The one-way system has been contentious because, although it eased congestion on the roads, it forced vehicles to travel on the right rather than the left on some sois between the beach road and Rat-U-Tit 200 Pi Road.
Newcomers find it a nightmare. Old hands don't have much time for it, either.
What's not clear yet is whether the long-standing gripe of zebra crossings that expose pedestrians to even greater danger - because they just don't work - will also be addressed.
The carnival this year will again be sponsored by Chang, with the December 15 parade being extended to start behind Jungceylon mall, head towards Simon Cabaret, then swing right before continuing down to beach road and along to Loma Park.
The longer route is yet another indication of Patong's growing size and shape.
There will be one stage outside the Holiday Inn, a larger one at the football field at beachfront Loma Park, and smaller stages in Soi Bangla.
Thai superstars are expected to be among the performers, but no names are available yet. A one-village one-product ''shopping mall'' will be set up at Loma Park.
The theme this year is described as ''cultural.'' It is not clear at this stage whether this means Thai culture, Phuket culture, Patong culture, or all three.
The carnival runs until December 20.
UPDATE The US Embassy in Bangkok is investigating an alarming case in which an American woman on a one day visa run from Phuket to Ranong found herself under arrest.
US Woman Held for 'Visa Run' Overstay Blunder
Phuket Jet-Ski Heroes Save Tourist from Drowning
Latest Jet ski operators at a popular Phuket beach have been credited with saving the life of a tourist from China who was lost off Patong for two hours.
Phuket Jet-Ski Heroes Save Tourist from Drowning
Fire Rips Phuket Dive Boat, Seven Hurt: Photos
PHOTO ALBUM A dive boat being readied on Phuket for high season trips to the Similan islands bursts into flames, injuring seven people, one seriously.
Fire Rips Phuket Dive Boat, Seven Hurt: Photos
Phuket Abstinence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Photo Album Two days to go, and the women take to the streets of Phuket to add a dainty edge to the daily Vegetarian festival street processions.
Phuket Abstinence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Phuket Bids Bye Bye Bangla, Hello Blingla
PHOTO ALBUM High rents and gentrification are taking the bang out of Soi Bangla and replacing it with bling. Fresh projects mean the old Patong is going, going, gone.
Phuket Bids Bye Bye Bangla, Hello Blingla
Brilliant sum up!
Posted by donmphkt on October 14, 2010 16:23