The Vegetarian Festival in Thailand

A Spiritual and Culinary Journey Coming in October 2024

As October approaches, Thailand prepares for one of its most vibrant and culturally rich celebrations—the Vegetarian Festival, also known as the Tesagan Gin Je or the Nine Emperor Gods Festival. This unique event is not just a celebration of food but a deeply spiritual and ritualistic festival rooted in Chinese-Thai communities, where devotion, purification, and a commitment to non-violence converge. In 2024, the festival will take place from October 2 to October 11, drawing both locals and travelers into an unforgettable experience of culinary delights and mystical traditions.

The Origins of the Vegetarian Festival

The origins of the Vegetarian Festival date back to the 19th century when Chinese immigrants brought their Taoist beliefs to Thailand. According to legend, the festival began when a Chinese opera troupe in Phuket fell ill. To recover, they adopted a vegetarian diet and performed rituals to honor the Nine Emperor Gods. Miraculously, they recovered, and ever since, the festival has been celebrated annually, particularly in southern Thailand, though it has spread across the country.

The Spirit Behind the Festival

The Vegetarian Festival is much more than abstaining from meat. It is a period of spiritual cleansing, where participants follow a strict vegan diet to purify their bodies and minds. During the festival, believers avoid not only animal products but also pungent ingredients such as garlic, onions, and certain herbs, which are thought to cloud the mind and affect spiritual clarity.

Participants also adhere to specific rules to enhance their spiritual merit, such as wearing white clothes to symbolize purity, refraining from alcohol, and practicing celibacy. For those involved in the deeper rituals, the festival is a time to demonstrate devotion to the Nine Emperor Gods through prayer, meditation, and sometimes extreme acts of religious observance.

Sacred Rituals and Ceremonies

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Vegetarian Festival is the ma song—a group of devotees believed to be possessed by deities. These individuals perform acts of self-mortification, such as walking on hot coals, piercing their skin with sharp objects, or climbing ladders made of blades. Despite the pain and bloodshed, these devotees are said to feel little to no pain, as they are in a trance-like state, channeling divine protection.

While these rituals may be shocking for onlookers, they are rooted in ancient Taoist beliefs of cleansing the community of bad luck, misfortune, and illness. Phuket, in particular, becomes a focal point for these intense displays of devotion, drawing thousands of visitors annually.

A Vegetarian Food Lover’s Paradise

For many, the highlight of the Vegetarian Festival is the food. Street vendors, markets, and restaurants across the country transform their menus to offer an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes. From mock meats and tofu-based creations to fresh vegetable curries and stir-fries, the variety of flavors and textures is astounding. Popular dishes include pad Thai with tofu, vegan tom yum soup, and je som tum (a vegetarian version of the famous papaya salad).

In the bustling streets of Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and other cities, food stalls marked with yellow flags signal that they are serving festival-approved vegetarian food. These dishes are prepared without animal products or pungent seasonings, making them not only delicious but also in line with the festival’s principles of purity.

Where to Experience the Festival

While the Vegetarian Festival is celebrated nationwide, some areas stand out for their grand scale and elaborate rituals. Phuket is the epicenter of the festival, with its famous processions, fire-walking, and ma song performances. The island comes alive with the sights and sounds of fireworks, gongs, and vibrant parades featuring people in white, temple mediums, and intricate floats.

In Bangkok, Chinatown (Yaowarat) becomes a bustling hub of food stalls and offerings to the gods. Temples across the capital, such as Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, hold ceremonies and prayers, allowing visitors to witness the spiritual aspect of the festival firsthand.

For a quieter, more intimate experience, the northern city of Chiang Mai offers a more laid-back version of the festival, focusing on food and temple rituals without the extreme processions seen in Phuket.

Tips for Visitors

Dress Respectfully: Since the festival has deep religious significance, it is important to dress modestly, especially if attending rituals at temples. White clothing is preferred as a symbol of purity.

Follow Festival Etiquette: If you are participating in the festival, be mindful of the rules regarding the vegetarian diet and behavior during the period. Avoid bringing non-vegetarian food into festival areas.

