.

The awards gala took place at the historic Langham Hotel in Hong Kong on 16th April 2010. Winners were selected by a distinguished panel of over 50 judges from around the world, with expertise in all areas of the real estate industry.

Kata Rocks developer Richard Pope, when being interviewed by Bloomberg Television said, “These awards are great news for the Kata Rocks development and boutique resort. To receive this independent recognition for our project so early on is fantastic.”

Kata Rock’s architects, Original Vision, also won 2 other awards at the same event. They won Best Villa in Thailand and Best Villa in Asia Pacific for Villa Amanzi, also in Phuket. Villa Amanzi will also go on to represent Asia Pacific in the World Finals. Below is a photo of the team with our awards.

The World Finals are to be held in London at the Royal Lancaster Hotel on 26^th November 2010 where the Kata Rocks Club Penthouse and Villa Amanzi will be judged against the best that America, Arabia, Europe, Africa and the UK have to offer.

Kata Rocks is a luxury oceanfront development and resort situated on the west coast of Phuket between two of the finest beaches. With world-renowned architect Adrian McCarroll of Original Vision and celebrity interior designer Kelly Hoppen, the contemporary design gives each of the 34 Sky Villas fantastic sea views, private infinity swimming pools and excellent facilities. Construction is now under way and the development is expected to be completed towards the end of 2011.

The Phuket Gazette

As we come out of the peak season, there is fresh optimism in the Phuket property market, and the industry’s players are talking about what’s hot on the island. Based on research carried out for this column and local property news website thephuketinsider.com, the following Property Watch forecast lists the hospitality and property industry’s ‘top of the rock’ for the coming year.

Top Five Hot Properties

1. Kata Rocks
This piece sea-front real estate has a stunning aspect of west-coast views, which pairs high-profile buyers with world-class designers. Buying real estate on strong fundamentals is key to good investing. Kata Rocks has those fundamentals.

2. Mandala Condominiums
Located in central Bang Tao and a short walk from the beach, the developers took a major initiative and built the project prior to going to market. The condo units with super-sized pools are nearly complete and ready to move in.

3. Andara Residences
There are just a few units remaining in this mixed-use hotel project managed by Allan Zeman. The adjoining villas have seen resale transactions and appreciation beyond 100%. While this may not happen for the condos, there are strong fundamentals at play for excellent yields and good capital appreciation.

4. Malaiwana Luxury Apartments
We’ve heard that this project with a beach club in the works and super villas is now nearing completion in Nai Thorn, on the north-west coastline, and may be coming to the market in 2010. Be on the lookout for more international hotels in Nai Thon, which is poised as one of the island’s best addresses in the future.

5. Land in Mai Khao and Thalang
Both these areas are set for large-scale development. More hotels are going up in Mai Khao including the new convention center. With addition of the Phuket International Academy (PIA) in Thalang, land prices are moving up fast in that area. The British International School is an example of how a the surrounding area can become a great place for longer term investment.

Top Five New Hotel Openings

1.Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa
The upscale 268-room resort is the latest offering from global hospitality chain Starwood. The resort made its debut this month on the island’s growing east-coast market.

2. Andara Resort and Villas
Heads are turning in the luxury market to check out the combination of Allan Zeman’s creative genius with a prime sea-view location at the start of Kamala’s Millionaires Mile. The all new SILK Restaurant has relocated to the 37-key property, at which a grand opening ceremony was held in February.

3. Centara Grand Beach Resort
Given its prime location directly on a white-sand beach at the north end of Karon, this 262-room hotel should prove to be a a tough competitor for the aging Le Meriden Patong Resort. The new resort is set to begin welcoming guests in the first half of this year.

4. B-Lay Tong
Located on the northern part of the Patong beach road, this 125-room property is being compared to the stylish resort, Twinpalms. Opened in January under the management of Kevin Beauvais, this addition to the boutique chain InVision moves the bar up a notch in this busy neighborhood.

5. Renaissance Phuket Resort and Spa
This is the newest entry into Mai Khao in northern Phuket. The 150-key hotel will open in the first quarter and has the JW Marriott, Sala Phuket and Anantara as neighbors. With a long, white-sand beach and in close proximity to the airport, east coast yachting, golf and access to scenic Phang Nga, the area is becoming a major destination on the island.

Top Five Players

While Phuket is the birthplace of modern Asian pool-villa resorts such as the Amanpuri and Banyan Tree, all the hardware in the world won’t make a difference unless there are some brave souls in the industry who will take risks, influence trends, and remain passionate about hospitality.Five who stand out in the crowd are:

1. Olivier Gibaud
Innovative and creative, Twinpalms quickly became the envy of many five-star chain managed hotels here. After introducing iconic Sunday brunches and Catch Beach Club, Olivier continues to hit home runs, and has created more buzz with the imminent opening of an island-wide chain of high end BAKE outlets.

2. Vorasit “Wan” Issara
This Swiss hotel graduate showed the trendy hi-so crowd in Bangkok that Phuket could be a cool place with Sri Panwa resort and the chilled-out Baba Dining Lounge. High-profile celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay could only sing the islands praises when he stayed at Mr Issara’s resort.

3. Allan Zeman
With his own unique brand name, Allan Zeman effectively raised the bar for the coming decade by transplanting Hong Kong’s rich and famous to this Andaman gem, offering them Plaza Surin, Andara Villas and SILK Restaurant, which has just opened at Andara. There seems to be little rest for this driven achiever.

4.Wolfgang Meusburger
Wolfgang is a strong supporter of tourism on the island and is the longest serving general manger of an international property. During his lengthy tenure at the Holiday Inn Patong he has received numerous accolades within the top IHG hotel group and has fostered many repeat visitors.

5.Sean Power
Owner and witty personality of one of Phuket’s best dining and drinking outlets, the Supper Club, Sean has created an atmosphere where the rich and famous broker high-end transactions and close deals. Sean has seen it all on a nightly basis, running a quality operation with a constant stream of new ideas, making his restaurant a ‘scene to be seen’.
No doubt I’ve missed many deserving businesses and individuals here – the list is by no means exhaustive. For those here who have helped raise the bar, take a bow and give yourself a pat on the back.

