Jani Jermans – Travel Diaries

Embarking on my second journey to Dubai this year, the anticipation was heightened as I prepared to attend the HR Leaders conference. Dubai, with its opulence and endless possibilities, never ceases to charm me, making each visit a unique and unforgettable experience.

This time, opting for a single-entry visa for 30 days, I chose Emirates as my airline of choice. With a reputation for unparalleled hospitality, Emirates has consistently exceeded expectations, solidifying its place as my go-to airline for future travels. The additional cost incurred is justified by the exceptional experience they offer, making it a worthwhile investment.

Day 1: Arrival and Hotel Surprises

The anticipation reached its peak as I boarded the afternoon flight to Dubai from Delhi. The seamless four-hour journey concluded with a smooth landing in the vibrant city. It dawned on me that, unlike my previous visits through Etihad which lands in Abu Dhabi, I was now facing Dubai’s immigration process for the first time.

The Dubai immigration experience, in comparison to Abu Dhabi, proved to be a bit time-consuming, involving multiple gates and terminals. Navigating through this labyrinth, I finally cleared immigration, hopped on the metro, and joined the bustling crowd in retrieving my baggage.

Opting for an Uber, my destination was the Tamani Hotel Marina. Upon checking in, I found my initial excitement dampened as the room allocated seemed uncomfortably cramped. A quick call to a friend who recommended the place resulted in valuable advice – ask for a room change. Despite my initial reluctance, I approached the hotel staff, who promptly relocated me to a more spacious and comfortable room.

Grateful for the assistance, I sought dining recommendations from the predominantly Malayali hotel staffs. They enthusiastically pointed me to Marina Kitchen, a Kerala restaurant. I placed an order for soup and chicken shawarma, finding the fare decent. With an early start planned for the next day, I retired for the night, eager to explore more of Dubai’s diverse offerings.

Day 2: Conference Insights and Networking

The day unfolded with a rich tapestry of insights as I immersed myself in a conference hosted at Address Dubai Marina. This gathering proved to be a reunion of sorts, reacquainting me with speakers I had encountered at a Riyadh event a few months prior. The opportunity to reconnect and share perspectives added a layer of familiarity to the vibrant atmosphere.

While the networking experience was noteworthy, my mind drew comparisons to the enthusiastic crowd in Riyadh, finding the camaraderie there to be particularly memorable.

Address Dubai Marina, the chosen venue for the conference, left an indelible mark. The event was masterfully managed in a spacious ballroom, where counters laden with snacks and sandwiches were strategically placed at the rear. This considerate arrangement allowed attendees to partake in refreshments without missing out on the engaging talks.

The organizers displayed an impressive commitment to attendee satisfaction, regularly replenishing the snack counters with an array of tempting items. A substantial lunch further complemented the day’s proceedings.

Post-conference, I returned to the comforting confines of Tamani Hotel Marina, seamlessly transitioning from professional engagements to personal tasks. A productive work session ensued, culminating in a well-deserved night’s rest as I recharged for the adventures that lay ahead in the dynamic city of Dubai.

Day 3: Floral Paradise and Global Exploration

The day unfolded with a leisurely start, waking up late and succumbing to the demands of pending work. In the midst of a productive work session, I decided to indulge in a culinary delight, opting for Malabar dum biryani. While it proved to be a satisfactory choice, the day had more exciting prospects awaiting.

Following a friend’s timely advice, I set out for the renowned Dubai Miracle Garden around 3 PM. The guidance proved invaluable, ensuring a seamless transition to my next destination—the enchanting Miracle Garden.

Dubai Miracle Garden: A Symphony of Blooms

Dubai Miracle Garden, a horticultural masterpiece and the world’s largest natural flower garden, beckoned with its extravagant display. Adorned with over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants, the garden unfolded like a vibrant canvas. Petunias dominated the landscape, creating captivating designs and landscapes that left a lasting impression. As an enthusiast of flower gardens, this was indeed my version of heaven.

Navigating the garden solo allowed me to appreciate the breathtaking blooms at my own pace. The result was a collection of cherished photographs capturing the mesmerizing floral tapestry.

