Suuai

Monthly news for Chiang Mai and surrounding areas of Thailand

December  2024

Suadee krup from beautiful Thailand! “High Season” has gotten underway with Loy Krathong, one of Thailand’s most beautiful and significant festivals. It translates to “floating basket,” symbolizing the letting go of past misfortunes and negative feelings, and making a wish for the future.

Prior to Loy Krathong, the month of October was hit with heavy rains and record flooding, devastating businesses and residences. Water levels could be seen as high as 6 feet, with the aftermath proving to be a test of patience and hope: mud. After weeks of a proverbial clean-out, businesses finally resumed back to “normal,” and locals tried to make sense of what just happened. The Shangri-La hotel in Chiang Mai was the envy of the town by pre-planning and constructing a removal water barrier that magnificently kept the hotel dry and helped it escape the dreaded river of mud.

Chinatown was especially a sorry sight, with rolls and rolls of fabrics soaked in water and mud. One shop owner, in sorrow and disbelief, muttered, “How is it possible to continue to go on?” Even Lanna Hospital got flooded, located about a quarter mile from the Ping River. Seeing waves crash against the Duke’s restaurant, caused by passing cars, was a sobering sight of just how much water had hit the area.

Despite a wall of city setbacks, Chiang Mai University managed to carry out its annual freshman inauguration run up Doi Suthep mountain (5,000 feet). It was an event of camaraderie, beauty, endurance, and respect that started at 4 AM with over 10,000 students.

The Humong hill tribe also managed to come out despite the heavy rains to put on a fashion show featuring hill tribe wears and traditional costumes. It was a jaw-dropping fashion moment reminiscent of New York’s vibrant runway scenes.

I hope you enjoy the pictures, capturing all the amazing happenings in beautiful Thailand!

Smiles,    Jonky

• 1) Retirement Home in Thailand 
• 2) Xpat gets critical care in Thailand hospital 
• 3) Holistic Cancer Survivor Living in Thailand
  
• 4) Underprivileged Students get a scholarship in culinary arts

1) Retirement Home in Thailand

Chang Noi Wheelchair Accessible Resort
changnoiresort.co.th

$14,117/ yr ($1176/mo)  includes breakfast

Chang Noi Wheelchair Accessible Resort in Pranburi, Thailand, offers a fully accessible and inclusive environment tailored for individuals using wheelchairs, elders, and families. The resort features spacious rooms adhering to the DIN 18040 German standard for barrier-free buildings, ensuring accessible bathrooms and comfortable accommodations. Amenities include a swimming pool equipped with a lift for wheelchair users, beautifully landscaped gardens, and proximity to local attractions such as Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and Hua Hin Night Market. The resort is located just a 15-minute walk from the beach, providing guests with easy access to the serene shores of Pranburi.

Chang Noir Resort

email at changnoipranburi@gmail.com or by phone at (+66) 91 065 6824.

The Isan Project: A Celebration of Creativity and Legacy

The Isan Project proudly launches its latest masterpiece: a stunning documentary chronicling its groundbreaking journey through Thailand’s cultural and musical landscape. Featuring highlights of past works that have captivated audiences worldwide, the film dives deep into the artistry, passion, and vision that define the project.

With exclusive interviews from collaborators and affiliates, this documentary honors the genius of Will Robinson, whose magnificent talent has brought Thailand’s vibrant spirit to life. From heartfelt testimonials to behind-the-scenes footage, the film celebrates his unparalleled ability to weave music and visuals into a tapestry of cultural pride and global resonance.

A tribute to “Thailand: Amazing Thailand,” this documentary is not just a look back but a testament to the power of storytelling, music, and the enduring beauty of Thailand’s heritage.

2) Xpat gets critical care in Thailand hospital

A crushing story that’s been closely watched daily is about Tony Ives, the late Majesty Queen of England II personal race horse jockey, who has been hospitalized here in Thailand (Chiang Rai).

Tony was admirably honored as one of the best jockeys of his time and was treasured by the late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as her personal race jockey. He developed a close bond with her through their shared passion for racing, making his contributions to the sport and to the royal family particularly significant. Fans and supporters are hoping for his swift recovery during this challenging time while being treated for Sepsis.

