Anniversary Edition: 10th THAILAND OPEN 2014 (30 MAY-8 JUNE)

[Andrew Tjon A Ong]

INVITATION for the 10th Thailand Open 2014
Sun, sea, beach, nature, culture, friendly people, nice food, nice nightlife, draughts, … is there a better combination? Playing draughts in the morning, swimming in the sea or sitting on an elephant in the afternoon. In the evening, if you like, there are many open bars.
In June 2014 there will be an international draughts tournament in Jomtien, a nice tourist village just at the beach. Nine rounds in nine days according to the Swiss System and the rules of the FMJD. We will play eight games in the morning and one game in the afternoon. There will be enough time to take part on (of course fully voluntary) excursions, or to play rapid (‘blitz’) games, or to play a small tournament ‘Thai draughts’ with the locals. The entrance fee of the participation is 55 euro. If you want to stay in the same hotel as the tournament, the costs are app. 180 euro for 9 nights with breakfast, based on a shared room.
Excursions are, of course, not included in the price. We recommend you to spend more days in the nice country of Thailand. Come and join the 10th International Draughts Tournament in Jomtien (‘Thailand Open’) 30 June - 8 June 2014 in the Jomtien Garden Hotel, 31/71 Moo 12, Nongprue, Banglamoung, Chonburi 20260, THAILAND.

Playing schedule:

30 May: 19.00 hrs. Opening Tournament in Jomtien Garden Hotel & Resort, 31/71 Moo12, Nongprue, Banglamoung, Chonburi 20260, Thailand
31 May: 10.00 hrs. 1st round;
1 June: 8.00 hrs. 2nd round; 14.00 hrs. Excursion (if you like)
2 June: 8.00 hrs. 3rd round; 14.00 hrs. Excursion (if you like)
3 June: 8.00 hrs. 4th round; 14.00 hrs. 5th round
4 June: free day. Excursion (if you like)
5 June: 12.00 hrs. 6th round; 19.00 hrs. Excursion (if you like)
6 June: 8.00 hrs. 7th round; 14.00 hrs. Excursion (if you like)
7 June: 8.00 hrs. 8th round; 14.00 hrs. Excursion (if you like)
8 June: 8.00 hrs. 9th round; 15.00 hrs. Closing Ceremony

We’ll play according the rules of the FMJD. 1.30 hours for 40 moves and after that 1.00 hour for 35 moves and after that 10 seonds/move. Swiss-system. Referee is Mr. E. Davelaar, international referee of the FMJD.

Prizes:
There are many prizes (at least 50 prices, devided in money and cups) in several categories. It's depending on the amount of participants.
There are special prizes for the best Asian players, Best Women, and Youth players if there are enough participants in these categories (>3).
Do you want to join the tournament?
It's not necessary to be a strong draughts player.
It is an open tournament for everyone who wants to play international draughts.
Mail Tournament director Andrew Tjon A Ong: tjonaong@gmail.com

Winner 2005
Sharunas Mardosa (Lithuania)

Winner 2006
Ron Heusdens (Netherlands)

Winner 2007
Alexey Chizhov (Russia)

Winner 2008
Jean-Marc Ndjofang (Cameroon)

Winner 2009
Jean-Marc Ndjofang (Cameroon)

Winner 2010
Gabriel Heerema (Netherlands)

Winner 2011
Macodou Ndiaye (Senegal)

Winner 2012
Alexey Chizhov (Russia)

Winner 2013
Alexey Chizhov (Russia)

Thailand Open 2013 is sponsored by Tulip House, Jomtien Garden hotel, Restaurant "Ons Moeder" Pattaya, Bijnaar Lasbedrijf in The Hague & Damatico Mindgames

Tuliphouse:
344/3 Jomtien Beach Road, 20260 Jomtien
Tel.: +66 38 231 134, Fax: +66 38 232 071
Email: tuliph@loxinfo.co.th
Hotel / guesthouse with seaview, Restaurant, Terrace
Thai and European kitchen, Travel agency
Rooms available for app. 10 euro

The organization of Thailand Open 2014:

Mr. Andrew Tjon A Ong
Tournament director

Mr. Evert Davelaar
Organization
International referee

Mr. Mathieu Corporaal
Organization
Sponsor

Mr. Eric van Dusseldorp
Webmaster

Registration:
For registration or information, send an email to: tjonaong@gmail.com or to thailanddammen@gmail.com
Look for more information at the website of the tournament: http://www.thailandopen.nl/

Underneath you can find some nice pictures from the last edition:


During the Openingceremony of Thailand Open 2013


Christian Guerbert (France) took the name of his opponent out of the box


Christian Guerbert was, as usual, the clown of the evening


This was the First prize for the Winner of the tournament, together with 500 euro cash. In Thailand Open 2013 we have awarded more than 100 prizes devided over all ratingcategories.


everyone wanted to win this prize...


This is our hotel in Thailand, the Jomtien Garden hotel & resort


Delicious exotic fruits of Thailand


Cock van Wijk versus Nona Savina (Russia)


Evgeniya Loktionova from Russia versus Nicholas Ramsundar from Trinidad & Tobago


Wei Zhou from China against Natalia Shestakova from Russia


Arbiters Nerin Bisseswar (Netherlands) and Rima Danileviciene (Lithuania). Rima translated everything in Russian


Elena Kopytova (Russia) versus Michiel Luiten (Netherlands)


Gerard Peroti versus Rene den Haan, both from the Netherlands


Macodou Ndiaye from Senegal plays a Charity simultangame against Thai lady players. Unfortunately he had lost all his games


a Goodbye from the Yakutsk-delegation


Nona Savina and her daughter Evgeniya Loktionova from Russia. They both played a very strong tournament and won the main prizes in their category Women and Youth.


