Phuket New Year 2012 has been plagued with problems which is dragging out till the last minutes of the end of the year. Literally.

This year it's had a fair share of issues like the Sydictive party shifting from Surin beach, announced by Paris Hilton months ago, to Patong beach. The issue about tickets sold, ban on alcohol at the venue by the Patong municipality, enforcing the rule that the party to be free as the law states that anything done on the free beach and must be so. Also, Akon confirming he wouldn't be appearing after not being paid according to the contract and his name being used for promotions and social media even before confirmation or payments done. Not forgetting the giant floating platform having plenty of technical issues on the sound, lights and display monitors all in tow. Plus the two VIP platforms hadn't even arrived but is said to be on it's way due to the tide not being suitable for moving them.

Plus, the yearly Patong beach party organizers upset that their party will be marginalized by patrons. However, they have no alcohol ban placed unlike the Syndictive party, so it becomes their advantage. Not forgetting the Bangla road party hype will be in full swing right in front of the beach party zone as they have been decorating the streets and most of the bars and clubs are ready for a good countdown. Even further down the beach area is another beach party zone towards the road leading to Kata.

Lastly, the weather has been bad with heavy downpours all over Phuket. Organizers are hoping it will clear so everyone can have a good time but the Thai Meteorological Department has indicated heavy downpour till Wednesday.

Meanwhile in Phuket City, “Colorful Countdown Phuket” for 2013 kicks off with a 3 day event from 29th till 31st December held at the Chai field. Phuket Governor Maitri Inthusut opened the event with birds being set free for the new year arrival.

Artist to appear at the event will include duo girl band Neko Jump plus others like rock singer Bao Wee, Thai folk band Sexy Girl, Wit Hyper, Samkong Super Dance troupe, rock band Am Fine and lots more.

Plus there will be singing contest, food galore, game booths and not forgetting beer bars set up so you don't go thirsty while having a good time. So the Phuket nightlife seems all ready for rolling in 2013 with a bang.

If you looking at doing Phuket on the cheaper side of things, its a good way to go local. by this it simply means taking a public bus from one place to another. A trip from Phuket town to Patong beach area cost in the region of one dollar unlike taking a private taxi which could cost around 500 baht, equivalent to about eighteen to twenty dollars, depending on which country you're from. Still, the difference is great.

Most backpacker probably does this already but for others, especially first timer visitors to Phuket, the cost of transport from place to place eventually adds up. So public transport saves you a ton for other things.

Finding restaurants and cafes is quite easy and for anyone from the western world. You'll probably be able to find your country's food in most places in Phuket. The essence of Indian, Lebanese and other middle eastern countries is up and coming in the Phuket scene as well. A rise in quick rise in fast food style kebab wraps stall are also popping up everywhere.

The fact is, little roadside stalls, motor bike stalls or push carts stalls can be found on many street sides or corners selling food like banana crepes, sausages or meats on a stick to noodles in hot soups. These little treats are cheap and fills you up as well.

Above all else, the service comes with a Thai smile that's friendly and with gratitude. One can't help but want that in your own country. It's a cultural thing and the people do it in a gracious manner.

Phuket, just like every where else in Thailand, is bombarded by vistors each year and things get more expensive, however there's always room for a lower budget and a good time if you just look for it.