With monthly income within 25,000 baht, options to buy condominiums narrow down into an under-1.5-million-baht group due to financial ability to pay loan. But, still, there’re a great number of them located throughout Greater Bangkok. Let’s find out where they are located.

1. MRT Purple Line (Ministry of Public Health – Khlong Bang Phai)
MRT Purple Line is the only new mass transit line which has officially operated, where a number of condominiums have been launched along the route since its arrival. However, high-rise projects which situate close to the stations normally have the starting price above 1.5 MB; those with starting prices below this number are low-rise projects located in smaller streets – 1.3-1.5 MB on average.
Condominium projects along MRT Purple Line with prices below 1.5 MB are particularly nestled in the suburb – from Ministry of Public Health Station to Khlong Bang Phai Station. Meanwhile, those located around Yaek Tiwanon Station and Tao Poon Station commence the starting price above 2 MB.
In terms of commute, MRT Purple Line had not been favoured by the citizens as expected due to the missing link between Bang Sue Station and Tao Poon Station. However, this gap has been filled up by MRTA recently – which, indirectly, prompted residential properties along the route to be more appealing.

2. BTS Green Line (Bearing – Samut Prakan)
BTS Green Line is scheduled for extension into Samut Prakan Province, with Samrong Station – next from Bearing Station – already operating; meanwhile, stations from Pu Chao Saming Phrai to Kheha Samut Prakan will be completed by the end of 2019.
A lot of condominiums have crowded around Bearing Station, with projects priced below 1.5 MB usually located 0.5-1.5 kilometres away from the station. The same distance applies to Samrong Staion – if you’re looking for condominiums in this price range. A longer distance to the station offsets with the lower price.
In further stations (under construction) such as Pu Chao Saming Phrai and others, you can find condominiums with prices below 1.5 MB in the form of low-rise, located in smaller streets. However, their proximities to the station are closer compared to projects around Bearing Station and Samrong Station.

3. MRT Pink Line (Central Chaeng Wattana – Lak Si – Min Buri)
MRT Pink Line has recently received concession from the cabinet, planned to start the construction in 2017 and expected to complete by 2020. The train will traverse from Khae Rai Junction, passing Tiwanon Road, Chaeng Wattana Road, Ramintra Road, and end at Min Buri – 30 stations altogether.
Condominiums along MRT Pink Line with prices below 1.5 MB can be found mostly in two areas: Chaeng Wattana Road (from Lak Si Station to Central Chaeng Wattana), and a section from Siam Park City to the end of the line Min Buri Station. Still, there aren’t a great number of them at the moment.

4. Rama II Road
Despite the absence of mass transit line, Rama II Road’s land prices have surged in great amount in recent years and, together with the expressway that connects to Sathon CBD, condominium projects here are priced around 1.1-13 MB.

5. Seri Thai Road
Seri Thai Road is a minor road that runs parallel along Ramkhamhaeng Road. A section on this road from NIDA Business School to the junction intersecting with Suan Siam Road is where you could find condominiums priced around 1-1.5 MB as well as economical houses. Moreover, MRT Orange Line is schedule to be constructed along Ramkhamhaeng Road (Thailand Cultural Centre – Min Buri) – expected completion in 2022. From Seri Thai Road, you can reach this mass transit within 2-3 kilometres, and there are three junctions connecting Seri Thai Road with Ramkhamhaeng Road: NIDA Junction, Seri Thai Interchange, and Bang Chan Junction.

6. Rangsit
With the coming of SRT Dark Red Line in 2019, two major developers have launched condominiums in Rangsit exurb, 1.5-2 kilometres away from the scheduled Rangsit Station, with prices between 0.79-1 MB. Rangsit is a highly-populated city in the north of Greater Bangkok, recognisable with its landmark department store, and also a transportation hub, Future Park Rangsit.

7. Secondhand Condominiums
If the following locations seem a little too far off the central Bangkok, you can look for secondhand condominiums in the inner city as an alternative. Nevertheless, these condominiums are located in the smaller streets, typically more than 500 metres away from the mass transit station – yet, with prices below 1.5 MB. The locations where you can find them are as follows:
• BTS Green Line (On Nut – Bearing): 1.5-4 MB
• MRT Huay Khwang (Pracha Rat Bamphen and Pracha Uthit Road): 1.5-2 MB
• Pradit Manutham Road (Lieb Duan Ramintra): 1.5-3 MB
We hope this article gives you a broad of idea of where economical condominiums are located throughout the Greater Bangkok. Don’t forget to check the quality of the property as well – otherwise the maintenance costs would add the overall budget to be not so economical.

Receive the latest property news on email from Thailand’s No.1 property website here, or read more project reviews

Hansgrohe Singapore’s Managing Director KC Lee knows that it won’t be easy for the company to establish itself in Thailand. The well-known bathroom fitting manufacturer has won more than 500 design awards worldwide and was recently ranked 10th in the if design ranking for the highest design competence. And while it is established in other ASEAN countries, becoming a leader in the Land of Smiles will require hard work as well as a thorough understanding of the market.

“As with any other businesses, there will always be challenges in the operations of a company in any country. For instance, there are high import duties imposed on our products as we are a foreign MNC compared to local companies operating here or foreign companies who may manufacture locally,” Lee said. “While Hansgrohe products are offered at a more premium price in contrast to these brands, our discerning customers are fully assured that they are paying for a top quality product synonymous with technology, innovation and great design.”

Axor Massaud bathroom collection inspired by nature.

The German company is known for its tradition and commitment to product quality. The brand focuses on producing bespoke fittings that will likely be popular in Thailand where the country’s residential sector continues to see massive demand in the luxury and superluxury segments.

Axor Citterio E collection.

“We are positive that the property market in Thailand is resilient with a positive long-term outlook and we are looking forward to the great potential for further growth of our business here,” Lee explained. “While the general property market in Thailand has slowed down, there is a bullish outlook for the luxury residential market, which has been good for our business.”

However, simply creating luxury products is not enough. Lee has noticed customers in Thailand, as well as the rest of the world, want one-of-a-kind fittings that match their tastes and style as opposed to one-size-fits-all, mass produced bathrooms.

Hansgrohe ShowerTablet Select 700

In Thailand, there is a growing trend by consumers for bespoke bathroom fitting products to further express their individuality,” Lee noted. Our in-house customisation service has been very well-received, with customers increasingly opting for special red gold finishes for their fittings.”

Hansgrohe Talis Select Rainmaker Select

This is a growing trend in other markets as well. Bathrooms are no longer an afterthought, but something homeowners actually care about it. Hansgrohe has witnessed this trend first hand and has tried to adapt its offerings to what consumers now want from their bathrooms.

“We do observe the increasing trend where savvy consumers are now paying a lot more attention to the bathroom, which has become an increasingly important space for rejuvenation and me-time, and not merely a functional space of the yesteryears,” Lee explained. “More and more consumers are increasing the square feet allocated to this private space for them to recharge, due to the stressful lifestyles and longer working hours they experience. They are placing a higher emphasis on high quality and aesthetically-pleasing bathroom products, from the construction right down to the materials used. They are also desiring for exclusive bathroom products to express their personality,”

Hansgrohe has worked on a number of high profile projects including the Four Seasons Hotel in Milan, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the W Hotels in Singapore, and in Thailand, the Edition Hotel Bangkok Mahanakhon, Sindhorn Residences and Tela Thonglor. This experience has given the company a chance to see what the future of bathrooms holds.

“The bathroom is no longer just a hygiene and functional space of yester years but it is becoming a space that fulfills emotional desires,” Lee said. “It is a living space for rejuvenation and quality me-time where they expect to have high quality and aesthetically-pleasing bathroom products that provide convenience, simplicity and comfort. In the past, the bathroom was accorded the bare minimal space required to serve its functional space but in the present, consumers are increasingly allocating more space to this private space for rejuvenation.”

Back in Thailand, the country’s aging population has forced companies, including Hansgrohe, to be innovative when it comes to product design to ensure it is appealing to all age groups.

“The ageing society is a social phenomenon, not limited to Asia, but also occurring in other parts of the world,” Lee pointed out. “In a society with changing demographics trends, it is important for homeowners who plan for the bathroom – their oases of well-being, to accommodate all generations including the elderly as it is common to have different generations staying together.”

Bangkok is certainly known for its nightlife, but this year it is also known for its nighttime arrivals. Recent figures from the annual Mastercard Global Destinations Cities Index shows the Thai capital is the top-ranked destination city by international overnight visitor arrivals.

Mastercard’s Index, which provides a ranking of the 132 most visited cities around the world, projects visitor volume and spend estimates for the 2016 calendar year. It also aims to deliver a deeper understanding of where people travel to and how they are spending around the world.

According to the survey, Bangkok is projected to receive 21.47 million international overnight visitors this year, seeing it beat out several more high-profile locations including London, Tokyo and New York City to name a few. The UK capital finished second on the list with 19.88 million expected overnight visitors. Other cities to finish in the top five include Paris, Dubai and New York.

The research also revealed that the difference between the global top ten and the fastest growing top 10 destination cities suggests that Asia Pacific and the Middle East and Africa are continuing to grow in popularity and are becoming more important to the global economy. Other ASEAN cities to crack the top ten include Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

In terms of growth, Osaka has shown the strongest increase in international visitors, 24.15 percent, over the past seven years. Other cities that made the forecasted top ten fastest growing list from Asia include Tokyo and Taipei as well as the Chinese cities of Xi’an and Xiamen.