All Chinese players had won a prize. From left to right: Richard Wang (interpreter), Wei Zhou (4th place in the overall category!), Jian Gu (director), Haochun Qiu (2nd best Asianplayer), Andrew Tjon A Ong (organizer Thailand Open) and Wensong Wang (best Asianplayer)


The best Youth players came from Russia: Evgeniya Loktionova (1st), Elena Kopytova (2nd) and Kirill Kirilov (3rd)


The Topplayers of Thailand Open 2013 fltr Yuriy Anikeev (Ukraine, 3rd). Macodou Ndiaye (Senegal 2nd), Alexey Chizhov (Russia, Champion), Hein Meijer (Netherlands, 5th) and Fidèle Nimbi (France 6th)


Thailand Open champion Alexey Chizhov and the number three Yuriy Anikeev now play the World Championships in Ufa, Russia. We want to wish them a lot of success!! We hope that the new Worldchampion will participate in Thailand Open 2014!

[Andrew Tjon A Ong]

10th THAILAND OPEN 2014

Time for an update of Thailand Open 2014. It goes well with Thailand Open.
We already have lots of participants for the tournament and the tour to Dubai and Laos. Now is the best time for Registration!
Just send us an email, and will send you more information and if you want, a personal invitation!

Events Thailand Open 2014:
Trip to Dubai: 23-28 May 2014
Thailand Open 2014 : 30 May -8 June 2014
Roundtour Laos : 9-19 June 2014

Participants:
We already more than 80 participants from all over the world. Make sure you also add! Don't miss this tournament!
We also expect lots of more participants from China, Brasil, Russia, Mongolia and the Netherlands.
If you need more information of the roundtours or Thailand Open, or you want to participate in Thailand Open 2014? Please send an email to tjonaong@gmail.com
Also take a look at the tournament website: http://www.thailandopen.nl/

We already have an interim list of more than 80 participants:

1 Ramon Sakidin (NL)
2 Bas Baksoellah (NL)
3 Harold Jagram (NL)
4 Heve Bijnaar (NL)
5 Roy Blinker (NL)
6 Remon Kassels (NL)
7 Rajendra Jharap (NL)
8 Bhaan Dihal (NL)
9 Pertap Malahe (NL)
10 Gerard Peroti (NL)
11 Hedwig Callender (NL)
12 Bhiem Ramdien (NL)
13 Kumar Mangal (NL)
14 Cyril Sluisdom (NL)
15 Rabinkoemar Mathoera (NL)
16 Robby Koendjbiharie (NL)
17 Radjes Lachman (NL)
18 Ruph Bhawanibhiek (NL)
19 Kries Kalidin (NL)
20 Kennedy Krishnadath (NL)
21 Ardjoen Sheoratan (NL)
22 Johan Alidarso (NL)
23 Soerinder Ramdjielal (NL)
24 Nerin Bisseswar (NL)
25 Frits Stuger (NL)
26 Anne Veenstra (NL)
27 Ton v.d. Ploeg (NL)
28 Hans Loots (NL)
29 Erik Maijenburg (NL)
30 Michiel Luiten (NL)
31 Jordy v.d. Lugt (NL)
32 Lennart Bolks (NL)
33 Wim Bor (NL)
34 Klaas Bor (NL)
35 Cock van Wijk (NL)
36 Walter Thoen (NL)
37 Theo Winkelaar (NL)
38 Piet Jonkers (NL)
39 Evert Wiskerke (NL)
40 Ferry Kemperman (NL)
41 Henk Jonker (NL)
42 Jaap Slump (NL)
43 Teun de Kluiver (NL)
44 Harry Kolk (NL)
45 Leo Mous (NL)
46 Herman Vroom (NL)
47 Wim Koopman (NL)
48 Patrick Casaril (Belgium)
49 Damrong Yuabang Sai (Thailand)
50 Herman Spanjer (Thailand)
51 Jason Yeo (Singapore)
52 Hiroshi Kawagushi (Japan)
53 Enkhtuya Gombosuren (Mongolia)
54 Enhbat Otgonbayar (Mongolia)
55 Evgeni Kozlov, (Russia)
56 Sergey Kuropatov (Russia)
57 Vladimir Nechaj (Russia)
58 Gavril Kolesov (Russia)
59 Nikolay Germogenov  (Russia)
60 Natalia Shestakova (Russia)
61 Nona Savina (Russia)
62 Anastasiya Babkina (Russia)
63 Olga Yakovleva (Russia)
64 Alexey Dmitriev (Russia)
65 Nika Leopoldova (Russia)
66 Julietta Romanskaya (Moldavia)
67 Airat Nurgaziyev (Kazachstan)
68 Andrei Valiuk (Belarus)
69 Zinaida Alexandrov (Israel)
70 Shlomo Borohov (Israel)
71 Epherem Demessie (Ethiopia)
72 Nicholas Ramsundar (Trinidad)
73 Keith Sylvester (Trinidad)
74 Devendra Dindial (Trinidad)
75 Ricardo Pierre (Haiti)
76 Guno Burleson (Surinam)
77 André Zabeu (Brazil)
78 Charles Santos (Brazil)
79 Leszek Petlicki (Poland)
80 Marcin Czarnota (Poland)
81 Antioco Nurchis (Italy)
82 Christian Guerbert (France)

Underneath you can find some nice pictures of the beautiful Thailand Open tournament:


Opening of the tournament



Free welcome-dinner for all visitors of Thailand Open, during the Opening of the tournament




Vyacheslav Varlamov (Russia)- Bas Baksoellah(NL)

Heve Bijnaar (NL) - Venera Gogoleva (Russia)

Rene Nurmohamed (NL)- Gerard Peroti (NL)

Hiroshi Kawaguchi (Japan) - Elena Koptytova (Russia)

Denis Filatov (Russia)-Fidele Nimbi (Fr)


After the Closingceremony




We will make a 2-days cruise on the Mekong river. It is our own private boat, and there is enough time to play a game of draughts...



