27 Jun
CLIENTS, Phuket, Testimonials, The state of international travel right now

Thailand’s Cosmetic Holiday Appeal Sun, Sand and Surf …Tits, Tucks or Teeth?

Hey there. I’m Kelly Jacobs; I’m a Kiwi originally although I’ve spent considerably more time in Australia than Enzud, and I consider myself more of a Kwozi now. I’m closer to 50 than 40 and I’ve have lived in Brisbane since 1996. I recently graduated from Griffith University with a Bachelor of Arts and am still figuring out what to do with it. I’m also one of the numerous people in Australia (both male and female) who have elected to undergo a combined cosmetic surgery/holiday experience abroad.

I travelled to Thailand in 2012 and again in 2016 to get some dental work done at Bangkok Hospital in Phuket. Like most of my life trajectory, my path toward booking a cosmetic-tourism holiday was rather arbitrary. It wasn’t until my late thirties that I decided I didn’t like my teeth. My Mum had always told me I had lovely teeth (bless her), but my two front teeth were by then noticeably chipped and my teeth as a whole no longer exhibited the pearly white sheen of my youth – too much coffee, chocolate and coke maybe?

But what bugged me the most was my two crooked, bottom-front teeth. They had never bothered me before, but now I found myself constantly probing the offending incisors with my tongue, front and back … frowningly pondering their incongruence. What could be done? I ventured into the Google maze but was discouraged by the costs associated with cosmetic dentistry domestically. I remembered a girl on my Facebook, Claire Licciardo, ran a cosmetic surgery/holiday venture. Disgruntlement with my gnarly gnashers aside, I also needed a holiday. Three months later and I was touching down at Phuket’s international airport courtesy of a cosmetic-holiday package booked through Claire. My decision to venture abroad to undergo a cosmetic procedure was by no means anomalous. A large international study, the Sun, Sea, Sand, Silicone Project, estimated that Australians spend $300m a year on cosmetic surgery tourism, with an estimated 15,000 Australians heading offshore each year to go under the knife.

Even if I had been aware of the reassuring statistical commonality at the time, I would still have had some niggling reservations relative to Claire’s assurances regarding the quality of the Thai dental work on account of my inherent (albeit waning) cynicism. I told myself I was just being paranoid …. I was.

Surgery

On both excursions to Phuket I was treated by Bangkok Hospital’s Dr Supachai Kerdsap. During my first trip, I had veneers placed over my two top central incisors (two front teeth) as well as having my two bottom central incisors removed and replaced by a three-tooth bridge. In order to complement the structural work, I also underwent the Brite Smile teeth-whitening procedure.  When I returned in 2016, I had two more veneers placed over the tooth on either side of each top central incisor.

The procedures required only a general anesthetic and I can honestly say it was pain free unless you count the mildly uncomfortable sensation of the general anesthetic being injected into my gums. I despise needles and the thought of the cold steel cruelly lancing my gum’s tender tissue struggled mightily to hijack my consciousness … but I was worrying for nothing. It wasn’t that bad. Here is my experience on YouTube!

The experience of having two of my bottom teeth removed under anesthetic was quaintly surreal while the adhesion of the bridge to the sides of my bottom lateral incisors and the whitening process was completely drama free. The veneers were such a non-event discomfort wise, on both trips, I can’t recall much about either procedure. The only moderate pain (and moderate is pushing it) I endured worth mentioning occurred post-op and was related to the teeth removal, but the Endone I was provided took care of that.

The cumulative cost for the veneers, extraction, bridge and whitening I underwent in 2012 amounted to $3062 (AUD). By comparison, pricing for cosmetic-dental procedures in Australia was (and is) markedly higher. The average cost of a single porcelain veneer in Australia in 2012 was $1087 (AUD) according to the Australian Dental Association (ADA). The obvious question raised by the difference in pricing relative to Australia is whether the quality of the surgery decreases relative to the cost? The answer to this reasonable enquiry is a resounding no.

Any stigma attached to the Thailand cosmetic surgery industry has long since disappeared, buried under the avalanche of satisfied tourists departing Thailand after undergoing a cosmetic procedure; consequently, Thailand’s reputation for quality is now firmly established and easily verifiable by the amount of JCI accredited hospitals operating within the country.   