The report also revealed that cross-border travel and spending continues to grow at a faster pace than the world GDP. This could be a sign that the world’s cities will continue to be engines of broader economic growth.

There is no debating that Thonglor has been the hippest spot in Bangkok for years now. With a wide-range of restaurants, bars and stores, the rest of the city continues to flock to the street on Friday and Saturday nights. New places continue to spring up on a weekly basis, and here are a few that have helped add to Thonglor’s cool factor.

theCOMMONS

The Beer Cap at theCommons Thonglor. Image via facebook.com/thecommonsbkk

Anyone with an Instagram or Facebook account in Bangkok has seen photos of their friends at this chill hangout spot where bars, coffee shops and restaurants can be found. Soul Food 555 offers Thai cuisine, Roots is a destination for coffee aficionados and The Beer Cap serves up niche craft beers. The place offers substance and style. theCOMMONS was recently been shortlisted for Best Retail Architectural Design at this year’s Thailand Property Awards.

Tela Thonglor

Situated in the heart of Thonglor, Tela Thonglor is a luxury condominium that is scheduled to be completed in 2019. Gaysorn Property is developing this upscale project with exclusivity being at the core of its design. Only 84 units are available and each one has private lift access. Plenty of facilities can be found at the condo including a BBQ, an open recreation area, fully-equipped fitness center, yoga studio, library and a 22-metre swimming pool.

Read Project Review: Tela Thonglor

Eight Thonglor

Uninspiringly named after the soi it is located on, Eight Thonglor has a range of upscale shops and unique eateries that has made it popular with locals and expats alike. In the basement of the lifestyle mall you will find Hola Spanish restaurant which serves a wide range of tapas. The well-known Flann O’Brien’s Irish pub on the ground level is a popular place for an after work pint. For brunch, be sure to check out the popular Crepes & Co.

Featured Image: theCOMMONS Thonglor

This story was originally published on Property-report.com.

The IMAX movie experience is now available from the comfort of your home if you have USD5 million to spend on the new setup. Known for providing high-resolution images, surround sound and a curved screen help to enhance film watching, IMAX is hoping HNWIs and developers will be willing to bring this convenience to their home.

‘“It is the perfect marriage of a lot of trends we are seeing in entertainment consumption and our technology,” Robert Lister, IMAX’s chief business development officer, told Bloomberg. “People are demanding content, when they want it, where they want it, how they want it.”

While these theatres have been available in the US for a while now, IMAX Private Theater is targeted places such as China and the Middle East where the number of HNWIs continues to grow. In addition to the total movie-going experience, owners will be able to watch the latest blockbuster releases as soon as they open in theatres.

“In China, the value of cinema is more than just watching movies,” Sun said in an interview and the ability to watch new movies at home is a “big change.”

“If next week there is a new movie coming out, I can invite many friends to my home,” Sun Minhui, general manager of Diamond Beach Resort in Hainan, China explained to Bloomberg. “You build your own small platform for your social life. ”

IMAX home theaters in China and the Middle East will come with secure set-top boxes to deliver new movies. The boxes will feature fingerprint security technology meaning it won’t be possible to share your subscription with friends.

The home theater screen stands 10-feet tall and in order for the system to be installed, you will need to have a room that can be devoted to it. If this is not possible you can also build a room to fit the system. Developers are currently IMAX’s best customers having the theaters installed at newly built homes to help entice buyers.

More than 7,000 guests gathered at Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands for the third annual Maison&Objet Asia fair in March. The event is an extension of Paris’s design and lifestyle showcase and featured curated collections of furniture and upscale décor. A number of Asian designers were able to display their talent at the exhibition.

Maison&Objet’s expansion into Asia started three years ago. This move signifies not only the presence of a mature market, but also an overall paradigm shift. Interior architects and designers from Asia have always been important and are now able to enjoy a level of creative freedom and global prominence that was once thought to be unobtainable.

Ed Ng, one of the two co-founders of Hong Kong-headquartered practice AB Concept, is known for conceptualizing interiors at five-star hotels that are contemporary, yet deeply rooted in local traditions. His firm helped craft a geometric interior inspired by ancient Chinese philosophical principles that incorporated modern elements such as a LED-illuminated catwalk at W Beijing Chang’an.

Another design group displayed at the event was BLINK Design Studio who has worked with luxury hospitality clients. Under the guidance of founder Clint Nagata, the company is able to create unique interior spaces with a cohesive narrative. Melia Bali and the Regent Xi’an are just a few of the properties in their impressive portfolio.

Some of the most exciting developments in the region are coming from a new generation of designers, many of whom were educated abroad and draw on a wide range of stylistic influences. Denny R. Priyatna, Melvin Ong and Sittichai Ngamhongtong all earned recognition at the first Maison&Objet Asia in 2014. They continue to produce slick, smartly created home accessories and were once again on display at the exhibition this year.

This story was originally published on property-report.com and is reproduced as part of an editorial partnership between DDproperty.com and Property Report.

It’s a great time to be an Asian millionaire. According to the new Capgemini World Wealth Report, Asia’s HNWIs have more wealth than those individuals in North America and Europe. The richest citizens in Asia control an impressive USD17.4 trillion while wealthy individuals in North America have USD16.6 trillion.

The wealth of Asian millionaires increased by 9.9 percent last year. In the United States and Canada, the poor performance of the equity markets slowed growth to 2.3 percent in 2015. Europe also recorded a slight growth while Latin American HNWIs coped with a decline in net worth of 3.7 percent.

In 2014, the number of millionaires in Asia overtook the number of millionaires in North America and the report noted that this total increased once again in 2015 rising 9.4 percent. There are currently 5.1 million millionaires in Asia with 2.7 million of this population situated in Japan. Another one million HNWIs are living in China. The U.S. has 4.5 million millionaires.

China had the fastest growth of wealth during 2015 jumping by 16.2 percent y-o-y. The report pointed out that the number of millionaires in China is likely to expand over the course of the next few years.

While wealth in Asia has traditionally been driven by the financial services, technology and health care sectors, there has recently been a shift and more and more start-ups are creating millionaires.

“It’s a more entrepreneurial source of wealth,” Bill Sullivan, head of global financial services market intelligence at Capgemini, stated. The rise of Alibaba is just one example of a startup having created wealth in Asia.

On the whole, wealth across the world has risen dramatically during the past decade. Wealth held by millionaires more than tripled growing from USD16.6 trillion in 1996 to USD58.7 trillion in 2015. The report concluded that worldwide wealth could surpass USD100 trillion by 2025.

For decades real estate developers and marketing agencies have used scale models and two-dimensional renderings to show off their projects to prospective buyers. However, they are now using holograms to help potential residents enjoy a life-like view of what it will be like in their developments.

Two devices, the Microsoft HoloLens and the Oculus Rift, give developers the ability to use holographics in their marketing efforts. These devices allow prospective buyers to see and “walk through” properties years before they are constructed. The technology is something those in the real estate sector believe to revolutionary.

Oculus Rift

“To be able to show them something that they haven’t seen before — that, in and of itself, is a game-changer for us,” Elizabeth O’Carroll, Jones Lang LaSalle vice president of brokerage services, explained to GeekWire.

Sanska, a US-based developer, announced it would be building the world’s first holographic real estate leasing center earlier this year. The facility will immerse prospective purchasers in a holographic rendition of Sanska’s Seattle high-rise project, 2+U, using the Microsoft HoloLens.

Digital production agency Studio216 is helping Sanska best utilize the device, which Microsoft made available to select developers in March. Studio216 has experience in real estate holograms having used the Oculus Rift to give buyers a virtual tour of another skyscraper, San Francisco’s Park Tower, in 2015.

Real estate marketing firm Red Propeller is also planning to use the Oculus Rift for an upcoming Seattle condominium tower called LUMA. As the technology becomes more available, it is expected that developers across the world will soon use it to showcase their projects.

Feature Image: Microsoft HoloLens

This story was originally published on property-report.com and is reproduced as part of an editorial partnership between DDproperty.com and Property Report.

For expatriates living in Bangkok, the price of residing here is getting a little less expensive according to the recent Cost of Living Survey conducted by Mercer. The Thai capital still remains a relative bargain when compared to a number of other cities across the globe but things have actually become cheaper during the past few years.

Bangkok was ranked 74th on this year’s list, a significant decrease on last year’s 45th place finish last year or the 43rd place ranking Bangkok received in 2014. The Cost of Living Survey by Mercer ranks 209 cities based on exchange rates and the cost of a selection of goods and services in March of this year. The firm does not list the goods or services it uses for the rankings.

Hong Kong topped the list seeing it become the most expensive city in the world for expats to live in. Last year’s most expensive city, Luanda in Angola, was ranked second this time around. Namibia’s capital of Windhoek was deemed the cheapest city for expats to call home in 2016.

Several cities in Southeast Asia were included in the survey with Singapore being ranked as the most expensive ASEAN location and fourth most expensive in the world. Yangon finished 39th while Manila placed in 80th position. Phnom Penh finished in 118th place making it one of the cheapest places for expats in Southeast Asia. Finally, Kuala Lumpur was the region’s least expensive city finishing in 151st place.

