Pattaya Mail — Features

Travel & Leisure in and around Pattaya

Sailing aboard the authentic Thai junk “Hanumarn”

by Ken Bailey

Clear days make Pattaya’s marine surrounds some of the most picturesque in Thailand. Among the resort’s large fleet of pleasure craft, the Thai junk Hanumarn stands out as probably the most unique with its old-style Thai appearance and ornamentally carved timber structure.

Estimated to be at least 80 years old, Hanumarn was completely refitted one year ago by present owner Alois Fassbind who acquired her back in 1973. The vessel’s historic charm has been enhanced rather than diminished by this refit. Her low base, raised rear cabin and cockpit and rectangular sails which rise to a point typify Thai-style junks while bearing resemblance’s to other South-East Asian varieties.

Most noticeable about the Hanumarn is the splendid teak wood finish inside and out. Her deck and cabins shine from the lacquered timber. Small pillars of carved timber elephants rise from the leisure deck to its sunroof, while everything from non-spilling drink holders to the captain’s cockpit radiate with resplendent teak. The feeling is luxurious cruising through the offshore beauty on your cushioned seat, all the conveniences of leisure on hand.

Equipped with sophisticated satellite communications and navigation systems, this 45 tonne craft is powered by a 250 horse power engine which drives it around the Gulf on charters of up to 20 passengers. Operating only day trips, Hanumarn is as perfect for romantic couple cruises as it is for parties. Destinations recommended by Alois include Hienten Beach on the far side of Ko Larn (it has a good seafood restaurant Alois points out), and the more secluded islands of Ko Phi and Ko Rin.

Charters generally take in several activities during a day’s boating. Fishing just off Ko Phi was popular the day we joined Alois on Hanumarn with everybody throwing in a hand line pulling out some moderate sized fish and squid. These proved a tasty addition to lunch while the rest of the afternoon was spent swimming in the crystal clear waters around this small tree covered island.

Hanumarn charters may be supplemented with catering at your request with Bruno’s Restaurant of North Pattaya, her official caterers. Waiters may also be hired to compliment the fully equipped kitchen while two on-deck B.B.Q.s are used to grill up the fresh catch.

Proving popular says Alois are Hanumarn’s sunset cruises. Leaving Pattaya at 4 p.m., she heads towards Sattahip with all on board feasting, drinking and fishing. Sunset is appreciated while floating at sea over some fine wine. 7 p.m. sees her return to either the Royal Cliff Beach Resort or the Ocean Marina.

Costs of Hanumarn charters are relevant to your proposed itinerary. To discuss your requirements, telephone Bruno’s Restaurant on 361 073 or 424 292. Ask for Bruno or the headwaiter should he be not available.

The “Jesters charity run”

by Elfi

They came to the Nova Lodge Hotel Garden in huge numbers, dressed in leather and jeans, some sporting tattoos, many accompanied by their wives. Jesters from Pattaya, Immortals, Fly Turtles, and Heaven’s Devils from Bangkok, and the Phuket Riders. Parked outside, about 150 Harley Davidson motorcycles signaled their presence.

Showing their community spirit, the Jester Pattaya Motorcycle Club used the occasion of their first anniversary to treat 100 boys from Father Brennan’s Boys Home to a day out.

Although the Jester Pattaya Motorcycle Club was formed only a year ago, some of the 30 members have been together for more than fifteen years and consider themselves as part of one big family.

The kids enjoyed this day as much as the tough men, who didn’t hesitate buying paintings done by the boys at the charity auction; the most expensive going for 10,000 Baht. Papa Ray Rogers, who never misses an occasion like this, donated a further Baht 5,000, making the total amount raised for the Boy’s Home on this special day 97,000 Baht.

After an immensely good time, during which the boys performed a few dances and shows while playing a lot of games, the boys returned in busses, a lot richer, not only money-wise but also in the knowledge of having found friends for eternity.

Finishing off a successful first anniversary party, the roaring Harleys found their way to the Desperado Pub where "The Bastards", a hard-rock Farang Band from Bangkok, rocked until the early morning hours. Traffic on Second Road was at a standstill as passers-by slowed to look at the crowd in front of the Desperado, while listening for a few minutes to the band’s great sound.

Jesters and friends also enjoyed "one of the best nights ever" at TQ1 on beach road on Halloween night, the night before the charity run.

