Quest. Adventure Travel & Sports Magazine - 2013 - Issue XIII

S E Q U O I A C L U B

TRAVEL.ADVENTURE.INSPIRE.PLAY

INSPIRE

THAILANDAUSTRALIA

TRAVEL

NATHAN SCHULHOFCREATOR OF THE MP3

STUDY

10 REASONS TO STUDY IN CHILE

Recycle. Pass it on!

I N S P I R E M A G A Z I N E Q U E S T .

www.questyourstory.com 3

I know there is a mystery that attends any journey, and a path that elucidates how the traveler reach his starting point at the first place. Because there’s a lot of reasons why we travel; work, the fun of it, wanting to know other cultures or just escape; but the fact is that we are trying to discover our selves, and this is the perfect opportunity to do so.

So whatever is your reason for traveling, use the time you have in it to explore your self, to discover that mystery I was telling you about. To evolve.

Start a new cycle, thinking as the Alquimist in your own life; create in your mind the future you are looking after your travels, with the energy that your

dream future gives you, transform with fire, with passion what you have, so you can start the construction of it.

In what you are starting to build, add the love you have within for it, not doing it because of money or other reasons, but because its what you love to do. Then the result of that its always going to be complete wealth in your life.

I bless your travel and your new cycle with it!

Jose Ignacio Blavi ArosQuest. Network Channel

Letter from our Chief Editor

There are a lot of reasons why we travel... but the fact is we are trying to discover our selves...

— Jose Ignacio Blavi Aros

http://www.questyourstory.com


I N S P I R E M A G A Z I N E . Q U E S T .

4 www.questyourstory.com

Nathan SchoulhofThe men who created the MP3 and first text processor tells us his beginning

Thailand’s spiritual reliefCombine beautiful white sand beaches with magical meditation spots in Kho Pa Ngan

8 things successful people doA Harvard psychology researcher explains we should think of happiness as a source of success

Leave no traverThe rules you need to follow to get lost in the wild

Travel AustraliaOur international survey left Sydney, Australia as Number one

Study Abroad10 reasons to study in Chile

Trek the wild PatagoniaThe pristine and untouched Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, is waiting for you to be explored

Ko PhanganMore than just beaches

Contents

8 23

34 36

25 18

29 17

Quest Publications Inc.Presidente Riesco 4005 2nd floorLas Condes, SantiagoChile.

Postal Code 7550000

56.2.245 272256.2.3384926

Quest Team:

Editor & CEO Jose Igancio Blavi Aros

SalesLea Bogatin

Marketing Manager for South AmericaPamela Narea

Social Media Veronica Aros Cortes

Content ProducerPatric Kennedy

PhotographyYosuke Kashiwakura & Ignacio Blavi

10

38

9

32

11



Gas station, East Thailand

Koh Phangan



The reason of why we do this, is to help others develop, evolve, reach what we are all searching for: Happiness. Here is how we think we can do it better.

Everything can be extrapolated to be used as an example to learn and apply in our own lives.

There are certain things that work better, more directly and with more power. We believe they are Traveling and Sports (specially outdoor sports).

Sports build, not only character, but also aptitudes and attitudes that help us pursuit and achieve our goals. But then, outdoor sports also connect us with nature, arising the best and worst on us, making us learn how to handle it. And traveling take us out of our comfort zone, make us realize things,

see new things, learn other ways, wider our perspective on things, on life.

Everyone has big dreams, but only a few go after them. The idea here is, with a little of extra inspiration, help you sort things out to get you where you want to be.

Giving you all the information you need to plan your trip and/or go out and play.

Dreams don't come true after night, we have to prepare and evolve for them. So we want you to get out there and start doing so!

We are your network channel to go after it!

The World by QuestWorking everyday to give you more insights in your destination.

Travel and sports as the main subjects we believe will take you further

Why and how we work, simple as this





More than just surf, Manly, with its Manly Scenic Walkway you'll access to some of Sydney Harbour's most stunning scenery and bushland. The track meanders around the harbour foreshore from The Spit Bridge via Dobroyd Head to Manly.

The track is 10 kilometres in length and takes the average walker about three to four hours to complete.

Sydney is the Harbour City. It is the largest, o l d e s t a n d m o s t c o s m o p o l i t a n c i t y in Australia with an enviable reputation as one of the world's most beautiful and liveable cities. Brimming with history, nature, culture, art, fashion, cuisine, design, it is set next to miles of ocean coastline and sandy surf beaches. The city is also home to the Sydney Opera House

and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, two of the most iconic structures on the planet.

Sydney is a major global city and one of the most important cities for finance in the Asia-Pacific. Sydney hosted the first Olympics of the new millennium, and continues to attract and host large international events. The city is surrounded by nature and national parks, which extend through the suburbs and right to the shores of the harbour.True Story

Sydney is one of the oldest European settlement in Australia, having been founded as a British penal colony on 26 January 1788 by Arthur Phillip (now celebrated as Australia Day, the national public holiday, with major festivities around the city and the Harbour). The

settlement was named "Sydney" after Thomas Townshend, 1st Viscount Sydney, who was the British Home Secretary at that time.

The people

Sydney is one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the planet, with one third of its population born overseas. European settlement rapidly displaced the Aboriginal people of the Sydney area with colonists largely coming from England, Ireland and Scotland. The Australian goldrush attracted more immigrants, including a significant number of Chinese, with about one in four Australians with convict descent also having some Chinese ancestry. In the early 20th centur y, Sydney cont inued to attrac t immigrants - mostly from the U.K. and Ireland, with the White Australia Policy preventing non-

Sydney, Australia

More than just surf, Manly, with its Manly Scenic Walkway you'll access to some of Sydney Harbour's most stunning scenery and bushland.





European peoples (and even Southern E u r o p e a n s ) f r o m s e t t l i n g . A u s t r a l i a ' s immigration patterns, and consequently, that of Sydney, changed significantly after WWII, when migrants began to arrive from countries as diverse as Italy, Greece, Germany, Holland, China, New Zealand, India, the Philippines, Poland, Lebanon, Iraq, Vietnam, Thailand, South Africa and the Pacific Islands. Sydney's culture, food and general outlook well reflect these contributions to the majority Anglo-Celtic institutions and social establishment.

Sydney is recognised worldwide for its vibrant gay community. Every year, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is celebrated on the first weekend in March, drawing people from all over Australia and the world for the celebrations.

Sydney became the centre of the world's attention in September 2000 when the city hosted the Summer Olympics - officially announced by the IOC Chairman at the closing Ceremony to be the "the best games ever"! The Olympics saw a major building and renovation program take hold of Sydney, positioning it as one of the great world cities of the 21st century.

Most Of The Attractions Of Sydney In One Ferry Ride

Ferries famous Manly Ferry is a "must do" for visitors and makes the 30 minute trip regularly, day and night. Manly Ferry timetables and information about fares, passes and attractions are available from www.sydneyferries.info Also departing from Manly Wharf and Pier 2 are high speed ferry services operated by Sydney Fast Ferries and Manly Fast Ferries. Manly Fast Ferry offer an hourly service through the day, to Manly, Monday to Friday, along with extra services on the weekend. Sydney Fast Ferries operates between Manly and Circular Quay from Monday through to Friday in the Morning and returning to service in the afternoon. The journey takes approximately 15 - 30 minutes.

The Manly Ferry is an easy and cheap way to get to Manly and to take a tour of Sydney Harbour - tickets cost about $10 (same as a coffee and cake). Hot tea or coffee sandwiches and other snacks are available on board.