Nice nature during our roundtrip Laos




You can play draughts against the local draughtsplayers on the streets in Laos

[Andrew Tjon A Ong]

Laos tour

This year we have a nice trip to Dubai before the Thailand Open tournament in our program and after Thailand Open tournament we will have a wonderful 11 -days trip to Laos. This trip we last made in 2010, was then a great success. We have long puzzled over whether there was an improvement somewhere in the program to make. After long studying at the previous trip we couldn’t find a single thing to improve, This Laos-trip was one of the best tours that we have ever had in our program. All 28 people who have been through the trip then, will agree that it was it was an excellent trip!! .

A few highlights of this Laos trip : a two-day cruise on the 5,000 km long Mekong River , visiting the hill tribes and several other stops at villages with factories with their typical industry and crafts , the enthusiastic draughtsplayers in Luang Prabang, the Kuang Si waterfalls, the impressive procession with hundreds of monks in Luang Prabang, the breathtaking views of the mountains of northern Laos, a visit to a draughtsclub in the capital Vientiane and ended with a cozy train journey from Laos to Bangkok .

At this moment, we are still awaiting the final quote from Laos . We expect that price for these Thailand / Laos tour will be just like our previous trips around 750-800 euros . (Cambodia-tour was 790 €, Malaysia-tour 865 € and Vietnam-tour 835 €) Further information will follow soon.

Tour: 11 day tour Thailand / Laos June 9 – 19 June 2014

Day 1 Monday, June 9 Jomtien Chiang Rai
Immediately after the Thailand Open tournament the great tour to Laos begins. Transfer to Bangkok , where we take the short flight to Chiang Rai. Since transfer to our resort where we can recover all the efforts of the past week. In the evening we can visit the night market in Chiang-Rai. A great experience!. You can also find a lot of small restaurants with delicious food! (B)

Day 2 Tuesday, June 10 Chiang Rai - Pak Beng (Laos)
Today up early, because right after breakfast we begin the exciting journey towards Laos. We drive to the border town of Chiang Kong and go by boat to Laos. After extensive customs formalities we get inside Laos . However, our local guide waiting for us. We are driven by Tuk-tuk, to our boat. We go beyond a wonderful cruise on the mighty Mekong River. We let the banks pull us over and passing lush jungle. This trip takes 7 to 8 hours . Along the way we will make several stops to visit some villages of the hill tribes ( such as the Hmong and Thai Lu ). By the early evening we arrive in Pak Beng where we will spend the night with stunning views over the river . In a simple but stylish hotel (B,L)

Day 3: Wednesday, June 11 Pak Beng , Luang Prabang
After breakfast we continue our cruise and will follow deeper downstream the Mekong. Along the way there are again several interesting stops on the program. Today we will visit several villages of minority groups such as the Khmu and Hmong. We can then admire their work craft and homemade silks and possibly buy at a bargain price. Then we will visit cave Tham Ting and Tham Phoumt, where there are more than 3000 Buddha statues can be admired. Then we will visit the village of Ban Xang Hai. This village is famous for its traditional Lao sticky rice made here and the home-brewed wine and whiskey. We can observe the preparation and of course there is also the possibility to taste or to take a bottle to the boat.Late in the afternoon we arrive in Luang Prabang..We will brought by tuktuk to our hotel. Luang Prabang is the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Laos, a peaceful and atmospheric city and is easy to explore on foot. The town is registered as World Heritage and is known for the many Wats ( temples). They are very well kept and still in use , anywhere you see the local monks in orange robes. (B,L)

Day 4 Thursday, June 12 Luang Prabang
For today there is a full excursion on our program ! After breakfast we start with a city tour and we visit the highlights of this town . First we visit the beautiful Royal Palace, the jewel of the city . It is now ( since the abolition of the monarchy in 1975 ) a museum. The main street through the center has access to dozens of streets with French monuments. One of the streets leading to Wat Xieng Thong built in 1560, perhaps the most striking temple of Luang Prabang. With graceful, layered roof, the Wat Xieng Thong is a fine example of classic local architecture. We also visit the Wat Mai. This temple owes its fame to the particular paintings that tell stories about everyday life and also the latest reincarnation of Buddha.
In the afternoon we go by car to Ban Xang Khong, where we will visit. one silk and paper mill.
Then we return to the city and visit the oldest temple, Wat Visoen.
Then we go up the mountain to the beautiful views of the mountain Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset (B).

