Nurse I met up with the girls from work at about 7pm on Friday, and headed to Tai Koo Place in Quarry Bay. There are a few good bars and restaurants there and a great atmosphere. The main reason for meeting there was to catch the regular Friday night live music - in particular, the Academy, who were playing an acoustic set. A true rock'n'roll riot of a band, we wanted to see what they were like without the volume they're usually associated with. We first had a quick dinner at Thai Orchids, then sat outside with our drinks, enjoying the music and catching up with the week's gossip. By 10pm, the band had finished. We walked a few doors to the East End Brewery. Great for sport, if that's your bag. Still, it has a friendly and sociable atmosphere. But it was getting late and was time to hit Central. My friend, Helen, took us to the Russian bar Balalaika, at the top of Lan Kwai Fong, which has to be experienced to be believed. Guests are given a fur coat then ushered into a room of ice - the ideal temperature to enjoy Russia's finest export. After several pure and flavoured vodka shots, the novelty was beginning to wear off. The alcohol was just starting to get to work, however, and made us eager to get dancing. Almost everywhere you turn in Hong Kong there's a good deal to be had if you're female. Homebase on Hollywood Road was our choice - free entry and free drinks are not to be scoffed at. Plus, the hip-hop and R&B music provided the soundtrack for our happy feet. Before we knew it, 3am had reared its ugly head and it was time to go home. Had a big night out recently? We'd like to hear about it - e-mail adam.wright@scmp.com