Ilya Bonic, senior partner and president of Mercer’s Talent business, said in a press release that inflation and currency volatility continues to influence the costs of goods and services around the world and is one of the primary cost of living factors for expats.

Swiss-based minimalist windows manufacturer Vitrocsa has created a revolutionary glass window design that can turn a room into an open space in a matter of seconds. The technology allows the windows to turn sharp angles and corners, leaving an entire area of a room open.

Business Insider explains the Vitrocsa’s innovation is a ‘turntable corner window system’ and is designed to run on a “rolling system that eliminates the need for bulky rails.”

The well-built panels can hide into walls to completely open up a space in any room, according to Peruvian newspaper El Comercio. The panels range in height and width and are available in sizes as large as 3 meters.

Vitrocsa panels can be found in five continents at the moment. Founder Eric Joray supervises the company’s design team and the fundamental technical principle they follow is to create a window system that is “dedicated to transparency”.

You can check out the demonstration video to see how the technology works:

Turnable Corner Window System by Vitrocsa from SIAS SA on Vimeo.

This story was originally published on property-report.com and is reproduced as part of an editorial partnership between DDproperty.com and Property Report.

Technology continues to revolutionise the way we live and you probably notice this in your home. Everything from the refrigerator to the air conditioning is a “smart” appliance. Now there are even applications to help organise, decorate and increase security at your house. Here are three apps every homeowner should consider downloading for their smartphone or tablet.

Furnish

Ever want to know how a couch you see online would look in your home? This app can make it possible by superimposing images of furniture pieces of your choice onto the area your phone’s camera is focused. This means you can see what your home would look like when furnished with specific pieces you find. Furniture from IKEA, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, West Elm, Herman Miller and Knoll are all featured on the app. It is available on the iPhone App Store and Google Play for free.

BrightNest

Finding inspiration to keep your house looking its best can be difficult. This app provides users with “tips and tools” to “shape up their home and simplify life by offering informative articles on organising, cleaning, decorating and maintaining living spaces. Tips can be found for different types of homeowners and housing types meaning no one is excluded. Whether you need motivation for cleaning or want some more information on painting your bedroom, the app has you covered. The BrightNest app is available for free on Google Play and the iPhone App Store.

Salient Eye

Thanks to the Salient Eye app, you can monitor your home security from a mobile phone. If the app detects any motion in your house, it will send a text message and an email to your primary phone with images of the area in question. This is important as it can help you determine if there is an intruder in your home or if the cat is simply causing trouble again. The app is available for free on Google Play, while an iOS version is in the works.

This story was originally published on property-report.com and is reproduced as part of an editorial partnership between DDproperty.com and Property Report.

When you say an item is the Rolls Royce of its category, the implication is fairly obvious. It is the best and most luxury product available. So when it comes to luggage, who makes the Rolls Royce of suitcases? Well, the answer now is Rolls Royce itself.

The automobile manufacturer recently unveiled a bespoke luggage brand that pairs perfectly with its luxury cars. The six-piece luxury luggage set costs USD46,000. To think of it another way, you could purchase a pair of Toyota Vios for that price and still have some cash leftover. Of course, if you’re a globetrotter accustomed to traveling in a Rolls Royce, it only makes sense to have the matching luggage set for your journeys.

The luxurious set is comprised of two Grand Tourer valises, three Long Weekender bags and one spacious Garment Carrier that can hold a tuxedo or ladies gown. The leather pieces are made from carbon-fiber frames and are “meticulously” stitched by hand.

According to Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös, the new luggage collection “demonstrates our designers’ commitment to Sir Henry Royce’s manifesto, ‘Take the best that exists, and make it better. When it does not exist, design it.’”

And so there is no confusion as to just who makes the luggage, the British carmaker’s trademark “RR” badge that can be found in the rims of the vehicle will also appears on the wheels on the “Grand Tourer” series of bags, according to TheVerge.com.

 
This story was originally published on property-report.com and is reproduced as part of an editorial partnership between DDproperty.com and Property Report.

When it comes to luxury accommodations, very few places do it as well as the “Land of Smiles”. And during the past 12 months we have seen a number of exciting new luxury hotels and resorts open up across Thailand. We’re not just talking about your run of the mill, five-star places either. These properties are opulently designed, lavishly appointed and provide an experience that is simply stunning.

Of course, some of these hotels and resorts stand out just a little more than others. Whether it is having your own private driver, being able to swim in a private pool that overlooks the sea or simply being treated like a celebrity, these are the luxury resorts and hotel in Thailand that are not to be missed.

Anantara Siam Bangkok

When Anantara took over the Four Seasons Bangkok, it’s safe to say they had some big shoes to fill. However, when they opened the the Anantara Siam Bangkok, a new level of luxury was introduced to the capital (Search for flights to Bangkok via http://www.wego.com/flights). The property manages to embrace the charm of traditional Thai architecture and seamlessly blends it with modern touches.

Situated in the heart of Bangkok, several rooms at the hotel offer views of the golf course at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, one of the largest green spaces in the city. Thai silk adorns many areas of the rooms and you will also find a number of teak wood furnishings to give it that authentic charm. Accommodations are also equipped with all the luxurious touches you would expect to find at a 5-star property.

A stylish outdoor pool with a waterfall can be found at the hotel and there is also a 24-hour fitness center with a yoga studio and squash courts on-site. The property also boasts the signature Anantara Spa where you can indulge in a number of relaxing treatments. Several gourmet restaurants can be found at Anantara Siam Bangkok as well with Madison steakhouse and Biscotti being among the most popular choices.

Shoppers will love the hotel’s location which is only a short walk from Gaysorn shopping center, Zen Central World and Siam Paragon.

Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa

Despite being open only a short time, Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa has become the place to be when in Phuket. It’s not unusual see Thai and international celebrities hanging out at this luxurious resort for two reasons: the nightlight and the spectacular accommodations.

There are a mixture of rooms, suites and pool villas at the property and each one features contemporary interiors with sleek furniture and unique free-standing stone bathtubs. You also get to bask in the VIP treatment given to each and every visitor which adds to the ambiance of the resort.

Of course, the entertainment at Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa truly takes center stage. There is a free shuttle taking you to the popular Dream Beach Club and the resort also boasts a vintage wine bar where you can sip on the finest whiskies and brandies or enjoy a cigar. The resort also has a rooftop lounge where a guest DJ will keep the party going and the outdoor swimming pool and pool bar are always alive with action.

You can still find everything else you would normally have at a luxury property at Dream as well. There is a fitness center plus a spa and a salon for you to use. Two popular restaurants can also be found on-site and the hotel is a short drive from a number of Phuket hotspots including Laguna Phuket and Boat Avenue.

Keemala

The only thing possibly more enchanting than the grounds of Keemala is the story behind its design. The entire resort is based upon the journey of a caravan that was traveling from Europe to China. During their journey this group ended up encountering a massive storm that wrecked their ships and forced them to stop at a location near Kamala Beach in Phuket. Once ashore, the group was so mesmerized by the area that they decided to settle down here.

And it is easy to see why they were so impressed. The beautiful beach, the lush tropical jungle and an abundance of resources are at your fingertips. The settlers built four types of accommodations and the resort does their best to recreate these unique structures with all the modern amenities you would expect to find at a luxury resort. Villas have private swimming pools or balconies overlooking the Andaman Sea and provide a romantic backdrop for your stay.

Guests will also find a luxurious, full-service spa on-site and the resort regularly invites holistic healers and other practitioners to hold workshops and classes. In addition to this, you can partake in a number of holistic retreats designed to purify and rejuvenate the mind and body.

The resort’s on-site restaurant, Su-Tu Restaurant, offers you a holistic gastronomic experience as well as healthy living cuisine. And there is no shortage of hip spots to enjoy a cocktail at when staying here. The Wine Cellar has a one of a kind design featuring numerous high quality wines while you may also sip on your favorite drink and watch the sunset at The Bar.

Keemala is a short drive away from Patong and Surin Beach while Phuket International Airport is a 40-minute drive away.

Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya

Located next to the prestigious Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya opened in late 2015 with the goal of bringing a new type of luxury to Na Jomtien along Thailand’s eastern seaboard. In fact, it is the only 5-star property in the region situated outside of central Pattaya.

The hotel has a spectacular outdoor pool area that is connected to a private, white sand beach and surrounded by tropical gardens. The hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center provides a range of modern equipment to help you stay in shape while the on-site spa, Wave Spa, offers a range of signature treatments including massages, facials and body treatments.

The accommodations have a distinct nautical theme full of rich blue hues along with some stunning sea views and private balconies. Each room also has Wi-Fi access, a smart TV and an iPod docking station. There are also a number of suites at Mövenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya that come with several luxurious amenities as well as access to the exclusive Executive Lounge.

The Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club is a 15-minute drive from the hotel while the Pattaya city center can be reached in less than half an hour.

Veranda Resort and Spa Hua Hin – Cha Am

Situated between the popular beachside towns of Hua Hin and Cha Am, Veranda Resort and Spa provides luxury accommodations on the beach. The waters of the Gulf of Thailand are at your fingertips and the crash of the waves on the beach will serenade you. Whether you need a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this property can cater to your every want and desire.