Day 5 Friday June 13, Luang Prabang
You have the whole day to explore Luang Prabang and its beautiful surroundings. Example, you can visit the Kuang Si waterfalls by minibus , 25 kilometers outside the city . Here you can cool off in the many waterholes. The road leading to the falls , winds past expansive teak tree plantations and picturesque Hmong villages.
Another option for today is a temple about a half hour walk in the hills and villages across the Mekong River. The walk begins after you have crossed . To Xieng Mene village in the center of the city with a local ferry Along the way you will pass traditional villages , a ruined meditation center and numerous lesser known temples . From the upper Chomphet What is the view of the city of Luang Prabang and the Mekong sublime. You can also decide to spend the whole day. Luang Prabang Strolling through the streets and then walk to the promenade where there are numerous eateries are located. The atmospheric night market, which is located between the post office and the former palace , is a lovely place to stay. Sole hours Until the evening you leave here for locally woven textiles, silver , or handicrafts made by the hill tribes . In an alley that leads to the Mekong River from the market, you can sample local delicacies and exotic fruit with dozens of stalls (B)

Day 6 Saturday, June 14 Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng
We drive through the beautiful mountain scenery along villages where mainly live Hmong tribes. Along the way we will have the opportunity to make at ethnic minority groups such as the Yao, Hmong and Khampone.
After a few stops in the afternoon we arrive in Vang Vieng, a haven of tranquility on a tributary of the Mekong River, in a picturesque valley with jagged karst mountains as backdrop. In this environment, you can make all kinds of active excursions. Tubing on the river - float on a big rubber tire with the flow - is local attraction here! We stay two nights in this charming town, that in the evening quite comes to life in the various restaurants and discos (B)

Day 7 Sunday, June 15 Vang Vieng
Today is another full day excursions on the program. After breakfast we visit the natural caves of Thamjung which have been used in wartime as a bunker. Then we go to an organic farm, where green tea is produced and then we visit the colorful local market of Vang Vieng (B)

Day 8 Monday June 16 Vang Vieng , Vientiane
After breakfast we drive to the capital of Laos: Vientiane. Along the way we make a stop at a fishing village and a hydroelectric plant. In the afternoon we arrive at our hotel, where we are free to explore the city a bit. The rest of the day (B)

Day 9 Tuesday, June 17 Vientiane
Today is another exciting excursion on the program. After breakfast we start with a city tour. With 600,000 inhabitants Vientiane is probably the most 'rural' capital in the world . The colonial history does the atmosphere of French. The delicious baguettes with pate! You should definitely try it!
We will visit the Wat Sisaket, the only original temple in Vientiene. This temple was built in 1818 and is the only one that has survived the Thai invasion of 1828.
Then visit Wat Phra Keo Ho, the former royal chapel where an emerald Buddha from the Lane Xangperiode is preserved. Then we visit the stupa of That Luang (built in 1565 ), the national symbol of Lao sovereignty and of the Buddhist faith.
Then we visit the biggest market of Vientiane: the Morning Market (also open at noon, late! ). In the afternoon we visit the Lao version of the Arc de Triomphe, the Patouxay. It is worth the effort to climb it and enjoy the beautiful view. On the way to the top you will also find in this Victory Gate numerous clothing stores where you can buy really cheap designer clothes and jewelery. The gate was built in 1959 to celebrate their independence of Laos Finally, we visit the Mekong River where we will enjoy a nice walk with a beautiful sunset (B)

Day 10 Wednesday, June 18 Vientiane - Bangkok
Until noon, you have every opportunity to enjoy this lively capital. The antique shops in the center of Vientiane sell beautiful carved opium pipes and silverware at a reasonable price. Later in the afternoon transfer to the border with Thailand, where we will be boarding the overnight train from Nog Khai to Bangkok. An unforgettable experience!

Day 11 Thursday, June 19 Bangkok
After a good night sleep you come fitted in Bangkok for the last part of this amazing journey.
Early morning arrival in Bangkok . Everyone is free to come and go where he wants. Most people will stay two or three days more in Bangkok to do the last shoppings, before the return home.
Target price of the tour is pp 750 < 800.

This includes:
- English speaking experienced guide in Laos and Netherlands
-speaking tour guide throughout the tour.
- All accommodation , based on 2 people per room , including breakfast
- Transfer Jomtien Garden Hotel to Bangkok airport
- Flight Bangkok - Chiang Rai - Airport tax domestic flight
- Transfer airport to Hotel Chiang Rai
- Bus Chiang Rai to Laos border
- Ferry Boat to Laos
- Transfer of Immigration Office Laos side to Boat Trip by tuktuk
- Boat Trip to Pak Beng and boat trip to Luang Prabang
- Transfer from the pier in Luang Prabang to the hotel by tuktuk
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the program. Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng ( 170 km ), Vang Vieng to Vientiane ( 160 km ),
-City tour in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane
- Transfer from hotel in Vientiane to Nong Khai Railway Station ( Thailand )
- Train ticket Nong Khai to Bangkok
- All service and government taxes
- Drinking water and wet towel on the move

Only for travelers who don't share a room, there is a charge of + / - 145 euro (Single supplement)

Not included:
- Visa fee Laos
- Other meals not mentioned
- Entrance fees
- Personal expenses
- Tips

For more information or registration, please send an email to tjonaong@gmail.com
See more information about the tournament: http://www.thailandopen.nl

Take a look at the wonderful picutures of this trip:


Swimmingpool of our hotel in Chiang Rai


Our private boat during the two days Cruise on the Mekong river


Children playing draughts @ a hill tribe in Laos


Our hotel in Vang Vieng


We will vist the Buddha Cave


the view of the Mekong River, seen from the Buddha Caves


The Kuang Si waterfalls


Playing against the local street draughtsplayers in Luang Prabang


Impressive procession of hundreds of monks in Luang Prabang


The Arc de Triumph of Laos


Visiting a draughtsclub in Vientiane

[Andrew Tjon A Ong]

We have more events on our program of Thailand Open 2014. If you want to join the Anniversary Edition of the 10th Thailand Open, and you have some more time, then you can also join our Dubai Roundtrip!