JCI accreditation is the benchmark standard for quality healthcare globally and for facilities to be awarded accreditation, they must prove they can consistently meet or exceed the required level of care. JCI accreditation benefits patients holistically because accredited facilities are highly regarded by other providers, businesses, government ministries, and insurance companies. Thailand’s reputation notwithstanding, it has been my experiences on a personal level have assured me more than any other factor that the work I had done was legit.

I don’t smile as much as I should, haha, but I’m often complimented on my teeth when I do, and my dental work has been remarked on favourably by Ozzie dentists performing my annual checkup. The most impressive litmus test, though, occurred over two years after my first visit to Phuket.

I was working security in licensed venues at the time and one evening, the weekend before Christmas 2014, I was punched forcibly in the mouth, the blow directly impacting the bridge. The next morning my bottom lip had inflated to twice its usual proportions but the bridge was as resiliently attached as ever … and still is to this day.

Thailand’s cosmetic holiday’s industry is currently traversing the same covid tightrope as the rest of the globe. The future bodes well though. Thailand’s covid-recovery plan includes reopening Phuket July 1 with Phuket Sandbox, so depending on when Australian borders reopen sometime in mid 2022 NipTuck are already taking bookings. If you’re interested in upgrading your ivories or undergoing an alternate augmentation or reduction then I recommend you consider Thailand as an option.

Nip Tuck Holidays offers comprehensive cosmetic dental options including some ongoing promotions to consider through Smile, Sea Smile and the MALO clinic in Bangkok if you’re champing at the bit to ameliorate your cosmetic holiday itch … and they are not going anywhere if you’re in no hurry ! The other factor just as appealing about a Thai cosmetic holiday package is the holiday itself. Thailand is a happening and adaptable holiday destination. Whether you want to party nonstop or enjoy a relaxed family-friendly environment … Thailand can accommodate you.

Holiday

On both trips to Phuket I stayed in Patong Beach – at the Marriot in 2012 and the Patong, Sun, Sea Sand in 2016. I couldn’t fault either establishment. Both were complete with clean, well-kept rooms with modern amenities and efficient, friendly staff.

Cosmetic surgery & holiday packages include great deals on accommodation through hotel/resort affiliations that can be tailored to your budget and preferences. Options abound relative to location if one would prefer a less hectic base than Patong. NipTuck Holidays partnership with the DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort and the Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort offer amazing prices with discounts 20% less than the price online and booking.com, starting at just $50 per night! You will opportunity to benefit from the accommodation packages offered for both luxury resorts in Phuket right in the heart of Patong.

Wherever you chose to stay in Phuket, the hospitality factor will shine through as the concept of hospitality and Thailand seems intrinsically permeating. My first day staying at Patong Beach affirmed without a doubt that Thailand was indeed aptly titled the land of smiles.

My curiosity inspired wanderings along the beach and random tangential excursions down beckoning side streets resulted in numerous encounters with the locals, who inevitably tried to relieve me of some of my recently-transferred baht by way of their enthusiastic sales pitch. I was always greeted with the proverbial Thai smile, which usually remained in place whether I made a purchase or not. I was also immediately struck by the level of care shown to the stray dogs and cats. They were generally clean and obviously well fed judging from their usually prosperous profiles. I have a soft spot for animals, and witnessing the encompassing Thai kindness and respect extended to also include Phuket’s four-legged residents was heartwarming.

Speaking of well-fed, I did develop a weakness for the pancakes complete with sliced banana and Nutella so commonly peddled throughout Patong. Any criticism directed at me for a lack of adventurous spirit relative to sampling traditional Thai food is unjustified, haha. I devoured more than my fair share of tasty Thai cuisine from the roadside vendors or the street and hotel restaurants. Thai is my favourite dish, so I took to the task with relish although I did draw the line at the crispy, crackly crickets proffered by one elderly street vendor. Her crinkly, wholesome visage and ardent assurances proved unequal to overcoming my inherent squeamishness. Her persistence paid dividends elsewhere though. The crispy, crackly description provided referring to the sound emanating from the masticating jaws of the doughty German tourist who proved far braver than I when it came to accepting that opportunity to broaden his culinary horizons.

