A taste of different: part 1

Begging for excitement...

Those who know me know I won’t say no to a good time. I enjoy going out and trying new things. But see, going out in Jozi these days doesn’t feel like anything new.  I’m dying for a new experience, something eye opening, something mind blowing, something worth remembering – I speak specifically of soiree’s and bars here. 

For some reason it seems satisfying to most people to just have DJ’s and alcohol at a venue. Sure that can be fun with the right company or if served in a cool way, but what else is there to take pleasure in? Before I bitch too much, let me open your eyes to a few spots or events I’ve been to… then tell me that I shouldn’t want more.

Once upon a time I trotted the globe in search of originality in nightlife on a world tour called Smirnoff Experience, so I guess I know what I’m talking about when it comes to nights out.  Here is just a taste of ‘different’. I’ll put up more soon.

Bangkok Thailand:

Just off the famous Khoa San road, where there are still a few hidden gems to find in the tourist infested area, an old Shell Garage  / petrol station turned into a chilled drinking stop. Located around the corner from the bigger clubs and bars but far enough not to have to hear the doof-doof of whatever noise the party animals are headbanging to.  

Also on the weird and wonderful tip in Bangkok, found a Kombi (as Saffers call it) mobile bar decorated hippy style literally next to a large main road, located walking distance from the upmarket Gazebo Shesha bar and lounge is an uber cool unassuming pavement bar with an impressive menu of over 100 cocktails, served in plastic cups ofcourse. 

Sometimes it’s not all about the super lavish or the swanky>  Just a taste of different can make it special. One day I will find the Jozi gems and share. 

Nocturnal Footprint: Sao Paulo, Brazil

Astronete

Vintage with a modern twist in one of the party capitals of the world

Astronete on Rua Matias Aires in Sao Paulo, Brazil brings the old skool to life, without too much effort. From the bouncer with hightop hair and coat, before you even enter a world of timetravel, intrigue hits you hard.

Going back in time, the intimate two roomed bar with exposed brick wall, which is adorned with old blockbuster and obscure movie posters Like Dawn of the dead,  The Miniskirt Mob and many B film advertisements. The long bar runs along one side of the smaller narrow room,  and the dance floor, seating and a small stage find their home in the larger room towards the back of the space.

Owner Claudio who fancies himself as movie aficionado and Thursday night DJ, says ‘simplicity with expression’ is the feel of the place. The quirky décor  and ornaments of clashing styles are interesting at best and great conversation starters at worst. Stand up hairdryers and Elvis posters help the less observant understand the  crazy 60’s and 70’s theme of Astronete.

They have party nights every day of the week, most popular being movie nights where the ‘drive in’ road sign leads to the likes of Mulholland drive on Wednesdays,  and Shakesville S.P.  the 50’s to 70’s rock and soul music night; everybody dresses up and Bianca the gogo dancer comes out to play; Bianca says   the relaxed and comfortable environment encourages socializing between the small crowd and creates a place to make new friends easily. Shakeville night allows people to be their crazy yet socially acceptable selves and weird and wonderful costumes.

On Saturday nights, Astronete is packed full of people  looking for the next big sound to come out of Sao Paulo, Band night draws the crowds amongst which are Talent scouts from around the world. Claudio claims that many a great bands have been discovered in his unassuming yet distinctive  bar.

For whatever you may be looking for, Astronete is a great alternative to the bigger and more popular bars and clubs in Sao Paulo. The city definitely has something for everyone; however, this little hidden gem is quite a treat for those in need of a little more entertainment in a kitsch yet cool environment.

Check out more photos here  - by Kassa