paulbrun

I stayed there when it first opened almost 20 years ago, and it was a very good hotel. It was never going to be top-end, but it was comfortable, well managed and in a great location. Many years later, I held my 50th birthday party there, hiring the area around the swimming pool, and the staff couldn't have been more helpful, and accomodating. It is very sad that something went so badly wrong, after all their efforts to provide good quality accomodation, at affordable prices. I hope they manage to clean the place up, and open again without the stigma that is inevitably going to be associated with the old hotel name..? Burning the mattresses is absolutely vital, because it was found to be those that absorbed the chemical that gave people such a bad reaction. I am quite surprised that they were even still in there..!

As stated, Central appears to be the main outlet for both the machines, and the capsules in Thailand. And the prices are as stated. One thing I found interesting, but not sure if it is 'approved' by Nespresso, is the option to buy empty capsules with sealing lids, so you can make your own capsiles, using your favourite coffee of choice..? They are offering this option at my local Central store. Anyway, I agree it gives a great brew, and is well worth the price, if you can afford it.

The 2012 Phuket International Blues Rock Festival was excellent, and was very good value for the money. The cost was 1200 baht a ticket (for both nights) for an 'expat' over 12 years old, but was free for kids, and my Thai wife..! The bands did not get paid, although I believe most of their expenses were covered..? The quality of the music was very good, and although the crowds were not huge, that made it more enjoyable, because you could get closer to the artists. So I give it a big 'thumbs up', and will definitely go again next year, if I'm around at the right time.

flyingsporran, on 2012-03-03 16:59:33, said:

Unfortunate indeed. The wrong building caught fire..!

My wife bought a case of Ginger Ale yesterday, in our local supermarket. They only had 2 cases, but still let her have one. I brought in 2 cases of Indian Tonic water from Malaysia last month, and also 2 cases of Bitter Lemon, all Schweppes.