I participated in numerous touristy activities during my time in Phuket including hiking, elephant treks, white-water rafting, attending Mua Thai events and visiting sites of interest such as the Big Buddha. I also spent numerous memorable evenings partying with the locals and my fellow tourists while checking out the Patong nightlife.

Phuket Town on the Eastern side of the island offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in a more traditional Thai environment. If you appreciate architecture then I recommend taking the time to wander the streets of Phuket Town and peruse the homes constructed in the early 1900s displaying the hybrid Sino-Portuguese  structuring popular at the time. Phuket’s variety/predictability dynamic is its salient quality. From the chaotically-stimulating environment of Bangla Road to the traditionally refined atmosphere of Phuket Town, the Island’s vibe remained constant; I was always made to feel welcome and appreciated.

Verdict

Phuket remains one of my favourite holiday destinations. The Island’s populace emanates efficiency and warmth on every level from the hotel staff to the street vendors and the myriad of activities available to experience relative to the minimal costs involved certainly won me over. I’m eagerly anticipating my next Thailand adventure. Maybe I will try somewhere different this time round. Koh Samui? Chiang Mai? Bangkok?  Momentum for the resumption of international travel is gathering as the measures implemented to tackle the covid crisis take effect. Thailand’s tourism industry is confident Thailand’s borders will be reopen on July 1 in Phuket. If you are considering cosmetic surgery and really need a holiday, then Nip Tuck Holidays website is a great place to start your enquiries.

Thailand awaits ….

 

25 Jan
CLIENTS, Cosmetic Holidays, Phuket, Plastic Surgery, Read our past Group Tours to Phuket

MEDICAL TOURISM GROUP TOUR

ex Brisbane to Phuket! ✈️🌍🌏⛑💉🛀🏖☀️☀️☀️👙🍉🍍🥐🍡🍹🍹🍹

Testimonials from Group:

Lani had a breast augmentation

“The entire trip blew all my expectations I had out of the water. I was amazed at the quality of the hospital and it’s staff. Everyone made me feel so comfortable, in fact, I felt like a princess.

The Dr was so warm and friendly, but also professional it took all my hesitation I may have had.

I would recommend it to anyone if they were considering any cosmetic or dental procedures. I would do it again for sure…”

Donna Pope, Upper eyelid lift by Dr Pathom

“I am greatly amazed at the wonderful services provided by all staff. The hospital, doctors, hotel and not to forget the lovely drivers who transferred  us from the hospital back to the hotel.

The beautiful manners and cleanness of the Thai people amazed me.

Claire, you are a truly lovely compassionate lady, I was not once at all nervous or worried because are very calm and a professional at your job.

The upper blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) was pain free, with only slight bruising and swellness but is healing fast.”

Annie had an extended tummy tuck, liposuction to the hips, abdomen, back and waist, and a breast lift/ reduction and implant with Dr Witoon“This was excellent!”

Claire was outstanding, caring, lovely, truly a beautiful person who put herself out of the way to ensure everyone had a good time and their fears were alleviated before they arose.

The customer service is 1000% outstanding!”

Our Group Tour from Brisbane

The day had finally arrived and dreams were coming true for eight exited ladies all over Queensland and one from Tasmania.  Together, we were embarking on a journey-of-a-lifetime as part of the exclusive packages offered by Nip Tuck Cosmetic Surgery Holidays exclusive Medical Tourism Group Tour Package ex Brisbane.

There was an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation about the journey ahead, knowing this journey was going to change their lives!

Wow, what an awesome bunch of ladies having breast augmentations, breast lifts, breast reductions, liposuction, tummy tucks, eyelid lifts, Botox, Laser teeth whitening and dental procedures teeth cleaning, crowns and veneers.

The strength of the Medical Tourism Group Tours is having the support of other ladies in the same position, as well as me, which proved very valuable to clients in terms support and her for advice on hand for any issue that may arise.

For Carole and Donna, who were part of the tour and both partially deaf, obviously the language barrier at times proved challenging, so this support was invaluable with all communication with the hospital and hotel.

Prior to the departure, all the ladies had received their final documents with very thorough information including the medical component of the details of their procedure of choice, pre-operative advice, risks of surgery.

