Update on VAT refunds for tourists for carry-on items only

The VAT Refund For Tourists Office of the Revenue Department, Ministry of Finance has announced that during this initial stage, VAT Refunds for tourists are applicable for "Carry On" items only, i.e. items purchased which can be carried onboard the flight in accordance to the rules and regulations stipulated by international airlines. Contact information: The VAT Refund For Tourists Office, phone (66 2) 272 - 9388.

Moving towards an international practice that prevails in several countries, tourists to Thailand are now able to request "Value Added Tax" (VAT) refunds. The implementation of VAT Refunds is a positive development for tourism promotion and is expected to contribute significantly to boosting the country’s foreign exchange revenue by providing an added shopping incentive for overseas tourists.

Eligibility for vat refunds

To be eligible for VAT Refunds for Carry-On Items, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

* The applicant is not of Thai nationality and is not a Thai citizen or a permanent resident of Thailand (defined as individuals who have been residing in the Kingdom over 180 days).

* The applicant is not a member of an airline crew (pilots and cabin crew) of aircraft departing Thailand.

* The applicant departs Thailand from one of the International Airports of the Kingdom, i.e. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai.

* The goods purchased by the applicant do not constitute "prohibited items" and the purchase is made from a store/stores displaying the "VAT Refund For Tourists" logo.

* The total amount of goods purchased by the applicant must not be less than Baht 5,000 and the purchased amount from each store must not be less than Baht 2,000 in a day.

* The goods purchased by the applicant must be taken out of Thailand within 60 days from the date of purchase.

* The applicant is able to prove that the goods will be taken out of Thailand by presenting the "VAT Refund Application" together with the goods, and the applicant’s passport to the Customs Officers for a validation before the applicant checks-in at the airport.

How to obtain a Value-Added Tax (VAT) Refund

1. Shop at stores where the "VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS" logo is prominently displayed.

Shoppers are required to state their intent to request a VAT Refund when making their purchases at the retail outlet and are required to complete a "VAT Refund For Tourists" application.

2. Applicants are required to have their "VAT Refund Application" validated by Customs Officers. Before an applicant leaves Thailand, the individual needs to present his/her VAT Refund Application, together with passport and goods claiming for a refund to Customs Officers. The Customs Officers will stamp the application.

However, in the case of luxury goods, i.e. jewelry, gold ornaments, glasses and pens, such items must also be presented to the Revenue Officers for a second stamp on the application, prior to departure.

In summary, an application claiming VAT Refund for luxury goods must be stamped by both Customs and Revenue in order to obtain VAT Refund.

3. The applicant then drops the "VAT Refund Application" into the box provided.

If all steps in the VAT Refund Application has been followed and the application has been processed according to the guidelines as stipulated, the Customs Officers are authorised to issue the VAT Refund to the applicant.

On the spot VAT Refund in cash

In cases where the total VAT Refund amount does not exceed Baht 10,000, a VAT Refund in cash can be made on the spot by the authorised Customs Officers at the VAT Refund Counter located at any of the International Airports of the Kingdom of Thailand.

VAT Refunds by Bank Draft or via Credit Card Account

In cases where the total VAT Refund amount exceeds Baht 10,000, applicants will receive the VAT Refund amount in the form of a bank draft mailed to the applicant or as a credit to a credit card account as indicated by the applicant in the "VAT Refund Application" completed. Any charges arising will be deducted from the refund amount.

VAT Refund Applicants also have the option of submitting the VAT Refund Application by mail.

Important

In this initial stage VAT Refund for Tourists is only applicable for purchases that can be carried on board the flight in accordance to Rules and Regulations as stipulated by International Airlines/ Carriers.

Tourists applying for VAT Refunds should allow an extra 30 minutes for the completion of the process for requesting a VAT Refund at one of the International Airports of the Kingdom.

For an applicant to receive a VAT Refund, it is important that the VAT Refund Application is stamped by Customs. If a purchase/purchases of luxury items are also involved, a second stamp by the Revenue Officer is also needed on the application prior to departure.

Welcoming the Dawn of 2000

Walking On the Wild Side from Dusk December 31, 1999 to Dawn January 1, 2000; New Years Eve & New Years Day

The transition from 1999 to 2000 is a very special occasion, while 1999 marks the nationwide celebrations held in honour of the Auspicious Occasion of His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle or 72nd Anniversary Birthday on 5th December 1999. It also honours the fact that His Majesty King Bhumibol is currently the world’s longest reigning and Thailand’s most beloved and revered King.

