As the clock ticks down to usher in the New Year, people flock to the bustling centralwOrld shopping plaza in Bangkok, eagerly anticipating a night of electrifying countdown festivities. It’s December 31, 2023, and the air is charged with excitement. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu)
For those ringing in the festivities from the comfort of their hotel rooms, a delightful surprise awaits. The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board has unveiled a temporary rule that allows hotel guests to savor alcoholic drinks from in-house bars and restaurants without the usual time constraints. Hotel-goers can now enjoy this unrestricted joyride across the clock, courtesy of a change led by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin and endorsed during a board meeting.
Typically, alcohol orders to hotel rooms adhere to specific time frames: up until 10 pm from a hotel restaurant, and till 2 am should you fancy something potent from an in-house bar. The trusty mini-bars, however, stand as an ever-reliable source for guests’ imbibing needs 24/7. But this New Year, significant flexibility has arrived. It seems the Thai Hotels Association (THA) had an inkling for a more festive approach and sought permission to extend these hours.
Though hotels are popping corks, the board stands firm in its refusal to integrate trains into this booze-friendly domain—a request pitched by the State Railways of Thailand (SRT). Mr. Somsak forewarns that loosening the grip on alcohol restrictions aboard trains might spark havoc, possibly leading to higher crime rates and jeopardizing passenger safety. Still, there’s room for contemplation. Discussions remain open regarding serving drinks in first-class sleeper compartments, dining cars, or chartered trains. The board nudges the SRT to evaluate whether such sales might stoke a tourism boom on rails.
Yet, celebrating the dawn of another year often comes with a sobering reality. As New Year’s resolutions are forged, road safety demands equal if not more attention. During the New Year festivities that just concluded in January 2024, the perils of drunk driving painted a rather grim picture, with 4,777 road users injured nationwide. The breathalyzer was a most unwelcome guest for 23,902 motorists, revealing 3,370 individuals under the influence.
Determined to safeguard revelers, Mr. Somsak emphasizes the implementation of stringent alcohol limits. Subdistrict health promotion hospitals are tasked with enlightening the public on the gravity of law enforcement against driving offenses fueled by alcohol. Schools of proactive thought also beckon hospitals to collaborate with local administrative bodies, championing preventive measures against drink-driving at a community level. Family units, too, are urged to play a pivotal role in dissuading would-be drivers from steering under the influence.
Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul, commanding the reins at the Department of Disease Control (DDC), outlines a focused, three-phase strategy tailored to ensure road safety throughout the New Year celebrations. A campaign denouncing drunk driving lays the foundation, carrying through to situational assessments during the festival, ultimately crystallizing the findings in a thorough post-jubilation review.
So, as the curtain draws on 2023 and hopeful resolutions take flight, it’s clear that this festive period calls for a harmonious balance between celebration and caution. Though the allure of non-stop merriment is palpable, responsibility rides shotgun, ensuring we roll into the New Year with verve and sensibility.
This is a fantastic move! More freedom means more fun. Why shouldn’t hotel guests enjoy their drinks whenever they want?
But let’s not forget the impact on safety. Loosening alcohol laws can lead to chaos.
Understandable, but we’re talking about responsible adults in hotels, not unruly crowds on the streets.
Hopefully, they keep this rule permanently. It would make Bangkok even more appealing for tourists.
Why stop at hotels? Allowing alcohol on trains could really boost travel experiences!
Alcohol on trains is a recipe for disaster! It’s risky with confined spaces and lots of people.
Exactly. Trains should stick to cultural exploration, not boozy trips.
What about the accident reports? 4,777 injuries can’t be ignored.
True, but was alcohol really the sole contributor to those accidents?
It’s just a balancing act between having fun and staying safe.
I think this rule is outrageous and it’s not going enough to solve the drinking and driving problem!
Relax, Larry. This is about making sure everyone gets the best out of their New Year’s Eve.
But at what cost? Are temporary happiness and tourism dollars worth more than safety?
With mini-bars already 24/7, what’s the big deal here? It’s just formalizing what’s already happening.
This rule change sounds perfect for those wanting a quiet celebration without the hustle of major events.
I fear for New Year’s. People just don’t know when to stop partying!
It’s New Year’s for goodness sake! It’s when we’re supposed to break away and have fun.
Perhaps this was more about boosting tourism and economy than genuine hospitality.
Economic boost does matter, especially post-pandemic.
Extending alcohol sales just sounds like a recipe to make rich tourists happier while locals pay the dangerous price.
I doubt it, Joe. It’s about inclusivity for everyone enjoying the festivities.
Do the changes even include room service? They should for the full experience.
Most likely, yes. What’s a celebration without ordering drinks to your room?
Will they consider environmental impacts? More bottles mean more waste, after all.
A cheer for New Year’s optimism! This year let’s drink responsibly and unite!
It certainly will make hotel stays more appealing, but comes with its own set of challenges.
It’s worth it for the vibe we get at international destinations!
True, but we need to ensure guests and locals remain safe.
Isn’t this an opportunity to introduce responsible drinking campaigns at hotels?
I’d love to see exclusive cocktails made just for this occasion, wouldn’t you?
Absolutely, that would elevate the experience beyond just the rule change.
What happens if things get out of hand? It’s best to start strict before loosening rules.