Koh Phangan New Year Roundup.

New Years eve on Koh Phangan saw thousands of revelers crowd Haad Rin to see in '09 full moon party style.

Despite reports of tourism declines due to political disputes and the Suvarnabhumi airport closure, Haad Rin beach saw no shortage of eager party goers over the new year. As the new year count down approached visitors eager to make it to the beach to see in the new year were caught in traffic jams stretching back in to the Haad Rin Hills.

Those fortunate enough to make it to the beach in time were treated to a Haad Rin style New Year, buckets on the beach, fire shows and electronic music until the small hours of the morning.

There is no doubt that Phangan did see some reduction in visitor numbers as a whole, however most resorts in the Haad Rin area were reported to be fully booked over the new year period.