Sunrise.

During his long reign, His Majesty King Bhumibol has selflessly and tirelessly devoted his life to ensuring the well-being of his subjects by focusing His efforts on agricultural development as a means of establishing a sustainable livelihood for his subjects. H.M. King Bhumibol has continuously looked for ingenious ways to harness this natural abundance in a way that is beneficial to the people while maintaining the delicate balance of the natural environment.

Indeed no one has a deeper appreciation of the country’s breathtaking natural landscape and the infinite value of its natural resources than His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Fascinated by the forces of nature, His Majesty King Bhumibol has devoted his life to an intensive study of the natural elements - earth, water and wind, and nature - forests, wildlife and other natural resources.

As a tribute to His Majesty King Bhumibol, it is most appropriate that the Tourism Plan 2000 has designated "Welcoming the Dawn of 2000", promoting a back to nature focus, as the theme for the Millennium celebrations in Thailand. In support of the event, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), provinces noted for spectacular sunset / sunrise attractions and respective public and private organizations will be responsible for the organization of the event. The active participation of local residents is being encouraged.

The wealth of beautiful natural resources in Thailand attracts both Thai and overseas tourists alike. "Welcoming the Dawn of 2000" offers New Year revelers, a novel alternative to the traditional boisterous celebrations and festivities. Program events and activities, to be held on the night of 31 December 1999, till the morning of 1 January 2000, offer a once in a lifetime chance to immerse oneself in the pristine, natural beauty and tranquility of the most remote locations of the Kingdom as we witness a fresh start to a new century.

Sunset.

Targeting both local and overseas tourists, "Welcoming the Dawn of 2000" provides an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature, stirring a sense of admiration and pride, while creating awareness of conservation activities for sustainable tourism.

Event implementation plans address 3 key areas: the identification of ‘most suitable destinations’ with the readiness and the capability of each location to serve tourists’ needs being given top priority; the promotion of locations with natural scenery of unrivaled beauty and the communication of information on key destinations in various provinces where sunrise and/or sunset can be observed as the world edges into a new century. Countdown activities will be held only in select locations with an emphasis on tourist participation.

"Welcoming the Dawn of 2000" also provides tourism industry operators with an ideal opportunity to develop special interest tourism products, presenting diverse options in ecotourism such as biking, camping, wildlife observation trips, rafting, bird watching, and trekking.

In preparation, there are plans to hold a conference to promote a better understanding of the event objectives among tourism-related businesses nationwide and to encourage the regions to consider the development and promotion of tour programs and the dissemination of information to persuade tourists to travel to various destinations under their area of responsibility to view the sunrise and/or sunset. A special tour program, "Welcoming the Dawn Of 2000" at selected destinations is currently under development by the Marketing Development Division and Youth Travel Division of TAT.

Through "Welcoming the Dawn of 2000", it is hoped that both the local as well as the foreign residents of Thailand will discover more about Thailand, thus promoting increased travel to the various provinces of Thailand. Other benefits generated include the promotion of event activities that support the development of ecotourism for sustainable tourism, and improved income distribution to all regions nationwide.

Eco-Tourism & Adventure Holidays

Canoeing on the Nakhon Nayok River & Whitewater Rafting on Kang Hin Peung in Prachin Buri

With their ancient monuments, art and culture and the immense beauty of their pristine, natural landscape, the provinces of Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri have much to offer. With the onset of the wet season, the rivers and streams are in full flow, replenished by the rains. This creates ideal conditions for rafting and canoeing and it is the time of the year to make the most of opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure holidays in the provinces of Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri.

Canoeing on the Nakhon Nayok River

The fast-flowing rapids and cataracts of Nakhon Nayok present a remarkable test of individual dexterity and endurance as one attempts to steer a kayak or canoe, navigating a series of sharp turns and manoeuvring around islets. The grading for Nakhon Nayok rivers is from Level 1 to 3, ranging from easy rapids, at times requiring some skill in manoeuvring the kayak / canoe around obstacles and rocks, to moderate rapids where rafting becomes exciting. At times, you may need to hold on to remain in control of the raft. Nature flourishes on the riverbanks.