KOH SIREY, PHUKET
Some say Koh Sirey, others Koh Sirey but for many permanent Phuket residents, the name often draws a quizzical look and the question, “where?” The island is home to the new Westin Sirey Bay Resort, scheduled to open in the current quarter. Two more large international-class hotels are currently being planned for Koh Sirey. With bridge access to Phuket and stunning views up and down Phang Nga Bay, expect property developers to hit this market soon.

KHAO LAK, PHANG NGA
With more than 5,000 hotel rooms, kilometres of white sand beaches and less than two hours driving time from most of Phuket, it remains a mystery why there is not a larger property market in Khao Lak. With beach-front land trading in the range of Bt5 million to Bt15 million per rai depending on the location, substantial prices remain available – especially going north past Le Meridien.
We’ve seen Koh Pilai boom, just over the bridge, so it’s just a matter of time for our northern neighbour.

KHANOM, NAKHON SI THAMMARAT
Again its all about beach-front land, because that’s where property buyers see the multipliers of capital appreciation. Located near two airports – south of Surat Thani and north of Nakhon Si Thammarat – Khanom has the Thailand north-south highway nearby. With long beaches and great natural’beauty, along with views into the Gulf of Thailand, resort developers are already leading the land rush to this up-and-coming location.

KOH RONG ARCHIPELAGO, CAMBOPDIA
Accessed through Cambodia’s southern gateway of Sihanoukville, this tropical paradise is close to Thailand and strategically located near to markets such as Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Vietnam. It has nowhere to go but up. The recent launch of Song Saa Resort saw a flurry of interest and with its favourable weather, ability to attract travelers from Siem Reap and current reforms in ownership laws, the property market here is gearing up.

ARI (BANGKOK)
Slated to be the next Thonglor, and with direct access from the Skytrain, property prices here remain considerably lower than those at its more famous counterpart. With a fashionable community mall located next to the Skytrain and the “artsy” crowd flocking there, Ari looks like a smart buy for the future and is just five stops away from the hub of Siam Station.
Back in Phuket and viewing movements in the market, two of the “buzziest” developments are Kata Rocks and the Mandala condominium. The first garnered huge interest when the Discovery Channels Edward “The Bear” Grylls became an early purchaser: But with an ocean-front location and stunning views,it’s a sure-fire hit.
The latter saw developers adopting a different tactic, by constructing the condominium before launching sales. The product is now on the market with units ready to move in. Buyers have Mitigated risk and its closeness to Laguna Phuket give it that all-important factor: location, location, location.
Phuket now has a softening broad-based resort-grade real-estate market. However, land continues to appreciate with two areas now firmly on the radar for future development. The first is Mari Khao, following a start to development of the Bt2.6 billion Convention and Exhibition Centre. New international hotels are in the pipeline and a mini metro looks to be in the making.
Next is Thalang and the area surrounding the newly opened Phuket International Academy. If history has taught us anything, following the performance of real estate near the older-established British International School, then residential property will be a benefactor here, as well.

It’s a new year opportunity continues to knock in the property markets. The best thing to do is to get out of the office and go out exploring, to See what’s on offer.

East Meets West

Based in Notting Hill in London, Kelly Hoppen (www.kellyhoppenretail.com) has won nearly every award for interior design and earlier this year she was awarded the MBE by the Queen for services to the interior design industry. Kelly has written many books on interior design and has become famous for her style of “East meets West”. Kelly has stayed at the Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket for 12 years in a row and the Thai style of interiors has had a big influence on her style of interior design, so much so that one of her books is called “East Meets West: Global Design for Contemporary Interiors”.

At Kata Rocks, Kelly will be designing 4 different furniture packages and will work with the award winning architects, Original Vision, on all aspects regarding the interior designs of the Sky Villas. She will also design the interiors of the luxury spa, gym, sunset bar, bistro, reading lounge and function room along with the reception building. Kelly already sources many of her furniture designs in Thailand and Asia and she will work closely with Kata Rocks and architects, Original Vision, to find the best materials in the region.

Quotes

Kelly Hoppen said, “My design philosophy throughout my career has been about the combination of Eastern and Western influence bringing design harmony. The opportunity to be part of such a fabulous project in Phuket; a beautiful place where I have enjoyed many a visit over the past 20 years with my family, is truly exciting. This is going to be an amazing development and I can’t wait to stay at Kata Rocks when it is finished.”

Kata Rocks developer, Richard Pope, said, “We are delighted to be able to appoint Kelly Hoppen as we believe that her style of interiors is absolutely right for Kata Rocks and it means that Kata Rocks can now become known as an Original Vision / Kelly Hoppen designed development and resort which is fantastic.” (Original Vision won the “Best Architect in Thailand” award a couple of years ago amongst many other awards.)

Kata Rocks sales manager, Kunrapats Yodsapakphinyo (Dome), said “We now have everything. The best oceanfront location in Phuket, the best design with all the Sky Villas having their own private pools and full oceanfront sea views and now one of the most famous interior designers in the world doing our interiors and furniture packages. It is not surprising that we have agreed sales on half of the development off plan in the last 9 months despite the market. The other half is going to be even easier if I can stop Richard putting the prices up!”

Rob will be working closely with our architect and audio visual technicians to design the lighting both in the individual Sky Villas and in all the communal areas so that it enhances all the best features of Kata Rocks after dark. The lighting system will be fully controlled with the latest technology to allow for certain pre selected settings and moods. With the touch of a switch all the lights can dim and adjust to a pre programed setting for dining or watching the home theatre etc. Rob also puts a great effort into designing the lighting using a variety of different lights so that it is both subtle and warm but also highlights the best features of a property.

At Kata Rocks, we certainly believe that we have hired the very best available in the lighting field to ensure that the Kata Rocks resort will look equally stunning when the sun goes down.

