pattaya city expats club newsletter
TRANSCRIPT
PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER FOUNDED IN MARCH 2001 - PATTAYA'S FRIENDLIEST EXPAT CLUB
MEETING EVERY SUNDAY FOR TEN YEARS
March 2, 2012
CONTENTS
(click on the topic to go direct)
Club News
Sunday’s Meeting Program General Announcements Club Announcements
What’s Happening In and Around Pattaya
Last Week’s Meeting
Other Club Information in the Newsletter ( ♦ denotes that the section below has been updated in this issue)
Club Membership Club Activities Club Services
Club Benefits Member Supported Charities Health Issues
Dining Out
WHERE DO WE MEET?
Everyone is welcome to attend. The Club meets every Sunday morning at The Tavern by the Sea, on the
ground of the Amari Orchid Resort and Tower, Click here for a map showing the location.
BREAKFAST BUFFET AVAILABLE
A buffet breakfast is available from 9:30 am to 11:00am with coffee service starting at 9:00am. The program begins
at 10:30 am and concludes around noon. Remember to obtain your coffee or tea refills before the pots are removed
at 11:00 am. The Club has met at this location for several years now with its pleasant laid back and informal
atmosphere - which the Amari Hotel allows us to use without charge. Please support our continued use of these
facilities by purchasing the full buffet or, if you do not want a full breakfast, at least the toast and coffee/ tea
option or the fruit and juice option.
The Pattaya City Expats Club is a social organization. The content of this Newsletter is provided
for purpose of information. Inclusion of the names and information about commercial enterprises
or the information provided by guest speakers does not represent an endorsement by the Pattaya
City Expats Club of the services or products they may offer.
For more information about the Club – email [email protected] or visit
www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com. You can also subscribe to the Newsletter and it will be emailed to you
each week.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
This Sunday’s Meeting Program
At the Sunday, January
22, meeting, well known
Bangkok author Dean
Barrett briefly mentioned
in his presentation the
challenges and benefits of publishing his books
in electronic format (eBook). This Sunday, we
will be welcoming back another author who has
also made the adaption. Well known travel
author Mo Tajani’s theme will be about
"Switching from print publishing to the digital
marketplace: A travel writer's perspective."
Mo, who resides in Chiang Mai, is the author of
several books and articles about his experiences
in traveling around the world. His latest book
is Global Crossroads.
Born in Tanzania to Indian parents, Mo Tejani
lived in Uganda for eighteen years of his life.
Along with 80,000 other Asians, he and his
family were forced to flee Idi Amin’s reign of
terror in 1972. As a refugee, he first fled to
England and then to America of the late sixties
and early seventies. Fluent in eight languages,
he has spent twenty years working in refugee
camps in Asia, training rural farmers in Central
America, educating First Nation tribes in
Canada, and coordinating poverty reduction
projects in Africa.
In the first of his three-volume travel memoirs,
A Chameleon’s Tale: True Stories of a Global
Refugee, (PEN New York book award finalist
2007) Tejani takes the reader with him on his
globetrotting travels. Kate Webb from API
calls him a ―cross-cultural Kerouac,‖ and others
have likened Tejani’s writings to Karen
Connolly and Paul Theroux. Travel writer Tim
Cahill says reading Mo’s stories ―is like eating
popcorn: you can’t stop devouring them.‖
Three of his stories in the second volume
―Global Crossroads: Memoirs of a Travel
Junkie‖ have won prestigious awards in the US.
Tejani is a veteran at Writers Festivals on the
Asia circuit including a month long book tour
of Australia, presentations at Bali, Byron bay
and Melbourne Festivals. His radio and print
interview with ABC and Victoria Writers
magazine were distributed nationwide and his
videotaped panel sessions can be found on
ABC 2 Big Ideas website. There have been
many acclaims for his most recent book,
including:
The weird world of T-shirt slogans (who
dreams up those off-the-wall mantras?),
traveling with Mahatma Gandhi (how did he
manage that?), musing on the kindness of
strangers, or pondering the internationally
variable relationship between man and dog,
Mo Tejani’s travels prove that it’s as much
whom you meet as where you go. Childhood
memories—from growing up in Africa—also
come into the picture, but so does that
inevitable shock, “my God, I’m getting older,”
with a generational culture clash when his
route up the east coast of Australia collides
with the hedonistic approach of today’s young
travelers.
—Tony Wheeler, Founder of Lonely Planet
For more information about his books, visit his
website at: www.motejani.com
We will have the usual announcements of
upcoming events in and around Pattaya,
updates on club activities, and last, but not the
least, there will be an Open Forum, which is the
time for you to ask questions about living in
Thailand, or Pattaya. We ask you to offer your
own observations and suggestions on how to
live better in Pattaya. Your humorous stories
(jokes) are welcome, but remember you are in
mixed company. Whether you are a new Expat,
just visiting on holiday, or consider yourself an
"old hand" at being an Expat in Thailand, you
will find the Open Forum has humor and
helpful information to offer.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
It is with regret that we announce the death of one of our most active members, Lyndy Moore Eggleston.
Lyndy apparently died in her sleep at the Markland during the night of February 27 or early morning
hours of February 28, 2012.
Lyndy was born in England, may have been an adopted child. She was active in charity matters, worked
for Bruce Gordon (Techniques of Mind Expansion) in Spain for 5 or 6 years and lived in Australia for
several years. She first came to Pattaya 3 or 4 years ago, and worked for the Father Ray foundation. She
left Thailand for a year or so and came back about a year ago.
She was active in the Pattaya Players, the PILC, the PCEC and was a valued teacher with the Banglamung
English Language Group. We will miss her perky, fun and interesting comments - and her willingness to
help.