Whitewater Rafting on Kang Hin Peung in Na Dee District, Prachin Buri Province

Kang Hin Peung (Hin Peung Rapids) is a stretch of river that flows through the Khao Yai National Park, recently designated as an ASEAN National Heritage Site. Noted for its wild beauty, it is considered to be one of the best managed parks in the world.

Ride the rapids in a rubber raft, which takes 6 to 8 persons at a time, with those at the stern and bow steering. Graded at Level 4 and 5, the stretch of the river is marked by difficult rapids with the continuous need to manoeuvre and control the raft at all times. At Level 5, rapid currents and difficult and steep rapids take the rafting challenge to its uppermost limit, but it’s still considered to be safe for river rafting.

For further information, contact: TAT Central Region Office - Region 8, phone: (037) 312 - 282, 312 - 284.

The last total solar eclipse of the millennium

by Elfi

"Eclipses are elusive and provoking things...visiting the same locality only once in centuries. Consequently, it will not do to sit down quietly at home and wait for one to come, but a person must be up and going and on the chase!" Rebecca R. Joslin spoke these wise words in 1929. To witness a total solar eclipse was a privilege only a few people experienced at that time. Nowadays, it is much easier. One simply has to book a flight to the place where an eclipse is taking place to enjoy this exciting experience.

On August 11th 1999, Romania will take the astronomic "Center Stage" for the last total solar eclipse of this decade, century and millennium. A total eclipse of the Sun occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, completely blocking out the Sun, and creating a huge shadow which moves across the ground at 500 meters per second. As Isabel M. Lewis already described it in 1924: "Once seen, however, it is a phenomenon never to be forgotten. The black body of the Moon standing out in sinister relief between Sun and Earth, the sudden out-flashing glory and radiance of the pearly corona which can be seen at no other time. The scarlet prominence rising from the surface of the hidden Sun to heights of many thousand miles, the unaccustomed presence of the brighter stars and planets in the daytime, the darkness of twilight and the unusual chill in the air. There is something in it all that affects even the strongest nerves and it is almost with a sigh of relief that we hail the return of the friendly Sun."

This year’s phenomenon of a total solar eclipse will cross many European countries, including England, France, the Benelux countries as well as Germany, Austria, Hungary and Yugoslavia. The shadow, bringing total darkness, will be about 112km wide and it will occur between 12:41to 15:28 local time, with the maximum eclipse occurring between 14:05 to 14:08 local time. Except for a glowing ring around the moon, the sun’s light will be totally blocked. The stars become visible during the middle of the day and since the sun, the moon and earth line up perfectly while the moon is directly over Romania, the people there will be able to enjoy the longest and most complete views of the eclipse. Arad, Timisoara, Deva, Hunedoara, Targu Jiu and Ramnicu Valcea the largest metropolitan area at the maximum geometric point of the eclipse, Bucharest, Pitesti, Targoviste, Ploiesti and Calarasi will have a perfect view of the event.

Romania will have the maximum amount of the sun coverage (103 %), meaning that from Romania looking up, the area of the moon will appear 3% larger than the sun. Another two centuries will pass before Europe will experience another total solar eclipse.

Romania is expecting many tourists to come to witness this rare phenomenon and preparations already started a year ago. This unusual event also presents an opportunity to encourage tourist activities, and to generally enhance the image of the country to the international community. Also, scientific preparations have begun and numerous scientists from all over the world are expected to gather in Romania in August. Only two major observatories, the Astronomic Observatory in Timioara and one in Bucharest, will be capable of observing and studying the eclipse at its peak. Specialist astronomers who will bring observation equipment belonging to various institutions will enjoy the legal provisions concerning temporary admission with exemption of the customs duties and other important fees. It is recommended that such interested institutions should contact the Institute for Astronomy of the Romanian Academy, in order to specify the type of equipment intended to be brought, for notification at the border points. The same status applies to the category of professional material used by media representatives, as well as the cinematographer material. Amateur astronomers who will temporarily come to Romania with personal equipment, as natural entities, will have to declare and produce at the customs points, the respective devices. The customs authorities will avail, upon request, declaration forms for travelers, to be filled in with the proper data on the equipment, in view of subsequently taking it out of the country.

For any further questions or information please contact the Romanian Embassy in Bangkok, Tel. 02-279 7902 or Fax: 02- 618 2458.