Global Village: A Cultural Extravaganza

Following the floral interlude, I made my way to Global Village, a cultural mosaic that brings together 90 countries under one roof. The attraction seamlessly blends shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a comprehensive experience without the need to venture elsewhere.

Embarking on a journey through the cultures of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and beyond, I explored various countries, immersing myself in their unique offerings. The experience was a shopper’s paradise, with intriguing finds from Turkey, perfumes from Oman and Morocco, South Korean dresses, African body butter, and Turkish accessories—choices that left me spoiled for alternatives.

As the clock approached midnight, signaling the gradual closure of shops at Global Village, I decided to make a final culinary pit stop before calling it a night. Aiming to satiate my palate with delectable delights, I opted for a delightful duo—milk cake and Kunafa—from a local shop near the main entrance.

However, upon reaching the hotel and eagerly unwrapping my culinary treasures, a surprise awaited. The eagerly anticipated Kunafa was conspicuously absent, a minor hiccup in an otherwise delightful culinary exploration. Despite the oversight, the milk cake managed to steal the show with its deliciousness, offering a sweet note to conclude my day of floral wonders and cultural immersion.

With taste buds satisfied and a lingering sweetness in the air, I retired for the night, eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited me in the vibrant city of Dubai.

With shopping bags and memories in tow, I retired for the night, ready to embrace whatever adventures the next day in Dubai had in store.

Day 4: Work and Friend’s Reunion

Embarking on another day in the bustling city of Dubai, I began with a breakfast order of Idly from Marina Kitchen, a culinary choice that, unfortunately, failed to meet expectations. Undeterred, I delved into a day filled with business engagements and personal connections.

Day 5: A Day of Unfortunate Mishap and Resilience

The day dawned with the anticipation of travel to Jeddah, necessitated by a shift in plans and a series of important meetings. However, fate had a different agenda for the day.

In an unfortunate turn of events during the journey, a mishap occurred enroute to airport as a flask of scalding hot water spilled onto my lap. The searing pain of first-degree burns instantly engulfed me, rendering me in shock and discomfort. Upon reaching the airport, the severity of the burns became apparent as I inspected my peeling skin in the restroom. In a state of distress, I reached out to Sur, who recommended applying boroline from the medical kit.

The airport’s counter staff proved to be a source of relief, reassuring me about the availability of extra luggage space for my additional bag. Despite the physical and emotional toll, I managed to check in, finding solace in a comforting chicken puff and cappuccino at a café. The warmth of the food provided the strength needed to endure the pain.

Upon landing, my friend was ready with the necessary medicines. While initially prepared to rush me to the hospital, I assured of my improved condition, thanks to the burn cream and bandage that was already bought. Grateful for the care and support of good friends, I proceeded to rest and attend meetings over calls, forced into an unplanned period of recovery.

Days 6 & 7: Recovery and Local Delights in Jeddah

The next two days in Jeddah unfolded as a period of rest and recovery, prompting the cancellation of all in-person meetings and outdoor explorations. Instead, I found solace in exploring the culinary delights that Jeddah had to offer, turning the focus to food and relaxation.

During this time of recuperation, I ventured into the diverse world of Jeddah’s cuisine, sampling dishes that promised comfort and satisfaction. Some of the notable culinary experiences included savoring Kabuli Biryani, indulging in Bukhari Biryani, enjoying an Egyptian Breakfast, and relishing the sweet treat of Basbosa, a delightful dessert.

Among the delicacies ordered for takeaway was Kunafa, a popular Middle Eastern pastry known for its sweet, syrupy layers. This allowed me to enjoy the flavors of Jeddah from the comfort of my resting space, turning moments of recovery into a gastronomic journey.

These days, though marked by physical recovery, became a culinary exploration of the rich and diverse food culture that Jeddah had to offer, adding a delightful dimension to a period of much-needed rest.

Day 8: Healthy Breakfast and Departure

The concluding chapter of my journey unfolded as I prepared to return home from Dubai. Starting the day with a wholesome breakfast of overnight-soaked oats in almond milk, adorned with chia seeds, almonds, and pecan nuts, set a healthy tone for the day.

