THIS MONTH
Hua Hin Events
A recent visitor to Hua Hin was Virada (Oui) Nirapathpongporn, a 2nd year player on the US LPGA tour, shown here flanked by Michael Christensen (caddie) and Michael van Amelsvoort (head professional at Springfield).
Dylan Young makes his first appearance in the observer having arrived at Petcharat hospital on Dec. 28th - congratulations to Martin and Thittima.
The curran/callaghan table at the Butterfly Rock Christmas party, held at the Sailom hotel (more photos in the end of year report).
Johnny and Berny at the Hua Hin Golf Society charity bash at the Dusit (more photos on the golf society report page).
Hua Hin Online Community
Hot topics of the month revolve around traffic and road safety once again. We cannot emphasize this enough and still wonder what goes through the minds of all the farangs we often see cruising around Hua Hin on motorbikes with no helmets on – your head is worth more than 200 baht! For those that like a little more protection full face helmets can be purchased at the Pae Mai Tuesday market for 700 baht. Still on the road we had a discussion about buying new cars and the various new dealerships that have recently opened up in Hua Hin. What we would like is some new parking spaces to accommodate all these new road users but we know we're asking too much there!
The accommodation section has been busy as always over the peak months and we welcome a new guesthouse to Hua Hin – Ananthara located on Chomsin Road has newly furnished comfortable rooms at great rates, they also have a “chill out bar” called Rich Lounge Club on Naresdamri Road near the seafood restaurants. Speaking of restaurants if you like authentic Thai food and even a good old sing along get yourself down to Yacht Cuisine on Naebkehardt Road, they offer a dining and karaoke experience in one.
The property section was again filled with people asking about another clampdown on foreign companies. The latest seems to be targeting large corporations and foreign voting rights of shareholders; the likely source of this latest move was the sale of Shincorp to a foreign owned company. However, by attempting to prevent future blunders they seem only to be succeeding in driving foreign investment elsewhere.
WT Thailand has launched a series of personal fitness programs for those looking to shed a few pounds after an indulgent festive season. You can take the intensive fitness course or train at a more leisurely pace with your own personal fitness instructor, for more information call them on 086-8039085 or email office@wt-thailand.com
Internet woes continue to plague everyone, as the connections in town seem to have deteriorated following an earthquake in Taiwan several weeks ago, which damaged international cables. Every network seems to have been affected which makes simple online tasks a nightmare; we hope that this will get fixed soon.
The “ask the expats” section had a number of requests for schooling information, books, pond filters, signs, and motorbikes ... it is the best place to get real local knowledge.
On a final note our thoughts go out to those who suffered in the rail accident that occurred in Hua Hin on the 14th of January.
HHAD forums are the definitive online message boards and discussions for the area with over 2,200 members. There are sections for finding and booking accommodation, seeking out bargains, and exploring the local area and beyond. There is also a nightlife section for the night owls, a restaurant and feeding guide along with an online meeting point for visa runners and clubs. The ever popular “Ask the expats” section is great for quickly getting the answers you need from the people that live here.
Logon and find out what is happening in Hua Hin:
What will the Chinese New Year to bring you?
Are you a pig? Or maybe a snake? Well that will all depend on when you were born, according to Chinese astrology, and more importantly, will affect what type of person you are. So find out here if you are more like Hitler or Hendrix, mother Theresa or Osama Bin Laden! (In order, a rat, horse, dog and rooster)
The Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival/Lunar New Year is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. It is 15 days starting on the first day of the first lunar month (Zheng Yue) of the Chinese calendar. The Chinese New Year period ends with (Yuan Xiao Jie), on the fifteenth day of the festival. In 2007 the start is on February 18th, and heralds the year of the Pig (or Wild Boar more correctly), and those born this year will have their fortune and character dictated by the complex Chinese calendar and astrology, which we will outline over the following pages.
Chinese astrology is the divination of the future from the Chinese calendar, particularly its 12-year cycle of animals, referred to as the Chinese Zodiac. This fortune-telling system is derived from the principle characteristics of the system: the Zodiac, the five elements of Chinese thought, calendar cycles based on astronomy, and ancient Chinese religion. The Chinese Zodiac refers to a pure calendar cycle: there are no equivalent constellations like those of the occidental zodiac.
The ancient Chinese astronomers called the five major planets by the names of the element they were associated with: Venus corresponds to Metal (gold); Jupiter to Wood; Mercury to Water; Mars to Fire; Saturn to Earth. It is said that the position of these planets, along with the positions of the Sun, Moon and any comets in the sky as well as time of birth and Zodiac Sign can determine a person's destiny according to Chinese Astrology.
A laborious system of computing one's fate and destiny based on one's birthday and birth hours is still used regularly in modern day Chinese astrology to divine one's fortune. The twenty-eight Chinese constellations are quite different from the eighty-eight Western constellations.