Americans celebrated 223rd Anniversary on the 4th of July

Message from HE Richard E. Hecklinger
Ambassador of the United States of America to Thailand

On this Independence Day, a time of national celebration in the United States, it is a special pleasure for me to share a few words with the readers of Pattaya Mail. Today, July 4, we Americans remember with pride the 223rd anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by the original "Thirteen United States of America". This Declaration stands as a cornerstone of our Republic, setting forth the essential American principle that all individuals are endowed "with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The Declaration articulated a profound commitment to freedom and independence that the United States has sought to uphold for more than two centuries.

This commitment to freedom and independence is shared by Thailand and the United States alike. In the words of His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, addressing the U.S. Congress in 1960: Although the Americans and the Thai live on opposite sides of the globe, yet there is one thing in common to them. It is the love of freedom.

Many important events have characterized the relationship between our two countries and our shared commitment to freedom throughout the 166 years of official ties, beginning with our Treaty of Amity signed in 1833. To this day, the memory endures of the sacrifices of the Seri Thai, joined by their American and Allied brethren, in their determined struggle during World War II. America likewise stood by her Thai friends in staunch support of the independence of the Kingdom in the years following the war. And ever since, in times of conflict and of peace, Thai and American forces have continued to stand side-by-side.

It is an honor to celebrate this American Independence Day in the kingdom of Thailand. As U.S. Ambassador, I commend the positive spirit, close cooperation and strong bonds that join Thais and Americans. Ours is a relationship marked by an elaborate, ever-expanding network of personal experiences and ties, as well as a broad and growing set of interests shared by our two countries and their governments.

That network of personal experiences and ties has grown through several generations of exchanges. Thousands of Thai students have furthered their education at a host of schools and universities across the United States, bridging geographical divides, and building a vast web of friendship among American and Thai communities. Thousands of Thais have gone to live and work in the United States and many have become U.S. citizens. Likewise, thousands of Americans have lived in Thailand, whether with business, government, foundations, universities, or serving in the Peace Corps. And of course many others have come as soldiers in times of war and peace.

Some say that nations have interests, not friendships. Certainly, both interests and friendship sustain the American and Thai relationship. The fabric of our relationship reaches far beyond the policies of governments, made up of thousands, if not millions, of threads of personal and professional contacts which governments and occasional clashes of interests cannot undo. As His Majesty so eloquently declared in 1960, Friendship of one government for another is an important thing. But it is friendship of one people for another that assuredly guarantees peace and progress.

At the core of our shared interests is our joint effort to promote regional stability and peace in Southeast Asia, including above all the preservation of the independence and freedom of Thailand. Thailand is one of five treaty allies the US has in Asia, and our military cooperation continues to be close and far-reaching. More than 21,000 Thai officers have received training in the US during the past five decades, adding to the personal ties that lie at the core of our overall relationship.

Our economic ties are also strong and enduring. In the face of the current economic challenges, the expansion of bilateral trade and investment is even more vital to both countries. The U.S. is now Thailand’s largest market as well as its second largest investor. American companies based in Thailand have reaffirmed their commitment to this country, acting as responsible citizens while demonstrating a continuing concern for the welfare of Thai communities. Thailand, as the center of a growing regional market, remains a very promising place to invest and do business.

The Thai-U.S. relationship has broadened over the years to encompass crucial transnational and regional issues. Our cooperation with Thailand in battling illicit drugs stands as a model for all nations. For more than three decades we have worked together on initiatives like the crop substitution and eradication programs that so impressed Secretary Albright during her visit in Chiang Mai in March. Our close cooperation in law enforcement is reflected in the creation in Bangkok of the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA), which is training law enforcement personnel from across Asia to combat transnational crime while upholding the rule of law and reinforcing core values of human rights. Also, every day Thailand and US medical personnel are working side by side to develop the means to treat and prevent the serious diseases which afflict the region - such as malaria, dengue fever, and HIV/AIDS. We are also working together to address such important issues as refugees, migration, and humanitarian demining.

All these programs and many more add to a strong, broad bilateral relationship. As with all such relationships, there are bound to be points of conflict and disagreement. Yet the fabric of Thai-US relations remains healthy, strong and dynamic, with our relations growing to encompass new issues and new challenges, moving beyond bilateral concerns as we work together to address regional and global challenges. Surely, a tear in the cloth can be mended when the underlying fabric is strong.