Flynas, the chosen airline from Jeddah to Dubai, unfortunately omits the terminal number on the ticket. An online check revealed the crucial detail, steering me toward the appropriate location.

Navigating through the intricacies of airline procedures, an unexpected scenario unfolded as I reached the airline counter. When questioned about my travel destination, I mentioned Bangalore. To my surprise, they offered to transfer my bag to Emirates in Dubai. However, crucial details about an additional cost were withheld, and my consent was assumed, leading to an unforeseen expense.

Undeterred by this surprise, I proceeded to the gate, only to find a dearth of duty-free shops, a consequence of alcohol restrictions. Despite the absence of anticipated items, I seized the opportunity to pick up a thoughtful gift—dates for Sur’s parents. With this unexpected turn of events, I boarded the flight bound for Dubai, marking the final segment of my eventful journey.

As I touched down in Dubai, the challenges persisted, with the bandage causing discomfort against the wound during the transit between airports. Each step required careful consideration, prompting frequent restroom stops for adjustments. Navigating through terminals and a change in transport mode, I encountered an unexpected hurdle at the counter—a hefty $90 charge to retrieve my suitcase from Flynas, a detail undisclosed earlier.

Undeterred, albeit with the bandage in tow, I took a moment to indulge in a quick bite at a café and explore duty-free offerings. Finally, as I landed in Bangalore, my first priority was to remove the bandage, allowing the healing process to commence.

This trip, marked by its share of unexpected twists, has concluded with the assurance that time will gradually fade the marks, leaving behind memories of another eventful adventure. Until the next journey unfolds, farewell!

 

The decision to embark on a week-long escape with Sur was a spur-of-the-moment choice, driven by his limited leave days that couldn’t be carried forward into the new year. Originally eyeing South Korea, our enthusiasm was tempered by the lengthy visa processing time of 2-3 weeks. Undeterred, we swiftly redirected our attention to Malaysia, enticed by the recent announcement of a one-year free visa, effective December 1st, 2023. This impromptu change injected an element of excitement into our travel plans. The urgency of Sur’s leave left little room for meticulous trip planning. Malaysia, with its newfound visa leniency, emerged as the ideal alternative. Moreover, the alignment of my pending client meeting in Malaysia seamlessly fit into our spontaneous travel narrative.

About Malaysia: Nestled in Southeast Asia, Malaysia’s allure extends across the Malay Peninsula and the Borneo island. Renowned for its pristine beaches, verdant rain forests, and a rich tapestry of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences, the country promises a vibrant and diverse experience. Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital, boasts colonial charm, lively shopping districts like Bukit Bintang, and iconic skyscrapers, including the majestic Petronas Twin Towers.

MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card): Navigating the practicalities of travel, Malaysia recommends registering for the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days before departure. The process is streamlined through https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main. A crucial tip is to ensure to carry a printout of the confirmation email received in your inbox; it’s a valuable document for a smooth entry upon arrival.

Day 1: Arrival in Kuala Lumpur – An Eventful Start

Our journey kicked off with a morning flight on Malaysian Airlines, a welcome change for me as I had spent most of the year traveling solo. This time, Sur’s company added a pleasant touch to the experience. The flight offered decent hospitality, though a bit more legroom would have been appreciated. The aircraft’s seats, adorned with newly installed leather, looked sleek. The in-flight meal, though decent, kept us satiated during the four-hour journey.

Landing in KL, we encountered the standard immigration procedures. The officer requested our return ticket, took our fingerprints, and granted us a 30-day entry stamp. Thanks to meticulous preparation, including copies of essential documents like flight tickets, MDAC confirmation, hotel reservations, and insurance, the process was smooth.

A minor hiccup occurred when a fellow passenger ahead of us faced delays due to a missing boarding pass. This emphasized the importance of keeping all documents readily accessible, sparing unnecessary inconveniences for fellow travelers.

Exiting the airport, we hopped into an airport taxi bound for Sunway Putra Hotel, KL, a 45-minute drive away. Upon our late-night arrival at the hotel past 9:30 PM, our hopes for a leisurely dinner were met with a surprise. Although the in-room dining option was available, the hotel’s restaurant had already closed, seemingly prematurely at 10 PM. With a nearby mall attached to the property, we decided to venture to Me’nate Steak Hub.

