You’re probably surprised. Honestly, I do/did have a trip for Thailand planned for this year, but not until the end of October, so this one popped up unexpectedly. My issue is when someone says “let’s go to Thailand,” it’s very unlikely I’d say “no.” So, how did this “last-minute” trip pop up?

My friend Henry wanted to go somewhere because his fiancée was going to Italy for 2 weeks with her girls. My suggestion was Puerto Rico because it was nice and close and still island vibes (and I’ve never been and he speaks Spanish). To say the least, Henry veto’d the idea (he’s been there before, and kind of wanted to party before famly life took him over. He said Thailand…and of course, I said “sure.”

So, we booked our Thailand trip with less than 40 days before our departure date. I’m not flying my usual route becaues the tickets were almost triple what I usually paid [super sad face]. This time I’m flying in the other direction on Etihad (layover in Abu Dhabi) to stay within my normal price range. While Henry is going for 2 weeks, I’ll be staying for a whole month. It’s rainy season there, but hopefully we’ll still have plenty to do (there’s always plenty to do!).

A bonus part of this trip, Rachana is going to meet us in Bangkok. She’ll be coming for just 1 week. Also, while there, I will be celebrating my birthday and also Paul’s birthday. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but at this point, it’ll be dinner and a night out (it’ll be on a Saturday). Also the following weekend is Paul’s birthday week. I’m finally going to Koh Samet and R will be going to. Yay! for beach days.

So, what will I be doing in Thailand? Well, some touristy things (because R has never been), a lot of local things (because that’s my vibe), and some new fun things (because it’s an excuse to explore with Henry). Sadly though, I will also be working while I’m there, but hopefully a slightly lighter schedule, but ya girl needs some income because I will be spending. I also have things I need (I’m running out of socks (S/O to Muji), skincare (S/O to Innisfree), contacts and always a nice walk through Uniqlo). There’s a few things I have to pick up and bring back for friends and family as well (giant sunscreen for Liz…and delicious tea).

After the craziness, I’ll get to hang out for about 1.5-2 weeks. I make it back to the States just in time for my grandfather’s 1-year memorial celebration.