On this 4th of July, Americans will celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the principles it embodies. To my fellow Americans who will be spending this holiday in Thailand, I wish you a happy Independence Day. To our many Thai friends, I thank you for your more than 166 years of friendship and look forward to many more years of cooperation, as two friends joined together by mutual interests and by a common commitment to freedom.

Richard E. Hecklinger

Ambassador of the United States of America to Thailand

A look at our new Ambassador

Biographical Statement

Richard E. Hecklinger

Richard E. Hecklinger has been a member of the United States Foreign Service since 1967. He has devoted much of his recent career to international economic issues, serving as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs, Senior Advisor and Executive Assistant to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, and Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Mission to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). He has also been Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Canadian Affairs, and Senior Inspector in the Office of the Inspector General, where he led inspections of U.S. diplomatic posts in China and Mexico, among other nations.

While serving as Advisor to the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Mr. Hecklinger played an active role in the creation of the National Endowment for Democracy. During the energy crisis of the late 1970s, he directed an international energy policy office in the Department of State, and was acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs at the Department of Energy.

Mr. Hecklinger received degrees from Harvard Law School, the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and St. Lawrence University. He was born and raised in Syracuse, New York. He is married to Carol Pratt Hecklinger.

Royal Varuna - The Second Two Decades

This is the second of a three-part story describing the formation and development of sailing, yacht racing and cruising, principally in the Northern Gulf off the Jomtien-Pattaya coast at the Royal Varuna Yacht Club.

As the Varuna Club passed, last week, the forty-second anniversary of its founding on the first of July, 1957, the second two decades of this Club’s enormous contributions to Thailand’s marine leisure sector form the essence of this story.

Peter Cummins reports from Pattaya

The remarkable formative years of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club were described in Part I of this report, published in last week’s "Pattaya Mail". This period was greatly stimulated by the active participation of the members of Thailand’s Royal Family in Varuna’s yacht racing, sailing and social programmes.

Sailling is a Royal pastime, too. Here, HM The King's granddaughter, HRH Princess Bhajrakitiyabha tries a Laser off the Royal Varuna yacht Club recently. Photo Peter Cummins.

Yacht racing in the Kingdom took a quantum leap forward during that golden era when Varuna’s Royal Patron, HM the King created yachting history - still unmatched in the annals of sport. It was the first time a father and daughter had come equal first in a regional competition. When that father and daughter happened to be a reigning Monarch and a Princess, the record is not likely to be equalled in the near future. On 17 December 1967 HM the King and Princess Ubolratana stood together on the winner’s podium to receive gold medals from HM the Queen for equal-first placings in the OK dinghy class of the yachting division of the Fourth South East Asian Peninsular Games, now the Southeast Asian Games.

A Hobie Cat 16 driving hard in Pattaya Bay. Photo Cummins.

Although His Majesty does not sail anymore at the club upon which he bestowed Royal Patronage in 1966, there have been occasional visits from his daughter Princess Ubolratana. The Princess, certainly, shows each time that she has not lost any of the skills she acquired when sailing in the 1960s. Even the King’s granddaughter, Princess Bhajrakitiyabha went to Varuna recently and tried her hand at the helm of a Laser.

That was an era of wooden dinghies and spars, hemp ropes, heavy metal fittings and boats that took several people to lift and launch. Then, in the mid 1970s, all that changed and this second part of the history of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club covers an era of fibre-glass, high-speed catamarans, light duralumin fittings and high-tech carbon-fibre masts and rudders, appropriate in an age of rapid social and economic change, underscored by internet, lap-tops, mobile phones, video cameras, CD players and all the other trappings of life in the fast lane.

Hobie Cats tack along the coast against the Pattaya cityscape. Photo Peter Cummins.

Although Varuna has resisted the concrete jungle which now surrounds its pristine sea-front tranquillity, it has been unable to escape from a world that seems to be constantly moving ever faster. No one has as much time as in earlier days, when long hours were spent changing, tuning and, often, just "messing around" with wooden boats.

One of Royal Varuna’s early devotees, the incomparable Bill Avery, recalls the 60s and early 70s when Varuna members had what he called a "70-30" principle: 70 percent of the time was devoted to tinkering and imbibing a little in between; 30 percent was dedicated to actually sailing and racing. Or, as one devoted member phrased it: "Varuna then was a drinking club with a sailing problem." It has changed little in THAT context, certainly, since those halcyon days!