Dinner at Me’nate Steak Hub presented a mixed experience. While I relished their steak, the boiled egg proved excessively salty. Sur, opting for spaghetti, encountered a mix-up in the order. Despite requesting a vegetarian dish, the initial serving included small slices of beef. A subsequent clarification and another pasta order finally secured a vegetarian meal. This episode highlighted the scarcity of vegetarian options on Malaysian menus, prompting a note for future travelers to explicitly specify dietary preferences and mention no meat when you place an order. With dinner complexities behind us, we retreated to our room and welcomed the embrace of sleep, eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited in Kuala Lumpur.

Day 2: Heading to Langkawi

After a much-needed rest, we found ourselves in a state of blissful lethargy, opting to sleep in rather than venture out. By the time we stirred from our slumber in the afternoon, the day had slipped away. Deciding to make the most of the remaining hours, we checked out of our hotel, stowed our luggage, and ventured to the adjacent mall for a delightful pastry interlude.

Our choice of Bread Story rewarded us with an assortment of delectable treats – chicken puffs, mocha bun, and croissants. Armed with these delights, we settled into HWC (Coffee House Café) for a rejuvenating session of cappuccinos and refreshing fruit juices.

With our energies somewhat restored, we bid adieu to our temporary abode and headed to the airport to catch our evening flight to Langkawi. There are two terminals in KL, Terminal 2 mostly has Air Asia flights and others are in Terminal 1. Do verify the ticket before going to the airport for hassle-free travel A quick one-hour flight from KL brought us to our island destination.

As we landed in Langkawi, our choice of accommodation, Wings by Croske, turned out to be conveniently close to the airport. Amused by the short distance, our Uber driver shared a laugh as we opted for a brief ride rather than a mere five-minute walk. Arriving at Wings by Croske, we were greeted by the allure of a beautiful hotel, and without further ado, we checked in.

Given our limited time in Langkawi, we sought the assistance of the hotel’s recommended travel agency, Andaman Secrets, to make the most of our stay. Despite the late hour, they efficiently confirmed our bookings for the next day’s exploration. A quick dinner followed, with me indulging in a sumptuous seafood platter while Sur settled for the more familiar comfort of French fries and a cocktail. The fatigue from the day’s travel caught up with us, leading us to crash for the night, eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited us in Langkawi.

Day 3: Island Exploration and Enchanting Landscapes in Langkawi

The day commenced with an early start, accompanied by a quick breakfast that introduced us to the flavors of Nasi Lemak. This fragrant rice dish, infused with coconut milk, was adorned with fried anchovies, sambal (spicy shrimp paste), a choice of boiled or fried egg, cucumber, and peanuts. While the anchovies were a personal favorite, their dry preparation in Malaysia offered a unique twist to the dish. Opting for another local delicacy, I indulged in Sarawak Laksa – rice vermicelli, shredded omelette, cooked prawns, and chicken strips in an aromatic broth, accompanied by sambal and lime on the side.

Our adventure for the day began with an island-hopping tour facilitated by a local agency. Awaiting the tour’s commencement, we embarked on a delightful boat ride, reaching our first destination – Pulau Dayang Bunting. This island featured Langkawi’s largest freshwater lake, Tasik Dayang Bunting, often referred to as the “Lake of the Pregnant Maiden.” A brief mini-hike added an adventurous touch to our visit.

The journey continued with eagle feeding at a location teeming with these majestic birds. Observing the eagles gracefully swooping down to snatch food from the water proved to be a captivating spectacle. Our exploration extended to a nearby island, offering water activities and a serene beach where we relaxed before returning to the boat.

Next on our itinerary was the breathtaking Kilim Geoforest Park. Enroute, we picked up Shankar. The journey, mostly by a private boat, afforded us glimpses of fish farming. A seafood feast during lunch, with Shankar and I savoring various ocean delights while Sur opted for an omelette, added culinary delight to our day. The limestone formations and mangrove forests further enchanted us as we navigated through the park.

