8 years after tsunami, Phuket rebounds as tourist haven A scantily-dressed pole dancer performed at a bar on Bangla Road. Photo: Thanh Liem Phuket was among southwestern areas in Thailand devastated by the 2004 tsunami, but now it reclaims its title as a popular global tourist destination, thanks to the three S’s: “sun, sea, and sex.” There is no vestige of the tsunami on Boxing Day 2004 that killed more 8,000 Thais and foreigners. Instead, large crowds of travelers fill Bangla Road, an undisputed center of nightlife in Phuket, around 10pm after a beautiful day at the beach. Scantily-dressed bar girls stand in front of their establishments, trying to entice passing tourists with their sexy poses. As the night wears on, the popular walking street becomes more colorful and noisy, with a group of transgender women rushing out and waving to visitors. Cold beers, loud music, and sexy girls help travelers, even those as timid as rabbits, put aside the tragedy nearly a decade ago. Thai people are also clever to conceal tsunami warning signs in Thai and English under big advertising boards to stave off fears of deadly disaster. The three S’s, “sun, sea, and sex,” is a common phrase used to describe Phuket. Just be careful with your wallet. Although the government guarantees that Bangla is a safe street, many foreigners, particularly inebriated men, have fallen victim to scams in this area. Nightlife at Bangla Road Bangla Road is usually busy from 10pm to 4am. Tourists feel safe thanks to the local government’s guarantee. Photo by Thanh Liem Phuket is well-known not only for beers but also pristine beaches that have been featured in Hollywood movies. This small Maya beach has attracted travelers ever since Leonardo Dicaprio shot The Beach here. Photo by Thanh Liem TUOITRENEWS