One of the main reasons the Manly Ferry is so popular is because it is one of the best ways to see all the Sydney Icons in one trip.... the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison.

Here We Give You The Musts In Manly, Sydney.

MUST SeeOceanworld Manly, West Esplanade, ☎ +61 2 8 2 5 1 7 8 7 7 , ( f a x : + 6 1 2 9 9 4 9 7 9 5 0 ) , [email protected] [email protected]]. Admission adults $16.50, children $8.50 (3-15 years), concession $12, family $39.90 (2A & 2C), family $28 (1A and 2C). Open daily (except Xmas Day) 10AM-5:30PM. Daily live shows and guided tours allow you to get up close and personal to dangerous, deadly and often misunderstood Australian creatures. You’ll see huge sharks, stingrays, snakes, spiders, crocodiles and much more. Phone ahead for presentation times. If you're coming from the Sydney ferry, turn left and walk along the esplanade from the ferry terminal to get to Oceanworld.

Shark Dive X-treme, Oceanworld Manly, West Esplanade. ☎ +61 2 8251 7878, (fax:+61 2 9949 7950), [email protected] Shark Dive X-treme lets you dive in Oceanworld's aquarium with sharks. The aquarium time is 30 min. Shark Dive X-treme runs 3 times a day every day. Certified divers with recent logged dives can dive for $175. Other certified divers do a scuba tune-up in addition for a total of $205. The program also accepts non-divers, who will do a pool skills session before diving. The introductory program costs $235.

Manly Art Gallery and Museum West Esplanade (next to Oceanworld), ☎ +61 2 9949 1776, (fax:+61 2 9948 6938),[email protected], open Tu-Su, 10AM-5PM, closed Mo, admission adults $3.50, concession / student / resident $1.10, children under 18 free. The museum highlights the history of Manly with historical photos, swimming costumes and beach memorabilia.

The Quarantine Station, Sydney Harbour National Park, Scenic Drive, North Head. ☎ +61 2 9247 5033 (bookings essential). Day Tour: 1:15PM Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun. Adult $11, Concession $7.70. (Catch bus 135 from Stand B at 1:08PM - to meet with tour time) 3 hr tour includes supper. Ghost Tour: 7:30PM (8PM during daylight savings) Wed $22, F-Su $27.50. Kids Ghost Walk: 6PM (7PM during daylight savings) Fr $13.20, 2 hr tour. Wander through a maze of historic buildings and hear how Sydney was protected from diseases such as smallpox, bubonic plague, cholera and Spanish influenza. For the courageous, join the famous ghost walk conducted at night by kerosene lantern, followed by tea and damper to calm the nerves.

T h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l C o l l e g e o f Management (formerly St Patrick's seminary) is a beautiful building dominating the skyline of Manly.

Must Do

Swim or surf on Manly Ocean Beach, reached by walking up The Corso from the ferry wharf. Manly Beach is popular with both visitors and locals. Locker hire is available for storing your possessions. You can take surfboard riding lessons from Manly Surf School (North Steyne Road, ☎ +61 2 9977-6977).

Sea kayaking. Kayaks are available for hire from several places near the ferry wharf.

Manly to Sydney Ferry



http://www.sydneyferries.info/

http://www.sydneyferries.info/

mailto:[email protected]












Cruise through the air parasailing behind a speed boat. Sydney Harbour Parasailing Unit 203, 11 Wentworth Street, ☎ +61 2 9977-6781,

Manly Parasailing Shop 208, Manly Wharf, ☎ +61 414 405 454.

Sydney Ocean Adventures, Manly wharf, East Pier. Sydney's offshore adventure boat company. Departing from Manly wharf daily. Tours from 30 min to 1.5 hr experiencing the thrill and adventure of offshore powerboating. Go swell riding and jumping,see the rugged 100 m (300 ft) cliffs of North Head, WWII gun emplacements and awesome marine wildlife (including whales during migration). From $50.

Scuba Dive. Manly's Shelly Beach (very gentle surf entry, max depth 12 m (40 ft) is often used for open water training dives, but is also a good night diving site. In addition, Manly is used as the launch for several boat operators.

Pro Dive Manly, 169 Pittwater Road. ☎ 1800 820 820

(bookings, free call, within Australia only) or ☎ +61 2 9 9 7 7 5 9 6 6 ( f a x : + 6 1 2 9 9 7 6 5133)[email protected] Pro Dive's boat Sealife V (carries 23 divers, equipped with marine toilet) conducts 2 dive day trips leaving Manly Wharf and Rose Bay wharf on weekends and most weekdays; trips are $119 weekends and $99 weekdays if you only hire tanks and weights, or $189 weekends and $149 weekdays with gear hire. PADI certification is available: Open Water from $425.

Sail on Sydney harbour, with Manly Yacht Club for twilight races and weekend club races. Sail training available and casual crew welcome.

Blue Mountains, North Sydney

Manly from the ferry pier

Opera House from the Harbour





Sydney from North Head Park

Sydney Museum



Elements of good running technique

Upright posture and a s l ight for ward leanLeaning forward places a runner's center of mass on the front part of the foot, which avoids landing on the heel and facilitates the use of the spring mechanism of the foot. It also makes it easier for the runner to avoid landing the foot in front of the center of mass and the resultant braking effect. While upright posture is essential, a runner should maintain a relaxed frame and use his/her core to keep posture upright and stable. This helps prevent injury as long as the body is neither rigid nor tense. The most common running mistakes are tilting the chin up and scrunching shoulders.

Stride rate and typesExercise physiologists have found that the stride rates are extremely consistent across professional runners, between 185 and 200 steps per minute. The main difference between long- and short-distance runners is the length of stride rather than the rate of stride.

During running, the speed at which the runner moves may be calculated by multiplying the cadence (steps per second) by the stride length. Running is often measured in terms of pace in minutes per mile or kilometer. Fast stride rates coincide with the rate one pumps one's arms. The faster one's arms move up and down, parallel with the body, the faster the rate of stride. Different types of stride are necessary for different types of running. When sprinting, runners stay on their toes bringing their legs up, using shorter and faster strides. Long distance runners tend to have more relaxed strides that vary.

Running with the wind whipping across our face and the rhythmic pounding of the ground

underneath our feet makes us feel good for sure along with helping us to relieve the stress. But what really makes our bodies feel good about running is the fact that it helps to burn more calories as compared to say walking on the treadmill in a gym. Running also serves to strengthen leg muscles such as calves and tendons which get toned in the process.

Also opting for running is a good idea for weight loss, as it a vigorous physical activity which helps to burn more calories as it raises your metabolism and trains your body even more calories.

How do we lose weight when we run?

Most beginners are in a shock if they expect to lose weight the moment they start running, in fact a much bigger shock awaits once they start running to lose weight, in the form of a weight gain! The weight gain is a result of development of muscle in the early days of running for a beginner, once he gets past this slight weight gain, his body begins to burn calories which gets him the expected weight loss.

To go deeper in the science of weight loss due to running, we first need to understand that the body prefers to burn carbohydrates for fuel as compared to fat. This is because fat takes a lot of time to burn and metabolize and contains more calories as compared to carbohydrates, as a result of which the body prefers to store fats and burn carbohydrates when in need of immediate fuel i.e. whilst running.

Running regularly trains the body to rely more on burning fat rather than carbohydrates for fuel purpose. To make it even clearer 1 pound of body fat contains 3500 calories, thereby burning fat leads to a greater weight loss. Regular

running helps our body to start burning fat which is where the weight loss occurs! Moreover daily running also ups the body’s metabolism, which means that the body keeps on burning calories even after we have stopped running!