Prior to speeding off on their ‘hogs’, all of the clubs’ members - regular citizens in their normal daily life - promised to hold a similar charity event again very soon, most probably around Christmas. The next time that we hear the roaring sound of many throbbing Harley engines, we’ll know that the riders are on their way again to make a better life for the less fortunate.

Henry J. Bean's opens with a bash

Pattaya residents were treated to one of the main events this year in Pattaya - the much awaited opening of the Henry J. Bean’s Bar and Grill in Pattaya.

Special Guests at the opening were Chonburi Governor Sujarit Pajchimanan, Pattaya Mayor Pairat Suthithamrongsawat, Mr. Alois X. Fassbind, Chanyuth Hengtrakul, M.L. Tuang Sanitwongs, Miss Thailand World 1996 Cindy Burbridge, Mr. University, Miss University and a host of others.

Henry J. Bean’s is a world famous American restaurant chain. The ambience is ‘Americana’, using colourful road signs, Tiffany style lamps, chequered table cloths, juke-boxes and classic American food, all of which creates a ‘down-home’, American atmosphere.

Some of the delicious victuals included Barbeque, Ribs and of course, Hank’s delicious selection of famous burgers.

Everyone had a groovy time and as you can see from the pictures, the joint was jumpin’.

Food, Fun and Beer - Lots of Beer

Large numbers of fun-loving celebrants turned out for the annual Oktoberfest celebrations at the Amari Orchid last week.

There are festivals which focus on eating and drinking all over the world, but the German Oktoberfest is probably the most famous.

Reference books tell us ‘the Oktoberfest has been held in Germany annually since October 17th, 1810, the wedding day of the future King Louis I of Bavaria. It is a fall festival celebrating the best in beer, food and entertainment.’

At the time, the future King called himself Louis instead of Ludwig, as French was the Lingua Franca of Europe.

German speaking residents of Pattaya do not forget their homelands and especially the Oktoberfest. This month, Lederhosen, Dirndls and beer drinking contests let us know that this most famous of festivals was being celebrated.

People were happy, the beer flowed and everyone could be heard singing, Ein Prosit, der Gemütlichkeit. This phrase is the traditional toast when drinking beer during Oktoberfest.

In October, middle and northern Europeans have gathered the harvest, stocked the larders and everyone is ready for a rest. People spend warm cosy nights in houses and beer houses, rejoicing that they will be secure during the cold winter months.

Pattaya may be warm, but the Oktoberfest gave the warmth a gemütlich, Teutonic touch.

Health and Nutrition Facts

Protein; how much do you need

by Laura Zubrod, Registered Dietician

Proteins found in the food you eat and in your body are made up of building blocks called amino acids. There are 20 different amino acids. Nine of these amino acids are essential for your survival because your body cannot make them and, therefore, they must come from the food you eat.

Protein is part of every cell in your body—skin, muscles, bones, and organs. Proteins help regulate body processes. For example, proteins act as enzymes and hormones to make various chemical reactions take place. As antibodies, they protect you from disease-carrying bacteria and viruses. Your body needs a constant supply of protein to repair your cells as they wear out. Protein is also very important for making new body tissues during times of growth: infancy, childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy. Your body can use proteins for energy if you do not consume enough from carbohydrate and fat. However, your body prefers to save protein to build and repair itself. When you consume more calories than you need (from protein or any source), they are broken down and stored as body fat.

Protein is found in many foods. Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, and soy products like tofu contain all of the 9 essential amino acids your body needs. For this reason, they are often called "complete" proteins. Legumes (beans and peas), seeds, and nuts also supply plenty of protein. Grain products and many vegetables provide smaller amounts of protein. Except for soy products, plant proteins lack one or more essential amino acid and are often called "incomplete" proteins. To obtain complete protein, there is no need for combining specific foods at each meal as once thought (like eating beans and rice together). Even if you do not eat meat or dairy products, your body can make its own complete proteins if you consume a variety of plant foods—legumes, nuts, seeds, grains, vegetables, fruits—and enough calories throughout the day. Amino acids lacking in one food can come from other foods you eat during the day. Vegetarian diets are usually adequate in protein but may come up short in vitamin B-12, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and zinc which are all found in foods of animal origin.