Our adventure took an unexpected turn at the bat cave (Gua Kelawar), where, unfortunately, the bats remained elusive. Undeterred, we returned to the jetty and proceeded to the Cable Car. Ascending to the sky deck, we were treated to a breathtaking view of Langkawi, accompanied by cool, refreshing air. The journey continued to the 3D museum, offering a playful exploration of optical illusions. A visit to Mamachinchang Café for a late lunch, featuring a limited menu with options like chicken nuggets and veg samosas, concluded our eventful day.

With memories captured in photographs and the day’s experiences etched in our minds, we retreated to our room, thoroughly exhausted, and surrendered to a well-deserved night’s rest.

Day 4: Farewell to Langkawi and a Coastal Welcome in Penang

Awakening refreshed from a good night’s rest, we completed our checkout and welcomed Shankar to our trio. Eager to savor the remaining hours in Langkawi, we relaxed near the hotel’s swimming pool, basking in the warmth of the tropical sun. As our flights were scheduled for the evening, we opted for a leisurely stroll, contemplating the memories created during our stay.

Considering our luggage, the thoughtful hotel staff offered to drop us off, a gesture we appreciated. Following a sweet poolside interlude, we headed to the airport for our respective departures. Shankar, with an earlier flight to Kuala Lumpur, bid us farewell after ensuring I indulged in a quick foot massage at the airport’s massage chairs. A brief, rejuvenating 10-minute session was a welcome respite.

With Shankar off to his next destination KL, Sur and I eagerly awaited our flight to Penang. Boarding our flight, we touched down in Penang after a short hour. Opting for an airport taxi, we embarked on a 45-minute journey to our new abode, Hompton by the Beach. Nestled close to the shoreline, the hotel offered a picturesque location with a charming Elementos restaurant overlooking the beach. The hotel staff, friendly and accommodating, assisted us in planning our sightseeing for the next day.

With the day’s adventures behind us, we dined at the hotel’s restaurant Elementos which is Tapas & Lounge bar next to the beach, immersing ourselves in Penang’s culinary offerings. We had the best food here during the trip. The promise of new experiences lingered in the air as we retired for the night, anticipating the exploration that awaited us on the vibrant streets of Penang.

Day 5: Cultural Marvels and Culinary Delights in Penang

A rejuvenating night’s sleep set the stage for another day of exploration in vibrant Penang. Rising early, we indulged in a quick breakfast, opting for soup and salads to ease into the day. Eager to delve into Penang’s cultural tapestry, we embarked on a sightseeing adventure.

Our first stop, the Butterfly Farm, unfolded a mesmerizing display of vibrant winged wonders, a visual feast for nature enthusiasts. Moving forward, we visited a craft batik workshop, immersing ourselves in the intricate process of wax-resist dyeing. The artisans demonstrated the meticulous artistry behind batik, showcasing the creation of patterns through a spouted tool called a canting or a copper stamp known as a cap.

Venturing deeper into Penang’s cultural heritage, we explored the Burmese Buddhist Temple and its Thai counterpart, Wat Chayamangkalaram. After offering our prayers, we indulged in a delightful treat from Papa’s Ice Cream within the temple campus. The coconut ice cream, adorned with surprising elements like corn and Attap seeds, offered a delightful twist reminiscent of ice apple.

Our cultural odyssey continued with a visit to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a captivating museum dedicated to Penang’s Peranakan heritage. Housed in a distinctive green-hued mansion that once served as the residence and office of a 19th-century Chinese tycoon, Chung Keng Quee, the museum showcased a remarkable collection.

Adding a touch of whimsy to our day, we explored the Upside Down Museum, a unique and entertaining space for capturing gravity-defying photos. Our journey through George Town led us to vibrant street art, another facet of Penang’s artistic expression. Along the way, we discovered a Chinese temple and indulged in some street shopping.

Our sensory adventure continued at Coffee Tree Trading, where we savored various coffees, teas, chocolates, honey, and perfumes. Laden with newfound treasures, we proceeded to Penang Hill, ascending to its summit for breathtaking views and a tranquil tea break at David Brown’s Hilltop Garden Restaurant.