How should I run to lose weight?

The best way to achieve weight loss from running is to use the High Impact Interval Training or HIIT method of running, which includes a combination of sprints and light jogging or running at slow speeds.

This method works because according to recent research it has been proven that running at a constant speed over a period of time, helps the body to adjust itself to that speed thereby reducing the number of calories burnt and slowing down the weight loss. Hence HIIT includes sprints mixed with light jogging to not let the body get accustomed to a pace, which helps to burn more calories and lose more weight.

Another way of losing weight is trying to run as long as you can at least once a week as this will not only help you build up your stamina but also let you burn more calories with the more number of miles that you will cover!

So, now that you know how to run, where to run and most importantly why to run, we are sure that you’ll already be looking out for those old sneakers to put on and get set to go running!

Go playRunning tips from the pros’





Australia’s most dangerous SnakesAustralia is home to many of the deadliest species of insects, reptiles and marine life on the planet. However the average tourist is unlikely to encounter any of these in an urban environment. The vast majority of deaths from bites and stings in Australia are due to allergic reactions to bees and wasps.

Some of the information spread about Australia's dangerous wildlife is blown out of proportion. However, you should keep your distance from snakes in the national parks and bushland.

Eastern Brown Snake

In can be found throughout the eastern half of mainland Australia.

Fast-moving, aggressive and known for their bad temper, eastern brown snakes, together with other browns, are responsible for more deaths every year in Australia than any other group of snakes.

Not only is their venom ranked as the second most toxic of any land snake in the world (based on tests on mice), they thrive in populated areas, particularly on farms in rural areas with mice. If disturbed, the eastern brown raises its body off the ground, winding into an 'S' shape, mouth gaping open and ready to strike. Its venom causes progressive paralysis and stops the blood from clotting, which may take many doses of antivenom to reverse. Victims may collapse within a few minutes.

Tiger snake

It can be found :along the south-eastern coast of Australia, from New South Wales and Victoria to Tasmania and the far corner of South Australia.

Mainland tiger snakes are responsible for the second-highest number of bites in Australia, as they inhabit highly populated areas along the east coast, including some metropolitan areas of Melbourne. They are attracted to farms and outer suburban houses, where they hunt mice nocturnally and can easily be trodden on by unsuspecting victims in the darkness.Bites are fatal if untreated, causing pain in the feet and neck, tingling, numbness and sweating, followed by breathing difficulties and paralysis. The venom also damages the blood and muscles, leading to renal failure.Adult snakes are usually (but not always) banded, with ragged stripes varying in colour

from pale yellow to black along a solid, muscular body that can grow to 2m. When threatened, they flatten their necks and strike low to the ground.

Inland Taipan

Also known as the fierce snake or small-scaled snakeIt can be found in cracks and crevices in dry rocky plains where the Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and Northern Territory borders converge.

Reclusive and rare, the inland taipan hides out in its remote, rocky habitat. This snake only makes the top 10 because of its highly toxic venom, considered to be the most potent of any land snake in the world; it has the potential to kill an adult human within 45 minutes.





Hunting in the confined space of the burrows of the long-haired rat, the inland taipan uses its potent venom to finish off prey quickly, injecting more than 40,000 times the amount needed to kill a 200g rat. The prey has little chance of fighting back.

Only a handful of people (all snake handlers) have been bitten by this species. Each survived with first aid and hospitalization.

Mulga Snake

Also known as: King brown snake It can be found: throughout Australia, except in Victoria, Tasmania and the most southern parts of Western Australia - the widest distribution of any Australian snake.

The mulga is the heaviest venomous snake in Australia and has the largest-recorded venom output of any in the world - delivering 150mg in one bite; the average tiger snake only produces 10-40mg when milked.

Their temperament seems to vary with locality. Southern mulgas are reported to be shy and quiet, whereas northern specimens are much more agitated if disturbed - when they throw their heads from side to side and hiss loudly. Mulgas bite savagely, even hanging on and chewing as they inject massive amounts of highly toxic venom, which destroys blood cells and affects the muscles and nerves. Though commonly known as a king brown snake, the mulga is actually a member of the black snake genus Pseudechis, and black snake antivenom is needed to treat a bite.

Lowland Copperhead

Also known as: common copperheadFound: in relatively cool and cold climates in

south-eastern Australia, southern Victoria, Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait.

The lowlands copperhead is the only venomous snake found above the snow line, active in weather usually considered too cold for snakes. A water lover, copperheads snakes are at home around dams, soaks, canals, drainage ditches and along the verges of roads.Copperheads are shy and prefer to avoid humans, though they live in populated and agricultural areas. If cornered, they will hiss loudly, flatten their body and flick or thrash about, usually without biting. With further provocation they may lash out, though they are slow to strike and can be inaccurate.Copperhead venom is neurotoxic (damaging nerves), ruptures the blood cells and damages the cells and muscles - but rarely causes fatalities.

Death Adder Snake

The common death adder is an ambush predator that sits motionless, concealed in leaf litter, sand or gravel, twitching the worm-like lure on the end of its tail to attract prey.Unlike other snakes that flee from approaching humans crashing through the undergrowth, common death adders are more likely to sit tight and risk being stepped on, making them more dangerous to the unwary bushwalker. They are said to be reluctant to bite unless actually touched.About half of death adder bites proved fatal before the introduction of antivenom. The venom contains a type of neurotoxin which causes loss of motor and sensory function, including respiration, resulting in paralysis and death.

Leave No Trace1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Prepare for extreme weather, hazardsand emergencies. Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. Visit in small groups. Split larger parties into groups of 4 - 6. Repackage food to minimize waste. Use a map and compass to eliminate use of rock cairns, flagging or marking paint.

2.Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow. Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet away from lakes & streams. Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.

In popular areas:Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter. Deposit solid human waste in cathodes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathode when finished. Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

4. Leave What you Find

Preserve the past, observe but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.Avoid introducing or transporting non- native species. Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the back country. Usea lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans or mound fires. Keep fires small.

6. Respect Wildlife

Do not follow or approach wildlife; observe from a distance.

Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers. Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely. Control pets at all times, or leave them at home. Avoid wildlife during sensitive times i.e. mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. Be courteous, yield to other users on the trail. Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.Take breaks away from trails and other visitors. Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

www.nols.edu.



http://www.nols.edu

http://www.nols.edu



Nathan SchulhofThe inventor of the MP3 Player and archive, the first text processor and a few other things you use every day today, tell us what is he into and whats his vision.

So what do you do after inventing one of the more popular technologies of the past decade - the MP3 player?

Well, if you're Nathan Schulhof and you already have more than 35 years as a successful serial entrepreneur to your credit, chances are you do what most in your position do - consult, invest, and look for the next big thing.

As shown by the four U.S. Patents bearing his name {5,557,541; 5,572,442; 5,841,979and 5,914,941), Nathan M. Schulhof (59) was the visionary behind the devices known today by most people as MP3 players – the ipod!

As envisioned by Schulhof in the early 1990s when he founded the company with which to launch his vision --- Information Highway Media Corp. (later renamed Audio Highway and then audiohighway.com), such portable devices would allow the selection, retrieval, storage and playback of audio content delivered to the

device via the Internet or another broadband delivery system. These handheld systems would also include a high- capacity storage medium, basic control unit, mobile control unit, a faster-than-real-time recording mechanism, and a playback system designed to detect playback resolution.

Schulhof completed the first prototype of his invention in 1994 that was commercialized by Schulhof's team in 1996 as the Listen Up Player. The Listen Up device won an Innovations award from the Consumer Electronics Show in January 1997 and was later selected to receive the People's Choice award from the Upside Magazine/David Coursey Internet Showcase conference in 1998.