Kata Rocks had previously been told that we had passed our IEE before but the Governor had not signed it off. The new Governor came into office and refused to approve all 39 projects that were up for IEE approval that month because he wanted to set up another committee to review all the cases. This was nothing specifically to do with Kata Rocks. We just happened to be one of the cases in that month. This new committee has now been formed and has passed most of the 39 projects including Kata Rocks.

As Kata Rocks is right on the oceanfront, the environmental concern was that the construction could contaminate the sea. To demonstrate that this will not happen, a very substantial temporary silt barrier has been designed which will prevent anything going into the sea. This will be removed after construction.

Due to the delays in getting IEE approval, the start of full construction at Kata Rocks has inevitably been delayed which has been very frustrating. However, we now expect construction of the silt barrier and rear retaining wall to begin as soon as we have the IEE approval delivered to us, which should be in about 2 to 3 weeks. These delays mean that Kata Rocks is likely to be completed in the middle of 2011. Various pre-construction works have already been undertaken including the forming of the temporary entrance and drilling of the water wells. See the construction photos here
www.katarocks.com

Due to the less than perfect piped supply in Kata and many parts of Phuket, most developments bring in additional water in trucks. At Kata Rocks, we are hoping to reduce the cost of this for the occupiers by finding a substantial part of our water below ground. Our deepest well so far is 120 meters down.

Blog Text Coming Soon

PROPERTY PROFILE

Survivalist Bear Grylls Trades the Mountains for a Penthouse
STORY : Marie Moon
IMAGES : Courtesy of Kata Rocks

Where does the Discovery Channel’s top wild man go for some downtime? He heads for the rocks – Kata Rocks, Phuket’s newest and most exciting oceanfront apartment development. From the spacious luxury of his Club Penthouse adventurer-survivalist Bear Grylls can leave the bug juice behind and get re-acquainted with the finer side of life.

An Extraordinary Man

At the tender age of 34 Bear Grylls has already lived an extraordinary life. After a grueling recovery from a parachuting accident in which he broke his back in three places, he became the youngest Briton to climb Mount Everest at the age of 23. He holds the world record for the highest dinner party held below a balloon at 25,000 feet, he has circumnavigated the UK by jet-ski and taken a powered paraglider higher than anyone else over Mount Everest. He has written several books, is an accomplished motivational speaker and was recently voted the seventh coolest guy in Britain!

Bear is best known for his hit survival programs ‘Man vs. Wild’ and ‘Born Survivor’. Whether it’s lathering himself in animal dung to keep warm or eating live frogs and snakes for sustenance, Bear’s job is to demonstrate how to survive if you have nothing. It is a nice irony then, that he is purchasing a Club Penthouse in a chic, modern development that has everything.

An Extraordinary Site

The Kata Rocks development occupies the six rai block that sits directly behind what locals call Kata rocks, the enormous natural boulders characteristic of most Kata beach postcards. With Phu Island sitting off-shore in the grand Andaman Sea it is, in this writer’s opinion, the most spectacular west coast site remaining. All of the 34 units planned will offer uninterrupted, 180-degree ocean panoramas, private swimming pool and award-winning contemporary architecture. The development will also include an oceanfront clubhouse with bistro and sunset bar right out on the rocks, a luxury spa, fitness centre and function rooms.

Developer Richard Pope said, “We are calling our apartments, Sky Villas because they are a cross between a villa and an apartment. They are much larger than most apartments, all having their own swimming pools, a first in Phuket, and there is a maximum of three units in each block giving a very intimate feel. They range from one to four bedrooms and have been designed by Original Vision who won the Best Architect in Thailand award in 2006.”

The four varieties of Sky Villa are the stand alone one-bedroom Ocean Lofts at 134 sq m (already sold out), the two-bedroom Pool Condos at 191 sq m, the three-bedroom Sky Duplexes at 324 sq m and the premium 460 sq m four-bedroom Club Penthouses that is Bear’s preference.

A Place to Chill

Richard said, “Bear was introduced to us through one of our customers who knows him very well. He has three young children and so this is a great opportunity for
his family.”

Bear told Tropical Living that he is looking forward to getting a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) and going around the various islands surrounding Phuket. One might expect he will do this in a more leisurely fashion than his unassisted crossing of the north Atlantic Arctic Ocean!

Bear said, “I make a living by doing and eating some pretty disgusting things to show how to stay alive if you are in a survival scenario. But when I want to just chill out with my family and friends, then I try and pick places that are discreet but spectacular. Kata Rocks is both of these in abundance.”

Award-Winning Design

The 10 penthouses occupy the top two floors of each three-storey block with floorplans that capitalise on the spectacular views at every chance. The upper level contains two equal master bedrooms, each with private Jacuzzi on the balcony. A third bedroom is located on this level and the fourth double bedroom is located on the lower level. All bedrooms have ensuite bathroom, spacious features and offer that amazing sea view.

Downstairs the 14.1 metre wide open plan living room, dining room and kitchen all lead onto a spacious terrace beside the private 10 x 3.5 metre swimming pool. This outdoor area includes an outdoor sala, an additional dining sala and barbecue kitchen. A maid’s quarters, utility room and owner’s storage area also occupy parts of the lower floor. The interior design is to have an accent of Zen minimalism with clean lines, white airy spaces and sleek modern furniture.

Rock Solid Sales

The site is so spectacular and the plans so thoughtfully designed that Richard has already agreed sales on 17 of the 34 units. Of the ten Club Penthouses, eight have been snapped up off-plan. The Kata Rocks website features testimonials from the hip young couples who have invested into the Club Penthouses for lifestyle and returns. Bear Grylls’s investment was likewise in part due to the expected rental yields as Richard explained, “I went to visit Bear at his house in England and we spoke about his investment. He basically wants two things out of his investment; lifestyle and investment returns. Like a lot of people with money at the moment, suddenly their income from the banks has been reduced and he just sees this as a better way to get a return on his money.”