The cycles of years that are in use nowadays are derived from the age-old sexagenary cycle of 60 days that has been documented at least since the time of the Shang Dynasty. This basic cycle has been constructed from two cycles: the 10 heavenly stems and the 12 earthly branches, and this has later been applied to years instead of days.
There is a binary Yin and Yang cycle, which enlarges the five elements cycle to a cycle of 10. Even years are yang, odd years are yin. The cycle proceeds as follows:
If the year ends in 0 it is Yang Metal. If the year ends in 1 it is Yin Metal.
If the year ends in 2 it is Yang Water. If the year ends in 3 it is Yin Water.
If the year ends in 4 it is Yang Wood. If the year ends in 5 it is Yin Wood.
If the year ends in 6 it is Yang Fire. If the year ends in 7 it is Yin Fire.
If the Year ends in 8 it is Yang Earth. If the year ends in 9 it is Yin Earth.
FIVE ELEMENTS: The Yin or Yang is broken down into Five Elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth) on top of the cycle of animals. These are modifiers and afflict the characteristics of each of the 12 animal signs. Each element has features that apply to both years and the animals. An element plus a Yin Yang Direction govern each of the 12 animals. They are divided into 4 groups.
The balance of yin and yang and the five elements in a person's make-up has a major bearing on what is beneficial and effective for them in terms of Feng Shui, the Chinese form of geomancy. This is because each element is linked to a particular direction and season, and their different kinds of qì (Chi) or life force.
THE TWELVE ANIMALS: Each individual personality is associated with an animal that represents it. This is where many Chinese Astrology descriptions in western society draw solely from. Each year in the 60-year cycle contains twelve animals, each with five possible elements, which distinctively vary the base animal's personality that equals to 90 possible combinations.
The twelve zodiac animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep/Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig
It is a common misconception that there are only the singular animals assigned by year. These yearly cycles represent what others perceive you as being: while a person might appear to be a dragon they might actually be a snake internally and an ox secretively. Combined with 5 elements, this makes for 8640 combinations (5 elements, 12 animals, 12 months, 12 times of day). The inner animal is assigned by the month of birth. This dictates your love life and inner persona and is critical to a proper understanding of your compatibility with other signs. It may be considered what the individual wishes to become, or believes to be their true self. The secret animal is determined by exact time of birth and is your own true sign that your personality is based on. It is important to compensate for daylight savings or any clock adjustment performed by your country, as it is mapped according to the sun's location and not the local time.
The following pages are the attributes of the twelve animal signs:
RAT: Being the first sign of the Chinese zodiac, rats are leaders, pioneers and conquerors. They are charming, passionate, charismatic, practical and hardworking. Rat people are endowed with great leadership skills and are perhaps the most organized and systematic of the twelve signs. Intelligent and cunning at the same time, rats are highly ambitious and strong-willed people who are keen and unapologetic promoters of their own agendas, which often include money and power. They are energetic and versatile and can usually find their way around obstacles, and adapt to various environments easily. A rat's natural charm and sharp demeanour make it an appealing friend for almost anyone, but rats are usually highly exclusive and selective when choosing friends and so often have only a few very close friends whom they trust.
Behind the smiles and charm, rats can be terribly obstinate and controlling, insisting on having things their way no matter what the cost. These people tend to have an immense control of their emotions, which they may use as a tool to manipulate and exploit another person, both emotionally and mentally. Rats are masters of mind games and can be very dangerous, calculating and downright cruel if they want. They can be terrible gossips and selfish busybodies. Rats need to learn to relax sometimes, as they can be quite obsessed with detail and have an anal-retentive personality.
A valuable lesson for Rats is to learn to consider others before themselves, at least sometimes, and to avoid forcing their ideas onto others. Rats are fair in their dealings and expect the same from others in return, and can be deeply affronted if they feel they have been deceived or that their trust has been abused. Sometimes they set their targets too high, whether in relation to their friends or in their career. But as the years pass, they will become more idealistic and tolerant. If they can develop their sense of self and realize it leaves room for others in their life as well, Rats can find true happiness.
Traditionally, Rats should avoid Horses, but they can usually find their best friends and love interests in Monkeys, Oxen, and Dragons.
OX: The Ox is the sign of prosperity through fortitude and hard work. This powerful sign is a born leader, being quite dependable and possessing an innate ability to achieve great things. As one might guess, such people are dependable, calm, and modest. Like their animal namesake, the Ox is unswervingly patient, tireless in their work, and capable of enduring any amount of hardship without complaint.
Ox people need peace and quiet to work through their ideas, and when they have set their mind on something it is hard for them to be convinced otherwise. An Ox person has a very logical mind and is extremely systematic in whatever they do, even without imagination. These people speak little but are extremely intelligent. When necessary, they are articulate and eloquent.