Then, with the advent of the first plastic and fibre-glass hulls in the mid-1970s, it became the opposite: sailors now spend 30 percent "fiddling" with their craft and 70 percent out there on the water - racing, sailing or just cruising. And, OF COURSE, still imbibing!

The big winner in this reversal has been standards: Royal Varuna and Royal Thai Navy helms have reached world class, evidenced by a Thai sailor becoming the Kingdom’s first world yachting champion, at Pattaya, in March, 1997.

The ’70s: The Decade Of Change

But, let us return to the history. Naturally, like any other human pursuits, sailing and yacht-racing change and evolve, with new types of craft bringing a somewhat different approach to the racing and social ambience which pervades any yacht club. Although there are still a few Enterprises, Fireballs an OK or two and other assorted wooden boats sailing around the Pattaya - and other - waters, it is the fibreglass, hi-tech catamarans and Lasers which now dominate the racing and sailing.

A Fireball driving hard at Pattaya: coming back for a world Championship in 2000. Photo Peter Cummins.

The catalyst for change was, no doubt, the introduction of the Hobie Cats, the prototype of which was brought into the Kingdom in the early l970s and the Laser, the single-hander which came in just after the Hobies. Not only have these Hobies greatly enhanced the weekend spectacles, but they have also become the major force in yacht racing at Varuna and elsewhere. The Laser, while not so colourful, nevertheless, has become Royal Varuna’s ubiquitous dinghy with huge fleets participating in regular club racing and national championships. With no crew required, the Laser is ideal for the busy technician or executive.

Actually, the catamaran has been around for more than 2000 years. The original craft known by the Tamil word "kattumaran", which have been plying the coastal waters of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rim for two millennia, are still regarded as the most primitive ocean-going vessel in existence. They are simply a raft of logs lashed together, devoid of any gear.

The only semblance to today’s sophisticated multi-hulls is purely coincidental. One source cites the "kattumuran" crew as "the most dextrous and daring seafarers in the world. They have to lean out to windward to balance the craft which tend to capsize easily."

While it is hard to relate the "daring seafarer" bit to our venerable Royal Varuna catamariners, many would certainly relate to the second statement.

Since the introduction of the Hobie Cats, the multi-hulls have tended to proliferate at Royal Varuna: Prindle l5, l6, l9; Nacra 5.0, 5.8, the 16 Square and the mighty 6.0. There are the Hobie Cat l4, 16, l7, l8, l9 and the Hobie Cat Wave. There are Top Cats, Darts, the Super Cat 20 and other assorted felines.

Yet, even though the Royal Varuna Yacht Club has succumbed to new technologies, reflected in the type of yacht now sailing around Pattaya waters as the New Millennium approaches, and among the massive changes which have befallen Pattaya during this period, this oasis has nonetheless remained a bastion of tranquility in a world sometimes gone awry.

Wild Ladies Night

After spending (or should that be mis-spending?) several hours at Samsara’s first Wild Ladies Night last Wednesday, it is difficult to know if this was intended to be a night for the wild ladies of Pattaya or a wild night in Pattaya for the ladies.

Whatever, the end result was the same. There were certainly some "wild" ladies present (1st and 2nd order!) and all the ladies present had a "wild" night.

Getting into the nightclub was easy, even though you had to duck your head and walk through a metal birdcage. Perhaps it was a symbolic release into the world of Samsara freedom!

The freedom some of the ladies were experiencing was certainly not your average night at a PILC meeting, for example. Unless doing "dirty dancing" with Pattaya’s answer to Mikhail Barishnikov is the usual these days.

With the house band, The Manila Connection, thumping out the numbers and all available space on the dance floor being used by writhing gyrators of all persuasions, it certainly was a night to remember.

For those who were unable to retain more than six days worth of data, there will be another Wild Ladies Night next Wednesday evening to refresh your memory. The favourite colour this week was black - lace especially! Next week? Anything "wild" will do! There will also be a competition series running to find Pattaya’s Wildest Woman. Get in training now.

Is your country ready for the Y2K bug? Part 5

The global travel & tourism industry is looking at the prospects of the turn of the Millennium being anything but a financial bonanza. As the nigh nears, and so does suspense over the impact of the Y2K bug, holiday-makers will be asking potential destinations: Is your country ready for it? Those who can say "yes" are going to make a heap of money. Those who are not sure, well, wait and see...