Schulhof's invention has continued on to become a near-ubiquitous device, particularly among teenagers and young adults.

For more than 35 years, Schulhof has been involved in a wide variety of entrepreneurial ventures, ranging various entrepreneurial adventures as a young man growing up near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to starting an air charter service in Florida in the 1970s.

Schulhof entered the technology world in the late 1970s when he began working on a software idea that eventually bore fruit as Silicon Valley Systems, the developer of Word Handler, the first and best-selling high-resolution graphics word processor for the Apple II computer. SVS was also the first technology firm to implement a telemarketing effort targeting the retail channel.

Prior to co-founding audiohighway.com, Schulhof formed TestDrive Corporation, a pioneer in the distribution of encrypted computer software on CD-ROM and the first company to distribute a CD-ROM inside a





magazine. TestDrive was later sold to R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co.

Through the years, Schulhof has been extensively quoted and featured in technology and consumer media, including pieces in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Businessweek, Inc., Success, among others. He has been the keynote speaker at industry events (including COMDEX, CES, Fall Internet World and Apple C o m p u t e r ' s I n d e p e n d e n t D e v e l o p e r Conference, among others), and has raised tens of millions of dollars in private and public equity.

He also participated in the DotCom craze of the late 1990s, leading the transformation of Information Highway Media Corporation into audiohighway.com, one of the leading destination web sites for downloading and streaming media in the world. Schulhof also helped take audiohighway.com public on the Nasdaq Stock Market.

In 2003, Schulhof became President of Hand-held Entertainment, when on January 16, 2004, his world changed. Schulhof had complained of

a toothache which his dentist treated and dismissed. Although he felt he was fighting influenza, he continued to meet work demands traveling across the world twice in December and within the state to meet company milestones. On the 16th, Schulhof collapsed and was rushed to the hospital where he went into a coma. Schulhof’s body was shutting down as a severe Group A streptococcal infection engulfed his body-- the same bacterial species that caused the Muppet master, Jim Henson’s death in 1990. For two years, Schulhof fought to recover his memory and gain control of his arm’s constant involuntary, unwanted movements.

By 2006, Schulhof became busy with Bio-Tech and technology which concentrate on helping people live better and more comfortable lives.

Today, Schulhof has recovered and finds life a precious and wonderful gift. He has slowed down and divides his time between L.A. and Los Gatos, CA., and resides in Solvang CA. Schulhof’s current focus is dedicated to finding a more productive use of alternative energy. In April of 2008, he co-founded a company called Solar Components to do just that.

Nathan Schulhof’s Visionary Firsts Include:

The first consumer-friendly word processor for Apple computers.

The first portable audio MP3 player that played content downloaded from the Internet (ListenUp Player).

The first patented DRM (digital r ights management), patent #6549942.

T h e fi r s t m e d i a c a t a l o g W e b s i t e (audiohighway.com) with audio download software (AudioWiz) that could download audio directly into a media device.

The first handheld media player to play video downloaded from the Internet (ZVUE Media Player).

Crows Nest Store 6-8 Clarke Street,Crows Nest NSW 2065Phone:(02) 8065 3583Hours:Mon-Fri: 10:00-6:00pm (Thurs 10:00-7:00pm)Sat: 9:00-5:00pmSun: 10:00-2:00pm

Manly Store 23 SYDNEY RD,Manly NSW 2095Phone:(02) 8964 8871Hours:Mon-Fri: 9:00-5:30pm (Thurs 9:00-6:30pm)Sat: 9:00-5:00pmSun: 10:00-4:00pm

Northside Runners is a specialized running and triathlon store supplying running shoes and other athletic equipment at below recommended retail prices. We have been providing for the needs of athletes Sydney-wide for over ten years, and with our online store we now sell statewide, nationally and internationally.



ITHAKA

When you set out for Ithaka ask that your way be long, full of adventure, full of instruction. The Laistrygonians and the Cyclops, angry Poseidon -‐ do not fear them: such as these you will never Bind as long as your thought is lofty, as long as a rare emotion touch your spirit and your body.

The Laistrygonians and the Cyclops, angry Poseidon -‐ you will not meet them unless you carry them in your soul, unless your soul raise them up before you.

Ask that your way be long. At many a Summer dawn to enter with what gratitude, what joy -‐ ports seen for the Birst time; to stop at Phoenician trading centres, and to buy good merchandise, mother of pearl and coral, amber and ebony, and sensuous perfumes of every kind, sensuous perfumes as lavishly as you can; to

visit many Egyptian cities, to gather stores of knowledge from the learned.

Have Ithaka always in your mind. Your arrival there is what you are destined for.

But don't in the least hurry the journey. Better it last for years, so that when you reach the island you are old, rich with all you have gained on the way, not expecting Ithaka to give you wealth.Ithaka gave you a splendid journey. Without her you would not have set out. She hasn't anything else to give you.

And if you Bind her poor, Ithaka hasn't deceived you. So wise you have become, of such experience, that already you'll have understood what these Ithakas mean.

The Journey by



I'm fortunate to know a number of remarkably successful people. I've described how these people share a set of specific perspectives and beliefs.

They also share a number of habits:

1. They don't create back-up plans.

Back-up plans can help you sleep easier at night. Back-up plans can also create an easy out when times get tough.

You'll work a lot harder and a lot longer if your primary plan simply has to work because there is no other option. Total commitment--without a safety net--will spur you to work harder than you ever imagined possible.

If somehow the worst does happen (and the "worst" is never as bad as you think) trust that

you will find a way to rebound. As long as you keep working hard and keep learning from your mistakes, you always will.

2. They do the work...

You can be good with a little effort. You can be really good with a little more effort.

But you can't be great--at anything--unless you put in an incredible amount of focused effort.

Scratch the surface of any person with rare skills and you'll find a person who has put thousands of hours of effort into developing those skills.

There are no shortcuts. There are no overnight successes. Everyone has heard about the 10,000 hours principle but no one follows it... except remarkably successful people.

So start doing the work now. Time is wasting.

3. ...and they work a lot more.

Forget the Sheryl Sandberg "I leave every day at 5:30" stories. I'm sure she does. But she's not you.

Every extremely successful entrepreneur I know (personally) works more hours than the average person--a lot more. They have long lists of things they want to get done. So they have to put in lots of time.

Better yet, they want to put in lots of time.

If you don't embrace a workload others would consider crazy then your goal doesn't mean that much to you--or it's not particularly difficult to achieve. Either way you won't be remarkably successful.

I'm fortunate to know a number of remarkably successful people. I've described how these people share a set of specific perspectives and beliefs.

8 Things Remarkably Successful People Do

“Dont give up and keep on going”





4. They avoid the crowds.

Conventional wisdom yields conventional results. Joining the crowd--no matter how trendy the crowd or "hot" the opportunity--is a recipe for mediocrity.

Remarkably successful people habitually do what other people won't do. They go where others won't go because there's a lot less competition and a much greater chance for success.

5. They start at the end...

Average success is often based on setting average goals.

Decide what you really want: to be the best, the fastest, the cheapest, the biggest, whatever. Aim for the ultimate. Decide where you want to end up. That is your goal.

Then you can work backwards and lay out every step along the way.

Never start small where goals are concerned. You'll make better decisions--and find it much easier to work a lot harder--when your ultimate goal is ultimate success.

6. ... and they don't stop there.

