Karon drops opposition to gay event

KARON: Phuket is set to host “Nation V”, Asia’s largest gay and lesbian party, from November 4-6 as originally scheduled, after organizers met with the Phuket Governor and leaders of the Kata-Karon Municipality in a closed-door meeting.

The municipality, who earlier nixed plans to hold the party in their bailiwick, have approved the use of Karon Stadium for Fridae’s fifth annual Nation V party, clearing away the recent cloud of uncertainty as to whether the event would take place at all.

However, due to the concerns of residents, the party venue will close at 1 am, in line with other entertainment venues on the island.

Gov Udomsak reiterated his support for the event, “Phuket has much to offer visitors in terms of hospitality and the city will work closely with the organizers to ensure that the event is a successful one.”

Dr Stuart Koe, CEO of Fridae, said, “We are grateful for the warm welcome that Phuket is extending to guests of NationV.”

He added, “With the full support of the Governor of Phuket, Kata-Karon Municipal Council, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), local businesses and the Phuket police, Fridae is confident that visitors to Phuket will enjoy the wonderful Thai hospitality.”

Local businesses have also voiced their hearty support for Nation V being held in Phuket.

Pattanapong Aikwanich, President of the Phuket Tourism Association said, “Having such a large group of international visitors converge upon Phuket in November will also encourage more foreign arrivals in the following months.”

Enthusiasm for the Nation party remains high despite recent confusion surrounding the party venues. Almost 80% of the rooms at host hotel and party venue, Crowne Plaza on Karon Beach, have already been booked while those at nearby Hilton Phuket Arcadia are in more than average demand.

Fridae is also in talks with other hotels along Karon Beach to cater to the large crowd of partygoers expected to descend upon the area over the Nation weekend.

The number of parties, co-hosts and DJ lineup remains unchanged.

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