High rental yields are expected with this unrivalled Phuket location, but to guarantee the ‘rock-steady’ returns, Richard is sourcing the best and most experienced service consultants to establish the six-star levels of service required to run Kata Rocks as a high-end boutique resort. Owners will enjoy total flexibility with the rental plan choosing when they would like to use their Sky Villa and when they would like to accrue rental income. Through a web-based system, owners can log on from anywhere in the world and monitor the booking of their unit. This system also enables monitoring of maintenance costs and ordering of anything they would like prior to their arrival. When they arrive the fridge and cupboards are stocked, the champagne is chilled and the good life is ready for living.

No doubt, Kata Rocks has an extraordinary location, secluded on the headland but close to Kata’s great mix of restaurants and both Kata and Kata Noi beaches. Accordingly the property is very high end. Club Penthouses start from THB 64 million, but for this view, this extremely spacious design, the excellent facilities and services right down on the rocks, it is hard to refuse.

Bear describes Kata Rocks as “a very special hideaway,” and coming from a man who has been to some of the most spectacular parts of the world, I would take heed.

The remaining units are selling
out quickly, for more information
www.katarocks.com

“I make a living by doing and eating some pretty disgusting things to show how to stay alive if you are in a survival scenario. But when I want to just chill out with my family and friends, then I try and pick places that are discreet but spectacular. Kata Rocks is both of these in abundance.”

http://www.tropical-living.com/

MARKET WATCH

Life at the Top

STORY : Courtesy of Bill Barnett
PHOTOGRAPHY : Shot on location @ Andara Penthouse, Phuket
PENTHOUSE IMAGES : Courtesy of developers

Dizzying heights as you move higher into the ozone, the elevator doors open and there you are in the penultimate piece of property in any condominium or apartment complex. You have arrived at the penthouse. As land becomes more valuable in Phuket the trend towards higher density yet premium units is continuing into a new direction and these villas in the sky represent a new breed of product.

Discreet Luxury

Our journey is set to take us across the expanse of the island of Phuket from east to west, north to south to see what’s hot at the top end of the property market. Speaking to a variety of developers one thing is certain, despite the existing global financial crisis and doom and gloom scenario at play, there is traction on prime properties with the desired elements such as outstanding ocean views, superior style and design and developers with a good reputation. Starting with what in the trade is called a great piece of dirt…but it’s the end result once built that provides unique selling points, appeal and what ultimately buyers want from a product above the norm.

Driving down the vaunted Millionaires Mile in Kamala adjacent to Allan Zeman’s first Phuket villa project are the Andara Resort Residences with penthouse prices ranging from THB 34-84 million. With a total of 37 units of which 40% have already been sold configured into two, three and four bedrooms, there are 13 penthouse units and only three of these remaining on the market. Completion is expected by October of this year and the development will operate as a luxury boutique resort competing in the same airspace as Amanpuri and Trisara. Set to start taking guests in December rates for the spacious suites range from USD 900 up to USD 1,800 a night. The premium units have private pools, with facilities including a fine Asian dining restaurant and an eight room spa.

Speaking to sales and marketing director Jonathan Gascoyne who commented “we offer dual benefits to buyers who look at a unique very private lifestyle investment that provides ongoing premium rental yield and above market capital appreciation. This is not a mass marketed condo hotel but an exclusive destination resort that captures traditional Thai design and reflects the location and aspects of the property.”

Next it’s off to Tawan Views where top units command THB 36-40 million on Phuket’s emerging east coast. The past few years have seen significant upper scale villa developments with Cape Yamu, Jumeirah Private Island and Sri Panwa dispel any notion that the ‘other coast’ would not play second fiddle to anyone. With 24 units, there are six penthouse units and only two of these are available for sale. Phase one is set to complete in August of this year and the remainder of the project by December. Designed by leading Hong Kong firm K+K it’s all about the views. Additionally the concept of only one apartment per floor has provided private living space which continues to be in high demand.

Heading up sales is Ian Spurdle who expressed what key generators were driving purchasers east as “boating, golf and the islands themselves. Our purchasers want discreet luxury but also year round access to activity which is something protected Phang Nga bay can offer. The opening of nearby Ao Po Grand Marina as a world class facility has driven demand considerably.”

Travelling south gets us to Raimon Land’s The Heights which was recently fully completed. With stunning panoramic views over Kata and Kata Noi beaches there are four, three bedrooms penthouse units from THB 41 million ready to move into. Design has been a key selling point with architect consultant Hans Brouwer delivering a great set of ‘wow’ factors into the units that create a new meaning to tropical contemporary design.

Talking to Steve Brajak who is in charge of Raimon Land’s Phuket operations who voiced “buyers are not only drawn to
the development but also to Kata itself, a niche location that appeals to them, with a small beachfront community they
can relate to.”

The area also plays host to one of those great names for projects Kata Rocks. Developer Richard Pope recently announced that popular Discovery Channel personality and host of ‘Man vs. Wild’ Edward ‘The Bear’ Grylls has recently purchased a penthouse which he intends to use when escaping the wilds and wants a bit of up market luxury. Prices for this premium oceanfront development are already commanding THB 150,000 a sq m and attracting a real market buzz.

Waiting for the elevator to bring us back to earth from our high flying adventure we can only wait to see what the next generation of penthouses are going to bring us here in Phuket. We can’t wait to see what happens.

Now is the time to buy a penthouse in Phuket because…

“There is great value, given low returns on other investment grades such as savings and far more risker ones like equities or stocks, real property is a solid investment. Given the global economic crises it’s a competitive market hence negotiating power by buyers is strong and looking at whats currently in the market there are good products completed or near completion so development risk is minimal.”

The capital appreciation on a penthouse works by…

“Capital appreciation is a function of the market and prime properties should increase in value at a rate faster then the general market. At the end of the day its up to supply and demand and the four properties in this article all sit on exceptional pieces of land, hence its extremely hard for new developments to copy this product and there are considerable barriers to entry, hence demand should increase.”