Prepare for Crowds: Popular locations such as Phuket and Bangkok can get crowded, especially during the processions. Arrive early to secure a good spot and be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Respect Local Customs: The self-mortification rituals are a deeply spiritual practice for the devotees. If you are watching, do so with respect and avoid disrupting the participants or the flow of the ceremony.

Conclusion

The Vegetarian Festival in Thailand is a one-of-a-kind event that seamlessly blends spirituality, devotion, and culinary exploration. Whether you’re drawn to the festival for its vibrant street food or its mesmerizing rituals, visiting Thailand during this time offers a unique glimpse into the cultural richness and spiritual depth of the country.

 

29/09/2024No comments,
The Rise of Pet-Friendly Condominiums in Thailand

A Guide for Buyers

As Thailand’s real estate market evolves, a growing number of developers are recognizing the importance of pet-friendly living spaces. With an increasing number of residents prioritizing their furry companions, pet-friendly condominiums are becoming a popular choice for buyers. This guide explores the benefits of pet-friendly developments, what to look for, and some top developers embracing this trend.

Why Choose a Pet-Friendly Condominium?

1. Growing Demand

The demand for pet-friendly accommodations has surged in recent years. Many Thais and expatriates consider their pets as family members, and they seek homes that can accommodate their lifestyles. Developers are responding to this trend by incorporating pet-friendly features into their projects, making these condominiums attractive options for a broader market.

2. Enhanced Living Experience

Pet-friendly condominiums often offer amenities and services that enhance the living experience for both pets and their owners:

  • Designated Pet Areas: Many developments feature dedicated spaces for pets to play, socialize, and exercise, such as pet parks or green areas.
  • Pet Washing Stations: Convenient on-site grooming facilities allow for easy clean-up after outdoor activities.
  • Pet Services: Some condominiums provide pet-sitting services, walking services, or partnerships with local veterinary clinics, ensuring comprehensive care for your pets.

3. Community and Lifestyle

Living in a pet-friendly environment fosters a sense of community among pet owners. Residents often share similar interests and lifestyles, leading to social interactions and the formation of friendships. This sense of belonging can enhance the overall living experience.

What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Condominium

1. Policies and Restrictions

When considering a pet-friendly condominium, it’s essential to review the policies regarding pet ownership:

  • Size and Breed Restrictions: Some developments may impose size or breed limitations, so it’s crucial to confirm that your pet complies with these rules.
  • Number of Pets: Check if there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed per unit, as this can vary from one development to another.

2. Amenities

Evaluate the amenities specifically designed for pets:

  • Outdoor Spaces: Look for condominiums with accessible green areas or dog parks where pets can play and socialize.
  • Indoor Facilities: Some developments may offer indoor play areas or pet-friendly common areas that allow pets to roam freely.

3. Location

Consider the location of the condominium in relation to parks and pet-friendly spaces. Proximity to pet-friendly parks or walking trails can greatly enhance your pet ownership experience.

Notable Developers Embracing the Trend

Several developers in Thailand are leading the way in creating pet-friendly condominiums:

1. Sansiri

Sansiri is one of Thailand’s largest and most reputable property developers, known for its high-quality developments. Many of their projects incorporate pet-friendly features, including dedicated pet areas and thoughtful design that accommodates pet owners.

2. Ananda Development

Ananda Development is recognized for its innovative approach to urban living. Their condominiums often feature green spaces, dog parks, and amenities designed with pets in mind, appealing to a younger demographic of pet owners.

3. Property Perfect

Property Perfect has launched several pet-friendly projects that cater to the needs of pet owners. Their developments frequently include pet parks and outdoor areas, ensuring that pets have ample space to enjoy.

4. AP Thailand

AP Thailand focuses on creating vibrant communities. Many of their condominiums offer pet-friendly policies and facilities, promoting a lifestyle that includes pets as part of the family.

Conclusion

Pet-friendly condominiums in Thailand are not just a trend—they represent a shift in how developers are addressing the needs of modern residents. As more people embrace pet ownership, the demand for these types of living spaces will continue to grow.

For potential buyers, understanding the amenities, policies, and community aspects of pet-friendly developments can lead to a fulfilling living experience. With leading developers committed to enhancing the quality of life for pets and their owners, finding the perfect pet-friendly condominium in Thailand has never been easier. Whether you’re a dog lover, a cat enthusiast, or a proud pet parent, these developments ensure that you and your furry friends can thrive together.