I was in touch daily with the ladies and available 24-7 to answer any questions or clarify any concerns including reassuring clients, husbands, mother and family members about the impeccably high medical standards of both the hospital and the surgeons in the global network, as well as the genuineness of their care and concern for all their clients.

The eastern philosophy and culture in Thailand ensures that you, as a client, are the primary concern of our surgeon and hospital. You will be made to feel like the most important person in the world, because, as a client of Nip Tuck and Bangkok Hospital, you are!

Our surgeons, hospital and we at Nip Tuck genuinely care about you, your physical and emotional needs and understand and empathize with the full emotions you are gone through, and take very seriously the trust you are placing in us. We will not let you down!!!

Day 1: Friday July 3

I was eagerly awaiting there arrival at the VIP area of Phuket airport with Maam and New, our very special hospital ground-care staff.

After an emotional greeting, our hospital staff loaded everyone’s suitcases into a mini bus, and together we went directly to the hospital for our consultations with the surgeons.

Seeing is believing- and everyone is impressed!

I love this moment, when the trust my clients placed in me was re-confirmed and my clients finally have the opportunity to see the hospital, meet their surgeons and experience the incredibly high standards of the medical and personal care we offer.

For every one of the clients, this surreal feeling combined with an overwhelming sense of relief and reassurance that this was the best decision they had ever made.

For everyone that has experienced a package hosted by Nip Tuck Holidays, all those negative thoughts and comments about the standards of medical care offered by our company were now laughable.

This view is supported by hundreds of testimonials from happy clients and the exceptional standard of results. We arrived at the hospital to the grandness of the hospital, and were warmly greeted by the hospital staff with cold towels, drinks and refreshments.

Consultation began with the surgeons at 11am. This gave our clients the opportunity to meet their surgeon and have a private and confidential chat about their procedures of choice and to have any questions answered and concerns addressed with an overwhelming sense of calmness and confidence.

We spent a long day at the hospital and were all becoming increasing tired.  The medial testing at the hospital is very thorough.

A couple of ladies were having their surgeries the next morning early so had checked into the hospital, so now everyone else was ready to venture down to Patong Beach and check into our hotel.

Everyone quickly dispersed after checking in, some dashing for a Thai massage, others mesmerized by the buzz of the town while Claire accompanied some clients and made a quick dash to the Sea Smiles Dental Clinic around the corner for a dental consultation.

Exhausted and starving and in desperate need of a cocktail by this stage, we had one more job to do before we could relax. So….we went next to get a Thai number and some credit on our phones so we could all be in touch with our families.

We arranged to meet everyone in the hotel lobby at around 6.30- 7pm. So now, everyone had the option of joining us for dinner and a drink, or doing their own thing as we headed to a glorious spot on the beach and ordered a cocktail.

It was an incredible moment as the sun set across the beach and we ordered some dinner. Finally, after a long day, we relaxed. This is the moment were all waiting for, however by this stage we were all so exhausted that the conversation wasn’t as interesting as it possibly could have been……. But already, we all sensed that were had developed a very strong bond of having this experience together and a moment we will look back on with fond memories….

I confirmed with the hospital that all Neshamah and Maggie will be ready for their multiple procedures in the morning including liposuction, tummy tucks breast lift/ augmentation/ revision and reductions and face lifts all to be performed on the ladies the next morning.

I was adamant that the ladies go down to the beach for a massage and some dinner prior to their procedures arranged for them to be back at the hospital ready for surgery bright and early the next morning, while everyone else relaxed in their hotel after dinner.

Day 2: Saturday  3rd July.

Surgeries begin…

An early morning, I accompanied Shelley, with pick-up at the hospital at 6.30am. Shelley from the Gold Coast was scheduled for a lower eyelid lift, neck lift and breast revision surgery with Dr Pongsakorn.

As we arrived at the hospital, Shelley was whisked into her room and into surgery, as I went to be with Neshamah and Maggie prior to their surgery.

For both ladies, the reality hit, making this “very surreal” experience very real. I was there for them, holding their hands and wiping away any tears reassuring them that everything was okay.

It was a great honour and a privilege to have the chance to be there for my clients in their time of need. I understand the emotional and physical process of this incredible journey, and understand it from having the surgery myself. And I think its important to also have the perspective and empathy of witnessing it through the eyes of many other clients as well as the perspective of the hospital and surgeons.

