End to Full Moon Parties?

Q: Do you know if the traditional Full Moon Party will be taking place on Koh Phangan in Thailand this December? I read that the parties had been stopped by the authorities but friends returning from Thailand tell me that nothing has changed. Could you please find out, as I was hoping to be there this year? Any accommodation tips would be welcome - John Bradshaw

A: There has been talk over the years of the parties being moved to other islands, but I doubt the local businesses would easily give up an event that generates huge income every month, Plans are in full swing for three big beach parties in December - the Full Moon Party on December 21, the Christmas Party on December 24 and the New Year's Party on 31 December. I am sure I needn't tell you that accommodation on Phangan Island will be at a premium for the entire period around these parties. For a full listing of accommodation options, check out the www.fullmoonpartykohphangan.com website. You will find that resorts close to Haad Rin Beach, where the party takes place, will be booked out already. Other resorts will probably insist that bookings cover the full party period. However, you should be able to find rooms on Koh Samui and join the flotilla that crosses the bay for the parties. Remember to take a laminated copy of your main passport page with you (not the original) and not to over-indulge!