You should buy a penthouse instead
of a villa because…

“Depending on your preferences but long term a more urban type product will be the trend in Phuket, prime sea view land is hard to get, hence more dense projects will be developed and at the top of that is the penthouse which is the new villa of the future. Its far easier to maintain a unit such as this and in the end; most people looking for investment or holiday homes don’t need the huge grounds associated with villas. For many a resort like complex is to their liking for yield based rentals, with lower common area fees and manpower.”

The forecast for the Phuket penthouse market is…

“…expected to out trade the wider property market, as these are premium units and there is money at the high end and transaction activity which is expected to continue. Supply demand is far more favourable in this segment for the short to medium term.”

If I could buy a penthouse it would be…

“I’d have four, one in the north, the south the east and the west, phuket is a diverse island and each has a unique DNA ie, differentiators, nuances and attributes.”

Bill Barnett is the founder and managing director of C9 Hotelworks, a leading hospitality consulting firm specialising in the Asia Pacific region, based in Phuket, Thailand. With over 23 years of ‘on the ground’ experience within the region he is a noted analyst on hotels and property. He is a columnist with a leading newspaper and has appeared on CNN, CNBC and BBC. His popular blog,www.thephuketinsider.com is the authoritative source of all Phuket hotel and real estate issues and trends.

http://www.thephuketinsider.com/video/richard_pope_kata_rocks_top_5_kata_perks.php

The Phuket insider is a regularly updated website that provides property information in Phuket.

Bear, 34, was in the SAS (UK special forces) when he broke his back in three places in a parachute jump at the age of 21. Whilst lying in a hospital bed with the doctors wondering if he was going to walk again, Bear set a goal to climb Mount Everest. At the age of 23, Bear became the youngest Briton to climb the mountain and survive. He has since gone on to take a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) from America across the Arctic to Britain, he has taken a jet ski around the UK, he has the world record for the highest dinner party held below a balloon at 25,000 feet and he has also taken a powered paraglider higher than anyone else over Mt Everest. Bear has also written several books and is an accomplished motivational speaker. All this along with his TV work means that he has been in demand on the chat shows in both the USA and UK and has appeared on Oprah Winfrey, David Letterman and Jonathan Ross amongst others. This month he is on the front cover of Men’s Journal in the States and he has been voted 7th coolest guy in the Britain.

When he is not out in the wild, eating off the land, Bear likes to enjoy the finest things in life with his family and this is why he is buying a Club Penthouse in the Kata Rocks development in Phuket. Bear said, “I guess in part that I make a living by eating some pretty disgusting things to show how to stay alive if you are in a survival scenario. But when I want to just chill out with family and friends, then I try and pick places that are discreet but spectacular. Kata Rocks is both of those in abundance. A very special hideaway.” Kata Rocks, designed by award winning architects, Original Vision, is right on the oceanfront on the headland between the two finest beaches on Phuket, Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach. The site is west facing giving it stunning sunset views of the Andaman Sea and Ko Phu Island. Every Sky Villa at Kata Rocks has a totally uninterrupted sea view and all have their own private pools. The development will also include an oceanfront clubhouse with bistro and sunset bar along with a luxury spa, fitness centre and function rooms all delivered with the very highest levels of service. For more information on Kata Rocks, go to www.katarocks.com

Sales at Kata Rocks have been extremely strong despite the market conditions with almost half sold off plan in the first few months of this year. Full construction is due to begin in June 2009 and the project should be completed by the end of 2010.

Off plan sales are strong at Kata Rocks with five new sales being agreed during February alone. Following some design improvements, marketing began in December 2008 and since 15 of the 34 Sky Villas have been sold. Richard Pope, managing director of Kata Rocks said, “This just goes to show that the very best locations will sell in any market.”

Kata Rocks, designed by award winning architects Original Vision, is right on the oceanfront on the headland between Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach on Phuket´s West Coast. Kata Rocks´ sloping topography ensures every Sky Villa has an uninterrupted sea view and all will have private pools.

With prices ranging from THB 29 million to THB 66 million, Kata Rocks´ neighbours include the five-star boutique hotel Mom Tri´s Boathouse and Mom Tri´s Villa Royal.

With current global economic uncertainties, and expectations by market analysts of a recovery anywhere between Q4 2009 and Q4 2010, Kata Rocks´ recent performance bucks the current trend.

“There are still buyers out there with money and they will use this quieter market place to buy the very best. Sentiment always changes and property is a long term purchase. Those who use this time to buy into the best locations will look pretty smart in a couple of years,” added Pope.

Kata Rocks has no borrowings and land and all costs to date have been paid for by the developers. Because of this, the developers are allowing purchasers to place their deposit money in escrow accounts until the start of the build in June for buyer´s complete peace of mind.

The development will include an oceanfront clubhouse with bistro and sunset bar along with a luxury spa, fitness centre and function rooms. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2010.

Link to full article
http://www.property-report.com/thailand-property-magazine.php?id=1983&date=0904

New Design Selling Well
In the last couple of months we have begun to push our marketing again with the new design and it has been very well received. We now have off plan sales agreed on 14 of our 34 units and we are expecting more firm offers shortly. We have agreed 4 of these sales in the first 2 weeks of this month and people keep telling us there is a recession on!
It just goes to show that the very best locations will sell in any market.

No Borrowings
In addition to our fantastic location, another factor that I think is helping our sales in the current market is the fact that Kata Rocks has absolutely no borrowings, having paid for our land and all costs to date with our own money. As we do not need the money, we are allowing our purchasers to place their deposit money in escrow accounts so that we cannot touch it until the start of the build in June for their complete peace of mind.

Our Own Lawyer Buys
Our own lawyer has asked to buy one of the Sky Duplexes and he has recommended us to one of his business contacts who has bought one as well. I think the fact that our own lawyer is buying a unit with his own money and recommending that probably his most important business contact and friend, buys one as well, is a very good endorsement of what he thinks of our project having worked with us for over a year now. It is also fantastic news for every buyer as you can be sure that the purchaser’s contract is the best there is as Kwanchai has effectively written it for himself, as a purchaser.