Tour Dubai / Abu Dhabi 23 – 28 May, 2014
For the second time in our program: the 6 day trip to Dubai /Abu Dhabi. An ideal opportunity for people who already wanted to go to Thailand and for the people who were in doubt, to go or not to go to Thailand. It is a beautiful very competitively priced stopover package. We have done our best to make this arrangement for everyone as beneficial as possible. For only 300 € you can experience it all!
Flightticket for the 2 destinations from Amsterdam to Dubai (6 days stopover tour) and then to Thailand in only 598 € at this moment. In Thailand hotel costs: 18,50 € per person per day. It is your choice how many days you want to stay in Thailand. We have an excursionprogram everyday.



Dubai is booming! It is the fastest growing city in the world where it is bursting with new ideas. You can see with their own eyes the most bizarre projects a reality.
Dubai is one of the seven states of the United Arab Emirates on the southern coast of the Persian Gulf and lies largely in the eponymous capital exists.
The people are friendly and helpful and there is something for everyone: beach, sea, lots of shopping opportunity and a vibrant nightlife. And who does not shun the adventure, can an hour away so the wilderness.
About six and a half hour flight away, are the United Arab Emirates, the most famous emirate, Dubai.
A fairy tale from 1001 nights, unspoiled beauty and a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures.
A very modern city with many shopping malls and low taxes makes Dubai a shopper's paradise. You will find cozy local souks (markets) and trading for golden, beautiful fabrics and electronics.
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world. You can go out until the early hours. The nightlife in Dubai is exciting to mention. There are numerous restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Dubai has over 100 bars and pubs and there are nearly 30 modern nightclubs.
Dubai is known by the super-luxurious Burj El Arab Hotel, most expensive hotel in the world.
This destination has everything for a comfortable and lazy beach holiday, but is also suitable for adventurous set or sporting holiday.


The Palm Islands are artificial peninsulas off the coast of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The project is by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktum, Emir of Dubai and current Prime Minister of the UAE, designed to tourism do groeien.De peninsulas have the shape of a palm tree - a trunk with many branches. Therefore, they have a very long coastline and each resident is living water.

Day 01, Friday, May 23 AMSTERDAM - DUBAI.
-You will fly with the ultra modern Airbus A380 (largest aircraft in the world) of The Emirates from Amsterdam to Dubai (United Arab Emirates), a modern bustling city. After arrival check into your hotel.

Day 02, Saturday, May 24, DUBAI Dhow Cruise with Dinner
-You arrive in the morning at the airport of Dubai. The residents of Dubai are from over 100 different countries, the differences you will notice all directly at the airport.



During the day you have free to acclimatize. You can already explore the city or go shopping in the souks or major Malls in Dubai.



The romantic Dhow Cruise incl.dinner
At about 18:00 you will be picked for a Dhow Cruise (buffet & incl.diner no alc. Beverages) This romantic excursion sail by moonlight on the Dubai Creek. During this cruise with a traditional Arabic wooden ship, has an enchanting view of the Dubai skyline while enjoying a delicious dinner. The character of the city is an entanglement of modern and traditional. You'll see luxury yachts. Beautiful examples of architecture like the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and the spectacular building of the Chamber of Commerce can not pass your sight. But the old wooden dhows, the residence of Sheikh Saeed and the Heritage Village remind you of the past. Dinner and fragrant Arabic coffee are included in this excursion.


The most expensive hotel in the world, the Burj al Arab in the background

Day 03, Sunday, May 25, DUBAI - Dubai City Tour, Sharjah, Palm Island
- This fascinating tour takes you to Sharjah, Ajman, Dubai and Palm Island. You travel to the enchanting museum of Ajman, located in an ancient fort. This museum gives an intriguing picture of local life before the discovery of oil. Along the way you will pass the spectacular King Faisalmoskee in Sharjah, the Al Ittihad monument and the ancient palace of the ruler. On the return journey, stop at the Majarrah souk with its mosaics and golden dome. You can also see the 150 year old Al Naboodah that the life of a wealthy pearl divers family revives. Then visit the Blue Souk and Souk Al Arsah where more than 600 stores carpets, gold, silver, antiques, perfumes, clothes and many other products to sell. Then travel back to Dubai where you will find the skyscrapers of the Sheikh Zayed Road admire the direction of Dubai Marina, Madinat Souk, Jumeirah Beach / mosque and the world famous hotel Burj Al Arab view. Full day tour: approximately 8 hours


Jumeirah Open Beach

Day 04, Monday, May 26, DUBAI Day at leisure!
-Dubai has many attractions to see and experience. It is difficult to make everyone happy. One can stroll through the city's nicest, another wants to go shopping in the souks or the gigantic shopping malls visits, while another prefers to beautiful white beach is (Jumeira Open Beach). That is why this day is left open so that everyone can fill it to your own taste. There are a variety of ready-made excursions, which can be made. A must is the Desert Safari. A must for the Dubai Eye, but we did this excursion is not included in the regular program, because it is not suitable for heart patients and people with neck and back pain. It can get pretty wild to draw near! This excursion begins somewhat later in the afternoon and in the evening you will then, after dinner under the stars, back to the hotel.


Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Day 05, Tuesday, May 27, DUBAI - Full day excursion to Abu Dhabi
- In this tour you will get a good picture of Abu Dhabi, an emirate of Dubai seems that strong but yet so different. From Dubai Travel along the world's largest man-made harbor at Jebel Ali. During the two hour drive to Abu Dhabi you will pass through desert landscapes covered with acacia trees. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and has many striking examples of modern architecture. They show intriguing interpretations of Islamic themes, set in contemporary materials. During the route along the Corniche with the clear blue Gulf waters and enticing islands along the coast, you will see glittering skyscrapers and other buildings. In the city of Abu Dhabi with its impressive contrasts, visit the Abu Dhabi outdoor museum, largest shopping mall in Abu Dhabi and the Seikh Zayed Mosque which is certainly worth a visit.


