On Hin Kong beach in Koh Phangan, the restaurant L’Alcove has set up a platform right in the sea to host erotic performances aimed at its foreign clientele. A viral video posted on Facebook shows a woman dancing naked and using her genitals to open a beer bottle, to the applause of customers.
The restaurant, run by two French women, is known for its tables in the water and its bohemian atmosphere. This time, however, the images have sparked outrage. Hundreds of comments accuse the owners of illegally exploiting public maritime land and damaging the island’s reputation.
According to the post, “L’Alcove” allegedly even built a stage in the sea without permission, supposedly protected by influential “backers”. Local residents denounce a blatant violation of Thai laws that prohibit the privatization of beaches and coastal waters.
“The authorities saw nothing, heard nothing… because money closes eyes, mouths, and ears. This is how Koh Phangan is becoming a playground for certain foreigners who think they can do whatever they want.” — Internet user comment
The most heated comments target the passivity of law enforcement and local officials. Several users recall that the same establishment had already been called out a few months ago for illegally building a wall on the beach, with no real consequences.
“If a Thai person did this, they would have been in jail a long time ago. But when it’s a foreigner with money, everyone looks the other way.” — Internet user comment
Some even speak of “soft colonization” and an “open city” where laws no longer apply as soon as money starts circulating. Others are calling on the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism, and the police to intervene urgently, shut down the establishment, and punish those responsible.
Contacted for comment, the management of L’Alcove strongly denied the allegations spread by a Facebook page they describe as “anti-farang”. Between threats of legal action and criticism of the zonesamui.com editorial team, they stated:
"The dancer was not naked and in no way opened a beer with her vagina."
This scandal once again highlights the growing tensions between Koh Phangan residents and certain foreign investors who, according to locals, are turning the paradise island into an unregulated entertainment zone.