 

Check out Properties in Thailand 

Phuket

Koh Samui

Hua Hin

Krabi 

Pattaya 

Bangkok 

28/09/2024No comments,
One of Charles Gwathmey’s 1980s Modernist Designs in Rural

One of Charles Gwathmey’s 1980s Modernist Designs in Rural Connecticut Lists for $8 Million

The home by the noted architect was designed to fit the landscape and has a soaring atrium framing a cascading natural waterfall

One of architect Charles Gwathmey’s modernist gems in rural Connecticut has hit the market for $8 million.

Donna and Ben Rosen purchased the home in Connecticut’s Litchfield County in 2002 after several years of fruitless house hunting. They knew they were home from the moment they turned the corner onto the 41-acre property in Kent and saw the clean lines built to fit seamlessly into the landscape and the soaring atrium framing a cascading natural waterfall. They closed within weeks.

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27/09/2024No comments,
Billionaire Bernie Marcus

Billionaire Bernie Marcus, Co-Founder of Home Depot, Lists Atlanta Condo for $5 Million

The 5,700-square-foot unit is located on the 37th floor of a tower in the city’s North Buckhead neighborhood

Home Depot co-founder Bernard “Bernie” Marcus is selling his three-bedroom condo in Atlanta for $5 million, Mansion Global has learned.The 5,700-square-foot unit is located on the 37th floor of a Park Avenue condo tower in the North Buckhead neighborhood of the city, offering views of downtown Atlanta and the surrounding mountains from nearly every room in the house, according to the listing.

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26/09/2024No comments
Literary Great Jack London’s Former California Home Hits the Market for Nearly $5 Million

Literary Great Jack London’s Former California Home Hits the Market for Nearly $5 Million

The historic, 19th-century lodge is located in the wine country town Glen Ellen

A historic home in California wine country where literary great Jack London lived, wrote and fell in love has hit the market asking $4.95 million.

Wake Robin Lodge was initially built to host visitors to Sonoma County town Glen Ellen in the late 19th century, when the area experienced a growth spurt following the arrival of two railroads and a trout fishing hatchery.

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26/09/2024No comments
Thai condo market slows down

Thai condo market slows down amid withdrawal of Chinese and Russian investments

Condominium sales in Bangkok are slowing down due to a decline in foreign buyers, particularly from China and Russia.

The Thai condominium market is experiencing a significant slowdown due to the withdrawal of Chinese and Russian capital.

Key takeaways

  • The Thai condominium market is slowing down due to reduced investments from Chinese and Russian buyers.
  • Condominium sales to foreigners dropped by 6% in Q2 2024, with the total sales value decreasing by 18%.
  • The Thai government is considering measures to revitalize the  real estate market including easing property ownership restrictions for foreigners.

In recent years, Chinese and Russian investors have dominated the condominium market in Thailand, particularly in cities like Bangkok and Pattaya.

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26/09/2024No comments, ,
U.S.-China Office and industrial real estate in Southeast Asia

U.S.-China tensions to boost demand for office and industrial real estate in Southeast Asia

The ongoing U.S.-China tensions have led to a strategic reassessment of supply chains and investment locations. With the imposition of tariffs and trade barriers, multinational corporations are looking beyond traditional powerhouses to establish their operations. Southeast Asia, with its growing middle class, lower labor costs, and strategic location, presents an attractive alternative.

The ongoing tensions between the United States and China have prompted a strategic reconsideration of supply chains and investment locations. As tariffs and trade barriers are imposed, multinational corporations are seeking to establish their operations in locations beyond the traditional powerhouses.

Frasers Property, a prominent real estate developer controlled by Thailand’s wealthiest individual, is strategically positioning itself to leverage increasing U.S.-China geopolitical tensions to address the surplus of office space in the capital of Thailand. This oversupply, a legacy of previous economic shifts and changes in corporate real estate needs, presents a significant challenge.

The company is optimistic that these international tensions will catalyze a renewed demand for commercial and industrial real estate, particularly in Southeast Asia, as companies reassess their operational strategies in response to the evolving trade landscape.