The Beautiful Atlantis hotel

Day 06, Wednesday, May 28, DUBAI
-Today you can get your last minute shopping and see what things you want to see again or not yet seen. At around 19:00 hours to the airport for the flight to Bangkok 22:35. Check out of your hotel at 12:00. If you have until 19:00 at your hotel stay, you pay a surcharge.


Day 07, Thursday, May 29, DUBAI-BANGKOK
-Arrival Bangkok at 8:00 h.


6 day Dubai / Abu-Dhabi travel for only 300, - Euro!
If you want more information or you want to join this tour, please send an email to: tjonaong@gmail.com . Everyone can book on the trip! Everyone is welcome!!

Includes:
- Welcome at airport by tourleader and transfer from Airport to Hotel
- 5 nights in a 4* Hotel
- Excursions - Transfer from Hotel to Airport

Exclusive:
- Not mentioned meals
- Optional excursions
- Insurance

Optional excursions:


- Desert Safari with BBQ
- A magical evening in the desert. You depart from your hotel in the afternoon for an exciting journey through the vast red dunes of Murgham for unforgettable safari tour. Then you can enjoy the beautiful sunset in the endless desert. After the journey feather to the Bedouin camp. After a camel ride you will enjoy a delicious barbecue with Arabic specialties. The tour ends with traditional Arabic entertainment: a belly dancer dancing to the rhythm of Arabic music. Upon return Dubai remains for sufficient time to enjoy the nightlife of Dubai. This tour is not suitable for heart patients and people with neck and back pain.

-Burj Khalifa
-Dubai stands by as much as 828 meters height the tallest building in the world and was grand fireworks opened on 4 January 2010. You can pay to take the elevator to the observation deck on the 124th floor. Tip: go just before sunset and stay up until the first fountain show of the Dubai Fountain

-High Tea Burj Al Arab
A High Tea in the impressive seven star hotel Burj Al Arab may actually not be missing in your trip to Dubai. The Burj Al Arab is the symbol of Dubai, known for its special shape. When you enter the hotel you will see a stunning atrium, the highest atrium in the world. The interior is inspiring and consists of many golden accents.

[Andrew Tjon A Ong]

After only two weeks, the 10Th anniversary edition of Thailand Open will start. Next Friday we will leave for the Dubai-tour, and after this tour, the International Draughts tournament, Thailand Open will begin. On this moment, we have +/- 70 participants, so we still have room for more participants.

Immediately after the Thailand Open, the Asian championships will start in Bangkok. So for Asian players it is perfect to combine these two tournaments.
For players of other part of the World: they can combine Thailand Open with a nice trip to Dubai or and especially the tour Laos is a must! In 11 days we will visit all the highlights of this pure and authentic Asian country.

Underneath you can find an update of the list of participants. If you want to take part but you are not yet on the list, please send an email to tjonaong@gmail.com and you can still play this nice tournament. Anyone is welcome!!

1 Jean-Marc Ndjofang GMI Cameroon 2356
2 Macodou NDiayeGMI Senegal 2346
3 Bassirou Ba GMI Senegal 2328
4 Frits Luteijn MI Netherlands 2275
5 Mor Seck GMI Senegal 2251
6 Leopold SekongoMI Ivory Coast 2231
7 Ricardo Pierre GMI Haïti 2230
8 Klaas Bor MF Netherlands 2174
9 Natalia ShestakovaMIF Russia 2160
10 Patrick Casaril MF Belgium 2137
11 Harry Kolk Netherlands 2130
12 Stefan Stolwijk Netherlands 2125
13 Waldo Aliar Netherlands 2124
14 Nona Savina MIF Russia 2123
15 Walter Thoen Netherlands 2121
16 Cock van Wijk Netherlands 2096
17 Gertjan Kolste Netherlands 2078
18 Paul van der Lem Netherlands 2077
19 Vladimir Nechaj Russia 2077
20 Ramon Sakidin MF Netherlands 2070
21 Airat Nurgaziyev Kazachstan 2053
22 Michiel Luiten Netherlands 2044
23 Enhbat Otgonbayar MF Mongolia 2037
24 Bernard Post Netherlands 2036
25 Wim Vlooswijk Netherlands 2031
26 Erik Maijenburg Netherlands 2030
27 Robert Sall Netherlands 2029
28 Batdelger Nandintsetseg Mongolia 2022
29 Shlomo Borohov Israel 1997
30 Daniel Rouget France 1994
31 Henk Jonker Netherlands 1994
32 Andrei Gajdukov Russia 1993
33 Alexander Yurgenson Russia 1984
34 Evert Wiskerke Netherlands 1977
35 Keith Sylvester Trinidad 1974
36 Wim Bor Netherlands 1971
37 Enkhtuya Gombosuren Mongolia 1957
38 Ton van der Ploeg Netherlands 1956
39 Frans Elzenga Netherlands 1954
40 Kumar Mangal Netherlands 1952
41 Wim Koopman Netherlands 1951
42 Jordy van de Lugt Netherlands 1942
43 Bas Baksoellah Netherlands 1936
44 Hiroshi Kawagushi Japan 1909
45 Harold Jagram Netherlands 1907
46 Nicholas Ramsundar Trinidad 1900
47 Nerin Bisseswar Netherlands 1895
48 Hedwig Callender Netherlands 1881
49 Piet Jonkers Netherlands 1812
50 Moen Lachman Netherlands
51 Heve Bijnaar Netherlands
52 Kries Kalidin Netherlands
53 Anne Veenstra Netherlands
54 Hans Loots Netherlands
55 Lennart Bolks Netherlands
56 Anastasiya Babkina Russia
57 Elena Koptytova Russia
58 Kirill Kirilov Russia
59 Dmitry Valikov Russia
60 Gulnara Kopyrina Russia
61 Damrong Yuabang Sai Thailand
62 Panithi Seksonwiriya Thailand
63 Jason Yeo Singapore
64 Alexandria Faith Ng Singapore
65 Epherem Demessie Ethiopia
66 Christian Langer Germany
67 Adama Gueye Senegal
68 Mouhamedoul Diop Senegal
69 Justine Cleophas Pierre Grenada
70 Ajith Abeysekera Sri Lanka

