OLD Phuket came alive last night in Thalang Road and Soi Romanee for a ''walking street'' evening to celebrate the island's history.
Actually it was also a sitting and eating street, with lots of local food available and tables and chairs in the middle of the road, in front of a large stage where traditional performances took place.
Old and young appeared to be enjoying themselves and the food. Guest of honor was the Governor, Dr Preecha Ruangjan.
He chatted to other dignitaries, made a speech and toured one of the finest examples of a restored Sino-Portuguese home on Thalang Road, where no expense has been spared in recreating the abode of a wealthy Chinese trader.
Large motorcycle riders with some large and shiny motorcycles also gathered for the festival.
There was also a seong tau local bus, decorated with the skulls of long-dead buffalo and goats, that served local food and looked so ancient it may well predate invention of the automobile.
With trendy restaurants now opening quite frequently, Soi Romanee seems to be taking on a hip bohemian character that deserves to attract customers from among tourists and locals alike.
Actually it was also a sitting and eating street, with lots of local food available and tables and chairs in the middle of the road, in front of a large stage where traditional performances took place.
Old and young appeared to be enjoying themselves and the food. Guest of honor was the Governor, Dr Preecha Ruangjan.
He chatted to other dignitaries, made a speech and toured one of the finest examples of a restored Sino-Portuguese home on Thalang Road, where no expense has been spared in recreating the abode of a wealthy Chinese trader.
Large motorcycle riders with some large and shiny motorcycles also gathered for the festival.
There was also a seong tau local bus, decorated with the skulls of long-dead buffalo and goats, that served local food and looked so ancient it may well predate invention of the automobile.
With trendy restaurants now opening quite frequently, Soi Romanee seems to be taking on a hip bohemian character that deserves to attract customers from among tourists and locals alike.
Where can we find out about events like this in advance? I had not heard anything about it... I walked down Soi Romanee on Saturday and did not see anything advertising any event either. A pity - this is exactly the kind of thing I would like to write about on my Phuket blog!
Jamie
Phuket
http://jamie-monk.blogspot.com
Editor: Good question. We only heard about it through a last minute telephone call. The people who preserve Phuket's culture and traditions seem to think that only locals are interested. We think a calendar should be drawn up for 2009, listing every local festival. It's surprising how much the 'real Phuket' has to offer. Phuketwan will try to let you know in advance next time.
Posted by Jamie Monk on December 17, 2008 11:59