Before concluding our day, we visited the Murugan Temple, adding a spiritual touch to our cultural exploration. Returning to our hotel, we capped off the day with a delectable dinner. I relished the flavors of Char Koay Teow (Stir fry noodles) and Tom Yum Soup, while Sur enjoyed a well-prepared vegetarian pasta. Satisfied and content, we retired for the night, cherishing the rich cultural experiences and culinary delights that Penang had generously offered us.

Day 6: Kuala Lumpur – Towers, Temples, and Tantalizing Delights

Embarking on the penultimate day of our journey, we kicked off the morning with a swift breakfast before making our way to the airport for our return to Kuala Lumpur. Upon our arrival in KL, we checked into Sunway Putra Hotel, where rooms were available only by 3 PM. Eager to make the most of our time, we dropped off our luggage and set out for a day of sightseeing.

Our first stop was the iconic KL Tower, where we ascended to the Sky Deck. Although there was a queue for photos, we decided to forego the wait and proceeded to indulge in a culinary delight – the thinnest shawarma roll we had ever encountered. We made our way to the renowned Petronas Twin Towers. Unfortunately, luck was not on our side as tickets were sold out due to the limited number of visitors allowed, coupled with the drizzling weather. Unperturbed, we improvised our plans, heading to a nearby mall and then to the captivating Thean Hou Temple, a beautiful Chinese temple adorned with intricate sculptures and surrounded by serene parks.

As dusk settled in, we returned to the hotel to freshen up before an evening of business engagements. I had arranged a meeting with Chitti and his friend, and together, we dined at the Rabbit Hole restaurant. Our orders of chicken pizza and chicken nuggets were met with culinary excellence, setting the stage for a delightful evening. Chitti and his friend graciously dropped me off at the hotel before venturing to catch a movie. Meanwhile, Sur indulged in a relaxing massage, bringing a perfect end to a day filled with exploration, gastronomic delights, and fruitful business discussions. We retired for the night, cherishing the diverse experiences Kuala Lumpur had offered us.

Day 7: A Day of Cultural Immersion and Natural Wonders

With a quick breakfast fueling our energy, we set our sights on Genting Island, ready for a day of adventure. However, the weather had a different plan for us. The island greeted us with an unexpected chill and dense fog. Since we were early, most of the rides were closed as well. Undeterred, we decided to return, leaving behind the mystical atmosphere of Genting.

En route, we had hoped to explore a strawberry farm, but the rain played spoilsport, prompting us to skip the visit. Our next destination was the renowned Batu Caves. Climbing a few hundred steps, we encountered mischievous monkeys attempting to snatch the food. Undeterred, we proceeded to the caves, where we offered our prayers before making our descent.

Our journey continued to St. Mary’s Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals, exuding an aura of serenity. The nearby Independence Square, also known as Selangor Club Padang, provided a picturesque setting.

Next on our itinerary was Tugu Negara, the War Memorial, a poignant reminder of historical sacrifices where ongoing renovations did little to dampen the significance of the site. Our exploration took a sweet turn with a taste of ice cream, expertly scooped into a single cone with two delightful flavors. A visit to KL Bird Park awaited us, offering a unique experience as birds freely roamed the vicinity, allowing us to capture unforgettable moments with pelicans and dancing peacocks.

As the day unfolded, we stopped at the restaurant at park for a well-deserved lunch, savoring both the culinary delights and the beauty of the surroundings. Then we headed to Istana Negara,  the official residence of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the monarch of Malaysia. We can only stand outside the gate for pictures. Then we returned to our accommodations, surrendering to a well-deserved rest after a day filled with cultural immersion and encounters with Malaysia’s natural wonders.

Day 8: Journey Home

As the sun dawned on our final day, we embarked on an early morning flight, bidding adieu to the captivating landscapes of Malaysia. Arriving at the airport with time to spare, we indulged in a leisurely coffee break and explored the duty-free shopping options, savoring the last moments of our Malaysian escapade.

Malaysian Airlines lived up to its reputation for hospitality, offering a comfortable journey. However, a curious encounter with Malay rice, anchovies, and peanuts left us pondering the authenticity of the provided sachet. The distinct taste, or lack thereof, prompted me to forgo the anchovies, opting instead to relish the flavorful rice and succulent prawns.

