|
Thailand's recent military coup has improved Bangkok's clubbing climate, Bee Futon told Skrufff this week, with the vibe 'much more relaxed'. "There's less sense of 'party paranoia' and there haven't been any police raids on clubs for months though that's not to say one isn't being planned as we continue to party," he laughed. "And closing times are starting to creep back towards more sensible hours like 2.30am but one never knows, so don't plan your night on staying out late," he advised. "People usually go out a little later now around 11.30pm usually with most clubs peaking by 12.30," Bee continued, "By 3am, 95% of the clubs are shut apart form a few after-hours parties which are many gay parties. Boom Room opens until 6am most nights and apart from that it's mostly karaoke places that manage to stay open after 2:30am. So expect to hear lots of discordant drunks on the mike. Meanwhile outside the streets are pretty deserted at that time with few people hanging around as most know the score about the closing times." The Futon heart-throb warned, however, that police continue to target farangs (foreigners) with document checks a realistic prospect for those strolling round Bangkok. "The visa situation is fine for most tourists, it's no problem at all, but for long term stayers without work permits it's a nightmare. Basically they can have three months here on tourist visas then they have to go home for three months," he said.
"Tourists now have to carry their passports at all times now, in fact, some bars, such as Bed, insists you have a passport with you to gain admission," he added, "and police will definitely check you if they stop you." On a musical tip, Bee said Thailand's short lived hip hop craze is dying out rapidly with bars closing fast, while others clubs like RCA Astro Bar (drum & bass, breaks), Bed Supper Club (where Bee's own night Rehab take place monthly) and the Met Bar (international DJs) still thrive "Other nights to watch out for are any Dude Sweet Parties," he advised, "and also check out the Whatever' parties and the Arcadia India music night at Polly's Bar." (Lang sun soy 7, Lang Sudan Balcony). Article by Jonty Skrufff Subscribe to Skrufff music newsletter at www.skrufff.com
|