Achieving a goal--no matter how huge--isn't the finish line for highly successful people. Achieving one huge goal just creates a launching pad for achieving another huge goal.

Maybe you want to create a $100 million business; once you do you can leverage your contacts and influence to create a charitable foundation for a cause you believe in. Then your business and humanitarian success can create a platform for speaking, writing, and thought leadership. Then...

The process of becoming remarkably successful in one field will give you the skills and network to be remarkably successful in many other fields.

Remarkably successful people don't try to win just one race. They expect and plan to win a number of subsequent races.

7. They sell.

I once asked a number of business owners and CEOs to name the one skill they felt contributed the most to their success. Each said the ability to sell.

Keep in mind selling isn't manipulating, pressuring, or cajoling. Selling is explaining the logic and benefits of a decision or position. Selling is convincing other people to work with you. Selling is overcoming objections and roadblocks.

Selling is the foundation of business and personal success: knowing how to negotiate, to deal with "no," to maintain confidence and self-esteem in the face of rejection, to communicate effectively with a wide range of people, to build long-term relationships...

When you truly believe in your idea, or your company, or yourself then you don't need to have a huge ego or a huge personality. You don't need to "sell."

You just need to communicate.

8. They are never too proud.

To admit they made a mistake. To say they are sorry. To have big dreams. To admit they owe their success to others. To poke fun at themselves. To ask for help.

To fail.And to try again.





10 reasons to study in Chile

1. Educational Alternatives

There are over 50 universities in Chile and these offer approximately 2,400 undergraduate programs, with a wide variety of courses, diploma programs, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and PhDs in the fields of education, science, communications, art, culture and the performing arts. A substantial percentage of foreigners coming to study in Chile choose careers such as Economy or an MBA, Political Science and Literature. The country's economic model and the signing of several free trade agreements, a successful democratic transition model and a fine tradition of world-famous authors are the main reasons why students are interested in coming to Chile to study.

The environment, marine ecology and sustainable development are other popular

careers. However, the country also features programs with less massive appeal, such as PhDs in astronomy, especially valuable because Chile has the clearest skies in the world and a large number of observatories; master's degrees in mining, oenology and wine tasting courses which include guided tours of vineyards, and appreciation of architectural heritage, a course which is also taught at Valparaiso, a Unesco heritage site.

2. Top-quality education

Ten Chilean universities are ranked among the best in South America. Chile's educational quality is a renowned trait. Universidad Católica de Chile came second place in the 2009 ranking of the best business schools in Latin America by the magazine AméricaEconomía.The 2008 THE - QS World University Ranking, which measures the quality of the best

universit ies around the world, placed Universidad Católica as number 241 and Universidad de Chile as number 320.

3. Great connectivity

By land, air or sea; by phone or digital. Anyway you see it, Chile is connected and connects its inhabitants. Chile has one of the most modern infrastructures and highway networks in Latin America. According to a recent study, Connectivity Scorecard 2009, commissioned by Nokia, Chile is in third place of the connectivity ranking for resource and efficiency-based economies, ahead of Russia, India and all other countries in Latin America.

4. Affordable living costs

First-class living standards alongside rising incomes, excellent education, and superb food

Choose careers such as Economy or an MBA, Political Science and Literature. The country's economic model and the signing of several free trade agreements, a successful democratic transit makes it the lead option in South America.



http://www.uc.cl/

http://www.uc.cl/

http://www.uc.cl/

http://www.uc.cl/

http://www.americaeconomia.com/

http://www.americaeconomia.com/

http://www.topuniversities.com/worlduniversityrankings/

http://www.topuniversities.com/worlduniversityrankings/



and culture are all qualities that have boosted Chile’s appeal in recent years. Chile’s quality of life has been climbing steadily relative to the rest of Latin America over the past few years, according to various corporate-funded ranking reports.The Economist Intelligence Unit ranks Santiago as the second best city in Latin America to live in. Similarly, the 2010 Quality of Living Ranking, produced by the multinational consulting firm Mercer, ranks Santiago in third place in South America, preceded only by Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

5. Economical and political stability

Chile is a stable country with a solid economy, a clear institutional framework and well-respected democratic institutions. The country's economic model is one of the most open in the world, evidenced by the internationally-renowned number of free trade agreements signed with other countries.

Decades of economic growth have made Chile one of the most successful and stable developing countries in the world.

6. Safety

In recent years, several international studies have listed Santiago as the safest capital city in Latin America. According to Spanish-language magazine, AméricaEconomía, Chile's capital city shares the honor of being the least dangerous place for doing business in the region with Miami.

Chile is also one of the most stable countries in Latin America. There is a high level of confidence in the country's public institutions and the nation's uniformed police service, the Carabineros de Chile, always ranks highly in public opinion polls.

7. Friendly people

People who visit Chile always remark on the warm welcome they receive. Chile features the highest immigration rates in South America over recent years, according to data from the International Organization for Migration.

The country's solid economic and political status, as well as well-being perceived by foreigners living in Chile are some factors behind this situation. Colonies of Croatians, Americans, Germans, Peruvians, Italians and Palestinians have decided to settle in Chile.

8. Active social and cultural life

A wide variety of nightlife attractions, a well-stocked list of shows and different typical festivities are daily attractions in Chile. Local festivities include La Tirana, with its diabladas and masks; typical dances such as Tapatí celebrating the magic of Polynesian Easter Island, September 18th, Chile's independence day with several days of dancing, red wine and empanadas (meat pies).

Chile is home to world-renowned poets. Gabriela Mistral and Pablo Neruda are Nobel Prize for Literature laureates. In addition, the world has enjoyed films by Raúl Ruiz, surrealistic work by the painter Roberto Matta, and works by the psychomagician, filmmaker and writer Alejandro Jodorowsky, as well as other creators of unique literary works, including Isabel Allende and Roberto Bolaño.

International performing artists such as Madonna, Radiohead, U2, Ornette Coleman, Sonic Youth, Morrissey, Paquito D’Rivera, Nine Inch Nails, Iron Maiden, Pearl Jam, John Scofield, Norah Jones, Deftones and several others have put on concerts in Chile.

9. Great tourist attractions

Chile was described as a crazy geography by the writer Benjamín Subercaseaux. Few countries offer deserts, glaciers, beaches, jungles and volcanoes in the same territory. Most foreign students get out and enjoy this diversity in Chile.

Favorite attractions are San Pedro de Atacama with its salt flats and geysers, Patagonia, Valparaiso, Chiloé and Easter Island.

Chile's wide range of landscapes also means that all kinds of outdoor sports can be found here. Chile's 4,300 kilometers of coastline means a wide range of spots for surfing and scuba diving.

10.Warm weather

Chile boasts all climactic conditions in the world, with the exception of wet tropical conditions. However, throughout most of the country, and especially in Santiago and the central zone, weather conditions are temperate and Mediterranean, with pleasant temperatures by day and cooler nights.

This climate means that Chile is home to world-renowned wine and excellent fruit production. Spring starts in September and summer finishes in March.

Winter rain and snow in the mountains start of the ski season, a favorite activity for many foreign students who enjoy snowboarding and downhill skiing.



http://www.isabelallende.com/




Granite wall at Concervacion COCHAMO



Torres del Paine is a National Park in Chile with a unique geography, its granite hills where studied by geologist decades ago and with it in time, got a World wide fame. Climbers are today the ones who enjoys it special and difficult conditions.

The Park is much more that just the Torres, it has glaciers, lakes, beautiful valleys, and hips of treks where you can explore it safely with different camp sites and even a few basic Refugio’s where you can lodge in after a long day of exercise.