We do not have any information on arrangements at this time. For more information, you may contact
Bobby Covic at 089-527-9863 or Richard Smith at at 089-244-9523 or 038-412-197.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
General Announcements
The following announcements are of general interest to most Expats and Foreign Visitors to Thailand
MAKHA BUCHA DAY ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7 – A PUBLIC HOLIDAY – This
Buddhist Religious day is observed in Thailand as a public holiday. Government offices including
Immigration and main bank branches will be closed.
UK CITIZENS – FOR UK CONSUL LETTER ON INCOME – They advise that if anybody
wishes to use rental income or private income/investment as part of their finances to extend their
stay they will need to provide proof of the income coming into their bank account. They must
show their lease/rental contracts and bank statements. (Original documents are always required,
either sent out to your home address or printed off from the bank's website)
A NOTE ABOUT USING INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT IN THAILAND – A
recent news article mentioned that an Australian man was arrested at a police checkpoint in
Pattaya for having a ―fake‖ International Driving Permit (IDP). He had one that appeared to be
issued by the UN, but as the article pointed out, the only valid IDPs are those issued in your
country by an authorized organization. An IDP is a ―permit‖ that is issued pursuant to a UN
Convention and is to be used in conjunction with your home country/state driving license. Also, it
is our understanding that in Thailand, if you are here more than 90 days, a Thai driving license is
required. Information about IDPs can be found on the Club’s website:
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/living%20vehicles%20InternatPermit.html
US CITIZENS & RESIDENTS - NEW IRS REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR
FOREIGN FINANCIAL ASSETS -- US Expatriates may be subject to reporting certain
Specified Foreign Financial Assets with their US Income Tax Return for tax year 2011 (normally
due in April 2012). A new Form 8938, Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets, is now
required to be filed with the income tax return if you have an interest in certain foreign financial
assets and that interest is above a certain US dollar threshold, which varies depending on filing
status and whether you are living abroad. We have included information in the General Interest
section of the website about this new requirement – click here for article.
CHONBURI (PATTAYA) THAI IMMIGRATION NEWS – Per our most recent report
received on February 19, 2012, there have been no recent changes at Chonburi Immigration. To
the best of our knowledge, our documents checklist for an extension or renewal of extension to
stay in Thailand for retirement is up to date. Also, we have a web page with immigration matters
of interest which you should check for the latest information on Thai Immigration procedures at
their Jomtien Soi 5 Office. We have reformatted and updated the Visa & Immigration section and
sent it to the webmaster, so it should be replacing the existing section shortly. When we receive
reports of any recent changes at Chonburi Immigration, we publish it here in the Club’s weekly
Newsletter for about a 3 week period and will include it on the website in Immigration Matters of
Interest until we update the Visa & Immigration section. If you have any questions about the
information posted on the website or about Thai Immigration or Visa requirements or have a
different experience from the information posted, please email [email protected].
Checklist: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/retirementvisachecklist.pdf.
Matters of interest: http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/Immigration.pdf/
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
PATTAYA ST PATRICK'S DAY PARADE BEING ORGANIZED FOR MARCH 17 -- The
parade is being organized by and will benefit the Fr. Ray Foundation. It is co-sponsored by the
City of Pattaya. The parade will be from 11am to 5pm starting at Muang Pattaya 8 School and
ending at Alcazar. Those who wish to participate can contact Moya – at 090-396-6052, or by
email at [email protected] for more information.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Club Announcements
The following announcements are of particular interest to Club members regarding Club activities and
benefits
DMED HEARING OFFERS PROMOTIONAL DISCOUNT TO PCEC -- DMED Hearing is
offering a special promotion coupon exclusively for the PCEC offering up to 50% off (If you
select one of the 3 state of the art Widex Clear models of hearing aids, the discount is 20%). The
coupon is good until March 31, 2012, which is also the ending date for the free trial period – so
you should go in at least 10 days before the coupon expiration date if you want take advantage of
the full free trial period. To download and print the coupon – Click Here.
DRIVING LICENSE TRIP SHOULD BE ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 – Member Hans
(Jon) Stroosnyder escorts and assists those interested in getting or renewing a Thai driving license.
Although usually on the first Wednesday of the month, it will be a week later because that is a
holiday in March. Hans usually departs at 9am from The Tavern by the Sea restaurant (Club’s
Sunday meeting place). If you wish to participate, please call call Hans at 085-218-1773, or email
him at [email protected] to confirm the trip. See the Vehicles page on the Club’s website for
information on the process and the documents needed.
COMPUTER GROUP - NEXT MEETING WILL BE ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 –
The meeting will be in the Markland Meeting Room at 1pm with host Michael Dovesen. At the
meeting on 15 February 2012 Michael covered "Bits" & "Bytes". This was an overview of the
language of a machine and why it is important to know these elements when buying a computer,
choosing an operating system, buying data storage, and contracting with an Internet service
provider. The Topics for the upcoming meeting will be the effective use of "eMail" including
choosing an email service provider and software-email redirection, re-sizing photos and videos to
be able to send as email attachments, alternative ways of placing photos and videos in the "cloud,"
email security, and email attachment compression and security. The Group had 22 people at the
first meeting; dividing the 600 baht cost of the meeting room equally among them which will be
their policy for the future. The meeting Room holds 26 people (with a little crowding), and they
are able to provide electrical connections for all those with computers. They will be limiting the
attendance at the next meeting to 26 people (with computers if they wish). If the number signed
up exceeds 26, they will consider moving to the larger Haad Sai room in the Markland. Please
sign-up for the March meeting so you can be included on the group's mailing list and they can
send you any new information that may be helpful...The sign-up list will be available at this
Sunday's Meeting, Direction's to the Markland Meeting Room will be emailed to those that sign
up.
