Featured Trip – Phuket Thailand 2021

This past November, I took a small group to Phuket, Thailand. We spent 7 days in the island town and it was amazing. Not quite full of tourists yet we were able to see so many sites without long lines and crowded areas. They’ve had a return to tourism but the difference is so drastic from when I was there in 2018. It does put the pandemic in perspective when you see large hotels shuttered and looking like they may never reopen. As you traveled through town the positive point is that there were many places prepping to reopen Dec 1st which is a great sign!

There were so many great moments but I’ve highlighted a few here to give you an idea of our experience.

The Entry Process:

I’ll be the first to admit it seems pretty daunting upfront. You need several forms including Thailand COVID insurance. I created a video that outlines that process. As an update the new Thailand Pass system was enacted and uses all the same information as the COE process.

Upon entry to Thailand the process from landing to getting your COVID test and then off to your hotel was extremely easy! I would say it took me about 30 min and it was very well organized with specific checkpoints and culminating with taking your COVID test. Upon arrival at your hotel you do have to stay in your room until your results come back. It only took me 4 hours but they say it can take anywhere from 8 – 12 hours.

Tam the Man:

I cannot say enough about our guide Tam. He was thorough, very informative and hilarious. He ensured we got to our hotel, scheduled activities and even through the gate on our return. What truly makes or breaks a group trip is your guide and he was amazing. He even took us to a temple that was special to him as it was his chosen mentor’s temple when he spent time as a monk. Did you know that all men in Buddhist culture must spend time as a monk? This process teaches them control of mind and body as well as how to take care of their families.

Phi Phi Islands Tours:

We spent two days out on the iconic long boats to first take a tour of 4 islands including the “James Bond Island” pictured above. It was truly fascinating, there are over 40 islands that comprise the Phi Phi Islands. Our second day we went to Coral Island to experience the pristine blue waters for snorkeling and spending the day soaking up the sun.

Big Buddha & Temple Tours

The one thing you can see from any point on the island is Big Buddha and let me tell you it is a sight to behold. Not only is the structure huge, we learned that it is built from the donations of the people so it’s constantly under construction. We had a great experience being blessed by one of the monks and learning about Buddhism from our amazing guide. We also visited several temples and learned about the tradition of sacrifice and offerings.

Funny story about the picture with the monk, if you look closely he also wanted a picture with his phone, you can see him taking it out of his robe to hand to Tam.

Overall it was an unforgettable trip to Phuket and I can’t wait to return!