In pictures: Christmas in Phuket
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Despite the tsunami, the hotels and restaurants along Patong beach are determined to celebrate Christmas. -
Locals Thais are mostly Buddhist, but that doesn't stop anyone from entering into the Christmas spirit. -
Many of the foreigners on the beach are just here to soak up the sun and escape the cold winter weather back home. -
But while eager to ensure tourists have a good Christmas, some hotels and restaurants have decided that this year's festivities will be more muted in honour of those who died. -
Reminders of the tsunami are never far away. Across the road from the bars and restaurants, workers are preparing a stage for Monday's memorial events. -
As part of the commemorations, local Thai artists have been commissioned to depict their views of the tsunami along the beachfront. -
Photographs of the aftermath of the disaster remind locals and tourists alike of what happened. -
But even amidst the commemorations, the authorities are anxious to present an uplifting message, with music and dance performances scheduled throughout the week.