The amount of protein you need depends on your body weight and activity. Most adults need 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. A 70 kg man would need 56 grams of protein each day. Competitive athletes and body builders need slightly more protein. Most people consume more than enough protein to meet their needs. There is never a need to consume protein supplements or powders. Excessive amounts of protein can cause kidney and liver problems and lead to dehydration.

Protein content of various foods:

Contains 1 gram of protein:
1 slice bread
1/3 cup rice
½ cup dry cereal
½ cup pasta, noodles
½ cup corn
1 small potato

Contains 8 grams protein:
1 cup milk
¾ cup yogurt

Contains 2 grams protein:
½ cup cooked or 1 cup raw all vegetables (excluding corn, potatoes, legumes)

Contains 7 grams protein:
1 ounce meat, poultry, fish, and other seafood
1 egg
1 ounce cheese
½ cup beans, peas, lentils
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 cup soy milk
½ cup or 4 ounces tofu

Fruits do not contain protein but have other important vitamins and minerals your body can use when it makes amino acids.

Protein foods are sometimes avoided because they are thought to be fattening. This is not completely true. Protein is a vital component of human nutrition and should not be limited by anyone except those with certain disease states. If you choose regular ground beef or whole milk for example, you will be getting additional fat along with protein. However, there are many foods high in protein that are also low in fat. Choosing lean meats, low-fat dairy products, and eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products will limit the fat while ensuring that you receive adequate amounts of this important nutrient.

Pattaya hosts the 12th International and National Cultural Festival

On November 9th, the Cultural Council of Thailand and many government and private organisations dream’s were realised with the dazzling parade which opened the National and International Cultural Festival.

This is the first time Pattaya has hosted the festival and the massive parade began at 5:30 p.m. with the Tourist Police leading the celebration of Thai culture. Twenty-four Thai National Flags proudly followed, carried on the backs of 3 mighty elephants.

The honoured guests from Russia, and other Asian nations, were given the honour of being at the head of the parade. Three fantastically fancy and festive floral floats followed. Upon these floats were Thai Nang Fa - angels. Visions of Siamese beauty, they were the cynosure of all eyes.

Next was a float effulgent with a host of Pattaya luminaries, including officials from the various tourism and business sectors.

Of special interest were the floats from the 4 regions, showing Thailand’s cultural diversity. First was a float from the Royal Institute of Lampang in the North of Thailand, accompanied by Northern Thai maidens in traditional dress. The young women carried traditional northern flags, called Thong in the central dialect but Tung in the north. The long flags rolled majestically in the light wind. Another group of northern women was dressed in Akka hilltribe outfits.

Next was the Isan or North-eastern float from the Surin Cultural Centre, with folks attired in traditional Thai-Khmer Kantrüm (folk-musician) outfits. They were carrying gorgeous Phucha (holy offerings) which are traditionally made at the old Khmer temple of Phnom-Rung.

After this, the central region came into view with young men and women dressed in attire worn at Songkran. The emphasis was on the more traditional, Buddhist values, with the young people carrying offerings given to monks on the Songkran Festival. At the end of the central procession was a group of women with traditional ‘long drums’.

Last but not least in the parade of regions was the south, with performers from the Royal Institute of Nakorn Sri Thammarat. They were dressed in Manorah outfits. The southerners are famous for their elevated plays and dramas. Manorah is a Kinnaree, or half-bird-half-woman, and the play is a true summit of Thai culture. All were wearing traditional costumes worn in the play.

The 5 kilometre long parade wound down at the main stage at City Hall. Many Chonburi dignitaries, including Chonburi Governor Sujarit Pajchimanan, Pattaya Mayor Pairat Suthithamrongsawat, and Saen Sukh Mayor Somchai Khunpleum were in attendance for the cultural banquet which unfolded on the stage.

There were performances from all regions, and Thai people who attended were proud to see their various cultures being celebrated. Foreigners attending the performance may not have understood everything, but one could see they were visibly impressed by this magnificent show of Thai culture.

Preceding the grand opening, a welcome dinner was held at the Merlin Hotel the night before. All cultural performers from the various countries and various regions of Thailand were treated to a fine dinner by the hosts.

Weekender's miniature boat exhibition in honour of His Majesty the King's Birthday

Commencing December 4th and continuing until December 10th, the Weekender Hotel will be presenting an exhibition of miniature carved sailing boats in honour of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great’s 70th birthday.

