We Won a Trip to Thailand – and We’re Making It Epic!

Life has a funny way of throwing surprises our way, and this time, it was a big one! Celeste and I are beyond excited to share that we’ve won a 9-night trip to Thailand! Yes, you read that right! But instead of just taking the prize as is, we decided to make it even better. We’re extending our adventure to a full 20-day getaway, staying in four different hotels across Phuket, and adding an exciting stopover in Doha on the way. Best of all, this incredible journey is set for the end of April 2025!

A Quick Stop in France Before We Go

Before we even begin our adventure, we’re hoping to spend two nights in France. This will give Celeste a chance to see the progress on our house, and for me, it will be an opportunity to build the first stud wall as a test. This way, I can ensure I’m happy with the construction and insulation before fully committing to the project. It’s the perfect chance to squeeze in some hands-on work before heading off on our long-awaited getaway!

The Journey Begins: A Stop in Doha

Before we even set foot in Thailand, we’re taking advantage of a two-night stopover in Doha. It’s the perfect chance to soak in the luxurious skyline, explore the souqs, and maybe even squeeze in a desert safari! A taste of the Middle East before diving into the tropical paradise of Thailand? Yes, please! Doha’s futuristic skyline, contrasted with its deep-rooted traditions, makes it a fascinating stopover. From the Museum of Islamic Art to the Corniche promenade, we’ll be making the most of our short stay.

Exploring Phuket – Island Hopping, Adventure & Relaxation

Once we land in Phuket, it’s go time! We’ll be staying in four different hotels across the island, each offering a unique experience. From beachfront escapes to lively city stays, we want to experience it all.

One of the major highlights will be a visit to the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands. Picture turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and that feeling of freedom as we sail between these iconic islands. Snorkelling, boat trips, and plenty of exploring are on the agenda!

Beyond the beaches, we plan to dive into Thai culture – visiting temples, tasting local street food, and maybe even taking a cooking class (because let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to master Thai cuisine?).

A Glimpse into Thailand’s Rich History and Culture

Thailand, often called the ‘Land of Smiles,’ has a history that stretches back thousands of years. Formerly known as Siam, it has been influenced by Indian, Chinese, and Khmer cultures while maintaining its own unique identity. From the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th century to the grandeur of Ayutthaya, Thailand’s past is filled with rich traditions, battles, and prosperity.

Buddhism plays a significant role in Thai culture, and we can’t wait to visit some of the country’s most stunning temples. The famous Wat Chalong in Phuket, with its intricate details and serene atmosphere, is high on our list. We’re also eager to see the Big Buddha, a towering 45-metre statue overlooking the island.

Another aspect we’re looking forward to is experiencing the Thai way of life. The night markets, where delicious street food fills the air, the longtail boats that have become an iconic sight, and the warm hospitality of the locals all make Thailand an unforgettable destination.

Balancing Work & Play – NEXA Solutions’ New Chapter

While this trip is all about adventure, we’re also taking the opportunity to fit in some work. With the rebranding of NEXA Solutions, there’s never been a more exciting time to spread the word about our project guardianship services. The past few months have been a whirlwind of planning, restructuring, and refining our offerings, making NEXA Solutions more streamlined and accessible for SMEs in the construction sector.

This trip is giving us a chance to work remotely, testing out the digital nomad lifestyle while ensuring that our clients still receive top-notch service. After all, the beauty of modern technology is that we can oversee projects and manage services from anywhere in the world – even from a sun-drenched beach in Thailand! We’re excited to see how this trip inspires fresh ideas and new opportunities for NEXA Solutions as we continue to expand and evolve.

The Ultimate Adventure Awaits

Winning this trip was an unexpected blessing, but turning it into a full 20-day adventure was our way of making the most of it. Between exploring new cultures, experiencing stunning landscapes, and maintaining our commitment to work, this trip is shaping up to be the perfect blend of excitement and productivity.

Thailand has always been a dream destination for us, and now, we’re making it happen in the best possible way. Whether it’s sailing through the Andaman Sea, discovering centuries-old temples, or simply soaking up the island vibes, we plan to make every moment count.

We can’t wait to share our experiences along the way – stay tuned for updates, travel tips, and maybe even a few funny stories from our time on the road (or should we say, in the air and on the sea!).

Next stop: France, then Doha, then onto Phuket! Let the adventure begin!

Cheers,
Tom & Celeste