As the wheels touched down in Bangalore, our hearts were filled with the memories of a journey that unfolded like a tapestry of diverse experiences. Each day brought new adventures, cultural discoveries, and moments that will linger in our minds. The vibrant hues of Malaysia, from its bustling city scapes to the tranquil beaches, had left an indelible mark on our travel story.

With gratitude for the hospitality received and a suitcase full of memories, we concluded this chapter of exploration, knowing that new adventures awaited on the horizon. Until the next journey unfolds, the echoes of Malaysia’s beauty will resonate in our hearts.

See you in the next adventure…

 

Buckle up for a detailed recount of my recent odyssey to the mesmerizing destination of Phuket, Thailand—dubbed the “Pearl of the Andaman.” This travelogue aims to unravel the intricacies of my experiences, from the intricacies of Visa procedures to the pulsating adventures and cultural immersions that defined each day.

Unveiling Phuket’s Charms: Phuket, nestled in the Andaman Sea, is a kaleidoscope of vibrant landscapes, cultural wonders, and breathtaking seascapes. From the bustling hub of Phuket City to the serene shores, the island is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Navigating Visa Realities: Navigating the intricacies of visa acquisition is a pivotal aspect of international travel, and my recent journey to Phuket presented an interesting decision point in this regard. Normally inclined towards securing my visa well in advance, the constraints of a 2-3 week time frame prompted me to opt for the more convenient Visa On Arrival (VOA) option rather than applying at the Thailand embassy in India. Departing from my usual meticulous planning, the process unfolded smoothly, requiring the standard set of documents and a nominal fee in Thai Baht.

Day 1: Anticipation and Coordination: The adventure kicked off with a surge of excitement as I assumed the role of a Tour Director, along with Andrew, Ramesh, Suman, Arun, Prakhar, Vijaytha, Suresh and his team, for a corporate annual sales conference. The responsibility of orchestrating logistics and assisting 200 attendees with their Visa On Arrival added an extra layer of anticipation for our team. The day unfolded with a lively rendezvous at the airport, followed by a seamless Air Asia flight. However, the in-flight meal, featuring vegetarian Hyderabad Biryani, posed a culinary conundrum. Personally, I’ve always found the combination of corporate e-booking and the ubiquitous mango juice to be a bit overwhelming—like consuming a kilogram of sugar. Both items were swiftly relegated to the ‘no-no’ list. Fortunately, the airport lounge at Terminal 2 came to the rescue. Despite being under construction and offering limited options, the lounge provided a welcome reprieve, allowing me to sidestep the Air Asia in-flight fare.

Day 2: Airport Intrigues and Coral Island Escapade: The early morning arrival in Bangkok marked the commencement of an exhilarating adventure, complete with a series of unexpected surprises at the airport. The stringent security regulations caught us off guard, disallowing even a single drop in our water bottles. Adding to the unexpected revelations, the absence of a smoking zone inside the security area left many in the group agitated.

As Ramesh joined the group from Chennai and the Cochin contingent made their entrance, we navigated through the Visa on Arrival process, followed by biometrics and security checks—a series of formalities that took nearly an hour to complete. The decision to skip the inflight meal left me, and others, with a noticeable pang of hunger. Fortunately, our quest for sustenance led us to a delightful pastry shop, where we found solace in comforting coffee and indulged in some delectable pastries.

Post this impromptu refreshment, we proceeded to the gate for our flight to Phuket, embarking on a journey that spanned an hour and a half. Upon touching down in Phuket, our focus shifted to the exquisite Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort. There, we assisted the group with check-in procedures before embarking on an invigorating speedboat ride to Coral Island Koh Hey.

Despite contending with weather challenges that disrupted our planned water activities, the day unfolded as a thrilling adventure, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The process of landing on the island itself was an adventure, with the temporary road to shore feeling rather precarious. The assistance of the local team proved invaluable in navigating the shaky path. Since the weather didn’t cooperate for our initially planned activities, we decided to unwind with some beer and soft drinks, basking in the serene surroundings, before making our way back to the resort.