The Ox is not extravagant, and the thought of living off credit cards or being in debt makes them nervous. The possibility of taking a serious risk could cause the Ox sleepless nights. Ox people are truthful and sincere, and the idea of wheeling and dealing in a competitive world is distasteful to them. They are rarely driven by the prospect of financial gain. These people are always welcome because of their honesty and patience. They have many friends, who appreciate the fact that the Ox people are wary of new trends, although every now and then they can be encouraged to try something new.
It is important to remember that the Ox people are sociable and relaxed when they feel secure, but occasionally a dark cloud looms over such people and they engage all the trials of the whole world and seek solutions for them.
TIGER: Tiger people are difficult to resist, for they are magnetic characters and their natural air of authority confers a certain prestige on them. They are tempestuous yet calm, warm-hearted yet fearsome, courageous in the face of danger yet yielding and soft in mysterious, unexpected places. They enjoy life full of challenges and unexpected events, like visiting unusual places and meeting interesting outstanding people. Other people in their area are easily attracted by the tiger's enthusiasm and course of life. Tigers find pleasure in the unpredictable, and while other people would rather make a backward step, they are not afraid to explore the new and unusual. But it is not that simple to interest the Tiger. What they really need is first-hand experience. Usually open and frank, these people are likely to withdraw and can be aggressive when trapped. As soon as the Tiger has regained their sense of security their confidence also returns, enabling them to set out once more. These people usually tend to trust their instincts, though there is another side of their personality, which assesses situations thoughtfully before they launch any actions. Their friends usually secretly admire their determination and optimism, though sometimes may find it complicated to share the Tiger's enthusiasm and can be pushed away and left behind. In spite of the fact that Tigers can be courageous and generous friends, if they are not able to achieve what they want, they can be inflexible and self-centred. So if your friend was born in the year of the Tiger, there will be highs and lows in your friendship, but the friendship itself will remain firm.
Ideal jobs for tigers include entrepreneur, military officer, politician, musician, writer, poet, artist, theatre director, stockbroker, athlete, film star, trade union leader, company director, stunt person, explorer, and lawyer.
RABBIT: Those following traditional Chinese astrology consider people born in the Year of the Rabbit to make ideal diplomats or politicians. In Chinese astrological thought, a “rabbit person” is graceful, cultured and well mannered. Although Rabbit people get along well with many people, at heart they are considered to be basically reserved creatures, and are only truly happy when engrossed in some sort of scholarly or intellectual activity. Rabbit people are considered too sensitive for the world around them; they are not able to thrive in competitive or aggressive environments, and are anxious when others force them to take risks. Their inner world is considered too delicate for unsettled or unpredictable situations, and they tend to create peaceful and comfortable atmospheres--like rabbit dens--instinctively. According to traditional Chinese astrology, this characteristic makes them very hospitable and attentive people, who take care of those around them. The average Rabbit person emphasizes the importance of small details. They pay attention to everything from colour, design and furniture to food and conversation. And only when they are sure that everything has been arranged as they wish can these people relax and have fun. People born in the year of Rabbit often lead a conservative lifestyle where one of the most important things is their security. This quality has a negative side also: opting for safety over risk, they may miss good opportunities. This does not imply that these people are frivolous or irresponsible, for when they truly believe in something, they are serious, persevering and capable.
They are calm so it is not easy to provoke Rabbit people. They are sentimental and compassionate. They can be moved by the personal problems you share with them.
DRAGON: The Dragon is omnipotent. He is flamboyant, attractive and full of vitality and strength. In China , the Dragon is the sign of the Emperor of China or the male element Yang. The Dragon is the symbol of power and wealth. It would be right to say that people born in the year of the dragon have a natural charisma and are certainly gifted with power and luck. It is unlikely for them to escape unnoticed from a party or to take second place in a competition. The dragon person has an active mind and shows an unfeigned interest in the world around him/her. This person is also self-confident enough to know how to create a necessary impression. Because they are larger than life themselves, dragon people like to do everything on a grand scale. They are egotistical and ambitious, almost to the point of megalomania, and will stop at nothing to get what they want. A person born in this year wears the crown of destiny, and is capable of great achievements if he or she knows how to harness his or her tremendous energy, intelligence and talent. While these people enjoy being the centre of attention, they also have a brave and charitable side to their personality. If a dragon's friend faces a problem or dilemma, he or she will be there to offer help, and when others leave the field of battle the dragon takes a step forward to solve the problem with authority and dignity. Dragons set a high standard of actions for themselves as well as for other people and are surprised when others cannot cope with a task; they are so carried away by the process that they fail to see other people's weaknesses. Ideal jobs for dragons include managing director, salesperson, advertising executive, barrister, film producer, architect, astronaut, artist, film star, and war correspondent.