There are a few circuits that are more popular among travellers; the W that takes hikers around 3 to 5 days to do it, or The Circuit called the O because of its shape that takes you around 8 days. Although once i tried to do it running with a friend, I had to stop half way in and didn't finish it, but he did it in 18 hours.

Before we dig in into the treks in this National Park, there are a few more things you need to know about it.

Must Do

Hike the W Circuit: Bus to Visitors Centre/Administration, hike via Campamento Las Carretas to Refugio Paine Grande (17.5 km), sleep first night there, Hike to Refugio Grey or Campamento Las Guardas (beautiful view of Grey Glacier) and back to Refugio Paine Grande (15 km), sleep at Refugio Paine Grande, hike to Campamento Italiano (7.6 km), sleep there, hike to Campamento Britanico and the Mirador of Vallé Frances (beautiful view on the snow-covered summits) and back (15 km), sleep at Campamento Italiano, hike to Hosteria Las Torres (16.5 km), sleep there, hike to Campamento Torres and Mirador Torres (beautiful view of the three torres) and back (10 km). Minibus to the Laguna Amarga park gate.

Hike the Big Circuit: with the connection of the two ends of the W via Campamento los Perros, Refugio Dickson, Campamento Seron.

Daytour: Drop off at Administration, Mirador Condor, Salto Grande, Mirador Cuernos, Mirador

del Nordenskjold. Catch the bus at Laguna Amarga Gate.

Daytour: Drop off at Laguna Amarga Gate, Minibus to Hosteria Las Torres, hike to Campamento Torres and Mirador Torres and back (10 km). Minibus to the Laguna Amarga park gate.

Daytour: Drop off at Pudeto, by boat to Refugio Paine Grande, back by boat. Sightseeing tour by boat on lago Grey to the Grey glacier.

For this season there will be no more ice hiking it will be available again on 2011.

Although it is possible to follow the well-marked trails through the Torres del Paine National Park without assistance, the experience is greatly enhanced by joining a guided tour. The guide will point out and name flora and fauna along the way, as well as making side detours to points of interest that the casual traveler might miss. The biggest advantage is that all equipment, such as tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, crampons for walking on ice and

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia

Untouched pristine lands waiting for you to be explored at the bottom end of the world





luggage transfers, are all provided by the tour companies.

Chile Tours Web runs a one-day private driving tour into the park from Puerto Natales, including a picnic and an easy walk through the ancient beech forest. It also offers a two-day trek or a two-day combined boat trip to the Last Hope Sound to view the glaciers, followed by a trek through the park. Compa Turismo Web and MaraPatagonia Web also offer one-day tours for the time-pressed traveler, at a more competitive price.

Most companies run longer tours into the Torres del Paine National Park and these are generally between 5 to 7 days' duration. Go South Adventures, Adventure Life, Expediciones Chile, Antares Patagonia Adventure, Vaya Adventures, Chile Nativo and Marapatagonia all r u n c o m p r e h e n s i v e t o u r s w i t h l o c a l knowledgeable guides, many of them following the famous "W" circuit, and including a cruise up the Serrano River or along one of the fiords.

Depending on the tour, accommodations are provided in tents (either in an organized camp with all facilities, including hot showers, or in the wild with pit latrines), in the park's refugios listed above, or in lodges or remote mountain inns.

Other activities offered on guided tours include fly-fishing, kayaking through the fiords and channels, or ice hiking.

Get around

A catamaran runs between Refugio Pudeto and Refugio Paine Grande. A one-way ticket is CLP 11.000. Round trip costs CLP 19.000 (Nov 2010).

Another boat runs between Hostería Lago Grey and Refugio Grey, but you need to book it on advance (about 80 US $ p/p).

A minivan runs between Laguna Amarga and Los Torres (to connect to the big busses, 4 times a day, the last one at 1930). The price is CLP 2.500 one way (Nov 2012).

The rest must be done by foot.

Climate

The park itself is impressively big and don't be ilusive thinking you are going to explore it all. Not even locals guides have explored even half of it, and they live year round there.

The weather is a big question there. I been there MANY times and I can talk with knowledge

when I say don't believe any forecast! Every day pack your bag for a sunny, rainy, warm, windy and cold weather. Even the park rangers have a board with the weekly forecast inside the park for the most annoying tourists, but the truth is they just don't change it, ever! Haha

The second thing is to be cautious. Every year there are a couple of dead corps in the park. Always for miss precautions of the hikers. At the park there nothing dangerous at all. You don't have to worry for bears, snakes, spiders, there are no poisonous predators at all! You just have to make sane decisions.

Because of the changing weather, you could be crossing a little creek, but after an hour of intensive rain it will look like a real river. That is how a japanisse died a couple of years ago. He went for some photos crossing some creeks and little streams. And because of the rain he couldn't went back, so he had to stay there with no food or proper clothes to escape from the extreme cold.

If you are going out of the trail, tell a park ranger, tell more people: where are you planning to go, how long are you going to be there and how many people is going with you.

FAQ

“Los Cuernos” at the park



http://www.chile-tours.com/

http://www.chile-tours.com/

http://comapa.com/

http://comapa.com/

http://www.marapatagonia.cl/


http://www.go-south-adventures.com/




http://www.adventure-life.com/

http://www.adventure-life.com/

http://www.exchile.com/




http://www.antarespatagonia.com/

http://www.antarespatagonia.com/

http://www.vayaadventures.com/




http://www.chilenativo.com/

http://www.chilenativo.com/





What’s the weather going to be like?That’s the forbidden question. But we put this one in just for fun!...No, really, what’s the weather goingto be like? I need to know what to pack!Plan for everything, but mostly cold.The weather changes constantly.

How long does the trekking season last?Roughly from October to April, but it’s lasting longer every year.The truth is that it’s beautiful here all the time, and the Park is great in winter.

How far is it to the Park from Natales?From Natales, by bus, it’s about 2 to 2.5 hours.

What time do the buses leave in the morning? Most buses pick up and leave between 7 and 8 a.m.

When’s the latest I can start my trek?

In high season (Dec.-Mar.), there is an afternoon bus to the Park around 2.30 p.m., más o menos.

Can the buses to the Park pick me up from my hostel? Some do. It depends on if your hostel is friendly with the bus company.

What’s the Park entrance fee?

15.000 CLP (about 30 greenbacks USD).

How much does camping cost in the Park? Camping costs up to 4.000 pesos per person, not per tent, per day, at the privately run sites.The CONAF sites are free. In the off-season (about April-August), closed campsites are free.

Which campsites are always free?Los Guardes, Italiano, Británico, Japones, Las Torres, Paso, Pingo, and Las Carretas.

How much money should I carry into the Park with me?15.000 entrance + 11.000 catamaran + paid camping nights and mini shuttle equals roughly 45.000 CLP, plus some extra in case you want to buy a beer or two in one of refugios.

Do I get a map when I enter the Park? Yes.You can also buy a nicer wall map in town.

Are the times on the trail maps accurate?The times are pretty accurate on the CONAF map, depending on your physical condition. Some of the books seem to be a little off though.

What time is sunrise and sunset?

It changes, of course, but you can find out the specifics on the back of the map they give you when you enter

Glacier Mel, South Patagonia





the Park. During summer, from roughly December to March, you have about 18 hours of daylight.

If the weather is nice on the first day, should I go see the Towers first?

Any experienced climber, trekker or hiker will tell you to make a plan and stick to it, but as long as your logistics all work out there is nothing wrong in a little improv.

Is it better to trek the Park clockwise or counterclockwise?