WE ARE ALWAYS ON THE LOOK OUT FOR INTERESTING SPEAKERS – The Club’s
Program Committee endeavors to obtain interesting speakers for the Club’s Sunday meetings.
This can sometimes be a daunting task as we have 52 meetings a year. If you know of someone
with an interesting topic, please let us know along with how to contact them. If you don’t know a
particular speaker, but have a topic you think will be interesting, then pass it on; we will then try
to find a knowledgeable speaker for the topic. To make suggestions for speakers or topics, please
email [email protected].
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
What’s happening in and around Pattaya
This is a listing of upcoming events in Pattaya, Bangkok, and elsewhere. Inclusion of commercial events
does not mean that the PCEC endorses the companies or their products. The events listed come from
various sources. We usually list a telephone number, email address, or website to obtain additional
information about the event. Since the events are subject to cancellation or change, you may wish to
confirm the information before attending the event.
IF YOU KNOW OF ANY UPCOMING EVENT NOT LISTED, PLEASE LET US KNOW SO THAT WE MAY PUBLISH
IT EMAIL THE INFORMATION TO [email protected]
COMING UP THIS WEEK
A listing of events for the coming week – see details in Announcements or upcoming events below
Friday, March 2 – Chiang Mai Horticultural Exposition continues
Friday, March 2 – French Embassy’s La Fete Cultural and Artistic Events continue
Friday, March 2 - Lighthouse Club Charity Networking Event
Saturday, March 3 - Take Care Charity Fund Raiser at Ganymede Resort & Spa
Wednesday, March 7 - Public Holiday - Makha Bucha Day
CALENDAR OF CULTURAL EVENTS IN BANGKOK – Member Jerry Zelin advises that this
website has a calendar of most of the cultural events taking place in Bangkok – select from Art,
Chamber Music, Choral and Vocal, Musicals and Operetta, Opera, Orchestra, Pops , and Stage –
http://sites.google.com/site/bkkmacaldetails/. Thai Ticket Major also has a listing of many upcoming
cultural, sporting, and entertainment events in Bangkok. Check their website to see events scheduled.
EVERY TUESDAY, PATTAYA CHESS GROUP – The group meets every Tuesday from 7pm to
11pm in the German restaurant ―Brauhous‖ (2nd
Road between Soi 7 and 8 – opposite soi that goes to
Pattaya Memorial Hospital).
EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, & FRIDAY - THE PATTAYA BRIDGE CLUB meets at
The Bowling Green, Soi Fuengfa (Soi Xyte), between Soi Boukhao and 3rd Road. They meet at 1pm.
For more information and a map visit their website.
LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH - QUIZ NIGHT TO BENEFIT TAKE CARE CHARITY at
Bondi Beach Bar & Guest House, Dongtan Beach. The quizzing starts at 9pm. For more information
visit their website. Bondi also has a Thais4Life Book Stall which is open daily, with books for 80
Baht, all proceeds go to the Thais4Life charities. You can also drop off any unwanted book donations.
NOW TO MARCH 14, WEDNESDAY – CHIANG MAI INTERNATIONAL
HORTICULTURAL EXPOSITION – This Royal Flora Tatchaphruek event is being held in Chiang
Mai. For information in English go to website: http://www.royalflora2011.com/2011_en/ or
http://www.royalparkrajapruek.org/main3/eng/index.php or call 02-539-7791 or 053-114-110/5 or 02-
610-2011 (every day from 08.30am -7.30pm.) E-mail: [email protected].
NOW TO MARCH 29, THURSDAY – FRENCH EMBASSY’S LA FETE CULTURAL AND
ARTISTIC EVENTS – About 20 different cultural and artistic events will be presented over a
period of 9 weeks. Some of these events are Thai, but they are mostly French; they cover many fields
of creativity: modern circus, classical music, rock, DJ, contemporary dance, hip-hop, visual theatre,
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
photography, cinema, fashion, etc, and some of them will only be shown once or twice. For more
details see – www.lafete-bangkok.com. Book your tickets at ThaiTicketmajor outlets, call 02-262-
3456 or visit http://www.thaiticketmajor.com/LaFete.
MARCH 2, FRIDAY – LIGHTHOUSE CLUB CHARITY NETWORKING EVENT – The event
will start at poolside at the dusitD2B Baraquda Pattaya and then move upstairs to the Deep bar. The
admission is 300 Baht for ladies and members or 600 Baht for nonmembers. There will be free flow
beer and finger snack foods plus the special free Lighthouse wine – all available as long as supplies
last. For more information visit www.facebook.com/events/192197034215427/.
MARCH 3, SATURDAY -- TAKE CARE CHARITY FUND RAISER AT GANYMEDE
RESORT & SPA – This fundraising event for the Take Care Charity organization will begin at 9pm
and will feature entertainment and lucky draw for prizes. The Ganymede Resort & Spa is located in
the Jomtien Complex. TAKE CARE is a volunteer organization that for the past six years has been
promoting safe sex and distributing safer sex packs, free of charge, to gay venues throughout Pattaya.
For more information, email [email protected]. Their web site is:
http://www.takecarepattaya.com.
