Phuket Driver, Restaurants, Wine
 

I was wondering if anyone has a name for a driver in the Phuket area. I have names for the other places we're visiting but not there.

Also, any favorite restaurants in either Phuket or Chiang Mai?

Finally, I've read about the 340% tax on wine. Is is possible to have a bottle of wine with dinner without cashing in the family jewels?

three years ago i would have said don't waste your money as you can never tell how the wine has been treated, vis a vis the weather and climate conditions....it could be vinegar....but i think things have improved....it will be expensive....i would do without until i got home...

I rarely order wine in Thailand. It's expensive, yes, and the selection is not very good.

In restaurants we stick to Hardys Australia Wine, a decent Shiraz is about US$23-25, in shops it costs US$17. Glass of Italian wine is normally between $2.25 and $3. In shops you can get a 2 litre bottle of ok Italian Wine for under $10.

Thanks to all of you for the info on this thread as well others. I've gotten lots of good ideas. We're leaving tomorrow and will be back the end of January. Will check in then with some trip notes.