SNAKE: The person born in the year of snake is perhaps the wisest and most enigmatic of all. He/she can become a philosopher, a theologian, a political lizard or a wily financier. Such a person is a thinker who also likes to live well. The snake-person loves books, music, clothes, and fine food; but with all their fondness for the good things in life, their innate elegance gives them a dislike for frivolities and foolish talk.
Snake-persons like communicating and like interesting conversations; if the conversation becomes repetitive their attention may soon wander. It is almost impossible to fix their attention for long talking about every day habits. They prefer to focus on new, interesting and evolutionary ideas in general.
These people have a special talent that enables them to judge situations correctly. They are alert to new possibilities: when they have an idea of what to do and how to do it, they will pursue it persistently and energetically. In Chinese astrology it is believed that they are self-confident and willing to listen to someone else's opinion, but don't necessarily take it ‘on board'. Refusing to listen to constructive advice, they may be prone to getting into needless trouble.
Although it is difficult for such people to take advice, they are patient with others when it comes to giving a helping hand, and their ability to look at a problem from a variety of angles is extremely useful. When faced with a dilemma, snake people, as a rule, act with speed and conviction, since they believe intensely in what they are doing and rarely waste time or energy on projects lacking in good potential.
HORSE: The horse personality is often willing to give as well as expecting a lot of liberty. These people are extremely independent and confident. The horse person is very quick-witted, inquisitive and determined. They are very good at recognizing patterns: he or she is on to the thought in your mind even before you've expressed it. In general, these people are gifted. But in truth they are often more cunning than intelligent - and they surely know that. They adore being the centre of everyone's attention, but they prefer to be recognized for their skills and are easily flattered. On the other hand these people have an honesty and genuine warmth that attracts lots of people and helps them make new friends. People as a rule confide in a horse person because he/she is sincerely interested in their thoughts and feelings and is able to help with both wise words and an action, but there is a small problem about it - the horse person is so excited by new discoveries that it is difficult for them to keep a secret. This is not something that arises out of malice or revenge - sometimes they just cannot help themselves.
It is easy to inspire such a person by new ideas and he/she tends to act on them without delay, carried away by the excitement of the moment. But it is also important to remember that there is a danger for a horse person to be too impulsive and it may cause some problems in the future. And if they do not see the result of their efforts, it is rather natural for them to turn their attention to a new project and head off once again, brimming with new ideas. The horse person is always ready to offer good advice and can be very persuasive, but his/her confident and carefree approach hides inner doubts. Those who know such a person will recognize this, and offer the support and reassurance he/she needs. A male that is born in the year of the horse is considered as a charming, suave person to a member of the opposite sex.
Horses should beware of the Rat, as any relationship with this sign is said to be extremely trying for the horse. Of all relationships between Chinese zodiac signs, a relationship between a rat and a horse is said to be the worst (this relationship from a historical point of view, climaxed or was at its worst at the height of World War II, when Germany governed primarily by the sign of the rat threatened the destruction of the Jews (Israel, which is governed primarily by the horse)). The rat is way too calculating, dictatorial and possessive for the free-spirited and independent horse. A relationship with a rat can potentially break down the horse's free spirit and cause rage in the rat - as neither will be willing to yield to the other. However, horses get along great with Tigers and Dogs.
Possible professions for people that are born on the year of the horse are that of an intelligence agent, a writer or novelist, an actor or a model.
SHEEP: The Sheep, or Goat, oddly enough, is thought to be the most artistic sign of the zodiac, perhaps because this is a very creative sign. The Sheep is artistically talented and has a great sense of fashion. Chances are that this type will prefer to be a designer or painter, or go into the kind of profession where he/she can make the most of his/her gift for creating beautiful things.
These people are considerate creatures - they think before acting, and try not to hurt anyone's feelings. If it ever happens that the Sheep person causes unforeseen problems, it is very likely that he/she will step forward to rectify the situation. This side of their character helps them maintain a healthy social life as well as enabling them to deal with life's ups and downs.
Sympathy is very important to these people, as is the approval of people they respect. However, they sometimes require too much attention and impose too much on those who are close to them.
Sometimes they are too sensitive for the real world; they often misinterpret situations. People born in this year are insecure. They need to feel loved and protected. They are easily drawn into complex predicaments. This being, so, they usually shy away from confrontation, pull back when faced with heavy decision-making situations, and blatantly refuse to take an unpopular stand in a conflict.
MONKEY: The Monkey is the most versatile sign of the Chinese zodiac. Such people are often inventors, plotters, entertainers and the creative geniuses behind anything ingenious, including mischief. They have natural quick-wittedness, which enables them to understand what is happening and then make a right decision. Even during a conversation a person born in this year is aware of what is going on around him/her, and then makes a mental note of who said what and stores it away for future reference. In general, with their agile minds and multiple talents, monkey type of people can master any subject. They are reliable and honest people so that any secret is safe in their hands. These people are also honest in their dealings. Monkey people are very good at problem solving. Monkeys know how to listen closely and work out solutions at the same time.