Here are some nice pictures of this holiday draughts tournament:

[ajaykhan]

Laos tour

This year we have a nice trip to Dubai before the Thailand Open tournament in our program and after Thailand Open tournament we will have a wonderful 11 -days trip to Laos. This trip we last made in 2010, was then a great success. We have long puzzled over whether there was an improvement somewhere in the program to make. After long studying at the previous trip we couldn’t find a single thing to improve, This Laos-trip was one of the best tours that we have ever had in our program. All 28 people who have been through the trip then, will agree that it was it was an excellent trip!! .Paris airport private transfer




A few highlights of this Laos trip : a two-day cruise on the 5,000 km long Mekong River , visiting the hill tribes and several other stops at villages with factories with their typical industry and crafts , the enthusiastic draughtsplayers in Luang Prabang, the Kuang Si waterfalls, the impressive procession with hundreds of monks in Luang Prabang, the breathtaking views of the mountains of northern Laos, a visit to a draughtsclub in the capital Vientiane and ended with a cozy train journey from Laos to Bangkok .

At this moment, we are still awaiting the final quote from Laos . We expect that price for these Thailand / Laos tour will be just like our previous trips around 750-800 euros . (Cambodia-tour was 790 €, Malaysia-tour 865 € and Vietnam-tour 835 €) Further information will follow soon.

Tour: 11 day tour Thailand / Laos June 9 – 19 June 2014

Day 1 Monday, June 9 Jomtien Chiang Rai
Immediately after the Thailand Open tournament the great tour to Laos begins. Transfer to Bangkok , where we take the short flight to Chiang Rai. Since transfer to our resort where we can recover all the efforts of the past week. In the evening we can visit the night market in Chiang-Rai. A great experience!. You can also find a lot of small restaurants with delicious food! (B)

Day 2 Tuesday, June 10 Chiang Rai - Pak Beng (Laos)
Today up early, because right after breakfast we begin the exciting journey towards Laos. We drive to the border town of Chiang Kong and go by boat to Laos. After extensive customs formalities we get inside Laos . However, our local guide waiting for us. We are driven by Tuk-tuk, to our boat. We go beyond a wonderful cruise on the mighty Mekong River. We let the banks pull us over and passing lush jungle. This trip takes 7 to 8 hours . Along the way we will make several stops to visit some villages of the hill tribes ( such as the Hmong and Thai Lu ). By the early evening we arrive in Pak Beng where we will spend the night with stunning views over the river . In a simple but stylish hotel (B,L)

Day 3: Wednesday, June 11 Pak Beng , Luang Prabang
After breakfast we continue our cruise and will follow deeper downstream the Mekong. Along the way there are again several interesting stops on the program. Today we will visit several villages of minority groups such as the Khmu and Hmong. We can then admire their work craft and homemade silks and possibly buy at a bargain price. Then we will visit cave Tham Ting and Tham Phoumt, where there are more than 3000 Buddha statues can be admired. Then we will visit the village of Ban Xang Hai. This village is famous for its traditional Lao sticky rice made here and the home-brewed wine and whiskey. We can observe the preparation and of course there is also the possibility to taste or to take a bottle to the boat.Late in the afternoon we arrive in Luang Prabang..We will brought by tuktuk to our hotel. Luang Prabang is the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Laos, a peaceful and atmospheric city and is easy to explore on foot. The town is registered as World Heritage and is known for the many Wats ( temples). They are very well kept and still in use , anywhere you see the local monks in orange robes. (B,L)

Day 4 Thursday, June 12 Luang Prabang
For today there is a full excursion on our program ! After breakfast we start with a city tour and we visit the highlights of this town . First we visit the beautiful Royal Palace, the jewel of the city . It is now ( since the abolition of the monarchy in 1975 ) a museum. The main street through the center has access to dozens of streets with French monuments. One of the streets leading to Wat Xieng Thong built in 1560, perhaps the most striking temple of Luang Prabang. With graceful, layered roof, the Wat Xieng Thong is a fine example of classic local architecture. We also visit the Wat Mai. This temple owes its fame to the particular paintings that tell stories about everyday life and also the latest reincarnation of Buddha.
In the afternoon we go by car to Ban Xang Khong, where we will visit. one silk and paper mill.
Then we return to the city and visit the oldest temple, Wat Visoen.
Then we go up the mountain to the beautiful views of the mountain Phousi Hill for a beautiful sunset (B).