From Imtiaz Muqbil,
Executive Editor, Travel Impact Newswire

Travel

If you must be among the estimated 50 million Americans who plan to hit the road over the New Year holiday, try to leave at least a week before New Year’s Eve and return at least a week after. Avoid hotel-hopping entirely next Jan. 1; after that, keep your moves to a minimum.

Reservations

What could go wrong: Computerized reservations systems for airlines, trains, car rentals, ships, and hotels could malfunction come Jan. 1. One good early sign: Using patched-up airline-reservations systems, in early February travel agents were able to advance book the first flights after Jan. 1, 2000, without encountering problems.

What to do: As soon as you make your reservations, insist that every travel or lodging provider you will be relying upon send you written confirmation of your booking on its own letterhead, indicating any deposits or prepayments you may have made. (Don’t settle for a travel agent’s documents or verbal assurance). Have tickets in hand well before your departure, and call to reconfirm 24 hours in advance. Plan to arrive early at hotels so you won’t be locked out if guests exceed rooms. Buying trip-cancellation insurance may not solve your problems, since most policies regard Y2K as a "known peril" and, hence, not reimbursable.

For more information: The U.S. Consumer Gateway (www.consumer.gov/Y2K/transport.htm) includes links to many travel-related sites, including airlines Y2K web pages.

Airlines and airports

What could go wrong: No aircraft manufacturer; airline, or insurance company will let a plane take off unless convinced it will fly safely. Airports, however, depend on computer technology for everything from air-traffic control systems to baggage handling. Y2K glitches in any of these critical systems could cause airports to close, causing delays that would ripple throughout flight network. As recently as February, Congress graded the Department of Transportation, the agency that administers the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), an "F" for its "snail’s pace" in readying the air-traffic control system. Expect even more problems outside the U.S.

What to do: Avoid connecting flights if possible; anticipate delays and allow plenty of time. Aviation officials promise detailed Y2K status reports for individual airports and the air-traffic control system by the fall. At this time, the U.S. Canada, Australia, and Britain are reportedly among the best prepared overall for Y2K. Among the least prepared: Russia, China, Brazil, and Japan. The State Department plans to issue reports on Y2K vulnerability in specific countries by Oct. 1.

For more information: For the Y2K status of the air-travel industry, visit the web sites of the FAA (www.faa.gov) and the American Association of Airport Executives (Y2K. Airportnet. org). For overseas travel, see the web site of the International Civil Aviation Organization (www.icao.org/Y2K).

Trains

What could go wrong: Computer glitches could disable traffic-control systems, communications among trains, and the electricity that makes some of them run. Because trains share tracks, the failure of even one train or electrical zone could disrupt service for hundreds of miles.

What to do: Have a backup in case your train travel plans get derailed. Cars and buses are less vulnerable to Y2K problems (though traffic lights may be susceptible). If you do board a train over the holidays, bring enough food, water, and reading to get you through hours in limbo should your trip stop dead in its tracks.

For more information: The Federal Railroad Administration (www.fra.dot.gov) updates the readiness issues in the train industry.

Ships

What could go wrong: Modern ships run on chips - scores of embedded computer chips, more than one in five of which may be vulnerable to disruptions from Y2K. Failures could affect ship’s navigation and engine-control systems. Y2K snags in port operations (like fueling and berthing) or international telex lines (through which letters of credit pay bunkering bills en route) could stall maritime traffic, leaving even debugged ships stranded in port.

What to do: Cruise-line officials we’ve contacted promise smooth sailing come Jan.1. Still, common sense suggests that you stick to simple trips; the more ports a ship visits, the more Y2K-vulnerable operations it will encounter, especially outside U.S. waters. Avoid cruises that begin or end on Jan.1, and allow plenty of time to reach your port of departure.

For more information: Navigate to the U.S. Coast Guard web site, www.uscg.mil, or to an industry-sponsored site.

Cash and carry

What could go wrong: Potential Y2K problems with cash machines and with credit cards you use at home multiply when you’re on the road, especially if you travel abroad. You may be greatly inconvenienced if out-of-town banks, merchants, or hotels are unable to process credit or debit transactions or are unwilling to take your personal check. Y2K problems could also limit your access to prescription medicines and other essentials after Jan. 1.

What to do: Bring enough cash and travelers checks to get you through your trip in case you are unable to return home on schedule. Ditto for other basics, like medications you take regularly. If you must part with your baggage, carry those essentials in a bag with you, along with proof of health insurance, tickets, booking confirmations, and your passport if traveling abroad.