Although these people are trustworthy and unlikely to hurt someone out of spite, they would never let people escape if they have behaved badly or damaged monkey's reputation. Their stamina and determination to achieve their main goals can make these people appear vain or manipulative. It means that monkey type of people should be careful so not to damage their friendships. It is important to remember for this type of people that it would be wiser sometimes not to pursue their goals and simply let things pass.
Monkeys have flexible principles and serene self-confidence so they are completely content; but they usually manage to complicate the lives of others. After yet another plan or project has gone wrong, they are seldom there to help clean up the disorder and confusion that they leave in their wake. Monkeys can handle that too; with their charm and persuasiveness they can make people believe that just knowing them is a privilege!
Ideal professions/jobs for the monkeys are Entrepreneurs, Film directors, Producers, Engineers, Musicians, Athlete, Film Star, and Business Leaders
ROOSTER: People born in the year of the Rooster are usually very observant. They are brave, resilient, sexy, and tenacious but can also be quite self-absorbed, pretentious, and overly romantic. Most of the time, they are very accurate and precise with their observation.
These people certainly love to find themselves in the spotlight, they love entertaining friends and adore meeting new people, and even unexpected and uncertain circumstances are not a barrier for them.
It is almost impossible to find someone born in this year looking dowdy or untidy. The fact is that these people are usually the best dressed and groomed of all other people. They are actively interested in clothes, colours, and accessories, and are usually very critical of their own appearance as well as of the appearance of those around them. People born in the year of the Rooster like to be noticed and flattered. Such a person might dress a little flashily with this in mind, but in his heart, he/she is completely conservative. Roosters always appear attractive and beautifully turned out. They are sociable and love to receive attention. Others may criticize them for being exhibitionists but the fact that they are compassionate, wise, and have a brave nature, which comes to the fore when others need their help, makes up that deficiency.
It is difficult for these people to accept advice because of their strong independent spirit. These people are often confident in their own judgements and choices. There are times when these people may be too straightforward, which can cause some problems in relationships with others. So it would be wise sometimes not to express their opinions in order to keep the peace.
The ideal job for a rooster is a doctor, lawyer.
DOG: Like his animal namesake, he is Loyal with a capital “L”. He is the one who people are most likely to turn to when they need help. The dog person will come through every time. That is because he/she is sensitive to others and empathizes with them, particularly if someone has suffered an injustice; he/she reacts quickly with the same feeling as though he/she had been personally offended. Friends know that they can rely upon their Dog friend to keep a promise or remain cool in a crisis.
Dog types are honest, intelligent and straightforward. They will take on any responsibility that is given to them and you can be sure that they will do their job well.
People born in this year tend to be difficultly upset and shocked more often than the other signs.
The dog is loyal, unselfish, and idealistic. They can sometimes be worriers and overly critical. Dogs go best with tigers and horses. Their friends are other dogs, tigers, horses and rabbits. Dogs get along worst with Dragons, whom they perceive as arrogant and all flash with no substance.
PIG: The Pig type is usually an honest, straightforward and patient person. He/she is a modest, shy character that prefers to work quietly behind the scenes. When others despair, he/she is often there to offer support. This type of person is reserved with those they do not know too well, but as time passes and they gain confidence, those around them may discover a lively and warm-hearted person behind that mask of aloofness. Despite those born in the year of pig having a wide circle of friends and acquaintances, they have few close friends who understand them and share their inner thoughts and feelings. It is easy to put trust in pig type; he/she won't let you down and will never even attempt to do so. Such people simply want to do everything right according to social norms.
It is important to remember that these people are not vengeful creatures. If someone tries to take advantage of him/her, the pig types tend to withdraw to reflect on the problem and protect themselves. All they need in such situations is a little time to find a constructive way to respond. The people of the pig type are conservative creatures of habit. They dislike being made to travel too far from familiar surroundings, unless it is a trip to the countryside. They love nature and are never happier than when they are out somewhere, far from the city.
There is a tolerant and peaceful side to their character. Such people are never afraid to allow others their freedom of expression; they do not want to cause arguments and if there is any way to avoid arguing, they will probably take this option. They are not weak, however, and if the situation forces them to fight these people will rise to the occasion, whether it is to defend themselves or those close to them. People of the Pig type are the most admired by others.
