Stories tagged with phangan
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Thailand’s Full Moon Party gets serious
In a shocking display of organisation, local “authorities” on Koh Phangan have decided to charge an entry fee for revelers at the island’s monthly Full Moon Party. What was once a poorly-kept secret beach party fuelled by drugs, Thai rice whiskey, music and young backpackers has finally become institutionalised. Or at least that’s what organisers want you to think.
September’s Full Moon Party at Haadrin Beach was the first time partiers had to pay an entry fee to get to the action. The 100 baht fee is being levied by the Haadrin Business Association supposedly to keep the beach clean after each party. Bright red and blue signs reading “Welcome World Original Full Moon Party Entry Please Show Ticket” welcomed unsuspecting visitors at Haadrin Pier.
The entire pier area was sealed off on the day of the event, and a private security force in place to ensure that everyone who steps onto the sand pays the 100 baht fee. Other services purportedly being provided by the “association” include security for overly-intoxicated people, a beach patrol to prevent drownings and a dedicated sleeping area where you can crash when the blackout comes.
Suggesting that this is a scam worth avoiding, fees are only levied against visitors arriving from Koh Samui directly to the pier at Haadrin Beach. All other entrance points to the beach are open and free. Visitors are advised to discourage this kind of blatant extortion and use other transport options to get to the party.
Posted by: Andrew on 23 Sep 2008, 06:16