Travel documents

What could go wrong: The State Department (the folks who issue passports) also received a poor grade from Congress for inadequate Y2K preparedness. Foreign ministries and consulates of other countries (the folks who issue visas) may lag even further behind. Agencies like your local department of motor vehicles may experience similar logjams.

What to do: Get your passport, visas, or new driver’s license as early as possible. Make sure you have up-to-date copies of your health-insurance and car-insurance policies or any documentation you’d need if the world’s computers crash on vacation.

For more information: See the web site of the State Department (travel.state.gov).

Jesters “Care 4 Kids” Charity Drive ’99

by LWU

The planning for the 1999 Jesters "Care 4 Kids" Charity Drive has begun in earnest. Though last year was a huge success financially, the Jesters, now with some experience under their belts, would like to put on a more qualitative event. In order to realize this goal, we have augmented the planning committee of last year with the likes of Graham MacDonald of the British Chamber of Commerce, Harry Riley of the PSC Charity Section and Carol Smith and Diane Connolly of the PILC.

The bus donated last year has become a real workhorse.

This year we are putting on a family day with a Children’s Fair at AUA School on Thepprasit on Saturday, September 4th, a week before the main event at Delaney’s on the 11th. The first event will attempt to create a carnival atmosphere with booths and stalls amidst a variety of games and other recreational activities. The main event at Delaney’s would be as last year, but a more concise affair, especially in respect to the raffles and auctions. Already, we have secured a prize from Qantas of two round trip tickets between Bangkok and Sydney for our chief raffle prize. The evening at the Irish pub will also include a Carvery and live music around the money-raising functions. Additionally, there will be another sponsored cycle ride this year, as well as a charity rugby match.

The chief beneficiary this year will again be the club’s target charity, the Fountain of Life in North Pattaya, the day center for children of impoverished and dysfunctional families run by the Good Shepherd Sisters. Over the past year, the Center has benefited tremendously not only from the extra funds made available, but also from the publicity it has given them.

Children's day put on by the Jesters MC Club earlier in the year, complete with clown, balloons, ice cream and shirts.

As a result, attendance is now up a good 30% from 80 to about 120 kids daily. Furthermore, other benefactors have stepped forward, which have given the Sisters hope of securing an extended lease to the building they’re presently occupying as well as acquiring the larger building next door. There has also been an offer by a Ranong-based company to cover the cost of the Center’s vehicle repair and maintenance, which has always been a significant expense.

With the good news of a new lease and the acquisition of a larger building, which has allayed the Sisters’ fears of having to move elsewhere, the cost of running the Center will increase exponentially. They will now be able to accept even more children, which translates to needing more teachers and staff, providing more food and perhaps purchasing yet another vehicle. The number of children receiving scholarships, which allows them to attend public schools, will also rise proportionally.

Demonstrating how to brush one's teeth.

Moreover, it has come to light over the past months that the children are in dire need of proper dental and medical care, which was emphasized by a team of visiting Navy doctors recently. Besides finding a variety of malaises, they discovered that the majority of the kids had never seen a toothbrush, requiring some of the interns to demonstrate its usage. Besides providing medical treatment, we would also like to promote better health among the kids by supplementing their diet with more milk and other protein.

There are many other areas where the children’s curriculum at the Center can be enhanced, such as by scheduling more field trips or educational outings, and continuing to upgrade and increase the number of computers for the older kids.

Kids at the center.

Though there is no set target this year, we will endeavor to raise as much as possible with the lion’s share going to the Fountain of Life Center. We would also like to earmark partial proceeds for helping in the construction of a kindergarten and dormitory at the Camillion Center in Ban Chang for children whose parents have succumbed to AIDS.

In order to realize these goals, the club will again seek corporate sponsorship this year. The concept will be to solicit companies for Platinum donations of 100,000 baht, Gold of 75,000 baht, Silver of 25,000 baht and Bronze of 10,000 baht. All companies coming under these categories will receive respective recognition and media attention.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Jesters Charity Drive this year should contact Woody ([email protected]), Darren Rose ([email protected]), Paul Baker [email protected]), Kim Fletcher ([email protected]), Graham MacDonald ([email protected]) or Alice Poulsen ([email protected]).

Copyright 1998 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]
Updated by Chinnaporn Sangwanlek.