Construction Schedule
We expect to be starting some pre construction work on forming the entrance within the next month with further ground works continuing after that. We then expect full construction to start in June and the project to be completed by the end of 2010 even allowing for some of the usual delays.

Now is the perfect time to invest in property in Phuket, according to Phuket asset management specialist, Graham Bibby.

Mr Bibby, the Chief Executive Officer of the Richmond Group said 2008 was full of challenges, but 2009 could be filled with opportunities.

He told real estate agents and investors at the The Residence in Bangtao ‘the future is bright on Phuket’.

Mr Bibby, who is also CEO of Richmond Asset Management Hong Kong, said last year’s decline in global markets was on a par with the decline of 1997.

“On New year’s Eve, I felt an overwhelming urge to burn a flag bearing the numbers 2008,” he said.

But he said this year would be full of good opportunities for astute investors.

“I don’t follow the herd tactic in investment management,” he said.

“And I don’t believe in buying and holding investments.

“If you held your investments in 1997, then by now, in 2009, you would have made absolutely nothing in 11 years.”

He said knowing when to buy and when to sell was the key to successful investment.

Mr Bibby said considering stock markets, commodities and currency fluctuations over the past decade, Phuket’s property market had been particularly resilient.

He said agents needed to revise their sales strategies and said they should be advising clients that now was the time to invest in Phuket property.

Mr Bibby said although Phuket had faced an ever-growing list of challenges during the past few years, property prices had never dropped.

He said despite the tsunami, coups, protests and the world financial crisis, confidence in Phuket, and the stability of property values had remained unchallenged.

Mr Bibby said the evolution of amenities in Phuket, including the road improvement polices which were under way, the Maritime facilities available at the Boat Lagoon and Royal Phuket Marina, and the increasing development of shopping malls sent a positive message to potential property buyers.

“This place still evolves, no matter what is going on in Bangkok or abroad,” he said.

Mr Bibby said Phuket was at a ‘tipping point’ as more and more people saw the province as a retirement location.

He said 16 new four and five-star hotels would be built in Phuket this year.

Architects, Original Vision, who previously won the Best Architect in Thailand Award for their Samsara development, have been working hard over the last few months on improving the design at Kata Rocks. The objective has been to use the natural slope of the land on the amazing Kata Rocks site, to give every Sky Villa a fully uninterrupted sea view. This has been achieved and is being extremely well received.

All Units Have Private Pools on the Best, West Coast, Oceanfront Location.
Kata Rocks now has 34 Sky Villas ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms, and all have their own large infinity pools over which owners can enjoy, what is one of the best views in Phuket, that of the Andaman Sea and Ko Phu Island. Most people believe that Kata Rocks has the best available location in Phuket, as it is on the favoured west coast and is right on the oceanfront. Every Sky Villa will now have the perfect, uninterrupted, sunset view.

The Ultimate in Thailand Villa and Apartment Living
Kata Rocks has been conceived as the ultimate in Thailand villa and apartment living and has been designed to give a fantastic feeling of space and an unequalled level of amenity.

Kata Rocks will appeal to those who would like the privacy and intimate feel of a villa with its own private swimming pool but would rather not have the maintenance hassles that come with owning a villa. The development will attract those who sometimes want the social benefits of being in an apartment development such as a Clubhouse with all the communal facilities but at other times they want the privacy of their own piece of paradise.

Sky Villas
The units at Kata Rocks are called Sky Villas because they are a cross between a villa and an apartment. They are much larger than most apartments, all having their own swimming pools (a first in Phuket) and there is a maximum of three units in each block giving a very intimate feel.

Clubhouse Facilities
Incorporated in the design, as before, is a fantastic Clubhouse with sunset bar and bistro along with a large communal swimming pool. This all overlooks the stunning granite rock platform with its amazing boulders on which the occupants of Kata Rocks will be able to enjoy a great feeling of space and privacy right by the sea. Also included is a luxury spa and fitness centre along with a function room and quiet reading lounge. Kata Rocks is going to be run with the highest standards of service available anywhere.

RUSSIAN interest in Phuket’s property market continues to rise, and a packed international property conference in Moscow last month was told that Russian buyers could account for as much as 20 per cent of the real estate market this year.

At the moment, about 15 per cent of Phuket properties are sold to Russian buyers.

Patrick O’Neill, from the O’Neill Group, told about 2000 delegates at the 2008 DOMEXPO International Property Show in Moscow that investment opportunities on the island were still attracting buyers.

In 2007, the Europeans accounted for 1.4 million people, or more than 30 per cent of the five million visitors to Phuket.

Russians made up eight per cent of that figure, and last year the number of Russians coming to Phuket was expected to increase by 40 per cent, which would have made the island the third most popular holiday spot for Russian holiday makers.

But that was before the PAD held the country under siege by closing the country’s two main airports, Sunarnabhumi and Don Muang.

However, despite the political troubles in the capital, visitor numbers are holding up reasonably well.

Hotel occupancy in Phuket in 2007 was 65 per cent, and last year, the rate dropped to only 60 per cent, and was still up on 2006 figures.

Mr O’Neill said the buyer profiles matched the visitor arrival profiles for resort destinations like Phuket.

He said in 2007, the Russian market accounted for less than 8 per cent of the European arrivals, and that number was expected to increase by more than 40 per cent, which would have made it the third fastest growing visitor segment behind Eastern Europe and Finland.

He said the property market in Phuket remained buoyant, mainly because most developments and individual sales were completed without financing or leverage.

“The economic fundamentals remain very strong for the Phuket real estate market,” he said.

He said Phuket’s attractions included its proximity to other Asian and European capital cities, the number of direct flights into Phuket, affordability, medical tourism, its reputation as a premier holiday destination, and the booming retirement segment.