MARCH 16, THURSDAY TO MARCH 18, SATURDAY - PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL
MUSIC FESTIVAL 2012 – This event will take place along Beach Road and at Bali Hai Pier. It will
feature a number of famous Asian and Thai bands with about 400.000 fans expected to attend. For
more information, call TAT Pattaya on 038-427-667.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Last Week’s Meeting
On Sunday, February 26, Master of Ceremonies
Richard Silverberg called on Linda Cruse to
introduce our speaker, Ivan Sanchez. Ivan is
from Cuba and is traveling outside of Cuba for
the first time. He has visited India and Nepal and
is currently visiting in Thailand and agreed to tell
the Club something about his native country.
Ivan began by describing Cuba’s location and
summarizing its history from when it was
discovered in 1492 by Christopher Columbus to
the present day. Cuba is an island nation. To the
north is the United States, about 90 miles away;
to the west is the Bahamas and Mexico; to the
south is Jamaica and to the southeast is Haiti and
the Dominican Republic. In 1492, Columbus
claimed Cuba for the Kingdom of Spain and it
remained a Spanish colony for about 400 years
until the Spanish American war ended in 1898.
In 1511, the first Spanish settlement was founded
at Baracoa and the future capital of San Cristobal
de la Habana was founded in 1515. There were
two groups of indigenous people, the Taíno, who
were farmers, and the Ciboney who were
primarily fishermen and hunter-gatherers. The
Spanish enslaved the approximately 100,000
indigenous people, setting them primarily to the
task of searching for gold. Within a century the
indigenous people were virtually wiped out.
After the Spanish American war, Cuba was
under the control of the USA until it was granted
independence in 1902. Ivan described the
economic situation and culture of Cuba,
especially its music. He mentioned the events
that led up to Fidel Castro’s revolution and
setting up of the current Cuban government.
Cuba was aided by several socialist countries,
but this came to an end in 1991. Ivan said for
several years it was a horrible time as most
things that people are used to having were
unavailable or too costly as inflation was
rampant – he mentioned that they couldn’t even
buy soap to bathe with; but with necessity being
the mother of invention, they came up with a
plant that could be used instead.
He then explained how this led to the promotion
of tourism as a way to obtain needed money for
the economy. Things in recent years have
improved. Ivan then showed a video called:
Moments in Cuban History. It showed many
historic places in Cuba as well as Cuban’s going
about their lives and enjoying music and
dancing. Of keen interest to many in the
audience were numerous ―vintage‖ American
cars from the late 50’s and how many looked
almost in mint conditions. Ivan opened it up to
questions. In response to the question of whether
it was difficult for him to obtain a passport for
travel, he responded that it was not so much
difficult as bureaucratic requiring much
paperwork and many visits to various offices. He
mentioned that passports are issued by the
military and that as part of the process, they sent
people to where you lived to make inquiries
about you.
Richard Silverberg then called on Roy Albiston
to conduct the always informative Open Forum
where questions are answered about expat living
in Thailand, movies and restaurants are
recommended, and occasionally a joke or two
are told.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Club Membership
Membership is open to all. See Judith Edmonds before or after the meeting program for renewal of your
card, or for a new membership card. For renewal, give Judith your expired card PLUS one recent photo
(3.0cm X 3.4cm). For a new membership, get the application form from Judith or download from the
Club’s website. Judith will need two small photos (3.0cmX3.5cm) for new applicants.
The annual membership contribution is 400 baht. This contribution funds the Club’s operations so that it
continues as a non commercial social organization. You may, if you wish, extend your membership
period for a longer period, e.g., 800 Baht for two years, 1,200 for three years, and so on.
In addition to getting priority for periodic excursions and to use the DVD lending library, your
membership will also entitle you to discounts at the Club’s featured restaurants listed in the Dining Out
section of the Newsletter, at both Bangkok Hospital Pattaya and Phayathai Sriracha Hospital, and other
businesses listed in the Club Benefits section of the Newsletter. Also, as mentioned in the Health Issues
section of the Newsletter, members that qualify can obtain lower cost health insurance through the Club’s
group health policy.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Club Activities
The PCEC offers an opportunity for everyone to become involved in mid-week informal groups covering
many interests. If you have an interest or idea to start a new group, please discuss it with a member of the
Governing Board and we will help you publicize it. The groups usually meet as scheduled, but it is always
a good idea to contact the host to be sure of the date, time, and location.
TECHNIQUES OF MIND EXPANSION DISCUSSION GROUP –Meets Mondays at 1pm in
the Markland’s 3rd garage floor Meeting Room. The meetings are open to anyone who is
interested in exploring the thoughts and words with which you allow your life to be controlled –
and how an understanding of the use of those words can change your life, and people’s perception
of you. If you have any questions about the Group please contact Bruce at 080-053-6360, or by
email at [email protected]. If you have any questions about how to get to the Markland
or the Meeting Room, please call Richard Smith at 089-244-9523 or 038-412-197.
SPANISH CONVERSATION GROUP - Meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month at
1pm at the Diamond Café located on the corner of South Pattaya Road and Third Road. This is a
newly formed group for those that are interested in practicing their Spanish. For more information,
email Al Serrato at [email protected],
FRUGAL FREDDY DINNER GROUP - Eats out weekly on MONDAYS. Your host is Bob
Sutterfield. Their goal is finding good restaurants at very reasonable prices. Bob usually arranges a
20% discount for all in attendance and for those that are PCEC members to receive a similar
discount for future visits to that restaurant, but in addition to showing your membership card, you
also need to tell them you are part of the Frugal Freddy group. Bob says to put your name on the
signup sheet so they can email to you the chosen restaurant and its location. You can also contact
Bob by email to be put on his mailing list or for more information: [email protected] .
GOLFING GROUP – Meets weekly on TUESDAY. John Williams is your host. No
reservations are required. Contact John for information on cost and how to have fun playing
Bingo, Bango, Bongo. Everyone is welcome. John can be contacted by phone at 085-921-3036 or
by emailing him at [email protected].