“It is a pleasure for me to support someone else.”

The clients tell me the  support is invaluable  as they were whisked into surgery…. Mostly lol.

With everyone doing well and confirmed schedule and appointments for the next day, it was now time to enjoy Phuket with some ladies.

Together we ventured out for a little shopping and exploring in spectacular  Patong, had a cuddle with a monkey on the street, then stopped for some wonderfully  delicious and cheap Thai food and some cocktails and Thai massages.

Day 3: Sunday 4th July

Donna is having her upper eyelid lift today, Patricia is having a face-lift, Carole is having a breast lift and implant and Lauren is having her some liposuction to her abdominal area along with brand new boobs involving a reduction/ lift and implant.

I am very excited another lady is arriving from the Gold Coast today and joining our tour. So, I accompanying the hospital staff and met Lani at Phuket airport.

 

Very excited to have Lani here!!!  I knew Lani from my gym on the Gold Coast! Together with Maam and New-our wonderful hospital ground-care staff, we went to pick her up at Phuket Airport and straight back to the hospital  for her consult with  Dr Pongsakorn and have her pre-operative tests.

Neshamah – WOW!!!! After an extended tummy tuck, liposuction to the thighs, stomach and hips, as well as breast reduction, lift and augmentation Annie looked amazing and complained a little about a headache.

UNBELIEVEABLE!!!!!!

Her breasts were a little tender she said she was feeling a little uncomfortable and restricted about her position and its awkwardness. That’s it!

Mentally and physically she was fine. I was amazed and so was she both physically and mentally. In fact, she complained about having a headache.

She did not look like she had just come through very major surgery thats for sure. This is a credit to her own strength and the incredible skill of Dr Witoon, coupled with the incredible post-operative care she received in the hospital.

Patricia had her pre-op tests and scheduled for surgery in the afternoon. She was scheduled for surgery at 3pm and could barely contain her excitement and patience as she tried to wait patiently in her room, watch some television and read her book, as her focus drifted….

Within a couple of days Lani was up and about and wanting to explore what Phuket had to offer. She had some friends here we caught up with and we went out to enjoy some Thai food and beer then we went for a Thai massgae, as you do.

Then had some wondered through the shops looking for the ‘secret rooms’ for some gorgeous Louis Vuitton handbags and Channel earrings and Calvin Klein knickers we simply could not resist, then back to the same little spot for more yummy food and beer with some friends from home we saw.

Day 5- Monday 5th July

The next morning I had the opportunity of meeting some clients of mine from Cairns that were there having their surgery. I had only spoken to them on the phone so it was great we had the opportunity to finally meet!

As she was whisked away, I hugged her and reassured her it would be over as soon as she knew it and I will call and check on her tomorrow.

Together with Dr Piyapas, I went to see Maggie post-op and was incredibly moved by Dr Piyapas’s very sincere compassion and empathy in his care of his patients.

He took the time to explain in detail and reassure her, as he held her had, and wiped her tears, and offered support and understanding and humanness rarely demonstrated.

I was there with Maggie as she awaited transportation back to her suite, reassuring her and mostly talking a lot to get to know her and distract her from her physical body to take her mind elsewhere……

Then  Lauren, who was off the morphine after her breast lift, reduction and implant- feeling no pain and looking perfectly well.

No problems at all- she just breezed through it!

Next was Pat, who had a face lift. Again- major complaint as a headache. Probably due to the tight compression bandages from her face lift. She had the physiotherapist with her so I left her to it and would check on her later…..

Then Carole – breast lift and implant. Off the morphine, no pain, bounced back incredible with her bright smile and gorgeous sparkle in her eye……  No pain, no problem at all.

Shelley back to the hotel for her discharge at 1pm back to the hotel. She looked and felt amazing, if a  little tired, so I advised her to rest and take it easy for the rest of the day. I on the other hand, had to make a mad dash to the Sea Smiles Dental Clinic to accompany some clients and also have some procedures for myself including crowns and teeth cleaning.

I grabbed a yummy coconut Gelato on the way home and had another Thai massage and checking on all clients at the hospital and hotel just to see how everyone was doing.

Lani was happy with the size of the implant and Maggie and  Annie who were both doing pretty well. Maggie was sounding exhausted but good.