You’ll find that outdated guide books tell youto go clockwise, but most trekkers find that counterclockwise flows through the ‘W’ better and makes for a more scenic day over the John Gardner Pass.

How much does the catamaran between Pehoe and Pudeto cost?

It’s 11.000 pesos per person one way. 18.000 round trip. It shuts down during winter.

Can I rent a tent, sleeping bag and mattress at the refugios?

Yes, but you can’t take them with you as you trek. Keep in mind that many refugios stay closed during the winter off-season.

Puerto Natales is a city in Chilean Patagonia, located 247 km (153 mi) northwest of Punta Arenas and is the final port of call for the Navimag ferry sailing from Puerto Montt into the Señoret Channel as well as the primary transit point for travelers to Torres del Paine National Park.

It is the capital of Última Esperanza Province of Magallanes and Antártica Chilena Region.

Última Esperanza Sound, originally inhabited by the Kawéskar tribe, or Alacaluf, and the Aonikenk, or Tehuelche, was sailed in 1557 by Juan Ladrilleros,a sailor who was looking for the Strait of Magellan.The city was settled by Germans, British, Croatian and Chilean people coming from the

Island of Chiloé, all attracted by the sheep-raising industry. Finally, the city was founded under the government of Ramón Barros Luco on May 31, 1911. Nowadays, the livelihood of Puerto Natales relies on tourism.

Because Puerto Natales was not started as a tourist town, the history of the region can be

seen by walking the back streets and coastal dirt roads.A bike ride in any direction can be rewarding as well. If you have a day or two to burn, before or after your trek in Torres del Paine, there are all kinds of day tours that you can booked from the various agencies in the downtown area.

FAQ

If I arrive to Natales from Ushuaia or on the last bus from Punta Arenas, can I still catch the bus to Torres del Paine first thing the next day?

This really depends on how ready you are. We recommend waiting for the second bus into the Park (which only runs during high season) or just taking a prep day in Natales during low season to rent any gear you need and do your food shop.

If I arrive here on Navimag, can I still hit the trail first thing the next morning?

This depends on sea conditions and arrival times. Plus see above answer and Torres del Paine Q&A.

Is there a place where I can rent or buy equipment in a pinch, 24 hours a day?

Yep! La Maddera Outdoor Store runs a 24-hour hotline for all your 2 a.m. gear emergencies. Duruing regular business hours, you can find them at the corner of Bulnes and Pratt. After hours, call (cell) 09 418 4100 or (home) 412 591.

Where can I buy camping food in town?

Don Bosco and Abu Gosch are both on the main streets of Baquedano and Bulnes, respectively.

Where can I buy white gas?

The pharmacies carry clean white gas.You can find them in the outdoor and building material stores.

What about shopping hours midday?

Between 12 and 3 p.m. everything is pretty locked down, except for the Abu G.

Puerto Natales, Patagonia

Road from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales





Understand Thailand

Thailand is the country in Southeast Asia most visited by tourists, and for good reason. You can find almost anything here: thick jungle as green as can be, crystal blue waters that feel more like a warm bath than a swim in the ocean, and food that can curl your nose hairs while tap dancing across your taste buds. Exotic, yet safe; cheap, yet equipped with every modern amenity you need, there is something for every interest and every price bracket, from beach front backpacker bungalows to some of the best luxury hotels in the world. And despite the heavy flow of tourism, Thailand retains its quintessential Thai-ness, with a culture and history all its own and a carefree people famed f o r t h e i r s m i l e s a n d t h e i r f u n -seeking sanuk lifestyle. Many travelers come to Thailand and extend their stay well beyond their original plans and others never find a reason to leave. Whatever your cup of tea, they know how to make it in Thailand.

This is not to say that Thailand doesn't have its

downsides, including the considerable growing pains of an economy where an agricultural laborer is lucky to earn 100 baht per day while the nouveau riche cruise past in their BMWs, Bangkok, the capital, is notorious for its traffic jams and rampant development has w r e c k e d m u c h o f o n c e -beautiful Pattaya and Phuket. In heavily t o u r i s t e d a r e a s , s o m e l o w l i f e s h a v e made scamming tourists into an art form.

Climate

Thailand is largely tropical, so it's hot and humid all year around with temperatures in the 28-35°C range (82-95°F), a degree of relief provided only in the mountains in the far north of Thailand. The careful observer will, however, note three seasons:

Cool: From November to the end of February, it doesn't rain much and temperatures are at their lowest, although you will barely notice the difference in the south and will only need to pack a sweater if hiking in the northern

mountains, where temperatures can fall as low as 5°C. This is the most popular time to visit and, especially around Christmas and New Year's or at Chinese New Year a few weeks later, finding flights and accommodation can be expensive and difficult.Hot: From March to June, Thailand swelters in temperatures as high as 40°C (104°F). Pleasant enough when sitting on the beach with a drink in hand, but not the best time of year to go temple-tramping in Bangkok.Rainy: From July to October, although it only really gets underway in September, tropical monsoons hit most of the country. This doesn't mean it rains non-stop, but when it does it pours and flooding is not uncommon.There are local deviations to these general patterns. In particular, the south-east coast of Thailand (including Ko Samui) has the rains reversed, with the peak season being May-October and the rainy off season in November-February.

ThailandWith great food, a tropical climate, fascinating culture and great beaches, Thailand is a magnet for travelers the world over.





Must See

Salad Beach on Koh Phangan

Than Sadet-Ko Pha Ngan National Park The park (free of charge) is named after the river Than Sadet (literally, "Royal River"). The river forms the largest waterfall on the island, which was visited by several Thai kings. Very difficult to reach on motorbike, one of the worst roads on island. Down at the sea at Than Sadet Beach, there are a few places to stay.

Visit the beautiful waterfalls and lookouts in the interior of the island. The best lookouts are Domesila viewpoint, a 15 min hike from Phaeng waterfall in Phaeng National Park (free of charge). There is another waterfall viewpoint a 20 min walk from Phaeng waterfall. From Bottle Beach you can hike to the rocky viewpoint above valley with great views over northeast part of island, hiking to the top should take 30-45 min depending on your condition. You can visit Wat Khao Tam viewpoint on the road between Thong Sala and Haad Rin which you can reach on motorbike and then it's easy walk for few minutes to the temple with viewpoint at Ko Samui and southern coast of Ko Pha Ngan. Another viewpoint is in Chalok Lam on the road

to Haad Khom, it's well signposted from the main road.

The herbal sauna at Wat Pho with separated mens/womens rooms is a great relief after long party nights. It's near the 7-11 branch in Baan Thai, on the southwest side of the island. Always wear a sarong (over your bikini, for men it's OK to use shorts). Remember that you are on temple grounds and locals find nudity offensive. This is not a European sauna, sitting naked will get you into trouble. The cost for entering the herbal sauna is 50 baht and you can stay as long as you want, if you want a towel the price is 10 baht. Open 13:00-19:00.

Visit Ko Maa off the northwest coast of Ko Pha Ngan. It offers one of the best snorkelling places on the island. Other places to do snorkelling are Haad Khom beach (very shallow water on the coast during low tide, be careful) and Haad Yao.

On the road between Thong Sala and Chalok Lam is a beautiful Chinese Temple (free) overlooking Chalok Lam Bay.

There is a elephant camp on the way from Baan Tai to Thong Nai Pan (300 baht for a 30 min ride. Also one close to The Chinese temple on the

road from Thong Sala to Chalok Lam (300 baht for 30 min ride. On the price list it's officially 500 baht). Very close is also an archery range.

