My First International Trip Was Special For More Than One Reason

2020 started with a bang with my first international trip ever. Needless to say, I was super excited to visit Thailand, one of my bucket-list destinations! With a long list of to-do things and must-visit places in my kitty, I boarded the plane that would take me across the oceans to this beautiful island-nation.

Here’s a list of my #FabThailandMoments for you:

1. Exploring the Sanctuary of Truth

If there’s one place I’d visit again here, it is this! Forever a fan of architecture and mythology, the Sanctuary of Truth tops my list of favourite Thai destinations. A marvellous edifice exhibiting iconic architecture, this wooden museum weaves together the tale of life in simple wooden sculptures. I fell in love with the sprawling interiors and the intricate designs, loved watching the harbour views from the many sea-facing latticed windows and enjoyed a regional cultural performance here as well.

2. Parasailing over the Gulf of Thailand

Okay, so I’ve never done this before and was really scared at first. But the experience was exhilarating!

Right from queueing up at the deck to strapping on the gear, I could not feel the full hit of excitement before sailing weightless over the water here. I really liked how the Pattaya skyline was looming over the horizon while the colourful dots of speed-boats kept zig-zagging below. It lasted for less than 2 minutes (that is what I’ve been told, at least), but yes, the memory is going to last a lifetime!

3. Sea-walking in the Gulf of Thailand

Well, this was one hell of an adventure for sure!

While the queue kept on thinning and people kept backing out, I could feel how challenging this would be. The intense air pressure I felt after putting on the helmet was surprising, and it took me a while to get acclimatized. But then, the magic happened. Just as I thought it was going to get worse, I noticed colourful swarms of fishes surrounding us. And in no time, it was my wow moment!

We were given breadcrumbs to feed the fishes and while walking on the sand was quite fun, the best part was the sunlight piercing through the water while the fishes kept making interesting patterns everywhere. I wish I could’ve stayed in the water just a bit longer.

4. Navigating My Way Through the Walking Street

It was a window to another world, literally! Having read so much about this place, it definitely demanded a visit when in Pattaya. I managed to make my way to this famous street one fine evening and since it was Chinese New Year, the red lanterns added more character to the walkway. The whole culture left me quite a bit overwhelmed, but I really enjoyed the colourful light-play, the exotic food (I did see an alligator being skinned and roasted!) and the power-packed band performances in the bars here.

5. Lounging by Coral Island

I loved strolling on the powdery soft white sand and the clear emerald waters here!

I saw it just as a speck on the map, but it was pure delight being on the Coral Island. I had a morning tour planned and the speedboat ride from mainland Pattaya was fun. Though the beach is pretty tourist-heavy, yet it has somehow managed to retain its charm.

I opted for a few water sports activities here before securing a nice spot for relaxing.

#ProTip: Buy some coconut water to sip on while lying, for a signature Thai vibe!

6. Relaxing with a Thai Massage

No trip to Thailand is complete without a Thai massage, right?

And I loved it so much, that I opted for a second one the very next day! The ladies rarely speak English, smile a lot and give some of the best massages ever. I went to a local massage parlour since I was on a budget, and asked for the basic Thai massage. It was for one-hour and by the end of it, I was totally refreshed.

While the Thai massage was rejuvenating, I opted for a foot massage later as well. Since all the walking took a toll on my feet, I decided to drop by a massage parlour before wrapping up my trip. And yes, it was the best decision of my life (at least, one of the best!)

#FunFact: My friend went all Punjabi on the Thai ladies with specific instructions on how to proceed with the massage; the shock on their faces was hilarious!