The atmosphere in Thailand’s southern metropolis of Hat Yai is lively as 2011 draws to a close, with Thai, Malaysian and Singaporean travellers joining up for the “Night Paradise Hat Yai” countdown event, while moe than Bt100 million is expected to circulate during the festive period.

Starting on Friday at the town centre, the event is sponsored by Hat Yai Municipality together with the public and private sectors. Booths offering food and drink as well as staged entertainment will be a nightly feature this weekend.

Read more: The Nation