Phuket: paradise lost

Phuket, a place once loved by many, is changing fast, and the people with it - and not for the better. There is tension on the streets and in hotels and resorts. Drunk vodka drinkers rule many resorts and take control of pools at late hours, and the authorities do nothing. Why?

These tough tourists take advantage of Thai culture and happy ways, and that's why many come here.

Some resorts can only be booked through Russian websites. It seems Phuket is now a Russian outpost, or even a Russian state. Be careful what they bring you Phuket, and what you may well lose.

After 15 years of loving Phuket, we will not return.

Stuart Davie

Bangkok