There are a range of different accommodation types at Veranda but it is the Sky Pool Villas that really standout. Not only do you get a private, infinity-edge rooftop swimming pool as well as views of the sea from both the living room and bedroom, but each one comes with its own butler to ensure your whims are fulfilled. And if you prefer being closer to ground, you can stay in one of the property’s beachfront villas designed with honeymooners in mind.

The hotel is packed with facilities including a modern fitness center, a lovely spa area, a sparkling pool and a kid’s club stocked with games and activities to keep the young ones busy while mom and dad enjoy some private time at the beach. Two restaurants and a bar can also be found at the resort with al fresco dining near the water at Dining Room being a true highlight.

Its location also makes it ideal for a getaway as you can avoid the hustle and bustle of the city but still get there in no time at all. Hua Hin is less than a 20-minute drive away while Cha Am can be reached in 15-minutes.

X2 Hua Hin Le Bayburi

Sit back, relax and enjoy views of the Andaman Sea at X2 Hua Hin Le Bayburi. This exclusive resort consists of four private villas that each have four bedrooms along with a number of other amenities. The X2, pronounced Cross To, brand is synonymous for a high-end, chic design and this property lives up to that claim with a clean, modern appearance.

Each villa has a private pool along with a patio area that features a BBQ and a seating area that overlooks the sea. The accommodations are equipped with a number of high-tech amenities including flat-screen TVs, an iPod docking station and several other items.

The property is located in Pranburi and provides the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Hua Hin which can get crowded with visitors, especially during the weekend. Each villa also comes with its own private chef and a private driver so you will have one less thing to worry about during your stay. The cook specializes in seafood dishes among other cuisines.

A number of prestigious golf clubs including Eagle Milford Golf Club are a short-drive away from the resort while Thaao Ko Sa Forest Park is a ten-minute walk from the property

Featured Image: Keemala Phuket

Here are more tips for hunting for condos, houses, and apartments that DDproperty have researched for house seekers. There are 12 more tips that is added to the list, which might help you choose your residence wiser!

1. Make sure you know the electric bill cost

Check out the average cost of electricity cost in a month, ask around to see if the price that the landlord tells you is true. Add that up with the maintenances and common fee that you also have to pay every month, make sure you can afford it.

2. Be realistic about your financial budget

Even if you get a beautiful place to rent, look at the windows, bathrooms, built-ins and analyze if you can pay for the cleaning, or the amount of lights that are used in a walk in closet.

3. Make sure all the electricity outlets work

Try taking your charger and check if you all the electricity outlets work. You would not want a place where you have to repair an electric outlet, when you haven’t use it. Or worse, if something went wrong with the outlets.

4. Use good sense of character

By being nice to the people presenting the apartment or the landlord can help get discount, personal advice, or special offers. There are only positive things when you are building a good relationship with people.

5. Walk around the streets, check out markets and neighborhood

Knowing what your neighborhood and the markets near your apartment looks like can give you a sense of safety and food security. For example, if you need something urgently, you don’t have to circle around the neighborhood to find Seven Eleven; or when you are hungry late at night and there is a street food available.

6. Stay on the same page as your roommate

If you are thinking of renting a room with someone, either your lover, friends, sisters, etc., be on the same page with them. First make a list of what you want and not want, that you both could agree on. This way, when it comes to seeing the real thing, you can both look at the agreement to save time from argument.

7. If looking for low rise, beware of noises

It is important for you to live quietly and peacefully without disturbances from your upstairs or next door neighbor. Try looking at how thick the walls, floor board, and the plumbing system is; you do not want to hear each time some on is walking, talking, or going to the bathroom.

8. Find a friend to help you make good choices

Looking by yourself is good, but having a friend to give some advice that you might miss out on will be better. You might focus on something that is important to you such as the bathroom, but you friends might notice something else like the kitchen.

9. Avoid living above restaurants

Having a villa or shopping malls in the condo is a privilege. But when you live above a commercial floors, the noise will be loud. Which might means that you also have to wake up early in the morning when they start cleaning, or sleeping in the morning when there’s live music. There is also a chance of attracting bugs and rodents.

10. Find out smoking policy and ask if you live above or below a smoker

The smell of cigarettes can be very intimidating for people who don’t smoke. The smoke can stick to your clothes if you wish to do your own laundry, or get up into your room. Make sure that there is a hood in your room and ask around if your neighbor smoke.

11. Go apartment renting using public transport

Even if you have personal vehicle, try going to the apartment by BTS or bus. By this you can calculate if you can save more money by using public transport, or when your car is broken, how convenient will it be.

12. Read the policy and lease properly before signing it

Very important to read their policy and rules before signing it. You do not want to regret your decision later after you live here. Look at the garbage, parking rules, and visitor rules that the landlord might not allow you to do. Make sure you agree to it.

If you are looking for an apartment long term, we like to advise you to use our tips that can help you understand what you are dealing with better.

Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket earned prestigious recognition from US travellers. In TripAdvisor’s annual TripIndex report, all three of the Thai cities were voted among the 10 most popular and best value cities in Asia. Chiang Mai came in fourth and was the highest rated Thai city followed by Bangkok in seventh place and Phuket which came in at tenth in the rankings.

TripAdvisor conducts the index to help travellers from America find travel hot spots that offer the best value. The company compares primary travel expenses including a seven-night hotel stay and average round-trip airfare from the US as well as a year-over-year comparison of the overall costs, the Tourism Authority of Thailand noted. The company then releases the top 20 cities in each category.

Chiang Mai

Phuket

The findings show Chiang Mai as providing the lowest cost in Thailand and prices for a trip to the city decreased by 21 percent from last year. Prices for Phuket dropped 20 percent and Bangkok saw a nine percent reduction year-on-year.

“Apart from offering the best value for money, Thailand provides the US visitors with the best travelling experiences due to the diversity of destinations to fulfill the different desirable holiday,” Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the TAT, said in a press release. “Also, we would like to welcome US travellers to Thailand and see how Thainess, Thai hospitality, our rich history, culture and Thai ways of life can fulfill their holiday time.”

Visitors from the US spend THB4,956 and have an average stay of about 14-days per person when travelling in Thailand, TripAdvisor’s report estimates. Americans prefer visiting Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai when they come to Thailand and the country is popular because of its beaches and culture, the TAT reported.

The TAT noted that arrivals from the US to Thailand have increased by nearly 13 percent from January to October of this year when compared to 2014. So far 677,198 Americans have traveled to Thailand and TAT said it has several initiatives in place to promote the Kingdom in the US.

Featured Image via www.tatnews.org

Thailand has long been a popular spot for tourists from Russia who want to swap harsh, snowy conditions for year-round sun and beaches. It should come as no surprise then to learn that the Land of Smiles was named the Best Beach Destination by National Geographic Traveller Russia.

And that was just the start of the honors for the Kingdom. Thailand was also voted the Best Beach Resort via an online poll of the magazine’s readers. Representatives of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) were on hand at the awards presentation ceremony held on 18th November.

“This is such great news. Thailand is very honored to have received such prestigious awards from one of the top travel magazines in Russia as well as to have been voted online by its readers. Both honors are testaments of Thailand as a top beach getaway destination among travellers from Russia, one of the top 10 tourist markets to Thailand,” Eumporn Jiragalwisul, director of the TAT’s Moscow Office, said.

In order to win the award, Thailand had to beat out some prestigious competition long known for their great beaches. Other nominees in the category of Beach Leisure included Spain, Greece, Philippines and Azerbaijan. Thailand won the award by garnering 14 percent of the popular vote. There were 26 competitors in the category with Spain finishing in second place with 12 percent of the vote and the Philippines coming in third.

Thailand welcomed roughly 1.6 million visitors from Russia in 2014 and another 649,188 Russian tourists have visited Thailand so far this year. The country’s beach resorts in places like Phuket, Pattaya and Ko Samui remain the most popular destinations for these guests. At the moment there are direct flights from Moscow to key gateways in Thailand with several charter flights being offered during the winter season from various cities in across Russia.

Looking for condominium, apartment, and houses can be overwhelming, and you might have no time look at little details that might be important to your daily lives. DDproperty have taken the time to help out with people who are looking for house and condos and somethings that you might want to know before making your decision!

1. Use friends and family to extend your network

When it comes to living at a new area, who could be a better informer than someone you know living there. Tell them what you are looking for and you might be able to find some connections and extend some network.

2. Compare sources from reviews and picture

Don’t trust one review articles, compare 2 or 3 articles and read through the comments. This way you can see the good and bad; reading through the comments can also give you details which you might not think about.

3. Cell phone reception should work in every room

Walking through the rooms with your phone and checking reception in every room will help you a lot in the future. Nothing is worse than having no reception in your bedroom and cannot call in case of emergency.

4. Try the showers and bathrooms

Nothing is more depressing than not having hot showers for the time you are here; or the bad smell that your plumbing make when flushed.

5. Try going to in the mornings and afternoon

By going in the room, you can see the location of the sun. By checking out, you can know which room will be hot at which time of day, and where the sun is at that time of day.

6. Try going on rainy days

No one wants to go out at rainy days; but by being there when it’s wet there are many different things that can make you wide open. By this, you can check how wet you might get if you travel from the public transport to the apartment; or the ceilings and windows that are leaking in the room.