The significance of this exhibition to His Majesty is the special appearance, the first in Pattaya, of a full size model of the five metre sailing boat in which His Majesty won a gold medal at the 1967 Bangkok SEA Games. During last year’s celebrations of the 50th anniversary of His Majesty ascending to the throne, 10,000 miniature models of this boat were carved to sell in aid of charities supported by His Majesty. Approximately 2,000 of these models remain available and will be offered to the public at the Weekender’s miniature boat exhibition.

All proceeds will go to charities patroned by His Majesty.

On the occasion of His Majesty’s birthday, December 5th at 7 p.m. the Weekender will be conducting a traditional candle burning ceremony to wish His Majesty a happy birthday and long life.

The Weekender invites any of His Majesty’s subjects, as well as visitors to his Majestic Kingdom, to come along between December 4th and 10th, take in the fascinating miniature boat exhibition and join in wishing His Majesty a very happy birthday with many more to come. (Weekender Hotel is located on Second Road, between Alcazar Cabaret and Big C).

Swiss Food at its best on Soi Diamond

The Swiss Food Restaurant on Soi Diamond has existed for 17 years already, but the present owner, Reinhard, has brought it up to what it is now. Hidden on the narrow part of Soi Diamond in South Pattaya, no one would imagine being able to find such a nice place amidst the so-called Sunset strip.

Since it is not easy to find a parking space around that area, my friend and I parked our car at the parking lot in Soi 17 and walked along Second Road until we reached Soi Diamond.

The Swiss Food Restaurant has a small terrace with a few tables outside, making it an interesting spot for those who want to watch Pattaya’s ‘night-life". The restaurant itself is decorated with one huge wall painting and lots of pictures, showing the nicest parts of Switzerland. The ceiling and the pillars are covered with wooden latticework and decorated with grapes. Tables for four with rose-coloured table linen are tightly placed in front of the wooden counter/bar in the right corner and the salad bar in the left corner.

The good assortment of wines on the restaurant’s wine list includes wines from Italy, France and Argentina. 75-cl bottles cost between 380 and 1,640 Baht, but there is also a 1-litre bottle house-wine available for 450 Baht.

All main-dishes from 160 to 220 Baht include soup and salad-buffet. Complimenting the regular menu, one or two special menus for the day are also offered.

The appetisers include such exotic dishes as smoked salmon, carpaccio, various cold cuts, and steak tartar, which is rather hard to find in Pattaya, as well as different dishes from the charcoal grill.

Seafood lovers are also taken care off and, as is usual in a typical Swiss restaurant, four different fondues, each enough for at least two persons, are the speciality.

My friend and I chose vegetable soup and tomato cream soup, which were amongst the best we’ve ever tasted. The soup had a rich, really creamy consistency with bacon and mushrooms inside. The Caesar’s salad arrived next and my companion, who is known for her especially delicious way of preparing this dish, had to admit, "It’s as good as mine."

Bündnerfleisch, air-dried grisons meat plate, came with bread and mixed pickles. The meat was very tender and tasty and was actually enough to be a main course.

But our real main courses were saltinbocca with boletus risotto originating from the Italian side of Switzerland, beef stroganoff with Swiss dumplings, again a very tender meat in rich brown gravy, and the Swiss dumplings were a perfect match.

Of course, we couldn’t miss the ‘Züricher Geschnetzeltes’, one of the dishes the Swiss are famous for, prepared to perfection - sliced veal in a cream sauce served with perfectly fried hash browns.

The dessert, only one for the two of us, was a very light Parfait Grand Marnier and vanished within seconds after the first spoonful, almost causing a fight between my friend and I. We solved the problem by counting how many spoonfuls one could take.

The price range for all we ate was between 55 and 230 Baht.

After the longest dining out ever and a Plum-Schnapps for the road, which was necessary after such a delicious, but rich meal, we took a walk through the pedestrian zone of South Pattaya to get our digestion going.

Swiss Food is located on Soi Diamond and can be approached either from the pedestrian zone, passing the carousel bars, or from Second Road, under the Diamond Hotel sign. It is strongly recommended to reserve a table, for this restaurant is always very occupied. Tel. 423 991.

Copyright © 1997 Pattaya Mail Publishing Co.Ltd.
370/7-8 Pattaya Second Road, Pattaya City, Chonburi 20260, Thailand 
Tel.66-38 411 240-1, 413 240-1, Fax:66-38 427 596; e-mail: [email protected]
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