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23/09/2024No comments,
Jackie O’s big decision on her $25m home

National KIIS FM breakfast star Jackie O Henderson will need to get serious about selecting a kitchen fridge that will fit and whether to go with under-tile heating in her ensuite.

Randwick City Council has advised its approval of the $5.058 million plans for her Clovelly oceanfront plot.

The plans for her four-bedroom home designed by architect Madeleine Blanchfield were lodged mid-May.

MORE: Real reason behind Mariah Carey and James Packer break-up

The outlook from the Clovelly home. Picture: realestate.com.au


Henderson reckons it will be “like you are in Italy on the Amalfi Coast”.

The four-bedroom home has been designed by current go-to architect Blanchfield, who has gone with an elegant paradise feel under a flat roof in Colorbond shale grey.

Henderson intends to construct a three-storey house with a central courtyard plus a pool, rainwater tank and double garaging.

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18/09/2024No comments
Floyd Mayweather Puts Beverly Hills Mansion

Floyd Mayweather Puts Beverly Hills Mansion up for Sale Asking $48 Million

The retired boxing champion has owned the stately house since 2017

Retired boxer Floyd Mayweather has listed his grand Beverly Hills, California, home for $48 million.

 

Mayweather purchased the six-bedroom estate on North Crescent Drive from spec mansion developer Nile Niami for $25.5 million in 2017, according to property records.

The French Modern-style house, built in 1992, comes with an open-plan living area, 10 sets of French doors, a paneled library, a wine cellar with an adjacent bar, and a guesthouse equipped with a cinema room that can seat 20 guests.

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17/09/2024No comments
J.Lo Reportedly Has Her Eyes Set on a Fashion Icon’s

J.Lo Reportedly Has Her Eyes Set on a Fashion Icon’s $55 Million L.A. Mega-Mansion

As a lawsuit plays out, the pop star is allegedly in negotiations to purchase the Paul R. Williams-designed estate that was previously home to BCBG founder Max Azria and his wife Lubov.

While rumors were still swirling about whether their two-year marriage would officially end in divorce, Hollywood A-listers Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck had already hoisted their massive Beverly Hills marital mansion on the market for a whopping $68 million and started the hunt for separate Los Angeles digs.

 

Though Affleck quickly scooped up a Cliff May-designed equestrian spread in Brentwood for a speck over $20 million, Lopez was frequently spotted around town checking out potential spots to hang her hat. Now word on the street has it that she’s finally settled on a Sunset Boulevard estate in the affluent Holmby Hills enclave that was formerly owned by the late BCBG founder Max Azria, as well as Oscar-winning writer, producer, and novelist Sidney Sheldon before him. It also just happens to sit right next door to the home her former beau Sean “Diddy” Combs is selling for $61 million.

By Wendy Bowman

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17/09/2024No comments
Matthew Perry’s Los Angeles Home

Matthew Perry’s Los Angeles Home Gets a $500,000 Price Cut

The late “Friends” actor purchased the mid-century Hollywood Hills house less than six months before his death last year

Matthew Perry’s estate has lowered the price of a Los Angeles home that he bought just months before he died last year.

The mid-century house hit the market in May for $5.195 million, Mansion Global reported at the time. After a nearly $500,000 price cut on Friday, it’s now asking $4.7 million.

The “Friends” star bought the home in June of last year for just under $5 million using a limited liability company, property records show, and he died the following October at the age of 54.

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16/09/2024No comments
Peek Inside Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones’s

Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones—acting wizards and a power couple for the past 24 years—are finally, and reluctantly, saying goodbye to their 1929 estate in Irvington, New York. It’s bittersweet news for the two, who have lived there since 2019, but (we’re all about silver linings here!) it could be great news for you. That is, if you have $12 million on the ready.

 

The celebrity duo is parting ways with their massive Westchester County abode at 2 Fargo Lane because their kids—21 and 23 years old— .. Read more 

27/07/2024No comments
Channel Your Inner ‘Italian Stallion’ with Sylvester Stallone’s Former Home, Now for Sale

He’s best known for creating and then starring in the Rocky and Rambo franchises; he sometimes goes by “Sly” or “Italian Stallion”; he’s inspired many a hot take on how well he was able to preserve über-attractive looks well into his 70s. The man we’re referring to is Sylvester Stallone, and now you can get a bit closer to his stardom by buying his former home in Garrison, New York.