7. Try going when its dark

Checking out the lights and what it looks like in the room can help see what it’s like to be there at night. That way, you can see how the residence in you apartment looked like, how many people are there, your fitness, and parking situation.

8. Find out how much it will cost to have a pet

Find out if the place allows small dogs or big dogs, fish, and birds, for a person who likes to have a pet company can decide if they want the apartment. However for the person who does not like pets can know if other people have dogs at what rooms; and avoid that.

9. Check out inside all cupboards, closets, and cabinets

There might be things inside that needs to be cleaned out, or just checking to see if the boards are with colors. The smell of the cupboard or closet that have been wet once before can give you an intimidating smell.

10. Know the history of the place

New places that you have not been to have history. Especially, if you are renting a second hand condo or house; make sure you ask the landlord the history of the previous owner. You do not want to end up in a place where somebody died in it.

11. Find out if things cost more at your new area

Certain parts of the city might cost more than others, and you might have to pay for food more than the previous location which you lived. Check the place for laundry, transportations, and grocery shopping which is essential to your life.

12. Make sure your favorite furniture will fit in

Some furniture, such as your favorite sofa and bed might not be able to fit in the door. Or if you want to safe cost and get a smaller room, you might have to end up buying a new sofa or bed instead.

These tips are not aim specifically at second-houses and condos; but if you are still interested stay tune for the second part!

Loy-Krathong, Water Festival

1. It is originated in India where people would pay respect to Buddha’s footprints on the bank of Nammathanti River, located in Thakkinabot, India; which is called Nehrabhuddha River today.

2. Phra Mae Kongka, who is the Water Goddess, is believed to control the water that we have today. On Loy Krathong day, people would come to pay respect and seek forgiveness for the past misdeeds. It is also a time where people come to show gratitude and appreciation to the river since it provides us water that we used and drink.

3. In the Northern part of Thailand, Phra Upakut, is belief to meditate under the deep sea after reaching Nirvana. According to the legend he is believed to bring good luck and prosperity, which is highly admired by the northern worshiper.

4. By floating the Kratong it is believed to let the bad luck “float” way; and in turn bring you fortune.

5. By putting coins in the Kratong is belief to bring you wealth in the coming year.

6. Loy Kratong is usually a family bonding, which older generation set as importance. It’s also brings friends and love ones to come together.

7. Loy Kratong festivals promotes the economy in the community parts of Thailand. Which in turn creates community and society to come together to express their culture, such as dance, food, and craft.

8. Another belief to dispel bad luck is by putting hair clippings or nails in the Kratong before you let it float.

9. The arts and crafts which are made for Loy Kratong festivals is different every year. This promotes challenges to the hand-craftsmanship to be creative and encouraging them to use natural materials to create a masterpiece.

10. This beautiful Thai tradition is passed down from Sukhothai Kingdom more than 100 of years ago.

Reference: River Festival 2015

Thailand is the world’s 34th happiest nation according to the World Happiness Report 2015, a survey that looks at the well-being and happiness of a nation’s economic and social development.

“The aspiration of society is the flourishing of its members,” said Jeffrey Sachs, Director of the Earth Institute, Columbia University.

“This report gives evidence on how to achieve societal well-being. It is not by money alone, but also by fairness, honesty, trust, and good health. The evidence here will be useful to all countries as they pursue the new Sustainable Development Goals.”

The report by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), and contains analysis from leading experts in the fields of economics, neuroscience, and national statistics. It also describes how measurements of subjective well-being can be used effectively to assess national progress.

The report identifies the countries with the highest levels of happiness, Switzerland was the country with the highest levels of happiness, followed by Iceland, Denmark, Norway and Canada.

Regionally Singapore was in 24th place, with Malaysia (61st), Hong Kong (72nd), Indonesia (74th), Vietnam (75th) and Myanmar (129th) of the 158 surveyed countries. The least happy country was Togo.

As in previous reports, The World Happiness Report 2015 reveals trends in the data judging just how happy countries really are. On a scale running from 0 to 10, people in over 150 countries, surveyed by Gallup over the period 2012-15, reveal an average score of 5.1 (out of 10). Six key variables explain three-quarters of the variation in annual national average scores over time and among countries: real GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, having someone to count on, perceived freedom to make life choices, freedom from corruption, and generosity. This year for the first time ever, the report breaks down the data by gender, age, and region. It finds striking differences, some much larger than have previously been found.

Source: http://worldhappiness.report/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2015/04/WHR15.pdf

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

United States company Greenpoint Technologies has transformed a Boeing 747 into a luxurious mansion in the sky for a mystery billionaire.

The 4,786 sq ft plane, which normally would carry up to 600 people, now features bedrooms, an onboard restaurant and multiple lounges. It also comes with a master bedroom and large dining room.

The ‘aeroloft’ on the top deck of the plane offers more sleeping space with eight full beds for guests.

The custom-built Boeing 747 is also kitted out for business use as it features an office and conference room.

Despite space constraints, internet images of the plane revealed that the interior is as luxurious as an expensive hotel room.

Greenpoint took three years to retrofit the jumbo jet which cost the owner £400 million.

“This delivery represents an outstanding year (past 12 months) for Greenpoint. We inducted our first 787, contracted our second 787, became part of Zodiac Aerospace and now, redeliver the first 747-8 VIP in the industry. Our entire team is extremely proud of this amazing accomplishment,” said Greenpoint Chairman Jon Buccola in a statement.

Image: The dining room in the Boeing 747 which was converted into a luxury home. (Source: Caters News Agency)

Romesh Navaratnarajah, Singapore Editor at PropertyGuru, edited this story. To contact him about this or other stories email romesh@propertyguru.com.sg

PropertyGuru and Malaysia’a Maybank have teamed up to form a unique partnership within Southeast Asia which will see the region’s leading property website group provide its property content, listings and news to users of Maybank’s Property Finder app.

The app, launched on April 15, aims to help prospective buyers search for properties, either to buy, sell or rent, within their preferred location or price range to suit their financial profile.

Research has shown that in Asia alone, digital banking consumers are predicted to grow from 670 million in 2012 to 1.7 billion in 2020. About 40 percent of mass affluent customers now prefer online or mobile banking, and among those under 40-years-old, around half prefer digital banking.

Mohamed Adam Wee, Group Chief Marketing Officer for Maybank, said: “We believe the app will bring great convenience to property buyers. The features are designed with the user in mind, and powered by the extensive property listing database of our partner, PropertyGuru, we are certain that users will be able to find the property of their dreams.”

DDproperty,com (Thailand) and Rumah.com (Indonesia) are integral parts of the PropertyGuru Group which also includes Singapore and Malaysia.

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

His Majesty the King of Thailand on Wednesday gave a Royal Command to revoke martial law that has been in force throughout Thailand since May 2014.

The announcement on the revocation of martial law made on all Thai television channels on Wednesday night, saying the situation presented no reasons for martial law invoked by the army on 20 May and by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) on 22 May last year.

Martial law in Thailand has now been replaced by Section 44 of the interim charter.

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

With Chinese New Year now here, we approached Dato’ Joey Yap, founder of the Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics, to shed light on how the Wood Goat will influence the property market.

What will the Wood Goat year bring for property investments?

There will be a neutral outlook for property investment during the Year of the Wood Goat. The element that controls Earth is wood and it is the wood element that represents rules and policies, meaning that there might be restrictions that can slow or halt the progress of an action or project. In this sense, the property sector will be ‘dry’, resulting in a stagnation and slow growth in the property industry.

Who will be positively affected in a financial sense?

The animal signs which will be positively affected financially will be dog, rabbit, tiger, dragon and monkey.

What advice/tips can be given to investors intending to grow their wealth in 2015?

Property investors should plan on a long-term basis to build their wealth. The property market is predicted to be on the rebound, and subsequently expected to flourish tremendously again in 2017 and 2018. It would be prudent to purchase property now when others are fearful to do so, especially since there will be more property to choose from given that the supply outweighs the demand. It is also advisable to focus on buying into the areas in which you normally would not have the opportunity to obtain during an upturn in the property market.

What aspects of Feng Shui must property buyers take note of when purchasing a new property in 2015?

The qi for the Wood Goat expands in three areas which are North, South and Center. If you are looking for a residential home, look towards the outskirts, in particularly northward and southwestward of the city area. The year of the Wood Goat carries the ‘wealth’ element, hence commercial properties such as offices may be better in demand.

What aspects of Feng Shui must property buyers take note of when renovating a new property in 2015?

Yellow Sha Qi, also known as the 5 Yellow Star, brings about negative consequences and undesirable outcome in life. You should do your best to avoid disturbing the area, and particularly, avoid conducting any renovations of any kind in this sector. If you do so, it will cause accidents, persistent health problems and loss of wealth throughout the year. In 2015, the West is the direction of the dreaded Yellow Sha Qi, hence do not activate the west area of your property through renovation.

How can Feng Shui improve investors’ current properties and investments?

Feng Shui can help in two ways:

1. It tells you the direction of the year’s flow such as which direction will the positive flow move towards. This is equivalent to the ‘direction of growth’ for the year. For 2015, the North, Southwest and East are good directions.