1900-1960 1960-2020 Element Sign
Begin End Begin End
1900 Jan 31 1901 Feb 18 1960 Jan 28 1961 Feb 14 Metal Rat
1901 Feb 19 1902 Feb 07 1961 Feb 15 1962 Feb 04 Metal Ox
1902 Feb 08 1903 Jan 28 1962 Feb 05 1963 Jan 24 Water Tiger
1903 Jan 29 1904 Feb 15 1963 Jan 25 1964 Feb 12 Water Rabbit
1904 Feb 16 1905 Feb 03 1964 Feb 13 1965 Feb 01 Wood Dragon
1905 Feb 04 1906 Jan 24 1965 Feb 02 1966 Jan 20 Wood Snake
1906 Jan 25 1907 Feb 12 1966 Jan 21 1967 Feb 08 Fire Horse
1907 Feb 13 1908 Feb 01 1967 Feb 09 1968 Jan 29 Fire Sheep
1908 Feb 02 1909 Jan 21 1968 Jan 30 1969 Feb 16 Earth Monkey
1909 Jan 22 1910 Feb 09 1969 Feb 17 1970 Feb 05 Earth Rooster
1910 Feb 10 1911 Jan 29 1970 Feb 06 1971 Jan 26 Metal Dog
1911 Jan 30 1912 Feb 17 1971 Jan 27 1972 Feb 14 Metal Pig
1912 Feb 18 1913 Feb 05 1972 Feb 15 1973 Feb 02 Water Rat
1913 Feb 06 1914 Jan 25 1973 Feb 03 1974 Jan 22 Water Ox
1914 Jan 26 1915 Feb 13 1974 Jan 23 1975 Feb 10 Wood Tiger
1915 Feb 14 1916 Feb 02 1975 Feb 11 1976 Jan 30 Wood Rabbit
1916 Feb 03 1917 Jan 22 1976 Jan 31 1977 Feb 17 Fire Dragon
1917 Jan 23 1918 Feb 10 1977 Feb 18 1978 Feb 06 fire Snake
1918 Feb 11 1919 Jan 31 1978 Feb 07 1979 Jan 27 Earth Horse
1919 Feb 01 1920 Feb 19 1979 Jan 28 1980 Feb 15 Earth Sheep
1920 Feb 20 1921 Feb 07 1980 Feb 16 1981 Feb 04 Metal Monkey
1921 Feb 08 1922 Jan 27 1981 Feb 05 1982 Jan 24 Metal Rooster
1922 Jan 28 1923 Feb 15 1982 Jan 25 1983 Feb 12 Water Dog
1923 Feb 16 1924 Feb 04 1983 Feb 13 1984 Feb 01 Water Pig
1924 Feb 05 1925 Jan 24 1984 Feb 02 1985 Feb 19 Wood Rat
1925 Jan 25 1926 Feb 12 1985 Feb 20 1986 Feb 08 Wood Ox
1926 Feb 13 1927 Feb 01 1986 Feb 09 1987 Jan 28 Fire Tiger
1927 Feb 02 1928 Jan 22 1987 Jan 29 1988 Feb 16 Fire Rabbit
1928 Jan 23 1929 Feb 09 1988 Feb 17 1989 Feb 05 Earth Dragon
1929 Feb 10 1930 Jan 29 1989 Feb 06 1990 Jan 26 Earth Snake
1900-1960 1960-2020 Element Sign
Begin End Begin End
1930 Jan 30 1931 Feb 16 1990 Jan 27 1991 Feb 14 Metal Horse
1931 Feb 17 1932 Feb 05 1991 Feb 15 1992 Feb 03 Metal Sheep
1932 Feb 06 1933 Jan 25 1992 Feb 04 1993 Jan 22 Water Monkey
1933 Jan 26 1934 Feb 13 1993 Jan 23 1994 Feb 09 Water Rooster
1934 Feb 14 1935 Feb 03 1994 Feb 10 1995 Jan 30 Wood Dog
1935 Feb 04 1936 Jan 23 1995 Jan 31 1996 Feb 18 Wood Pig
1936 Jan 24 1937 Feb 10 1996 Feb 19 1997 Feb 06 Fire Rat
1937 Feb 11 1938 Jan 30 1997 Feb 07 1998 Jan 27 Fire Ox
1938 Jan 31 1939 Feb 18 1998 Jan 28 1999 Feb 15 Earth Tiger
1939 Feb 19 1940 Feb 07 1999 Feb 16 2000 Feb 04 Earth Rabbit
1940 Feb 08 1941 Jan 26 2000 Feb 05 2001 Jan 23 Metal Dragon
1941 Jan 27 1942 Feb 14 2001 Jan 24 2002 Feb 11 Metal Snake
1942 Feb 15 1943 Feb 04 2002 Feb 12 2003 Jan 31 Water Horse
1943 Feb 05 1944 Jan 24 2003 Feb 01 2004 Jan 21 Water Sheep
1944 Jan 25 1945 Feb 12 2004 Jan 22 2005 Feb 8 Wood Monkey
1945 Feb 13 1946 Feb 01 2005 Feb 9 2006 Jan 28 Wood Rooster
1946 Feb 02 1947 Jan 21 2006 Jan 29 2007 Feb 17 Fire Dog
1947 Jan 22 1948 Feb 09 2007 Feb 18 2008 Feb 6 Fire Pig
1948 Feb 10 1949 Jan 28 2008 Feb 7 2009 Jan 25 Earth Rat
1949 Jan 29 1950 Feb 16 2009 Jan 26 2010 Feb 23 Earth Ox
1950 Feb 17 1951 Feb 05 2010 Feb 24 2011 Feb 2 Metal Tiger
1951 Feb 06 1952 Jan 26 2011 Feb 3 2012 Jan 22 Metal Rabbit
1952 Jan 27 1953 Feb 13 2012 Jan 23 2013 Feb 9 Water Dragon
1953 Feb 14 1954 Feb 02 2013 Feb 10 2014 Jan 30 Water Snake
1954 Feb 03 1955 Jan 23 2014 Jan 31 2015 Feb 18 Wood Horse
1955 Jan 24 1956 Feb 11 2015 Feb 19 2016 Feb 7 Wood Sheep
1956 Feb 12 1957 Jan 30 2016 Feb 8 2017 Jan 27 Fire Monkey
1957 Jan 31 1958 Feb 17 2017 Jan 28 2018 Feb 15 Fire Rooster
1958 Feb 18 1959 Feb 07 2018 Feb 16 2019 Feb 4 Earth Dog
1959 Feb 08 1960 Jan 27 2019 Feb 5 202
Renew & rejuvenate
At Mandara Spa in Bangkok and Hua Hin