Day 5 Friday June 13, Luang Prabang
You have the whole day to explore Luang Prabang and its beautiful surroundings. Example, you can visit the Kuang Si waterfalls by minibus , 25 kilometers outside the city . Here you can cool off in the many waterholes. The road leading to the falls , winds past expansive teak tree plantations and picturesque Hmong villages.
Another option for today is a temple about a half hour walk in the hills and villages across the Mekong River. The walk begins after you have crossed . To Xieng Mene village in the center of the city with a local ferry Along the way you will pass traditional villages , a ruined meditation center and numerous lesser known temples . From the upper Chomphet What is the view of the city of Luang Prabang and the Mekong sublime. You can also decide to spend the whole day. Luang Prabang Strolling through the streets and then walk to the promenade where there are numerous eateries are located. The atmospheric night market, which is located between the post office and the former palace , is a lovely place to stay. Sole hours Until the evening you leave here for locally woven textiles, silver , or handicrafts made by the hill tribes . In an alley that leads to the Mekong River from the market, you can sample local delicacies and exotic fruit with dozens of stalls (B)

Day 6 Saturday, June 14 Luang Prabang - Vang Vieng
We drive through the beautiful mountain scenery along villages where mainly live Hmong tribes. Along the way we will have the opportunity to make at ethnic minority groups such as the Yao, Hmong and Khampone.
After a few stops in the afternoon we arrive in Vang Vieng, a haven of tranquility on a tributary of the Mekong River, in a picturesque valley with jagged karst mountains as backdrop. In this environment, you can make all kinds of active excursions. Tubing on the river - float on a big rubber tire with the flow - is local attraction here! We stay two nights in this charming town, that in the evening quite comes to life in the various restaurants and discos (B)

Day 7 Sunday, June 15 Vang Vieng
Today is another full day excursions on the program. After breakfast we visit the natural caves of Thamjung which have been used in wartime as a bunker. Then we go to an organic farm, where green tea is produced and then we visit the colorful local market of Vang Vieng (B)

Day 8 Monday June 16 Vang Vieng , Vientiane
After breakfast we drive to the capital of Laos: Vientiane. Along the way we make a stop at a fishing village and a hydroelectric plant. In the afternoon we arrive at our hotel, where we are free to explore the city a bit. The rest of the day (B)

Day 9 Tuesday, June 17 Vientiane
Today is another exciting excursion on the program. After breakfast we start with a city tour. With 600,000 inhabitants Vientiane is probably the most 'rural' capital in the world . The colonial history does the atmosphere of French. The delicious baguettes with pate! You should definitely try it!
We will visit the Wat Sisaket, the only original temple in Vientiene. This temple was built in 1818 and is the only one that has survived the Thai invasion of 1828.
Then visit Wat Phra Keo Ho, the former royal chapel where an emerald Buddha from the Lane Xangperiode is preserved. Then we visit the stupa of That Luang (built in 1565 ), the national symbol of Lao sovereignty and of the Buddhist faith.
Then we visit the biggest market of Vientiane: the Morning Market (also open at noon, late! ). In the afternoon we visit the Lao version of the Arc de Triomphe, the Patouxay. It is worth the effort to climb it and enjoy the beautiful view. On the way to the top you will also find in this Victory Gate numerous clothing stores where you can buy really cheap designer clothes and jewelery. The gate was built in 1959 to celebrate their independence of Laos Finally, we visit the Mekong River where we will enjoy a nice walk with a beautiful sunset (B)

Day 10 Wednesday, June 18 Vientiane - Bangkok
Until noon, you have every opportunity to enjoy this lively capital. The antique shops in the center of Vientiane sell beautiful carved opium pipes and silverware at a reasonable price. Later in the afternoon transfer to the border with Thailand, where we will be boarding the overnight train from Nog Khai to Bangkok. An unforgettable experience!

Day 11 Thursday, June 19 Bangkok
After a good night sleep you come fitted in Bangkok for the last part of this amazing journey.
Early morning arrival in Bangkok . Everyone is free to come and go where he wants. Most people will stay two or three days more in Bangkok to do the last shoppings, before the return home.
Target price of the tour is pp 750 < 800.

This includes:
- English speaking experienced guide in Laos and Netherlands
-speaking tour guide throughout the tour.
- All accommodation , based on 2 people per room , including breakfast
- Transfer Jomtien Garden Hotel to Bangkok airport
- Flight Bangkok - Chiang Rai - Airport tax domestic flight
- Transfer airport to Hotel Chiang Rai
- Bus Chiang Rai to Laos border
- Ferry Boat to Laos
- Transfer of Immigration Office Laos side to Boat Trip by tuktuk
- Boat Trip to Pak Beng and boat trip to Luang Prabang
- Transfer from the pier in Luang Prabang to the hotel by tuktuk
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the program. Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng ( 170 km ), Vang Vieng to Vientiane ( 160 km ),
-City tour in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane
- Transfer from hotel in Vientiane to Nong Khai Railway Station ( Thailand )
- Train ticket Nong Khai to Bangkok
- All service and government taxes
- Drinking water and wet towel on the move

Only for travelers who don't share a room, there is a charge of + / - 145 euro (Single supplement)

Not included:
- Visa fee Laos
- Other meals not mentioned
- Entrance fees
- Personal expenses
- Tips

For more information or registration, please send an email to tjonaong@gmail.com
See more information about the tournament: http://www.thailandopen.nl

Take a look at the wonderful picutures of this trip:


Swimmingpool of our hotel in Chiang Rai


Our private boat during the two days Cruise on the Mekong river


Children playing draughts @ a hill tribe in Laos


Our hotel in Vang Vieng


We will vist the Buddha Cave


the view of the Mekong River, seen from the Buddha Caves


The Kuang Si waterfalls


Playing against the local street draughtsplayers in Luang Prabang


Impressive procession of hundreds of monks in Luang Prabang


The Arc de Triumph of Laos


Visiting a draughtsclub in Vientiane

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