I called Pat who sounded a hundred percent better, and Lauren who was feeling great. I told all the ladies I would see them tomorrow and get plenty of rest and take advantage of the incredible round-the-clock care they were receiving!

By this stage, everyone had lost track of days completely. It was a blur and I have to say I was completely exhausted!  A combination of the flurry of procedures, doctor’s appointments and keeping track of everyone’s process, this feeling of loss of reality was compounded.

Day 6- Tuesday July

I was up again at 5.30am, and again, the first for my big breakfast of eggs and fruit and coffee after coffeeJ  I arranged myself and Donna to be picked up from the lobby at 11am so the ladies could visit their sisters. Donna surprised me by showing up with a fabulous tattoo on her left shoulder.

As we waited in the lobby, Lauren made a surprise entrance looking amazing!

I was in awe at the brilliance of these surgeons, and continually amazed at the phenomenal recovery process of each and every one of these ladies.

Donna and I went to see Pat, who after a facelift yesterday came out of surgery with a headache due to the tight compression bandages. I spoke to her last night and I was relived to hear her sounding much better. And today different lady today, as the bandages were off, and she sprawled out on the lounge with her feet up looking fabulous!!

Bruising around to her eye area and face was to be expected, but mentally and physically-WOW!!! She was really for discharge and feeling very pleased.  She said there were heaps of people she planned to keep in touch with, but at this moment was feeling like escaping to her own private bubble and listening to her body and just detaching from the world. I completely agreed with her. After her procedures- I advised her is the perfect time to be entirely selfish and let her mind and her body rest, recover and rejuvenate!

Next, Donna and I went to see her sister Carole. So sick of her large breasts, she had a lift and implant to a smaller size which resulted in high, perfect results. She kept peaking at them, just dying to see the results. But Carole’s smile said it all- her face was beautifully lit.

So many success stories!

Next I went upstairs to see Maggie. Her flowers had arrived as a gesture of love and support from her husband Tim, and filled the room with a wonderful smell and warm glow.

Maggie was gradually feeling better- but after her extensive procedures, her recovery was to be expected. The biggest complaint for Maggie was being uncomfortable. In general, I think people don’t appreciate the freedom in their own body until this is taken away……

Her movement was severely restricted, the position uncomfortable, her appetite not completely restored. But she was looking, and sounding, and feeling better by the day.  People’s rate of recovery, the pain and discomfort they experience and the rate of healing is so different for the individual. Like everyone else that had breast work, she was dying to rip of the bandages and see the final result!

With any cosmetic/ medical procedure, there is a high degree of swelling post-operative, and the immediate results are very drastic compared with the final results after the standard 6 weeks post op. But day by day, as your body recovers from the trauma, heals naturally and rests and recovers, in the fullness of time, the results are extraordinary- no exceptions.

I went to see Annie, who was dressed in her very glamorous yet comfortable night gown looking fresh and totally amazing, with a gleam in her eye and the due satisfaction.

Everyone was very pleased with her incredibly quick recovery both mentally and physically.  Her energy was bright, with an aura of peaceful and surrounded by a healthy, orange glow.

All in all, very positive!!!  Together, Pat, Donna, Carole, Lani and I all discharged from the hospital and we taken back to the hotel.

Everyone was very keen to check into their rooms and have the space to do their own things, whether it is just relax, talk amongst themselves in private or explore the streets of Patong.

The shops were a dream, with an abundance of everything you could wish for including handbags, wallets, t-shirt. It was endless…….

 The heavy rain of the morning had stopped, and the humidity and heat was moderate. After we ate, we wondered around he shops and explored the markets, shops, and bought some Ed Harvey t-shirts and soaked in the atmosphere.

Day 6: Wednesday July 8

All procedures completely successfully- all done and checked out, apart from Maggie and Neshamah. Maggie was my primary concern at this stage, as he client who had the most intensive surgery and the one most need of my support and attention.

I spent the morning confirming schedules, appointments at the hospital for follow-ups and flexibility around all client needs.

Breakfast again at 6am and feeling very refreshed and rested after a good night sleep. So after breakfast I will call New and arrange a more suitable time.

Walked past the pool which looked way too tempting, so I grabbed my bikini and headed down for a swim and some sun for an hour .