Gastronomic Delights and Gala Extravaganza: As the evening unfolded and twilight cast its gentle hues, the entire group assembled for a lavish gala dinner at Le Meridien Resort. However, Vijaytha and I found ourselves excused from the festivities a bit earlier. Seizing the opportunity, we decided to explore the local culinary scene at The Place Bar & Restaurant. Our culinary adventure at The Place was a delight, with standout dishes like chicken and prawn fried rice, seafood soup with tangy flavour stealing the limelight with their exquisite flavors. We complemented with the local beer which was very light. The only hiccup was the squid we ordered, which didn’t quite meet our taste buds’ expectations due to a sweet sauce. Nevertheless, for seafood enthusiasts, The Place Bar & Restaurant proved to be a haven, and I relished every minute of the dining experience. Then headed back to DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort for a much needed rest.

Day 3: Conference Dynamics and Awards Night: The conference kicked into full gear, resonating with energy and purpose. The climax of the event was the awards night, a heartwarming celebration of the sales team’s dedication. A standout feature was the motivational video, a piece of visual storytelling that left a lasting impact. Ramesh and myself were relieved early, so we had an early dinner at Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort and then headed back to Hilton to rest.

Day 4: James Bond Island Odyssey: The day kicked off with an early start, guiding us into the enchanting realms of Khao Phing Kan, affectionately known as James Bond Island. Our exploration took an adventurous turn with sea cave canoeing in the picturesque Phang Nga Bay. Despite the ticking clock and time constraints, we successfully witnessed the breathtaking beauty of James Bond Island before bidding a fond farewell to the rest of the group.

Following our return, we indulged in a leisurely dinner at a charming restaurant conveniently located next to DoubleTree by Hilton. The cozy ambiance and the array of delectable seafood offerings provided the ideal setting for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Subsequently, we ventured to the nearby walking street, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, cultural nuances, and the lively nightlife that surrounded us. The experience was enhanced by the beauty of the surroundings. Later, Andrew took us inside Thai Benjarong, a place known for its porcelain souvenirs crafted in China, aiming to procure a memento for all of us. We strolled a bit more, absorbing the surroundings, before finally settling in for a well-deserved night’s rest.

Day 5: Sunrise Serenity, Big Buddha, and Unexpected Encounters: The day began with the gentle hues of a serene sunrise at Promthap Cape, creating a tranquil atmosphere that set the tone for a day filled with exploration. Our journey continued with a visit to the impressive Big Phuket Buddha, situated atop Nakkerd Hill, providing a cultural immersion experience.

As the group’s activities diverged, I opted for a Thai massage at Carpe Diem, seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Meanwhile, some members chose the exhilarating adventure of parasailing.

Adding an unexpected twist to our exploration, we encountered legal cannabis shops, introducing an intriguing element to the vibrant street scene. The day unfolded as a unique blend of cultural immersion, relaxation, and unexpected discoveries, making it a memorable chapter of our Phuket adventure.

Day 6: Bittersweet Farewell and Reflections: As the final chapter of this captivating travel saga unfolded, I bid a fond adieu to the enchanting vistas of Phuket. As my time in Phuket came to an end, I found myself unable to bid a proper farewell to anyone, including my room mate who was peacefully sleeping, and I didn’t want to disturb her. The hotel arranged a cab to drop me off at the airport. To my surprise, I had to pay for excess luggage, and my return journey was booked on Indigo with a layover in Mumbai. The airline only accepted cash in Thai Bahts, so I had to step outside the check-in counter, exchange currency, and then return.

Upon landing in Mumbai, I boarded the flight to Bangalore in the evening, reaching my destination late at night in one piece.

My heart is filled with gratitude towards our team, especially Andrew and Ramesh, for providing such an incredible opportunity of learning. A big thanks to Arun, Suman, Prakhar, Vijaytha, Suresh, and his team for their unwavering support. Throughout this journey, our team has evolved into a close-knit group of friends. These moments will linger as a testament to the multifaceted beauty and delightful surprises that Thailand, particularly Phuket, has to offer. The memories created will forever hold a special place, reminding us of the unique experiences and camaraderie shared during our time in this captivating destination.

Stay tuned for more immersive travel tales and explorations, as the journey continues to unfold.