Enhance the body and mind with a time honoured Balinese massage and a floral blend body scrub that promises to bring equilibrium to the body and mind, the perfect rejuvenating experience for a new beginning of your year 2007.
The special package rate is only Baht 4,700 net per person. The package starts from a floral milk footbath, floral senses body scrub for 30 minutes, Bali floral oil massage for 60 minutes and followed by warm rose tea.
The package is available at only two resort destinations:
Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa: The beautiful spa treatment facilities set in the tropical gardens. For the ultimate in spa luxury, guests can enjoy treatments in the splendour of lavish spa suites. A full range of treatments are also available with special emphasis on Thai-style massage and beauty processes, including facials, body massage therapies, manicures and pedicures. Specialties include herbal back treatment, salt radiance and Javanese Lulur.
Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa: A tropical spa, cocooned amidst luxuriant tropical gardens and a manmade lagoon. The Spa is a sanctuary of privacy and tranquillity featuring a full service beauty salon and five luxurious double suites, each opening to a private tropical garden with black terrazzo plunge pool and outdoor shower. The spa also features an herbal steam room with adjoining outdoor shower facilities.
Note: This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions or discount cards, and valid from now until March 2007
Rashnee Thai Silk Village
Recent and ongoing improvements at the Rashnee Thai Silk Village have meant that in addition to being able to get the free guided tour to the background of silk making, and being able to have fine quality clothing made to measure on site by Mike & Co. Tailor, from the middle of February you will also be able to enjoy food or a drink at their brand new restaurant, as well as being able to browse through their gift shop, which offers a wide selection of gifts and souvenirs from Thailand. The whole complex is open from 9 am to 9 pm every day, and offers free transportation to and from customers' accommodation in a comfortable minibus – just call 032 531155 - 57 or ask at your hotel.
Located on Naebkhehars Road (which runs parallel to the main Phetkasem Road on the sea side) it is well worth a few hours of your time, whether you are a resident or a visitor. Next month the Observer will have a feature on Thai silk, in which you will find out more about the production and history of this luxurious material, as well as some more information about the Rashnee Thai Silk Village complex.
Contact details: Rashnee Thai Silk Village / Mike & Co. Tailors, 18/1 Naebkhehars Road , Hua Hin, Prachuap Kiri Khan, Thailand 77110.
Tel. 032 531155-7 Fax. 032 531154
Web. www.thaisilkvillagehuahin.com, www.mikecompany.com
Email. mike@thaisilkvillagehuahin.com, mike@mikecompany.com
CASTAWAY
Our next intrepid survivor smears himself with insect repellent, kisses goodbye to his loved ones, and readies himself for his three years of isolation...
Once a year you are allowed 1 visitor, for 1 day only. In the 3 years you can choose 1 family member (or close friend), 1 living famous person, and 1 historical figure (alive for their visit!).
A) FAMILY/FRIEND:For a friend I would pick my girlfriend Poo. She will be instructed to swat up on all the sports news to keep me informed and tell me how our fish are doing.
B) FAMOUS LIVING: Nigel Kennedy. The violinist and lifelong Villa fan. Not only can we debate Villa's chances for future success but he could knock off a few tunes on his violin.
C) HISTORICAL FIGURE: As military history is my subject Napoleon Bonaparte could explain the strategies that won him so many battles and any other anecdotes from the time.