THE BREAKFAST GROUP – Weekly on WEDNESDAY starting at 10am. Your Hostess is
Marjorie Blissett. The group meets at the Haven Restaurant on Soi 13, which is a one-way soi
from Second Road to Beach Road. The Haven is on the south side of the soi, and there is parking
to the right of the restaurant. There’s an extensive breakfast menu, very good food at a very
reasonable price.
TOUCHY TOPICS GROUP - Weekly on THURSDAY 1pm to 3pm - The format includes
current topics of the week as well as a discussion on a controversial topic selected by the host, a
member, or a guest. The topics are always thought provoking and subject to lively discussion. The
group meets at Shagwell Mansions, across from Carrefour in Soi Arunothai. Contact David
Dallimer at 080-638-3510 or email [email protected].
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
MEMBERS' DINNER – MONTHLY, usually on a WEDNESDAY during each month. Michel
de Goumois and Al Serrato select the location and coordinate the dinner. The location and date of
the next Members' Dinner will be posted in the ANNOUNCEMENTS Section. Unless otherwised
announced, the Members’ Dinner starts at 7pm. To offer suggestions for our next members' dinner
or for more information, please contact Michel de Goumois at 081-525-1296, or Al Serrato at 087-
036-0625, or email [email protected] or see Michel or Al at our Sunday meetings.
FRIENDS OF YOUTH GROUP –Meets PERIODICALLY. This Group assists the Friends of
Youth organization, which undertakes events to better the lives of Thai youth in Pattaya. This is
done by periodic outings such as fishing trips, shopping trips, and other events. If you are
interested in joining the group and participating in their activities, contact ―Hawaii‖ Bob at
[email protected]. The following links are to some recent articles on the Friends of
Youth activities: Christmas shopping and fishing trip.
COMPUTER GROUP – The Group plans to start regular monthly meetings. The Club
Anouncements section will include date and time when a meeting is scheudled. They meet at
Markland Hotel, corner of Beach Road and Soi 1 in Pattaya. Meetings are held in the Meeting
Room on the 3rd
floor Markland Parking Garage. The charge for the Meeting Room of 600 Baht is
distributed among those attending. There is free parking on the Garage’s 3rd floor, quite close to
the Meeting Room. There are a number of electrical connections available so you are welcome to
bring your computer. If you are interested in joining us, please list your name on the Computer
Group sign-up sheet. A reminder of the meeting is sent out 3 to 5 days in advance of the meeting.
For additional meeting information or if you would like to be a host for one or more meetings,
please contact Richard Smith at 038-412197, 089-244-9523 or by email at [email protected].
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP – Meets PERIODICALLY usually in the Markland 3rd
floor
Meeting Room (use the parking garage elevator to the 3rd
floor). The Markland is located on the
corner of Pattaya Beach Road and Soi 1. To receive 3 to 5 day advance notification of meetings,
put your name on the Photography Group sign-up sheet. For more information, or to get on the
list, call Richard Smith at 089-244-9523, or 038-412197.
BLUE WATER SAILING GROUP – Meets PERIODICALLY. This group is hosted by member
Nathan Russo for those that are interested in blue water sailing. Nathan spends his time between
Thailand and USA. See Club Announcements for any planned activities and sailing plans. If you
are interested, contact him at [email protected] or telephone him at 085-275-6724.
BANGLAMUNG DISTRICT CROSS CULTURAL VOLUNTEER GROUP – See CLUB
ANNOUNCEMENTS for an update on the start of new classes. The Banglamung Volunteer Group
asks Pattaya City Expat Club members to volunteer to help Thais improve their English
conversation ability through their ―English Conversation for a Better Life" program. The Group is
always in need of additional teachers or helpers to work with the students, or to fill in when the
regular teachers are away. If you or a friend are interested in participating as a helper or a
Volunteer, please list your name on the sign-up sheet at this Sunday's meeting, and you will be
contacted and receive more information and class information as it becomes available. If you
become a volunteer, a special Banglamung District Cross Cultural Volunteer Group ID card will
be made for you. If you have any questions or want more information about the program, please
contact Richard Smith at 038-412197, 089-244-95323, or by email at [email protected] or
call Khun Sermsakdi at 081-307-5614 or see him at our Sunday PCEC Meetings.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Club Services
This section lists various services offered by the Club or by members of the Cub.
DRIVING LICENSE ASSISTANCE – Member Hans (Jon) Stroosnyder will escort and assist
those interested in getting a Thai driving license. Hans usually departs at 9am from The Tavern by
the Sea restaurant (Club’s Sunday meeting place) on the 1st Wednesday of the month. For more
information, call Hans at 085-218-1773, or email him at [email protected]. See the Vehicles
page on the Club’s website for information on the process and the documents needed.
VISA ASSISTANCE – If you need or want some information on requirements to enter or remain
in Thailand on a long stay basis, visit the Club’s website and select the Visa & Immigration Page.
If you still have questions or need assistance regarding remaining in Thailand on your present visa
or visa exemption, please contact member Darrel Vaught who provides Visa Assistance
Information at [email protected] or attend the first Sunday meeting of the month where
Barry Kenyon, assistant information officer at Chonburi Immigration, visits the club to answer any
immigration questions you may individually have. He is there for a half hour slot from 11.30 am
till noon and sits outside on the terrace, with immigration ID.
A DVD LENDING LIBRARY – Hawaii Bob Sutterfield usually has 120 of his collection of over
500 DVD movies at the Sunday meeting to share with members. He also has a list, so if not
available, look over the list and request up to 4 titles you want to pick up at the following meeting.