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11/07/2024No comments
Rebel Wilson Is Selling Extra L.A. Home She Used as an Office

We can’t disagree. The gated residence offers “unparalleled privacy and elegance,” the listing notes.

The interiors are defined by tall ceilings and “an inviting and spacious atmosphere.”

The open kitchen features high-end appliances and flows to several dining areas. Upstairs, there’s a large primary suite with a private balcony, a walk-in closet, and an en suite bath.

Other highlights include a media area, a custom gym, and a downstairs office perfect for “remote work, music making, or study,” according to the listing.

Out back, there’s a covered patio, pool and spa, and space for entertaining.

When not dabbling in real estate, the Australian-born Wilson has a smashing acting career. She’s had standout roles in the “Pitch Perfect” franchise, “Bridesmaids,” and many a rom-com, including “How To Be Single,” “Isn’t It Romantic,” and “Senior Year.” She recently penned a memoir, “Rebel Rising.”

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21/06/2024No comments
Lufthansa close to getting go-ahead for Italy’s ITA Airways deal

Lufthansa close to getting go-ahead for Italy’s ITA Airways deal. Lufthansa wants the move to strengthen its position in Europe’s fast-growing aviation market. It has assured the EU that the takeover will not have adverse effects on fair competition on long-haul routes. Lufthansa says it is close to getting the go ahead from the European Union (EU) for its takeover of the Italian national carrier ITA Airways, with the EU competition authority about to sign off on it. Lufthansa’s shares fell 5.57% on Thursday evening, trading at €5.93. The deal is likely to be worth about €325 million for now and will allow Italy to dispose of ITA Airways, which has been a loss-making asset for a while now, therefore going some way towards plugging national finances. The deal needs to be finalised by 4 July, although the details may still change by then.

Lufthansa wants the move to strengthen its position in Europe’s fast-growing aviation market. It has assured the EU that the takeover will not have adverse effects on fair competition on long-haul routes. Lufthansa says it is close to getting the go ahead from the European Union (EU) for its takeover of the Italian national carrier ITA Airways, with the EU competition authority about to sign off on it. Lufthansa’s shares fell 5.57% on Thursday evening, trading at €5.93. The deal is likely to be worth about €325 million for now and will allow Italy to dispose of ITA Airways, which has been a loss-making asset for a while now, therefore going some way towards plugging national finances. The deal needs to be finalised by 4 July, although the details may still change by then.

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Copyright Michael Probst/Copyright 2024 The AP. All rights reserved

21/06/2024No comments
Back in the Saddle: Producer Ryan Murphy Offers Up His SoCal Equestrian Estate for $10.6M

TV producer Ryan Murphy, who’s known for such hit shows as “Glee” and “Pose,” has entered the housing market again, this time listing a horse property in Los Angeles. Murphy has been busy in the real estate world. Last month he listed his Richard Neutra–designed home in Bel-Air for $33.9 million. The architectural stunner, known as the Brown House, is still available.

As for his most recent offering, the four-bedroom, 5.5-bath property in Sullivan Canyon is going for $10,590,000. Murphy had picked it up in 2021 for $7,150,000. The single-story, 4,000-square-foot home designed by architect Peter Choate is a send-up of the popular ranch-style houses that popped up in San Diego in the 1930s, and later in L.A., by architect Cliff May.

The next owner of this half-acre SoCal spread “must love horses,” the listing notes. It’s billed as an equestrian estate with three stalls to house Arabians. There’s also a tack room and a chicken coop. A community equestrian center is located close by. The living room has a cozy a fireplace, and the dining area flows into the kitchen, which is equipped with stainless appliances and a large island. The outdoor kitchen has a barbecue and pizza oven. The primary bedroom boasts a wraparound closet, and the other bedrooms enjoy views of the sycamores, beautiful terraces, and lovely landscaping. The property includes an accessory dwelling unit, a small home gym, a pool and spa, and a fire pit. Murphy began his career as a journalist before making it big as a screenwriter, producer, and director. His breakout hit in 2003 was “Nip/Tuck,” but he soared to stardom after many seasons of “Glee.”