2. You can take 5 music CDs with you, but no box sets, compilations or greatest hits. Double/triple albums count as one choice.
(A) Last Night at the Proms. If recorded live it is not a compilation. To give me something to sing along to on St Georges Day.
(B) A recording of the opera Turandot by Puccini. Not because it contains Nessun Dorma. The whole score is magical.
(C) Schubert's 9th symphony- The Great. Plenty of power and energy. Gives lots of motivation.
(D) Mozart's Requiem. Even when nearing his death Mozart wrote with plenty of vitality. This gives a mixture of music.
(E) Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No 2. Could have chosen one of many piano works but the opening bars make the hairs on the back of the neck stand up!
3. You can take 5 books as well as one religious book (i.e. Bible). A choice can be a ‘Complete Works of...'..
(A) Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire . Anything historical is up my street.
(B) Rise and Fall of the British Empire . Can you see a pattern forming here?
(C) A Military History and Atlas of the Napoleonic Wars. Or any other book associated with that period.
(D) SAS Survival Handbook. You never know when you might need it.
(E) Birds of Thailand (presuming Dolphin Island is near here). I am a bit of a twitchier on the quiet.
* Religious book (F): The History of Aston Villa Football Club. Nuf Sed!
4. You can also take 5 movies on DVD (one box set allowed).
(A) Pirates of the Caribbean – Curse of the Black Pearl . I like swashbucklers and Johnny Depp is brilliant as Capt Jack Sparrow.
(B) Being a bit cheeky here with my allowances. A Bayreuth Festival Performance of Wagner's Ring Cycle. Lots of hours of opera staged at the theatre built for it.
(C) Return of the Pink Panther. Peter Sellers was sublime as Inspector Clouseau. The scene where he goes to drop kick Cato and ends up destroying the kitchen has me in hysterics.
(D) Waterloo . Christopher Plummer is great as Wellington . The battle scenes are not gratuitously gory. Good result for Britain , with a little Prussian help.
(E) Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. Superb black comedy. Great lines and funny as well as disturbing scenes.
5. You can take 5 items that will make your stay more enjoyable. Please remember that the Observer is read by all ages when making your choice! Communication devices are not available or practical. Please note boats and ships cannot disembark from the island.
(A) A croquet set plus my mallet. Should be able to find a flat piece of ground 28 by 35 yards.
(B) Golf clubs, also making sure the bag is topped up with balls. I can spend time whacking a ball around the island.
(C) A very large box of matches. This will save me trying to get a fire going with two pieces of flint.
(D) Reclining chair. Great for watching the films and reading.
(E) Vat of brown sauce. Should make the bugs, or whatever I have to eat, taste a bit better.
6. You are allowed to take one pet with you. Please give details here.
A huge ferocious dog. Just in case any cannibals come to visit.
7. Please tell us the 3 things or people that you think you would miss the least during your stay.
(A) Driving around Hua Hin. It is like a dodgem track most days.
(B) Getting up for work. Nice to do things at my pace.
(C) Not having to put up with those idiot presenters on ESPN Sportscenter. All I want to know is the sports news. I don't need the pantomime they put on in each show.
8. Finally, you must set yourself an objective to be achieved within your three-year stay, something that you have always wanted to do (within the constraints of being on the island of course!). Any item required will have to be included in your list of five allowed.
Obtain a degree in the Napoleon Wars. Hence the book.
EPILOGUE
As we skimmed through this month's Castaway selections, we began to wonder if we were in some time warp or that we were getting a contribution from beyond the grave! A brief summing up has to include words like ‘Old', ‘Historic' or even ‘Antique', and we thought we might be dealing with Hua Hin's oldest resident...
We were tempted to print this article on parchment, to fit in with Terry's own admitted theme - an interest in historical conflicts, as well as his rejection of almost anything modern to take to the island - even his sports are among the oldest in the world! And then, of course, there is Aston Villa, the oldest club in the Premiership, and one of the oldest clubs in the world!
We were surprised that we didn't find among his list of items a ball and musket, a parrot and a request to be kitted out in a pirate's outfit, as well as being transported to Dolphin Island on a galleon before being made to walk the plank and swin ashore to the strains of the 1812 Overture!
Terry is making a bold assumption that Dolphin Island is near Thailand with his book on birds' selection, but the location is a well-kept secret, maintained by a pact of blood by all ex-Castaways! However there will be many exotic birds for him to twitter about on the island.
We are anticipating that after his stay Terry will want to keep the reclining chair (decked out in his beloved football club's colours) but unfortunately this is from an exclusive Observer range, and was a special order for Martin O'Neill, who has kindly allowed Terry to use it for the duration of his stay on Dolphin Island .
People are now clamouring to become a Castaway so get your applications in quickly.
For those wishing to spend three years on Dolphin Island please contact the Observer offices in person or via e-mail to: design@observergroup.net
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