Ah, Phuket—the sun-soaked paradise where azure waves caress golden sands, and where, as it turns out, you can also enjoy a refreshing cocktail or two on major Buddhist holidays. In a delightful twist to the usual tale of holiday sobriety, Phuket’s top cop has given the green light for bars and entertainment venues to serve alcohol on Asarnha Bucha Day, and indeed, on all significant Buddhist holidays, bringing smiles to many a tourist and local resident. Ladies and gentlemen, this is not a drill. It’s official: the concoctions are flowing! The bubbling confusion previously embroiled the island like an accidental splash of soda into a cocktail shaker. A bar located in the charming but decidedly un-touristy area of Koh Kaew faced an unexpected request to close its doors on July 10, out of respect for the Asarnha Bucha Day’s sanctity. The dilemma prompted The Phuket News to reach out for…