Murphy is the recipient of a half-dozen Emmys, and his latest successes include the “American Horror Story” franchise and the limited TV series “Dahmer–Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story.”

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(Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for TIME; Realtor.com)

20/06/2024No comments
Nice! Vanilla Ice Made ‘Millions Doing Nothing’ by Flipping Homes

Vanilla Ice, the one-hit wonder rapper from the 1990s, might have faded from the limelight—but he’s quietly become a multi-hit real estate phenom.

When his rapping career ended, the performer, whose real name is Robert Matthew Van Winkle, turned to buying and fixing up properties to flip.

It wouldn’t have been so much of a shocker if the one-time rapper, who met with early success, had ended up a career failure after his music moment died. Instead, he changed his tune.According to Van Winkle, it all started in 1992, when Hurricane Andrew destroyed his Florida home. He decided to fix it up himself and sold it. He was on his way to a new money-making plan; and to hone his skills, he even went to design school.

He told Steve-O on his podcast, Steve-O’s Wild Ride, that he started “buying homes all over the country.” He never lived in them but “made millions” when he decided to sell them off. “I bought a bunch, and I never used them,” Van Winkle revealed to Steve-O. “I thought I’d use them while I was there. I don’t want to stay in hotels, it gets crazy. So, I bought all these homes, and then I said, ‘S—.’ I went on three years. I never saw them. I thought I’d lost money on them. I thought, ‘F—, I just blew a lot of money,’ and I go, ‘Let’s just sell them. Sell them all.’ And I sold them all.”

Turns out, the homes sold quickly, and Van Winkle “made millions for doing nothing,” he told Steve-O. “I didn’t even change the carpet or do—there were probably cobwebs in there. Nobody rented them out. They just sat there, and I go, ‘Holy s—, let’s go buy a bunch more of them.’ I was buying homes all over the place and still am.”

The 56-year-old’s talents as a real estate investor and contractor were showcased on his reality TV show, “The Vanilla Ice Project,” which has 180 episodes and 13 seasons. He explained to Steve-O that he buys “distressed houses” that are off-market listings, picking them up for “pennies on the dollar.”

Van Winkle’s home-flipping work must be paying off, because according to Celebrity Net Worth, he’s worth about $20 million.

Here are just some of Vanilla Ice’s properties: Read More 

Pic source : New York times 

20/06/2024No comments
John Denver’s Former Rocky Mountain Estate Just Hit the Market for $8.5 Million

Nearly three decades after his death at age 53, a chunk of John Denver’s longtime Denver estate is newly available. The legendary singer/songwriter had the mountain getaway in Aspen‘s exclusive gated Starwood community custom-built at the height of his career in the early 1970s, and though the main residence is off the market, a couple of buildings on an adjacent parcel are now up for grabs, asking a dash under $8.5 million.

Originally designed as a guesthouse and recording studio, the property was last sold this past April for nearly $4.8 million. Since converted into a full-fledged home courtesy of extensive renovations, the two wood-sided and metal-roof structures feature a total of five bedrooms and an equal number of baths in a little more than 2,900 square feet of rustic living space that still retains a stained-glass installation from Denver’s tenure.

RELATED: An Aspen Estate Sells for $108 Million, Becoming Colorado’s Most Expensive Residential Sale

Tucked away on five acres of land overlooking picturesque valley and mountain vistas, about 15 minutes outside of downtown Aspen, the single-story residence is highlighted by a spacious great room boasting wood-beam ceilings and a wall of sliding glass doors opening to an expansive deck. Within that space, a cozy living area is warmed by a striking stone and copper wood-burning fireplace flanked by built-in shelving, and a sleekly designed kitchen is outfitted with a central island, stainless appliances, and an accompanying dining area.

Elsewhere is a fireside primary suite displaying an inviting bath equipped with dual vanities and a large shower; and outdoors, the separately deeded lot with its own driveway hosts a relaxing hot tub and a step-down gathering area that’s ideal for al fresco lounging and entertaining. There’s also a one-car garage.