2. You can enhance your own internal home’s Feng Shui to bring more positive energy flow into your life. This enables you to live a more positive, happier and healthier life – indirectly affecting your ability to generate wealth and identify better opportunities.

This column is written by Dato’ Joey Yap – the founder of the Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics, a global organisation devoted to the teaching of Feng Shui, Ba Zi, Qi Men Dun Jia, Mian Xiang and other Chinese Metaphysics subjects. He is also the Chief Consultant of Joey Yap Consulting Group, an international consulting firm specialising in Feng Shui and Chinese Astrology services. He is also the bestselling author of over 145 books on Feng Shui, Chinese Astrology (BaZi), Qi Men Dun Jia, Face Reading and Yi Jing, which has sold more than three million copies to-date. Many of his titles have topped the Malaysian, Singaporean and Thai bestseller lists. Some of his books have been translated to French, Polish, Russian and Indonesian and have also topped the respective countries’ bestseller lists.

With the Lunar New Year fast approaching, most Chinese families are likely done with spring cleaning and redecorating their homes to pave way for good fortune in the coming year. However, for those who have yet to dress up their place, here are some fuss-free yet stylish décor ideas that they can incorporate into their homes.

Spruce up your home with festive blooms

One of the easiest ways to add colour to your home during the Lunar New Year is to adorn your space with festive plants and blooms, such as pussy willows, curly bamboo, and yellow and orange chrysanthemums, which are also known to be auspicious plants that also look elegant in pretty vases. Pussy willows tend to be displayed as large and tall plants, but if your vases are small, you can simply cut them into short stalks and display them. To encourage the willows to bloom, add ice to water in the vase every day.

Copper Flower Vase from atomi

Like the Pied Piper’s magic pipe, these copper flower vases carry a charm. They can be hung on a wall or displayed in a flower vase. They come in two different sizes, half and full length.

Price unavailable. For more information, visit www.atomi-jp.com

Three-Piece Amigos Vase Set from CB2

Three bright vessels scale hi/lo in a tonal trio of handmade stoneware. Glossy red bottle, burnt orange pin and orange teardrop each sprout a single bloom, or group sans botanicals as bold objects of art.

$49.95, available at CB2. For more information, visit www.cb2.com

Hana High-Footed Plate from atomi

Designed by award-winning Japanese designer, Toshiyuki Kita, Hana stands for flower in Japanese, and this striking piece perfectly resembles the flowers in spring. This gorgeous flower vase also doubles as a plate.

Price unavailable. For more information, visit www.atomi-jp.com

Sheep of Happiness from Franz

Brighten up your new year with these adorably designed matching winter sheep shakers. Small in stature but playful in disposition, these salt and pepper shakers are cheerfully adorned with floral patterns and a vibrant shade of traditional red for a tasteful addition to your meals. Lively in posture, the Sheep of Happiness represents youthfulness and a zest for life come this Lunar New Year.

Price unavailable. For more information, visit www.franzcollection.com

Three Goats Welcoming Spring from Franz

Shaped with cloud like handles and a full, round base, the vase features a family of goats nestling in the crook of a tree. Set against a backdrop of a clear blue sky and sun, the display is a peaceful and harmonious welcome of spring. Representing familial unity and affection, the decorative vase is painted a vivid red lacquer and is adorned with a peony in full bloom, heralding the arrival of spring and life.

Price unavailable. For more information, visit www.franzcollection.com

Evergreen Jars from Shanghai Tang

Store festive cookies and snacks in these gorgeous Evergreen Jars from Shanghai Tang. Delicate florals adorn this richly coloured bone china jar, while gold trim, with lattice design, is a smart detail on the lid.

Price unavailable. For more information, visit www.shanghaitang.com

Suzugami Plates from atomi

Beautifully delicate and versatile, the Suzugami plates have been painstakingly hammered by master craftsmen, compressed and extended multiple times to make it uniquely flexible for any use. Forged from 100 percent tin, the Suzugami plates are perfect for serving festive snacks and desserts like pineapple tarts and macarons. The variety of uses of the Suzugami is limitless thanks to its bendable feature. You can reshape it as many times as you want, into whatever you can imagine.

Price unavailable. For more information, visit www.atomi-jp.com

Article and images contributed by Michelle Yee.

Thailand property developer Raimon Land has announced the signing of a long-term sponsorship agreement with the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (BSO), widely acclaimed as one of the country’s finest orchestral ensembles.

Since its founding in 1982, the BSO has earned a well-respected place in the Thai arts community by holding many memorable concerts and recitals with some of the world’s most renowned conductors and soloists, such as Soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, cellist Yo-yo Ma, flautist Sir James Galway, and many other illustrious artists.

Johnson Tan, Raimon Land Chief Executive Officer and Board Director, said: “As a property developer committed to excellence and enhancing the community, Raimon Land is proud to play a small role, along with many other esteemed sponsors, in support of such a worthwhile endeavour.

“The BSO continues to bring people together and enrich lives through an appreciation of the arts, and it shares the same aspirations and values as our company.”

The latest performance of the BSO, held at the Thailand Cultural Centre, was a piano concert under the annual Great Artists Concert Series 2015, featuring Poland’s prominent piano soloist Krystian Zimerman. He played Brahms Concerto No. 1 under the baton of Canadian conductor Charles Olivieri-Munroe.

Pictured is Johnson Tan, Raimon Land CEO and Board Director, giving a warm welcome to Anand Panyarachun (center) and M.L. Subbhasiddha Jumbala (right) during the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra’s Great Artists Concert Series 2015.

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

Singapore remains the most liveable location in Asia and the world, with both Bangkok and Chiang Mail slipping down the rankings in a year that was marked by political instability.

Regional rival Hong Kong has slipped to 33rd place in the global rankings, according to the latest Location Ratings report for expatriate living conditions published by ECA International, a provider of knowledge, information and technology for the management and assignment of employees around the world.

“Good air quality, solid infrastructure, decent medical facilities, low crime and health risks have contributed to Singapore maintaining its position at the top of the global ranking for quality of living for Asian assignees,” said Lee Quane, Regional Director – Asia, ECA International.

“The fact that Singapore comes out top time and time again does make it a very attractive proposition for companies looking to set up in the region, particularly when conditions in Hong Kong have deteriorated a little.”

Updated annually, ECA’s Location Ratings system objectively evaluates a host of factors to form an assessment of the overall quality of living in over 450 locations worldwide. The system helps companies establish appropriate allowances to compensate employees for the adjustment required when going on international assignment. Factors assessed include climate; availability of health services; housing and utilities; isolation; access to a social network and leisure facilities; infrastructure; personal safety; political tensions and air quality.

Singapore is followed by Sydney and Adelaide in the ranking for Asian assignees. However, the impact of some of the factors assessed, such as distance from home and differences in culture, language and climate, will vary according to where someone comes from.

In mainland China, Shanghai, ranked 110th globally, is China’s most liveable city followed by Beijing (122). Scores have remained steady across most Chinese locations but Chongqing and Shenzhen saw the most improvement over the year.

In India, Bangalore, ranked 171st globally scores most favourably followed by Mumbai and Chennai. New Delhi (204) is the least liveable. Along with Beijing, Delhi has the worst score for air quality not just in Asia but globally.

In Thailand the declaration of martial law saw a worsening in socio political scores for locations there. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are both in 112th spot – down from last year’s 108th.

Malaysian locations have also fallen slightly in the global ranking. Kuala Lumpur is in 118th position, down from 115th.

Yangon, ranked 220th globally, scores the most poorly in the region for healthcare facilities followed by Laos, Cambodia, Ulaanbaatar and Dhaka.

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

Last year was a year of great change for private landlords. With the private rented sector taking more responsibility for the provision of housing, many continued to struggle to get a mortgage with the high deposits needed to secure a home – and even more and more concerned about rising house prices, the sector will come under ever-greater scrutiny this year.

In fact, at the dawn of 2015, greater transparency will be demanded from landlords and it is even more key that they keep abreast of changing legislation, as well as the condition of their properties.

With this is mind, now is the time for landlords to make their very own New Year’s resolutions and plan for a prosperous and stress-free future in 2015 and beyond.

Neil Woodhead, Founder of U.K. company Ready Rentals, an online resource that offers self-managing landlords the support to provide a professional and legally compliant service, gives his suggestions for seven resolutions that private landlords should keep this New Year:

Don’t forget your anniversary,

When is your gas safety, electrical, flue and other tests due? When is your insurance due for renewal? Miss these dates and you could end up being prosecuted, so it is important that you keep a close track of all anniversary dates.

What’s your policy?

Does your insurance policy cover accidental and malicious damage, letting to unemployed tenants, 30-days void occupancy levels and loss of rent, or does it have a minefield of exclusions in the small print? If your policy is not yet up for renewal, make sure you have a good look at your current documentation and ensure that you are fully covered. When it is due for renewal , make sure you read everything thoroughly as it could mean the difference between a payout and a huge headache.

Have a thorough MOT.

When did you last inspect your rental property, check meter readings for adverse usage, assess general wear and tear or damage and update your inventory? While you have some free time, start planning arrangements to visit your property in the to ensure everything is up-to-date and there’s nothing that needs addressing. When was the last time you checked for condensation and were the tenants advised of how to deal with these issues to reduce the risk of damage to their health and your property? Do the smoke alarms and CO2 detectors work? Are all the appliances functioning and have any unauthorised alterations to the property or fixtures been made? This can all sound very daunting but can be made far simpler with the use of templates that can be populated online.