A current membership card will allow you to borrow 4 DVDs for up to 4 weeks at no charge. If
you have videos that you no longer need, you are encouraged to donate them to the library. As a
general rule, Bob’s ―help‖ get the day off if there is a fifth Sunday during the month – in that case,
no DVD’s are on offer.
BOOK EXCHANGE –This is a popular service started by member Roger Fox and now
undertaken by member Hawaii Bob Sutterfield for the benefit of fellow members and guest – it is
a ―book exchange,‖ so please remember that the general rule is to bring a book to exchange for
another. As a general rule, Bob’s ―help‖ get the day off if there is a fifth Sunday during the month
– in that case, no books will be available.
LAMINATED PASSPORT CARDS - Kuhn Sermsakdi is usually available for making the
laminated cards for passports for a nominal fee. Please see Sermsakdi to collect yours. The cards
are laminated wallet size (an all-in-one copy - of the main page, TM (now HX) card, Visa page,
and front of passport). These cards have received good acceptance with businesses and hotels.
HAWAII BOB’S CLASSIFIED EXPAT ADS – Hawaii Bob has undertaken a service to his
fellow expats by creating and disseminating a list of want ads – buy, sell, give away. To facilitate
his efforts, we are posting the ads on the Club’s website - click here to go to the latest ads.
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14
PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Club Benefits
Certain businesses offer discounts to Pattaya City Expats Club Members. Show your membership card to
get the discount.
TWO GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE POLICIES ARE AVAILABLE – One policy will
provide coverage if you are 59 ½ years of age or younger but once you have it, it will continue until
age 65. The other policy will accept applicants to age 65 and will continue coverage to age 75. If you
are interested in either group policy. Khun Olé with AA Brokers is usually present at the Sunday
meeting at 10:30am. Kuhn Neng, broker for the 2nd
policy is usually presnt from 11am till noon. The
Group Health Insurance page on our website summarizes the two group policies.
BANGKOK PATTAYA HOSPITAL (BHP) OFFERS DISCOUNTS TO PCEC MEMBERS
AND THEIR FAMILIES – When you obtain your BHP ID or if you haven’t done so already, show
them your membership card on your next visit, you will be entered into BHP’s computer as a PCEC
member. As a PCEC member you and your family members will get a 10% discount on room rates,
medication and prescribed drugs, and 10% off on dental treatment and 5% on prosthodontic and
endodontic dentistry. See the Health Issues Section for current promotions if any.
PHAYATHAI HOSPITAL SRIRACHA OFFERS DISCOUNTS TO PCEC MEMBERS - Club
members now receive a 10% discount on medicines (inpatient and outpatient), main physical check
up, CT, and MRI scans. This discount is good till November 14, 2010 for the initial period. See the
Health Issues Section for current promotions if any.
THAILIVING FERRY (PATTAYA-HUA HIN & PATTAHA KOH SAMET) – PCEC members
receive a 20% discount on the fare if they book direct with Thailiving Ferry – Telephone 038-364-515
or 087-747-5999 in Pattaya and 032-632-223 or 084-800-400 in Hua Hin. For more information visit
their website at www.thailivingferry.com.
AROY ITALY SPECIALTY SHOPS DISCOUNT – There are two shops, one near the King Power
store on Sukhumvit Road and the other on the new Jomtien 2nd Road (at Jomtien Soi 5 next to the 7-
11 – sign says ―Eatalay‖ - Soi 5 is where Immigration is located). They specialize in Italian delicacies
(meats, cheese, wine, etc.). They also offer wine tasting. Club Members receive a 10% discount – just
show your membership card. They are open from 9am to 8pm.
10% DISCOUNT AT U-STORE-IT – U-Store-it is a secure storage facility. They will also pick up
and deliver with various sized storage units for small items up to a garage big enough to store the
contents of a 2 bedroom house. They have a covered secure car park available at 1,000 Baht per
month. Contact the owner, Lee, at 087-831-7919 – Show your PCEC membership card for a 10%
discount.
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
IRISH AIRCON CO. AND IRISH RENOVATIONS CO. PROVIDES DISCOUNTS TO PCEC
MEMBERS – PCEC Members receive a 10% discount on air conditioning service, maintenance, or
repair including labor time on any job (no discount on Freon gas as it is provided cost) and 5%
discount on new air conditioners bought from the company. For work done by Irish Renovations
(carpentry, painting, flooring, plumbing, plastering, tiling, electrical, etc.) members will get a 5%
discount. For more information on air conditioning service– contact Irish Aircon telephone 089-608-
7808, email [email protected], or visit www.irishaircon.com. For more information on
renovations, contact Irish Renovations telephone 087-784-0570 or visit
http://www.irishaircon.com/irishrenovations/aboutus.php.
NOVACARE PRODUCTS OFFER DISCOUNTS TO PCEC MEMBERS ON THEIR
COCONUT OIL PRODUCTS – Fellow member Jinn Choi, advises that Novacare coconut products
including virgin coconut oil, shampoo-conditioner, and herbal soap are available to PCEC members
at a special 35~40% discount - put your member card number with your name on their purchase order
sheet. For more information, contact Khun Choi at 02-905-0961 Fax 02-905-0957, mobile 089-440-
0010 or email [email protected].