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Image source 

20/06/2024No comments
Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas List Their New York Estate for $12 Million

Known as Long Meadow, the historic Georgian-style home rests on 12 acres of riverfront property in the Hudson Valley enclave of Irvington, about 20 miles from Manhattan.

If you’ve always wanted to live the life of a Hollywood power couple, this star-studded residence in New York‘s Hudson Valley could be just the ticket! As first reported by The Wall Street Journal, the picturesque 12-acre spread owned by married actors Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas has just popped up for sale in the coastal village of Irvington, asking $12 million. The listing is held by David Turner of Compass.

Records show Zeta-Jones herself paid $4.5 million back in 2019 for the pre-war estate, which is showcased by a four-story Georgian-style house boasting eight en-suite bedrooms and 12 baths in a little more than 11,600 square feet of four-level living space accented throughout with stylishly modern interiors warmed by numerous fireplaces.

Originally built in 1929—and previously occupied through the years by Tiffany & Co. founder Charles Lewis Tiffany and the Matthiessen family, wealthy sugar merchants—the stately brick and stone structure was extensively renovated during the couple’s tenure and features a handsome oak-paneled library that connects to a two-story library and a salon with its own bar. A lower level is outfitted with a recreation area, a gym, a kitchenette, and a 21-foot heated indoor pool resting alongside a trio of large arched windows.

Other highlights include formal living and dining rooms, a brick-lined kitchen sporting an eat-in island and high-end stainless appliances, and an adjoining family room. A posh primary suite flaunts a separate seating area, a showroom-style closet, and a luxe bath spotlighted by a marble-clad soaking tub; and outdoors, the park-like grounds host a 100-foot terrace with steps leading down to a grass and stone lounging spot and 130 feet of waterfront footage on the Hudson River. There’s also an attached four-car garage.

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PHOTO: RICH FURY/GETTY

20/06/2024No comments
TAT and Jeollanam-do jointly promote Songkran and Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festivals

Bangkok, 20 June 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Jeollanum-do have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly promote Thailand’s Songkran Festival and Jeollanam-do’s Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival to a global recognition.

In the presence of H.E. Mr. Tanee Sangrat, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, the MOU was signed by TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, and the Governor of Jeollanam-do, Mr. Kim Young-rok, on 17 June 2024 in Seoul, South Korea. Also joining the ceremony were Mr. Kim Seong, Governor of Jangheung County, Jeollanam-do, and TAT executives.

Ms. Thapanee said “This MOU is a result of the integration of cooperation between TAT and Jeollanam-do to promote two-way tourism through soft powers of the two countries. Thailand’s Songkran Festival and Jeollanam-do’s Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival hold similar celebrations. Both are centred on the use of ‘water’ as a means for establishing friendly relationships.”

TAT also holds existing MOU with Boryeong City jointly promote Thailand’s Songkran Festival and Boryeong Mud Festival and another agreement with the Korea Association of Travel Agents (KETA) to promote travel between the two countries. Thailand and South Korea are currently promoting the “2023-2024 Korea-Thailand Mutual Visit Year” to commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

During the Jeollanam-do International Tourism Culture Contest, on 17-18 June 2024, at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, TAT presented Thailand through five must-do activities – Must East local food, Must See local culture, Must Seek unseen attractions, Must Buy local arts and crafts, and Must Beat local sports.

Throughout two days, the Thailand booth featured special Songkran cultural performances, and DIY workshops of umbrella painting, Lanna’s hanging flag crafting, and Thai potpourri making. Over 10,000 visitors visited the booth.

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19/06/2024No comments,
Estée Lauder’s Former Vacation Home in Cannes Just Listed for $8.7 Million

The late beauty mogul owned the villa in the sought-after La Californie neighborhood from 1961 to 2004.

Two decades after Estée Lauder’s death, the late cosmetic mogul’s “favorite vacation home” in Cannes is up for grabs. The French Riviera is, of course, synonymous with the perfume industry, and, interestingly, Lauder’s former summer home is where the savvy American businesswoman created some of her famous fragrances. On the market with Hamptons for £6.7 million (or roughly $8.7 million), the stately villa is nestled on Avenue du Roi Albert in La Californie, an exclusive residential enclave in the city’s Alpes-Maritimes region. According to the listing, Estée and her late husband, Joseph, bought the palatial property together back in 1961. The self-made beauty magnate held onto the place until 2004, the same year she passed away at the age of 97.