Must Do

Archery can be attempted at the "First Bow and Arrow Archery" close to Chalok Lam on the road to Thong Sala. Four archers can have a go at the same time. People are very friendly (German spoken during high-season) and helpful; 15 min for 150 baht.

Explore the beauty of Pha Ngan Island, through exciting day, evening and adventure tours. Experience, diving, snorkelling,kayaking, speed boat excursions to Ang Thong National Marine Park, muay Thai, fishing trips, cultural tours, elephant riding. Enjoy the beauty of nature that the Ko Maa area has to offer and have a relaxing boat trip. With so many things to see and do your time on Ko Pha Ngan will be truly memorable.

Full Moon Party - if you're after party heaven you can't do better than Haad Rin, an expanded village of beach bars, cheap chicken burgers, and low cut figure-hugging outfits. It is most popular one night a month, the night of the Full

Koh PhanganAll you were looking fro your next adventure traveling, as chill as only thai

people know how





Moon Party. Every bar is hopping, the beaches packed with trance, dance, buckets, and various other suspicious substances. However, if the sight of thousands of bottles and other trash repulses you, make sure you leave the beach area before the sun comes up, or grab a garbage bag and help tidy up a little. If you're not on Ko Pha Ngan during the full moon, don't worry: there are other parties to be had, including Half Moon (2 times a month), Black Moon, Jungle Experience (1 & 9 days before every full moon party) as well as the Shiva Moon party. Haad Rin offers a variety of entertainment venues just steps away from the famous 'Full Moon Party beach', where travellers and locals come to get away from the repetitiveness of the beach party scene.

Jungle Experience, Ban Tai. 21:00 to 08:00. In the jungle near Baan Tai, Jungle Experience features the best of underground electronic beats - house, tech & progressive. Site incorporates a magical flower garden criss-crossing a river, plenty of areas to sit down and chill-out complete with UV decorations and laser lighting, dancers & performance artists. Professional world-class DJs. 2012 Schedule: 1 day before and 9 days before every Full Moon Party. 300 baht per person, free entry before 23:00.

Hiking can be done all around the island. There is a trail that leads between Haad Rin and Haad Tien, which many enjoy. The route can become difficult to discern, and bringing enough water is necessary. If you are feeling adventurous, ride a motorbike to the end of the concrete road at Haad Khom from where you can hike through steep terrain and jungle on the coast to isolated Bottle Beach. The overgrown and difficult trail is occasionally marked with bottles and the hike takes 2-3 hours. Ride back to Chalok Lam with a taxi boat (150 baht/person) from where it's 30

min walk uphill to the Haad Khom main road where you parked your motorbike (or you can hike all the way from Chalok Lam). Another good trail is to the best viewpoint on the island (in good weather), Khao Ra Viewpoint, on the highest hill on the island.

Muay Thai gyms such as "Jungle Gym" in Haad Rin and Thong Sala web offering training and workout facilities, as well as camps such as "Horizon" located in Haad Tien (east) which is an intensive training camp. There are also frequent bouts in Thong Sala and Haad Rin for spectators who don't want to learn the sport.

Scuba Diving Ko Pha Ngan has lovely sites around the island which are perfect for both beginners and trained divers. From easy dives off the beach to longer trips by boat you can experience the world of tropical diving. The waters around Ko Pha Ngan are much nicer than most people know: fine hard corals with a good range of reefs and tropical/pelagic fish. Sailrock, undoubtedly the most famous dive site in the Gulf of Thailand. Located between Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Tao all the wonders of this exciting site can be explored by all levels of divers. This spectacular rock rises out of the water creating the best wall dive with a maximum depth of 40 m. Providing a great range of marine life, spec tacular under water scener y, rock formations. There are several PADI dive-schools on the island, including: Haad Yao Divers a PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Resort located on Haad Yao and Haad Chao Phao; Reefers Dive Resort located on Haad Yao Beach; Sail Rock Divers; Lotus Dive R e s o r t , b o t h l o c a te d i n C h a l o k L a m ; and Phangang Divers, located in Haad Rin. You will, however, find many more dive schools throughout the island.Under Thai law, dive operators must be registered with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to improve quality of service, safety

and help protect the customer from fraud. Please check to make sure you are booking through a TAT registered dive centre.

Watersports Rent or take courses in sailing, windsurfing, kite-surfing or paddle boarding. All are available in only few locations such as, Sl2k Adventure located at Baan Manali Resort in Ao Nai Wok or "Cookie Salad" at "Haad Salad".

Yoga is offered at multiple locations including Agama Yoga, which is located in the northwest of the island and has month-long intensive courses.

By plane

The closest airport is Ko Samui (USM) which has frequent flights from Bangkok and Phuket, daily flights from U-Tapao and Singapore, and several direct fl ights each week from Chiang Mai and Kuala Lumpur. Transportation to the ferry dock is easy to find at the airport. Ferries depart several times a day with the last one around dusk.

The next nearest airport is Surat Thani (URT) on the mainland. Flights from Bangkok there are significantly cheaper (1,000-1,500 baht in advance, or 2,000-2,500 if booked same day, instead of 3,000-5,000 if flying to Samui), as there are low-cost carriers (AirAsia) flying there, and even Thai Airways charge 30-50% less than to Samui. However, you'll then need combined bus + boat travel to get to Ko Pha Ngan, which will surely take several hours. AirAsia uses the old airport in Bangkok, Don Mueang, while Thai Airways uses the international airport, Suvarnabhumi.

Nok Airways is now selling a combined package ticket including airfare to Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat, bus ride to the pier, and a ticket

Address: 110/1 Moo.6, Baan Tai, Koh Phangan, Sales/ Marketing/ Reservation/ Accounting +66 (0) 89 461 1115, Fax:+ 66(0) 2 938 9419 Email: [email protected] www.neptunesvillaphangan.com

With a total of 56 rooms, all with air conditioning and hot water and many with sunset sea views

Neptunes Villa



http://www.muaythaichinnarach.com/Muay

http://www.muaythaichinnarach.com/Muay



http://www.neptunesvillaphangan.com

http://www.neptunesvillaphangan.com



on the Lomprayah high-speed catamaran. This should be simpler for travellers than arranging the individual segments separately. Nok uses Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok.

By boat

Sunset Baan Tai and seaview to Ko Samui Ko Samui / Thong SalaFrom Ko Samui: There are at least 3 ferries a day from Ko Samui's "Big Buddha" pier directly to Haad Rin. Ferries also leave from Nathon

and Mae Nam piers to Thong Sala several times a day.

Watch out for scammers at Ko Samui airport who try to sell you a bus/boat combo for an exorbitant price. Make sure to walk towards the exit of the airport where there is an Information counter and taxi stands.

From Ko Tao: there is fast Lomprayah catamaran operating twice a day to Ko Tao for 400 baht at 08:30 and 13:00 or leaving Ko Tao for Ko Pha Ngan at 09:30. The ride between these islands

takes 1.25 hours. A cheaper, but slower ferry operates from Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Tao by Songserm express and costs 300 baht, leaving Ko Pha Ngan at 12:30, and takes 2 hours.

From Surat Thani: night ferry leaving at 23:00 from Surat Thani city (walking distance from bus stations Talat Kaset 1 and 2) arrives at Thong Sala pier-Ko Pha Ngan at 06:00 and costs 400 baht for a space on a mattress on the boat. The night ferry leaves from Thong Sala-Ko Pha Ngan for Surat Thani at 22:00 for 400 baht arriving around 05:00-06:00.



Documents

Quest. Adventure Travel & Sports Magazine - 2013 - Issue XIII