A note from his good friend Will Robinson:

Tony Ives update 18th November 15.13pm. Today I went to see Tony and met Khun Saxon and Khun Nam the Overbrook hospital translators and I also had a meeting with DR.Sujaree MD she is one of the two doctors looking after Tony. Yesterday Tony’s fever came back and he’s back on Antibiotics today for infection in his arm, leg and shoulder. Even though he was tired today he has got a lot better recently and the doctor say she now expects Tony to be allowed home in the next 7-14 days. It is a setback but the doctor said he’s a lot better now and with support he should be back on his feet soon. Thank you again everyone. Thanks to Khun Ae, the Mayor of Mae Sai for getting the letter and discount for us. Also to Khun Siriphan and the Riverie for being great support, also Mrs Phamee Doi phamee coffee , John Robinson and all the team at Overbrook Hospital. But most of all thanks to all his friends for funding this emergency care for Tony xxx David Harrison The Injured Jockeys Fund Ian McBride The Riverie by Katathani Jack Lui Jonky Dawson Nick Tanner
Go Fund me – Tony Ives.

Top 5 things to do in Hua Hin
1)  “Hello” Beach
2)  Moonsoon Valley Vineyard
3)  Hutsadin Elephant Foundation
4)  Pa La-U Waterfall
5)  Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

3) Holistic Cancer Survivor Living in Thailand 

A Journey of Survival and Transformation

Marike Van Breugel, a local Chiang Mai xpat entrepreneur and the CEO of Pure Thai Naturals, a company dedicated to creating organic and chemical-free health and beauty products.  Of Dutch descent but raised in Australia, Marike’s journey to Thailand over 20 years ago was born out of a deeply pesonal battle with cancer.

Diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of 27, Marike faced a relentless series of challenges as the disease returned four times over the years. The side effects of chemotherapy severely compromised her immune system, leading her to seek alternative methods of healing. Thailand’s rich natural resources and established supply chain for organic products made it the ideal destination for her to embrace a holistic, healthy lifestyle.

Marike followed an intensive 30-day detox program centered around clean eating, organic health products, and the complete elimination of chemical-based items from her daily routine. To her amazement and relief, her efforts led to her being declared cancer-free—a life-changing milestone that sparked her mission to make organic products more accessible to others.

The Birth of Pure Thai Naturals

Frustrated by the difficulty of finding organic beauty and lifestyle products during her recovery, Marike founded Pure Thai Naturals, a company committed to delivering products made exclusively with organic ingredients. Under her leadership, the company has developed 76 natural products, with additional innovations in progress.

A Vision for Health and Sustainability

Marike emphasizes the importance of examining everyday products, noting that items such as mosquito sprays, incense, and body lotions often contain harmful toxins. This realization became the cornerstone of Pure Thai Naturals, which prioritizes safe, eco-friendly, and chemical-free solutions.

Flagship Product: Organic Mosquito Spray

Pure Thai Naturals’ organic mosquito spray has become the company’s flagship product, demonstrating the effectiveness of natural alternatives while driving demand across other product categories. Marike’s vision has turned Pure Thai Naturals into a trusted name for those seeking a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

Her journey from personal health struggles to professional triumph highlights the power of resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Pure Thai Naturals stands as a testament to Marike’s dedication to a cleaner, healthier future.
Website = https://purethainaturals.com
FB & IG @purethainaturals
tiktok: pure.thai.natural

4) Underprivileged Students get a scholarship in culinary arts

An update from the Culinary Arts Foundation of Thailand, teaching underprivileged students a profession in culinary arts for free!   A message from the founder Brian Pern:

1. What is Chiang Mai best known for?

Chiang Mai is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, vibrant night markets, and as a gateway to northern Thailand’s lush mountains and tribal villages. It is also famous for its annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival.

2. What activities can tourists do in Chiang Mai?

Tourists can explore ancient temples, take a cooking class to learn traditional Thai dishes, visit the Elephant Nature Park for ethical elephant interactions, go trekking in the surrounding mountains, or shop at the Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street Market.

3. When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is between November and February when the weather is cool and dry. This period also includes popular events like the Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November) and the Flower Festival (February).

Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit

It’s the longest place name in the world.

Everopendoor@gmail.com

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