Mr O’Neill said the Russian impact on the real estate market would continue to grow and when combined with the East European segment, it could account for more than 20 per cent of the market this year.

The O’Neill Group is a real estate advisory firm based in the US and Hong Kong. Patrick O’Neill is a real estate veteran with more than 25 years experience in international markets.

Racha is to the south of Phuket and takes about 30 minutes by speedboat. Our speedboat driver decided to race his friend there so it was quite interesting especially as the sea was quite choppy! Racha is home to the high end Racha Hotel ( www.theracha.com ), which is on the main beach. The Racha is situated on a fantastic little beach with some of the finest sand any of us have seen anywhere. The view is spoilt somewhat by the number of speedboats and dive boats that all come to this beach. There is another much quieter beach on the other side of the island which I have walked to on a previous occasion by going up the path next to the hotel. It is about a 10 minute walk to get across the island to it.

On arriving at Racha we went to do some snorkelling but because of the sea conditions, all the tourist boats had gone to the same sheltered spot so most of the fish had taken fright. When I have been there previously, there were masses of fish to see.

We had lunch at the end of the beach in a Thai place and they have a few monitor lizards as inhabitants (see photos) which are a couple of meters in length along with a number of birds.

We stopped at Coral Island on the way back to Phuket and it has a fairly deserted beach for those who want to get away from it all. Coral Island is to the east of Phuket.

We began the evening with dinner in the Savoey Restaurant in Patong which is famous for its fish and is one of the oldest and largest restaurants in Patong seating up to 400 people. We then went down to the beach in time for midnight to watch all the fireworks and let off some lanterns. The clear sky was filled with hundreds of lanterns each let off with a new wish for 2009.

Take a look at the photos.

Visitors and locals are all welcome to come along to this special event at the famous Patong beach road. There are lots of Authentic Thai foods from each of the regions of Thailand namely fresh sea food, papaya salad, Tom Yam Goong etc. There are Spa and Thai massage services, seasonal Thai fruits, souvenirs, clothes , art exhibits, stage shows and other fantastic cultural performances and activities over the six days of the carnival.

The most popular events are the vibrant parades and the magnificent firework displays after dark that are held on the first and the last day of the Phuket Carnival starting from Loma Park along the beach road. There will also be the long-tail boat competition and adventure competition held at Loma park.

If you have time, go and take a look and enjoy the spirit of Phuket at the Phuket Carnival 2008!

INTEREST in the Phuket property market has increased in recent weeks despite the troubled financial markets as savvy, cashed up investors focus on Thailand’s most popular island.
According to Martin Phillips from Engel & Volkers (Thailand) Ltd, the attraction is simple.
Thailand, while not totally unaffected by the world’s economic woes, has taken a very conservative approach to the financial crisis.
Banks have cleaned up their balance sheets and are now careful lenders with no sub-prime exposure.
Phuket property transactions are principally a cash purchase, and as such, there is usually little mortgage or debt in place.
This means there is less risk of asset values falling other than through supply and market demand.
In fact prices have held stable in Phuket while in other parts of the world, property prices are experiencing steep property price declines.
There are also guaranteed yields of up to 8per cent in place for properties on Phuket which are attached to resort facilities.
Completed and near completed projects are also offering guaranteed yields of up to 8 per cent per annum subject to, terms and conditions such as placing the property into a rental pool.
Obtaining a good yield is one positive point, but when you consider the additional benefits of buying a great holiday home and possible long-term capital appreciation, buying property on Phuket can be a very favorable investment alternative.

As the market matures, the resort island has become the envy of the region and more financing choices only add to its irresistible appeal

By Nina Suebsukcharoen
Bangkok Post Property Focus 08 Article

All eyes are on Phuket which has turned into a regional showpiece development model with players flocking in from Vietnam, Malaysia and India to assess how they could emulate this internationally famous resort island, according to Bill Barnett, managing director of C9 Hotelworks.

Barnett: New choices of financing
Phuket is really at the forefront of Southeast Asia’s resort residential boom and developers in many countries are keenly watching the island.

“The holiday markets in all these countries are targeting Phuket saying, `We want to be like that’ which makes a lot of sense,” says Mr Barnett.

Phuket’s success has even led to Koh Kood, Thailand’s fourth largest island off the coast of Trat, also trying to get a share of the money-spinning business. Among other things, promoters of Koh Kood want to develop an an airport to help the island rival Phuket, Samui and Koh Chang, says Mr Barnett.

An interesting project on Koh Kood is Soneva Kiri by Six Senses, a resort located on 102-acre site and boasting cutting-edge eco-concepts. “So other people wanting to imitate [Phuket] are not only in Thailand but also abroad.”

That the real estate business is soaring in Phuket is underscored by Mr Barnett’s estimate that property projects on the island total as many as 400. Despite this there is still a lot of land available because only around 52% is properly titled so far.

“This means that if you look at places such as Mai Khao (beach) or somewhere else where there is a lot of land available, it will get developed.”

Significantly, the Phuket real estate market has started to overcome the financing handicap which for years meant that both developers and buyers have had to put up hard, cold cash as they were unable to get loans from the banks. Mr Barnett said it was Laguna Phuket that led the way over the past six months by offering developer financing for its Dusit Laguna Villas.

“In the case of Dusit villas it was 70%, so it was a big change and their sales boomed after that happened,” he said.

Raikkonen: A proud new customer
“You’re starting to see more people now, you’re starting to see signs crop up that financing is available, you drive around and you start looking at the signs, it’s mostly developer financing.”

Another major change is that some projects have started offering buyers guaranteed returns for a longer term, stretching from the previous one to two years to as long as five to six years.

“Some developers are cash-rich and are able to do that because they capture the upside,” explains Mr Barnett. “If a developer is confident of the product and knows it is going to perform well, and they offer 6%, they are able to say `You get 8%’ if the developer is going to take the 50% upside.”