RELATED: A Historic French Villa That Once Hosted Grace Kelly Just Listed for $8.6 Million 

The next owners purchased the sun-filled pad from the Lauder’s children shortly after and put the place through a thoughtful renovation. During the remodel, they stumbled upon some of Estée’s old documents, including a letter from Stanley Marcus, the founder of Neiman Marcus.

The villa dates back to 1926 and today comprises six bedrooms and six bathrooms in 4,305 square feet. Internally, you’ll find spacious living areas, a stunning primary suite, a marble and wood-clad kitchen, and a home office. There are sweeping Mediterranean Sea views from every level. Outside, the landscaped grounds are decked out with formal gardens, plus a covered patio and a heated swimming pool.

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17/06/2024No comments
Serena Williams’s Former L.A. Estate Can Be Yours for $13.5 Million

Occupied by the tennis legend for over a decade and currently owned by designer Rodrigo Vargas, the Colonial Mediterranean home is nestled amid a spacious double lot featuring a pool and spa.

A little more than five years after Serena Williams finally managed to offload her longtime home in the Los Angeles enclave of Bel Air for almost $4 million off the original $12 million ask, the retired tennis superstar’s onetime estate has popped up for sale yet again, this time with a $13.5 million price tag. The listing is held by Louis DeLaura and Ernie Stone of Sotheby’s International Realty.

Famously owned by the 23-time Grand Slam singles winner for 13 years from 2006 to spring 2019, when the place traded hands for $8.1 million, records show the property in the Stone Canyon neighborhood was last sold to L.A.-based interior designer Rodrigo Vargas and his partner Frederick Storey for a speck under $8 million in late 2020.

Originally built in the 1930s but remodeled and expanded in the years since, the Colonial Mediterranean structure is tucked away on a fenced and gated double parcel spanning nearly 3 acres, just minutes from Hotel Bel-Air. Inside, six bedrooms and seven baths are filtered across a little more than 6,100 square feet of two-level living space that is adorned throughout with walls of glass spilling out to grounds laced with mature trees and water features.

Upon entering the double front doors via a lengthy vine-covered colonnade connected to a moto court and three-car garage, an entry foyer flows to a semi-circular living room boasting marble floors and built-in bookshelves. Other highlights include a wood-paneled study with a bar and a formal dining room topped by a snazzy chandelier, while the all-white kitchen is decked out with limestone countertops, high-end stainless appliances, and an accompanying breakfast nook lined with windows.

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RELATED: A Tech Magnate Is Asking $12.5 Million for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Former L.A. Home

16/06/2024No comments
Tech Insider Explains Why Some in Silicon Valley Are Turning to Trump

In his 2021 book, “The Wires of War,” Mr. Helberg detailed his concerns about the former president, during and after his first administration when he was working on disinformation and foreign interference at Google.

“After Biden’s victory, millions of Americans—egged on by Trump—indulged in unwarranted conspiracy theories claiming that Trump had in fact won,” wrote Mr. Helberg, at that time the co-chair of the Brookings Institution’s China Strategy Initiative, when describing efforts in Silicon Valley to fight what he called “domestic disinformation.”

He was a bundler for Pete Buttigieg’s presidential run during the 2020 cycle.

Yet in recent weeks, Mr. Helberg, now an adviser to Palantir CEO Alex Karp, has come forward as a vocal supporter of former President Trump. In May, the Washington Post publicized his $1 million donation to the Trump campaign.

“I am far from ruling out additional support for President Trump,” Mr. Helberg told The Epoch Times.

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(Illustration by The Epoch Times, Shutterstock, Getty Images)

13/06/2024No comments
Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community receives Ambassador of Sweden to ASEAN

Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community receives Ambassador of Sweden to ASEAN.Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community, H.E. Satvinder Singh, received a courtesy call from the Ambassador of Sweden to ASEAN, H.E. Daniel Blockert. They discussed potential ways to further strengthen trade and investment relations between ASEAN and Sweden, including by exploring stronger cooperation on areas of shared priority.

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13/06/2024No comments