FAIRTEX SPORT CLUB & RESORT IS OFFERING PCEC MEMBERS A DISCOUNT–
Fairtex offers a discount to PCEC members on their two annual packages. There will be a 10%
discount on their regular price of 8,999 Baht for the Fitness Package and a 20% discount on their
regular price of 18,000 Baht for the All Sports Package. They may also offer a discount on other Plans
of 10-15% - inquire. Fairtex is located on Pattaya Nua (North Road) a short distance past the Dolphin
traffic Circle. You can visit their website at http://www.fairtexpattaya.com/.
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16
PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Member Supported Charities
The club encourages its members to be active in supporting charitable organizations. This section assists
their efforts by providing information on some of these charitable activities.
SAVE THAT DRINK CAN RING PULL FOR A WORTHY CAUSE - Les Edmonds has
requested that you save those aluminum can ring pulls rather than discarding them when you open the
can. Gather up a few and bring them to Les. It seems they can be recycled for making artificial limbs.
Les will see that they get to the right place.
EYE GLASSES FOR THE NEEDY - Member Dave Anderson has been collecting eyeglasses and
frames for re-cycling and distributing to needy people in Thailand and Pattaya. He recently brought
2000 frames and lenses for distribution in Thailand through the Pattaya YWCA, City Hall, and his
connection with a country wide program. There is always a need - if you have any old glasses or
frames around, please bring them to the meeting, give them to Richard Smith. On Dave's latest visit,
we gave him the eyeglasses received (about 50 to 60), which he said would be donated to the Eyeglass
Bank Project.
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17
PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Health Issues
This section provides general information about health insurance, health care, and other medical
information that may benefit Expats living in Thailand.
LIVING WILL FORM – Dr. Iain Corness spoke to the Club about the new Living Will form that
is in use at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya (see the June 24, 2011 Newsletter). The Form, both English
and Thai versions with some additional information are on the Club’s website -
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/living%20will%20form.pdf . The new form
meets the requirement of Thai Statute No. 12 of the National Health Law. You can also obtain a
copy in either English or Thai from Sally at the Sunday meetings.
LISTING OF EXPAT RECOMMENDED MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS ON THE
WEBSITE – Member Vincent Ward is maintaining a list of medical professionals recommended
by expats and is sharing that list by posting it on the Club’s website. If you have a particular
medical professional that you would like to recommend to your fellow expats, email Vincent
at [email protected] with the name, specialty or medical field, location (hospital, clinic, etc.),
contact (telephone, email address, and/or website), and any specific comments you wish to make,
e.g., very good English, etc. For brevity and to comply with Thai legal requirements we may need
to edit the comments submitted. The list can be viewed by going to
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/HEALTH-%20CARE.pdf.
BANGKOK HOSPITAL PATTAYA PROMOTIONS – BHP’s current promotion is for cancer
screening – the price for males is 6,500 Baht (regularly 9,340) and for females 7,800 Baht
(regularly 10,800). Valid from February 15 to April 30, 2012, but must be purchased before March
31. It includes: Physical Examination, CBC, Alpha Fetoprotein, Carinoembyonic Antigen, Urine
Examination, Stool Examination (Occult Blood), Chest X-ray, and Ultrasound whole abdomen
for both males and females. In addition, males will receive a PSA & Free PSA test and females
will receive a Pap Smear Sure Path and Mammogram with Ultrasound of the Breast. They also
have special prices for HPV Vaccination 3 dose Series at 6,800 Baht (regularly 9,750) and HPV
Vaccination 3 dose Series at 6,800 Baht (regularly 11,400) – note, the flyer did not indicate what
the difference was between the two listed HPV vaccine specials – and Helicobacter Pylori Breath
Test is 5,000 Baht – these three items are exclusive of doctor fee and hospital service charge. Also
on special are a Gastrocopy for 8,300 Baht (regularly 15,000), a Colonoscopy 12,500 Baht
(regularly 25,000), or both for 20,500 Baht (regularly 40,000). The Gastrocopy and Colonoscopy
are inclusive of doctor fee and hospital service charge, but medicines, laboratory tests, and other
procedures are excluded. To make an appointment, contact the Hospital at 1719.
PHYATHAI SRIRACHA HOSPITAL PROMOTIONS – Gavin Waddell, International
Marketing Executive, has provided us with hospital promotions for February. HEALTH CHECK
UP PROMOTION: - physical examination - chest x ray- electrocardiogram (EKG)- vascular
screening (ABI)- Ultrasound of whole abdomen- urine examination- stool examination- complete
blood count (CBC)- blood sugar (diabetes)- cholesterol- triglyceride- HDL-LDL- kidney function
test- liver function test- uric acid – Price 3,600 Baht, regularly 6,000 Baht (If you come with a
friend e.g. 2 people, then only 3,000 Baht each). MRI for Spine/Back Investigation – price 6,900
Baht, regularly 9,500. VACCINATIONS: Hepatitis A: Regular price 2,380 Baht per shot,
Promotion price 1,900 Baht per shot (2 shots necessary for full protection) - HepatitisB: Regular
price 1,060 Baht per shot, Promotion price 900 Baht per shot (3 shots necessary for full protection
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
- special only 2,500 Baht for 3 shots) - Chicken pox: Regular price 2,076 Baht per shot,
Promotion price 1,800 Baht per shot (2 shots necessary for full protection). ALLERGY
TESTING 23 different types of allergy tested for - Regular price 2,300 baht -Normal price: 1,900
Baht. You can contact Gavin for more information about Hospital services and promotions at 038-
770-200/8 Ext: 2426 or 089-750-0293. You can email Gavin at [email protected].
HEALTH CARE IN THAILAND The Club’s website has additional information about medical
care in Thailand including information about the local laboratory that does a wide variety of lab
test at lower cost than the local hospitals (test results only – they do not do physician evaluation);
listing of hospitals and clinics in Bangkok and Provinces in Thailand; extended/retirement care
facilities; and more. Link to website page on Health Care:
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/HEALTH-%20CARE.pdf.