These strategies have led to some projects doing very well over the past six months. Aside from Dusit Laguna Villas, Mr Barnett observed that The Yamu, a resort with a boutique hotel and villas designed by the well-known designer Philippe Starck and architect Jean-Michel Gathy, is attracting a lot of interest. Also drawing looks are Blue Point on the headland of Patong beach, and Serenity Terraces Condominium and Villas overlooking Chalong Bay to southeast of the island, where Formula 1 defending champion Kimi Raikkonen bought a unit last month.

While it is hard to see anything negative on the island, Mr Barnett did mention that there is probably an oversupply of mid-market condominiums right now. Some of these are developed by people who do not have strong fundamentals or good locations, which goes against the well-known mantra that when it comes to property it is all about location.

Even so, today’s buyers are not so gullible with most making a great effort to research and find out about all the aspects of a development before putting their money down.

Competition is heating up at the lower end with the market for products in the range of two million to four million baht getting crowded. Among the interesting ones are condominiums around Patong beach, but of course not too near the beach being at the cheaper back end.

“Patong has traditionally been undersupplied,” says Mr Barnett. “It’s a healthy thing, there is a market down there and at Patong fundamentally you have the nightlife, Jungceylon (shopping centre), it’s the centre of the island.”

Although property projects on Phuket total as many as 400, there is still a lot of land available because only around 52% is prpperly titled.
Some of these less costly condos are also located in Phuket town itself and as Mr Barnett sees it, this is a sign of urbanisation. “Phuket is becoming more urban in its landscape. Five years ago people would buy villas or they would buy low-rise accommodation but now they are beginning to be attracted to condos.”

With as much as 90% of the middle to upper level of the Phuket property market being foreign buyers, far greater than in Hua Hin or Pattaya where there is high domestic content, some might wonder what effect the credit turmoil in the US is having on foreigners on both sides of the divide. However, Mr Barnett says he has not seen any project go under and in fact some new ones have started up, among them Shangri-La Resort and Spa on Bang Tao beach, which has 50 pool villas for sale. Jumeirah Phuket Private Island Resort, which features 65 pool villas for sale, is also proceeding and even Sala Phuket Resort and Spa went ahead and finished. Another one is The Renaissance Phuket on Mai Khao beach, which is being developed by Seacon Development Co, a Thai firm best known for its Seacon Square shopping complex in Bangkok.

Even so, some foreign buyers affected by the weaker dollar are waiting for more favourable transaction rates before jumping in.

Those who are scared of the traditional investment markets are beginning to feel that they would be more secure in property from which they would both get a return and benefit from capital appreciation. Such investors are strongly attracted to the mixed hotel-villa developments. Mr Barnett said these investors would make money if they buy the best brands possible.

“People are buying fixed returns; places such as The Dusit are very successful. It’s not the flavour of the month or the flavour of the year, it has been the flavour of the year for the past 12 to 18 months.”

Among factors helping Phuket keep ahead of the budding regional competition is the increase in airline services with Dragon Air now flying larger planes to the resort from Hong Kong and Cathay Pacific also considering doing the same.

“We have direct flights coming from Korea,” Mr Barnett notes. “Korea is starting to become a significant market here.”

Scandinavians are also a major group of visitors to the island and Russians too are frequent tourists benefiting from direct Bangkok-Moscow flights by Thai Airways International but also winging in on chartered planes.

Mr Barnett sees Phuket’s property market evolving in the near future. No longer will it be relying just on buyers in Hong Kong and Singapore but also on people who want to come and live on the island. For this group of people developers will have to be a bit more flexible on financing.

“You have to be financially able to execute the project,” he says. “Some of the smaller developers rely on pre-sales, that may evolve now to where people need financial capacity to develop.

“And you will probably see newer and different products come out. There has not been that much variety in the past and this may be better.

“And you are seeing other factors such as resales – a more developed market, a more complex market.”

By Achadtaya Chuenniran
Bangkok Post Article – June 29th 2008

Real estate development is booming in Phuket as foreign investors are acquiring vast areas of land for housing projects. A number of foreign developers are to set up companies with Thai business partners to build housing estates and residential projects on the resort island, which has entered what officials call the ”golden age of real estate development.”

Homestay, a type of lodging offering facilities and lifestyles close to those typical of Thai families, has emerged as a popular choice. Swedish businessmen are the latest group to express strong interest in this kind of project.

”Foreigners highly admire the scenery and weather here,” said Phuket governor Niran Kalayanamitr after talks with the Swedish firms.

He said the investors saw an opportunity for homestay development to serve Swedish travellers.

A number of new homestay facilities have sprung up in Ban Layan and Ban Naitorn in Thalang district as well as other areas around the island.

Other investors have also asked the province for approval for different real estate projects.

A group of Norwegian businessmen suggested a Phuket bay development project, with technology friendly to the marine environment. Investors from the Middle East have expressed interest in developing logistics for a free trade zone near the deep-sea port.

The increasing demand has boosted land prices in the resort provinces. Phuket land official Tanet Niyom said certain seaside areas, especially those near famous Patong beach, sell for up to 50 million baht a rai.

Prices are cheaper in Muang district, but they are still around eight million baht a rai.

The value of land trading between 2006 and 2007 stood at 1.5 billion baht, according to the Phuket land office, but officials expect the value to go up to nearly five billion baht this year.

The rapid expansion of real estate development indicates that more foreigners want to stay for a longer period.

Officials are currently surveying the exact number of foreign residents, including those who do not properly report to the immigration office.

Foreign residents can be categorised into three groups _ those who want to live here permanently, those who are working here, and those who want to live here for longer periods than their visas specify, according to Sompot Nipakanon, assistant director of the Bangkok Phuket hospital.

He said foreigners also appreciated medical services in the island resort. Bangkok Phuket hospital currently serves up to 200,000 people a year, 30% of which are foreigners.

Mr Niran said it was time to turn Phuket into a special economic zone so that local officials would have more budget to further develop all infrastructures, which currently do not match the increasing demand.

He also noted the limit of the governor’s power in budget disbursement, as Phuket is not yet a special administrative entity.