Our latest visit to Phuket confirmed that the old town is still the hottest nightlife spot on the island, with Yaowarat Road at its epicenter, but there have been some interesting arrivals lately.

Close to the popular Saneha bar, Juiceraw (91 Yaowarat Rd., 092-020-2315) is a one-month-old juice bar set in a minimal revamped shophouse where you can try a selection of raw fruit and vegetable juices. The owner says the next step will see hostel-style rooms added to the upper floor.

On Rassada Road, not far from Yaowarat, is Duke’s Fusion Bar & Bistro (14 Rassada Rd., 076-210-535), a relatively new bistro serving up fusion food and booze amid an industrial-themed decor.

For an accommodation option, the long-standing Imperial Hotel has been renamed the Sino Imperial (51 Phuket Rd., 076-230-098/9. www.sino-imperial-phuket.com) and received a total face-lift converting it into an all-white hotel complete with colorful LED lights and Sino-Portuguese decor details. Rates are from B1,200 through Oct 31 but you’ll get a slightly better deal from Agoda.com.