GROUP MEDICAL COVERAGE – The Club has two group health insurance policies available
for members. One is provided through AA Insurance Brokers. The other is provided through
broker Kuhn Neng. A representative of AA and Kuhn Neng are usually available for a portion of
the Club’s regular Sunday meeting. For more information on the policies, age restrictions, and
coverage, vist the Club’s website:
http://www.pattayacityexpatsclub.com/expats/docs/GROUP_%20HEALTH_%20INSURANCE.p
df
A RESOURCE FOR MEN IN THAILAND WHO ARE DIAGNOSED WITH PROSTATE
CANCER – Although there are many web sites that discuss prostate cancer, a member points out
that there is one that is specific for those living in Thailand. The website is
www.thaiprostate.com. Also, we have some Club members that have undergone treatment in
Thailand and elsewhere that are willing to be a support group if needed. If anyone wishes to
contact them, please email [email protected] and we will put you in touch.
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19
PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
Dining Out
We have several featured restaurants that offer discounts for Club Members (show your card at the time
you ask for your check). To see more information on the featured restaurants, visit the featured
restaurants page on the Club’s website.
Featured Restaurants Offering Discounts to Club Members
Amari Orchard Resort & Tower Restaurants & Lounges – The Amari Orchard Resort has several
restaurants and bars available, all offering Club members a 15% discount. For various monthly and other
promotion information call the Amari at 038-418-418). Orchid Terrace & Garden Lounge has an
Italian Buffet every Friday from 6pm to 10:30pm for 490 Baht net per person - wine buffet & limoncello
also available. The Essence restaurant offers a regular menu of western, Thai, Japanese, Indian, and
Chinese specialties. Every Saturday from 6:30pm to 10:30pm, Amari has seafood BBQ by the pool for
750++ per person. The new Ocean Tower has a 24 hour restaurant with a view of the Resorts beautiful
gardens, and with the new Horizon Club on the top floor, offers a new level of personalized service and
audio-visual technology. The Tavern by the Sea offers some great bargains. Mantra offers different
cuisines in a fabulous setting. Email: [email protected] or call mantra: 038-429-591
Other PCEC Featured Restaurants – Baadshah Indian Restaurant - 15% - 038-411-690 or 086-951-
1161, Email: [email protected]. New York Pizza House - 10% - 081-296-4364 &
delivery 080-787-3330; Blue Sky Restaurant on 27th
floor of the Mark-land Hotel; Pizza, Pizza at the
Avenue -- 10% - 038-723-929; Chez George on 3rd
Road - a 10% on food - 038-723-219 or 086-151-
4200; La Luna Italian Restaurant - 15 % Discount - 038-371-322; Goose’s Fish & Chips - 20% -
087-133-4240 (English) or 081-576-3372 (Thai) ; Edelweiss Swiss Restaurant - 15% - 038-251-326 or
081-844-6037; Tequila Reef Cantina- 10% or 20% - 038-414035; Big Horn Steakhouse - 10%
(Central Shopping Arcade, 2nd Road; 038-720289; Green Tree Restaurant - 10%; Balcony
Restaurant - 10% (Pattaya Nua (North) Road) 038-411429; Aloha Restaurant - 10% or 20% (2nd
Road) 038-723175; and Aungkam Northern Thai (Issan) Restaurant - 10% (3rd Road) 038-370386.
If you find any information about our Featured Restaurants is incorrect, please contact us at
[email protected] or [email protected].
Frugal Freddy Restaurants offering discount to PCEC members
Show your PCEC membership card and receive 20% discount off of your food and drink check bin. Non
member guest gets 10% discount – Aloha Restaurant - 2nd
road across from Marriott Hotel;
Shenanigan’s - 2nd
road in Avenue Shopping Center; Loaf Bakery and Pizza - Soi Lenkee behind 7-11
on corner; Deutches Haus - Beach Road at Soi 4; El Paso Steak House - Pattaya Thai by Shell Station;
Thai Texan - Jomtiem between Soi 10 & 11 in Jomtiem Condominium Complex; Krogens Swiss
Restautant - Soi LK Metro off of Soi Diana across from Champaign Go Go bar; Spices 2 Indian
Restaurant - 3rd
road N. of Pattaya Klang in Central Condo Complex; Baadshah Indian Restaurant -
038-411-690 or 086-951-1161 - 3rd
Road across from old Xzyte Disco Complex, next door to Cherry’s;
Deli-zza Pizza & Sandwich Shop - Jomtiem between Soi 9 & 10 behind the 7-11; Goose’s Fish &
Chips - 2nd
Road between Soi 7 & Soi 8; Little Italy Italian - 2nd
road Across from Marriott Hotel; Le
Cap Breton French Restaurant - Soi Chaiyapoon just off of 3rd
Road; Zen Café - Pratumnak Rd
between soi 3&4; ; Tequila Reef Cantina – 089-401-6022 - Soi 7 close to Beach Road (25% discount
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PATTAYA CITY EXPATS CLUB NEWSLETTER March 2, 2012
if check bin over 1,000 Baht); Robin’s Nestaurant - Soi Diana near Soi Buakhao; Sportsman’s
Restaurant - Soi 13 off of 2nd
Road.
If you find any information about Frugal Freddy Restaurants is incorrect or you are unhappy with service
or food, contact Hawaii Bob at [email protected]. denotes PCEC featured restaurants that
also participate in the Frugal Freddy program provided you identify yourself as a Frugal Freddy Member
when presenting the card.
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