Are you on track?

Check your current tenancy documentation is up-to-date and that it takes into account the changes brought about by any recent legal cases and alterations to government policies. Make sure they comply with the correct notice periods and tenant deposit rules. Legislation is something that is not static for long, especially when it comes to the private rented sector, and therefore staying on top of any changes or alterations is key to staying within the bounds of the law.

Make the most of your asset.

First impressions count, and whilst many make the resolution to join the gym and exercise regularly come the New Year in the pursuit of the perfect physique, the private landlord should be looking to the improve the appearance of their property, especially when it comes to marketing it to prospective new tenants. Ensure that the property is presented in a professional manner, whether it is de-cluttering if it is furnished, trimming back hedges, redecorating to make sure walls and skirtings are clean and neat or fitting new handles to doors. Whilst being supported by a licensed real estate agent, make sure that you have good quality photographs to show off your property.

Become more eco-aware

This may seem a long time away, but by April 2018 new legislation in the United Kingdom, for example.will have a significant impact on properties with an energy rating below grade E, and if Labour gets into power at the next General Election in May they are proposing an increase to grade C. If your properties do not meet these minimum levels you will not be able to make them available to let, so as we head into 2015 now is the time to budget for and programme any works required to raise your property’s standard. Stay up to date with the laws and legislations in the country where you investment property sits.

Neil Woodhead, is Founder of Ready Rentals, an online resource that offers self-managing landlords with the support to provide a professional and legally compliant service. Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, edited this column. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

A new beach club restaurant is set to open in Pattaya’s upscale Wongamat neighbourhood early next year.

The launch of the Silver Lining by The Glass House is expected to attract nearby residents, tourists and visitors, and will open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The 200-seat restaurant is located along the beachfront of Zire Wongamat – Raimon Land’s latest residential property, which could not have come at a more perfect time as more residents start to move into their units.

The menu features top-quality Japanese and European cuisine, with stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.

Mr. Attapol Itthirattanakomol, owner of The Glass House said: “We will offer our celebrated cuisine and hospitality to Zire Wongamat residents and their guests, as well as to the general public. As Pattaya’s clientele becomes more distinctive, we look forward to taking our customers to a culinary destination where they can relax and unwind.”

Romesh Navaratnarajah, Singapore Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email romesh@propertyguru.com.sg

Thailand’s high-end listed property developer Pace Development has entered into an agreement to purchase New York-based Dean & DeLuca – one of the world’s iconic gourmet food brands – Dean & DeLuca, as well as its global business and assets for US$140 million.

The move aims to boost Pace’s capabilities as a developer of super-premium mixed-use developments, as well as fuel rapid global growth of the Dean & DeLuca gourmet food and beverage retail business

The purchase includes eleven outlets and two commissaries in the United States as well as the licensing agreements in 31 international locations, among them four outlets in Thailand, as well as in Japan, Singapore, South Ko rea, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

Sorapoj Techakraisri (pictured), Chief Executive Officer of Pace Development Corporation, said: “We aim to capitalise on the global convergence of super-premium mixed-use property development and lifestyle brands.

“The high margins in the business of premium property development of the future will be in offering customers a lifestyle – not just bricks and mortar. People want a total delivered environment where they feel good about living.

“It’s why we must be able to bring into our properties some of the world’s best lifestyle brands. It’s a proven model already being successfully deployed by thought-leaders in property and retail property development.”

Sorapoj added that he expects to have stores numbering into the hundreds within only two years, up from the current 42 stores, and to increase our global footprint from eight countries at present to more than 15 countries in the same time, primarily through licensing and company’s own store investment.

Pace’s Ritz-Carlton Residences property development was recently awarded the ‘Best Condominium Development – South East Asia’ at the 2014 South East Asia Property Awards

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.

Buying an overseas property is a big step, and can be an entirely new experience for some buyers and investors. As such it is crucial that potential buyers understand some of the important things associated with their purchase they may not otherwise have considered.

Neil Heaney, Chief Executive Officer of Judicare Group, an international legal firm providing a wide range of legal services such as conveyancing and commercial litigation on and specialising in property investment recovery, provides tips on what people need to know.

Instruct an independent lawyer

You would always use an independent lawyer when buying a property in your own country, so why do anything different when buying overseas? You need someone with the legal process, and that person needs to be on your side and not the side of the seller, agent or developer. If there is an issue with the property, you need to be aware of it and also need to know how to solve that problem safely. As a result, you need a lawyer who is not involved with the property in any way.

Find out about costs and finance

The costs of buying property overseas can be significantly higher than in your home country. It is vital you do some calculations to establish the final cost of buying when looking at your budget, and build these into your total spend. Many people don’t do this and are then surprised when the costs are higher than expected. They then start cutting costs such as lawyers, valuations and surveys – which is when they start to get themselves into trouble. Finding out about the total cost of buying ensures that you can afford the property and makes sure that you stick to your budget.

Understand how the process works

Whilst the process of buying in some countries may appear to be similar to your home country, it can also be very different in others. In some, for example, there can be two different contracts to sign prior to completion. Many countries use the Notarial system (qualifying statement) to transfer property. In some countries the searches are even carried out after you sign the preliminary contract. What you are trying to achieve is essentially the same. You want to buy the property free of charge and problems, and make sure that you make payments when it is safe to do so. However this process can be very different overseas.

Surveys

Just because you are buying a property overseas, doesn’t mean that you need not worry about the structure of the property. Most people don’t obtain surveys on overseas properties because they are buying overseas and don’t think that they have to worry about issues like wet rot. However, hot climates can have equally as damaging an effect on properties and therefore surveys are still highly advisable.

Valuations and due diligence

Due your own due diligence. When a property is for sale at a cheap price, it doesn’t mean is a bargain. It makes sense to get an independent valuation to ensure that you are not paying too much. At home you probably know the value of properties in your area well. In other countries you are unlikely to know what they are really worth. Some sellers even have a different price for local buyers and foreign purchasers.

Currency

There can be large savings to be made by getting the right exchange rate on your purchase. Even small fluctuations in the rate of exchange can have a major impact on the amount that you actually pay for the property. The amount that you might save can be substantial, and this can help you pay all those extra costs on top of the price of the property – or even your first holiday to your new home.

Understand the tax implications

The tax systems abroad can be very different to those familiar to you. They may also have an impact on your tax affairs back home. Tax rates differ between countries; the tax year is often different and the way that tax is calculated can be very different, as can any tax free allowances that you are used to. On the face of it, some tax systems can appear daunting and also very strange. Having a professional explain these to you can help you understand why things are as they are, and also help you plan your purchase in the most tax advantageous way possible. It makes sense to take advice on this when you buy.

Understand the obligations of ownership

Buying the property is only the start of your ownership. You need to understand how a whole range of different things work, such as taxes, insurance, communal areas, and inheritance rules and so on. If you are buying your property for investment, don’t imagine that you will have a full season booked out. Take into consideration that inevitably there will be dry periods during the year which you will need to build in to your costings.

Think forward

Think about selling or inheritance when you buy. Think about your exit plan. Doing this at the beginning can avoid problems in the future. Obviously your priorities will dictate what you do and how you plan this but thinking about this at the beginning can mean that what you intend to do with your property is possible with the minimum of problems and cost in the future. It is much easier and cheaper to set things up properly in the beginning than it is make changes later on.

Who should own the property

This is probably the biggest decision that you can make. Deciding on who should own the property has a major impact on taxes and inheritance and can save you large amounts of money. There are ,many options ranging from an individual, a couple, partly or totally in the names of any children, company ownership, trusts and so on. The solution that is right for one person may be a complete disaster for somebody else as this is a very individual calculation. This can be a complicated calculation and decision to make but it is vital that you do this before you buy as changing the ownership later on can be quite expensive. Getting the decision right can save you thousands.

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, edited this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.

If you are not sure whether your house is haunted, keep calm. It’s easy to find out, and timely with Halloween just round the corner.

Before you recruit a paranormal investigator or a religious person, there are three things you can do at home to document and confirm that you are currently entertaining unwanted ‘guests’.

Powder:

If you’re used to waking up at night and hearing strange shuffling coming from somewhere in the house, it may mean your neighbours are up. You hear it clearly because sound travels.

Then again, there could really be someone walking around in your living room. One way to be sure is to pour some powder on the floor in those ‘hotspots’ and leave them overnight. If you find footprints in the morning, then you’ve either got a security problem or a ghost problem.

Recorder:

It’s been shown many times that recording electronic voice phenomena (EVP) are very useful in verifying the existence of a spirit in a location and identifying if it’s an intelligent type of haunting.

If you don’t have a tape recorder, use your phone’s recorder. It may not be as sensitive but it may pick up strange sounds. You may find that you talk in your sleep or there is another voice there whispering sweet nothings in a growly voice.

Photographs:

A picture paints a thousand words and in the case of a haunting, you may end up with actual proof. Take as many photographs of the hotspots in your house at night. It’s alright to take numerous pictures of the same location as this will help verify the photos if one out of 10 show something strange.

This way you can rule out camera malfunctions. Send the photographs to a paranormal investigator afterwards to get them checked.

