Johnnie Walker fills the bars so police can tell all to gogo
For a while we went back to the good old bad old days of bars closing at 2am. Patong generally enjoys the benefits of a common sense policing policy which has relaxed the closing times. This has apparently upset some bigwigs in Bangkok ( who possibly think that they are missing out on some monetary benefits). I realise it is the law of the land but with other tourist areas like Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia offering alternatives it is commercial suicide to deny the punters what they want. Perhaps TAT should get more active on behalf of the tourist areas. Strangely enough, after a week and conclusion of the Golf tournament, the wrecking crew from Bangkok departed. A coincidence or not? Phuket's more relaxed hours have been restored.
The island remains busy and most main beaches are packed from sunrise to sunset. Some old hands are now moaning that perhaps it is getting too busy. It is a fine balance between being busy and being overcrowded.
JOHNNIE WALKER CLASSIC
This premier event took place under the blistering sun at the Blue Canyon Golf Club. It drew a large field of competitors and supporters. There was plenty of TV coverage broadcast around the world and Phuket was in the headlines for all the right reasons. The island already enjoys a big slice (no pun intended) of golf tourism and there are more facilities and courses that five years ago.
HELL'S BELLS BAR
This is the new bar that opened in Soi Sea Dragon in place of Champagne A Go Go. The front wall has gone along with the stage. The bar area and seating at the rear are the same and the new owner has added a front deck outside in the open to provide more space. An additional large screen TV has been installed for sports addicts. The Norwegian owner is a friendly guy who takes pride in his music and has an extensive collection of heavy rock and classic rock oldies which are played at a reasonable level. At the front of the bar there is a pool table and the girls there are willing to challenge customers to a few games.
EROTICA
It seems that they have got over their difficulties and once again are open for business. They don't as yet have their full staff complement so their array of shows is limited at present.
DRAGON CLUB
The new behind closed doors part of Dragon has opened and is called "Super Models". Customers now have a choice of going into either part of the club. The rub is that they have a sign asking for a 30 USD cover charge to go into the Super Model bit.!! I know tourists can be gullible but they still don't like being ripped off and will go elsewhere. I have been told that admission is actually a lot less and the sign was erected to put off "rubber neckers" who try to see get a free look at what is going on without paying admission. The actual fee is only 300 Baht and this includes the first drink.
MONTE BAR
I noticed that the Monte Bar on Phisit Karanee Road is trying out a different approach to keeping its punters interested. They offer a nightly Happy Hour with all local beers at 50 Baht. The interesting thing is that their Happy Hour times are from 10pm until 2am. They are also offering weekend BBQ special meals.
COYOTE
This beach front bar and restaurant opened a few months on the beach road not far from Molly Malone's. It has become more popular and is a great place to grab a snack and have a few sun downers. The upper level is set away from the hustle and bustle of the street.
ST PATRICKS DAY
Yes, once again all the local Irish Pubs will be decked out in green and it is party time. Who said the Irish ever needed an excuse? St Patrick's Day is one of the most celebrated events in the world and everyone always seems to find a link to the old country. This Saturday it also coincides with the climax of the Rugby Six Nations with Ireland chasing a result against Italy , Wales trying to avoid the wooden spoon, and France hopeful but not assured of taking the Crown.
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