I spent the day at the hospital with Neshamah and Maggie, catching up on emails and attending to client needs and back at the hotel by 4pm, and as I arrived back at the hotel I saw some of the ladies wandering about so I quickly dropped my things at the hotel and went out for a beer and some food and wondered around shopping…… As you do……

Checked on everyone before I fell asleep that night and fell asleep hoping the weather would be spectacular for tomorrow, as it had rained pretty much every dayJ

Day 7: Thursday July 9

The first day I have had an opportunity for a breather!!!! Because everyone had an individual process to their recovery and it is a good idea to pay it by ear according how you are feeling with any tours after surgery. Today, everyone wanted to take it easy so I went to Phi Phi Island for the first time.

It was a long and exhausting day, but WOW!!!! What a day. Pure magic!

Maggie & Neshamah  were being discharged from hospital today, so all in all, everyone’s procedures and discharges have been completed successfully, starting on follow-ups- I could try to relax today.

We were picked up and crammed into a mini bus then to a meeting point where I grabbed some flippers and snorkeling gear and some bread to feed the fish and a diet coke to try and pick me up.

The boat ride took about an hour and the first stop was Phi Phi Island.  I swum in the gloriously warm and crystal clear beach for about 20 minutes and then together with them quickly explored the island.

Next stop, Monkey Island. The tide was high so we didn’t get to stop, but stopped only inches away from these incredible monkeys in their natural environment where we could hand feed them bananas. I snapped and snapped away, getting myself labeled the “Paparazzi” by the very funny and lovely host of our tour. Oh well, I got some amazing shots!

Next we sailed to another island where I sat outside the front of the boat, snapping away and soaking in the natural beauty of the islands. Next stop, we stopped the boat and had half an hour to snorkel. I grabbed my flippers and put on my mask and jumped into the water.

As people fed the fish, I swum around and with them as they engaged in a feeding frenzy.  It was surreal and magical and truly out of this world. I felt like a mermaid surrounded and a part of this beauty of nature.

I touched the fish as they swum around me, swum wish them and in the other direction, so they swum right to me. There were thousands upon thousands of the most beautiful fish I had ever seen.  It was intensely beautiful, peaceful and magical.

Back on the boat they kept passing around delicious Thai cookies, and with a free flow of coke, 7-up, water and beer, and we were all starting to get very hungry.

Next we went to another Phi Phi Island for lunch for an hour and a half. The food was a buffet with Thai soup, and what seemed like high fat Asian cuisine. Next stop we had another bat ride to another island where we all sort of dozed a little after full bellies and the humidity.

As I awoke and we pulled into shore, my phone rung (on the island!) and I was delighted to hear from Maggie and Neshamah after their discharge from hospital and confirming plans for dinner tonight at 7.30pm.

What a day!

The wonderful host host kept us all very entertained and happy with his upbeat and genuinely lovely disposition, and we watched in awe as her made some beautifully crafted flowers out of straw. He made me one, and I offered him a tip for another one for both my beautiful girls.

Arrived back at around 5pm, where  had a bath, and got ready for dinner at 7.30pm. I was a bit early, so I went for a quick walk down to Bangla Road for a cuddle and photograph with an Iguana.

I arrived at dinner with Maggie & Neshamah and had the most glorious  feast and spectacular drag show I had ever seen. Very, very impressive.

I was in bed by around 10pm I think!!!

Final check-ups , finals and recovery and indulging in decadent Thai food and my favourite Mango, ice-cream and sticky rice desserts. I found DVDs for my kids and a couple of things before falling asleep early as usual.

Up at 5am packing, with check-out and pick-up from hotel foyer at 8am.

Due their multiple procedures, both ladies were required to stay a little bit longer. I had a tear in my eye as I left Annie. She was an absolute pleasure!

I learnt about Pat this morning. As we traveled to the airport she told me about her wonderful adventures doing  volunteer work with Mother Theresa in India.  Wow!! What an amazing woman.

It was wonderful and truly a pleasure to get to know all these amazing ladies individually, and sharing an experience that would have profoundly positive effect on heir lives.

We arrived in Singapore around lunchtime. I was so exhausted I spent the day sleeping, then went down to Chinatown to taste the local food. Shelley and Pat also relaxed and took in the sights of Singapore.