Perform these three things over several days consecutively. This is to ensure that whatever evidence you collect can be substantiated with consistency as opposed to being considered a fluke.

Once you have proof that there really is something strange going on at home and it’s not just the result of a hyper active imagination or paranoid mind, you can now take the necessary steps to remove your unwanted ‘guests’.

Author Christopher Chitty is Senior Content Producer at PropertyGuru Group.

There’s a misconception that renovation is the most difficult part of owning a new house, but when you think about it, other than micromanaging – which you can avoid if you choose a good contractor – and settling on a design pilfered from the internet, there’s not much else you can do except wait.

Having too much of a hands-on approach will only interfere and stall the process.

It’s best then, to let the professionals do their job. But once that’s done and it’s time to outfit your home, that’s when things get a little challenging. Not everybody has an eye for home decor so deciding on how to furnish your house can be quite a nightmare.

If you’re already struggling to design the perfect house in The Sims computer game let alone in real life, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

A common complaint around the world is the condos are getting smaller, so the first thing you want to do is figure out where all the small areas in the house are and, if it makes sense, enlarge them.

Breaking down walls is one option but it is also expensive. Besides, there are only so many walls you can tear down before you start feeling like you’re living in a four-by-four prison cell.

Mirrors, on the other hand, are a great tool that will help add depth and light to certain areas of your home. If a particular hallway is too small or dark for your liking, hang a mirror on one side and watch a formerly narrow corridor turn into a wider walkway. A mirror that is strategically placed in the living room can also make it appear larger and brighter.

The shape of the mirror, however, affects the result.

For example, oval mirrors help to draw the eyes upward and make your room feel bigger from top to bottom. This is useful if your ceiling is low and in need of some height. If you have a big living room however, putting up mirrors to make it look larger may not be the best idea. Larger living rooms are better off designed and outfitted to be cozy instead. Besides, when you have less space to fill, you’re likely to spend less cash – if you shop wisely that is.

False ceilings are a great way to make a very high ceiling look compact but if it’s out of your budget, then a paint job and simple furniture can be used to help. For example, an L-shaped sofa and coffee table can help divide your living space.

Choose furniture with warmer colours for a cosier ambience and colder ones if you prefer the clinical/minimalist look. But be wary of the size and scale of the tables though. The height of the coffee table should not exceed two inches from the seat of the couch.

Oversized furniture will make your room appear larger than it seems so use bigger furniture only in areas that can benefit from this illusionary metamorphosis.

Another way you can bring some colour and width to the room is by using area rugs. The colours and patterns on the rugs will create specific illusions. If the diameter between the walls of the room is shorter than others, then a rug with horizontal stripes will help widen it. Furthermore, if the floor is made of marble or white porcelain, a rug will help turn an otherwise cold floor surface, warm. In addition, it gives you decor points.

Outfitting your home may sound like a science but it’s really not.

You don’t need a degree to get your home looking presentable and aesthetically pleasing, just a little research and experimentation.

Credit: www.wtpstyle.com

Author Christopher Chitty is Senior Content Producer with PropertyGuru Group.

In modern times we are no longer going to war to conquer new territories, so why do we need feng shui?

People have dreams and aspirations. Some people desire a peaceful life, some dream of having their own business, some want to reach for the stars but all want success.  Astrology and feng shui can help adjust, change and enhance one’s life energy, creating a balanced foundation for future success.

Let’s look a little deeper. First, for clarification, strategic or ideal location refers to an area where the topography is suited to build a house, a city or battle camp. Feng shui refers to the wind and water. Where there is water, there is life. Good wind means prosperity, however we need to combine earth and fire to create a balance.
How can feng shui can be applied to an individual?

Let’s look at some basic feng shui that does not rely on the home owner’s astrology. You can adjust and change the feng shui of your home yourself.

Remove all broken or deteriorated items from your house. This is because broken or deteriorated items often draw in negative energy. If you find anything broken or deteriorated in your house you should quickly repair it. If the item repeatedly breaks down, you should consider inviting a feng shui expert to examine the location and your astrology and provide you with a solution. Leaving such problems unattended will only have the same negative outcome on you.

Let’s look at the direction that your house faces to see what we can change and enhance for greater prosperity and fortune.

If your house faces to the east, you should have water in front of your house to bring in fortunes.

Feng Shui expert Miss Pink

If your house faces north, you should have a lotus bowl or lamps in front of your front door and gate. The lotus bowl will help the occupiers be calm, happy and also attract good fortune. Lamps will help residents have good opportunities for work and money.

For those with a house that faces to the northeast, you should have an old man fishing doll, large water jar with a fountain or a fountain in front of your gate or your front door. Tree or old man fishing doll will bring you opportunities in your career. Seniors will support you and give you opportunities to show your skill. Fountains and large water jars with a fountain also help with work, but it is work that will bring personal benefits. Choose just one, and do not place them together or the meaning will change.

Facing east. If you are an entrepreneur, you should have a Chinese eight- direction diagram or bagua as this will help draw opportunity, fortune and protect residents. If you are into small-scale trading, a small lotus bowl with some fish in front of your house is enough to bring in customers continuously. Do not place the two together, choose just one only.

Southeast. Place a tree or old man fishing doll in front of your house so that seniors will bring you benefits and support each other. If you are trading alone and don’t wish to approach seniors, a bagua is enough to bring good trade. You can use both symbols if you wish, they will help you prosper in trade and get support from seniors.
Houses facing to the south and doing small trade should be decorated with flowering plants in front of the house. These plants should bloom all year round. You will receive continuous stream of customers. If you are into big trade, place a tiger or turtle statue in front of your house, the power of the tiger will bring you big fortune.

Southwest. For those in small- to large-sized business, you could place a lotus bowl with some fish. If you like to associate with influential figures, you can place a bagua in front of your house too, as it will draw influential people to you for acquaintance and business. Choose just one and do not place them together.

Facing west. Hang a wind bell in front of your house if you seek good trade. If you seek to enhance your career, place a wooden sun in front, it will bring you opportunities and seniors will support you.

Northwest. For those into trade, grow flowering and decorative plants in front of your house to bring in trade. For those that like to fly solo, hang a wind bell in front of your house; it will bring in quick and easy money.

Finally, the following tip can be applied by everyone to bring good luck and fortune.

In your front garden you should have flowering plants such as orchids or roses in the front, left corner of your front gate. This position helps support your house’s finances, and when they bloom it will attract money and fortune.

These tips were provided by Bangkok-based experienced feng shui consultant MissPink Fengshuiwin. http://www.fengshuiwin.com

Catch up on news you need to know from last week.

Coup to have limited impact: JLL
Limited impact expected at the high-end: CBRE
Malaysians still keen on Thai property
Interest in Thailand property from overseas rose during April
Thai developers miss the mark for CSR
Going green is an afterthought for office developers, says survey

If you have a news story or comment for publication about Thailand property or real estate email: andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

It’s a well-known fact that smells sell, from the ‘new car smell’ now bottled and available to buy, through to leading U.S. retailer Bloomingdales which has used scent marketing in their stores to boost sales. There’s even a new ‘Wake up and smell the bacon’ iPhone app and device that wafts the appealing smell of cured meat in time with your alarm clock.

Smells have a big impact on the way we value products, and that’s why scent marketing is rapidly growing in popularity – not only with retailers but also with forward-thinking house builders such as Millgate.

Millgate’s Sales & Marketing Director Johnathan Cranley, said: “We pride ourselves on being cutting edge and embracing new technologies. An extraordinary amount of care and attention goes into each and every one of our show homes, from the interior design through to the soft furnishings, the brand of hand wash in the bathrooms and what is stocked in the wine cellar or pantry.

“This obsession to detail led us to consider not only what our homes look like but also how they smell to potential buyers, which is why we now use the perfect scent of white tea and fig from global scent innovators, ScentAir, in our show homes.

“We do believe that scent is a powerful way to connect on emotional and memorable levels with our customers, forging a greater association when a buyer first walks into a Millgate home.”

It seems that scents really do make sense as over half of the luxury apartments at Westbrook House in Ascot, where the ScentAir of white tea and fig is gently infused, are now sold.

Eight apartments have been snapped up within just a few weeks of launching and visitor feedback on Holland Place, a stunning collection of six-bedroom detached homes in Sunninghill, which also carry the evocative scent, is extremely positive.

Cranley added: “After extensive testing and consideration, we selected the white tea and fig scent for our homes as the blend creates a soothing, luxurious environment. From its roots in China, white tea is renowned for its health benefits whilst fig exudes a sophisticated yet subtle scent which appeals to our buyers.

“The response to the scent from visitors has been so positive that we are now introducing ScentAir to all our developments, once again raising the bar when it comes to show home design and innovation.  Using more or our buyer’s senses to form a bond with a home could play a vital role in the buying process.”

Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group,
wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg

Recent stories from DDproperty.com you may have missed:

EXCLUSIVE: Thailand winners at the Asia-Pacific International Property Awards
London property expert appointed by CBRE Thailand
EXCLUSIVE: Short-term dip in overseas interest in Thailand property
MUST READ: Condo prices rose 40% in 2013
Russians are still searching for Thailand property

If you have a property story you want us to publish email: andrew@allproperty.com.sg