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 ….

 

Mexico predicted to be big winners post-pandemic! #Revengetravelboom🛩🇲🇽

As we pass the one-year anniversary of travel shutting down after the coronavirus was declared a pandemic, most of the countries in the world are reopening and people are getting back to what they love- travelling! But, where to first?

As it stands, some international travel destinations still have their borders closed, but there is strong optimism that things will soon return to some level of normalcy. Travel advisors predicting North America, including Mexico is going to be the big winner of post-pandemic travel.

When the CDC announced that testing would be required to re-enter the US in January, the resorts in Mexico very quickly arranged on-site complimentary testing, so that we had an immediate solution for our clients which ultimately prevented a lot of cancellations.” Terri Jobe, the owner of Blue Water Travel, agreed.

“They’re doing such a great job with the COVID-19 protocols and providing safe options for our clients,” Kim Goldstein, president of Journeys Inc., told Travel Market Report. “They reopened quickly and showed the world that they had the right measures in place to keep our clients safe.

I know the trend says that most will want to do domestic trips, but I have not seen that in my bookings. Mexico, and mainly Cancun, is about 90% of my 2021 bookings,” she said. Alot of clients agree with the travel forums and facebook forums lit 🔥

“For me, Mexico is definitely the winner for post-pandemic travel.

 

In the more immediate future, Mexico allows Lori Wilson’s, a travel advisor with JCo Travel, clients to avoid jumping over lots of COVID-protocol hurdles. Other Caribbean locales like Jamaica “will see a massive influx of tourists once the pandemic restrictions are reduced,” said Kerri Brewster, owner of Escapes Unlimited & Bride Tribe Travel.

 Revenge Travel!

“There is a pent-up demand for travel, especially beach vacations for couples or families. I think we will see a lot more Caribbean travel coming now restrictions are lifted.” “Jamaica is ready for the rebound! They’ve had some different protocols and seen a reduction in travel but we think 2021 will be the year of Jamaica,” said Travis Paquin, co-owner of 417 Travel.

Further down the pike, “late summer and fall/winter Central America is going to be busier than ever, much of the Mexico/Caribbean space will be gone and the next closest experience and competitive price will be the Costa Rica, Belize, and Panama destinations,” Tom Karnes, president and owner of La Macchia Travel Agency, told TMR.

Other advisors believe there will be a huge demand for Europe, like Lia Vincent, owner of Vincent Vacations & All Inclusive Weddings, who said: “People are itching to go back.” “People who never wanted to go before want to go even more now since they were told they can’t go. Americans are funny that way.  We all wanted to go to Cuba because we were told no.

 Come to Cancun x2

Mexico is already officially welcoming back international travellers with a promotion called “destination reactivation” hoping to incentivize tourists to visit from 15th June!The campaign is offered by the Hotel Associations of Cancun, Puerto Morelos & Isla Mujeres, and over hotels, resorts and business from Cancun to Cozumel in the Mexican Caribbean. #Mexico The #Come2MexicanCaribbean campaign will be promoted across various destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, ranging from Cancun to Cozumel with hotels offering two free nights for every two nights paid for by guests.

According to the Cancun Hotel Association (AHCP), the objective is to accelerate the economic and tourist recovery on the beaches of the Mexican Caribbean.

#VenACANCUNX2 is a formal campaign promoted by the AHCP and we see it feasible that with the material that is ready we can launch a unique campaign coordinating the private initiative and the state and municipal governments, ”said Carlos Gosselin, member of the AHCP.

Through a statement, AHCP shared the strategy that includes offers such as:

✔︎Two free nights for every two paid nights

✔︎Refund of the plane ticket to travel with a companion

✔︎Social media contests to earn a lifetime travel certificate to Cancun

As part of the ‘Come to Cancun 2 × 1’ project, ‘pay 1 and get 2 packages’ will be promoted on many beaches of Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Cancun itself.A competition on social media is also reportedly underway which will allow entrants the chance to earn a lifetime travel certificate. Other perks on offer are two free days of car rentals for every two days paid for, free stays for up to two children when two adults book, as well as 20% off at participating theme parks, golf courses, and spas.

Congreso Medical Tourism Medico Mexico 2021

Of course this is perfect timing for the upcoming Congress for the 11th Medical Tourism Congress now confirmed for October 7 & 8 this year after ongoing delays due to covid. We are so excited to attend as the only Australian cosmetic surgery agency representing Australian and New Zealand clients.

Held in Chihuahua, Mexico this beautiful destination rises in the ranks as one of the most affordable, safe and practical destinations for international patients from all around the world. While Mexico City and Monterrey are popular holiday destinations, there are so many beautiful destinations in Mexico have so much to offer with double board-certified surgeons, world-class hospitals, and amazing hotels and resorts.

Mexico is open now it’s perfect for US clients, the Mexican Pacific is a favourite destination for medical travellers and welcomes patients from around the world.

The Year of The Mexican

What a year 2021 has been for Mexico! !!!!

✳️Canelo becomes unified super middleweight world champion after beating trash-talking Billy Joe Saunders

✳️Andrea Meza is crowned 2021 Miss Universe

✳️Ever Lopez, wore the flag, didn’t apologize, got his diploma

✳️Brandon Moreno, first Mexican national to win a UFC championship

✳️Karina Rodriguez, first Mexican to win MMA Invictus championship

✳️Checo Pérez, Formula 1 winner in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix

✳️Pato O’Ward, winner of the Detroit Grand Prix and soon to be IndyCar Champion

 #mexico #medicaltourismmexico #lakechapal

Who is coming?

Now taking bookings for Nip ‘Tuck clients in Thailand from July 1, 2021 AND BIG NEW LUXURY HOTEL PARTNERS!

 

 Phuket is planning to open their borders from July 1st, 2021 and cancel all quarantine measures for vaccinated international travelers.

 

We are happy to announce that we are open for bookings from July 1 onwards….📝

 

  • Travellers will need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 virus to travel overseas💉
  • Testing in Thailand for Covid-19 may be required💉
  • Thailand hopes the relaxed travel requirement will revive its tourism industry 
  • Brand new Nip Tuck hotel partners
  • US clients can confirm
  • Australians must apply for special exemptions to be allowed to leave the country at this stage…..waiting to hear from June 17*

Travel to Thailand at this stage looks possible with the Thai Government warming to a plan proposed by struggling local tourism operators.  It seems the online campaign has successful put enough pressure on appropriate Government bodies to re-open to international tourists on the basis that vaccination programs will be well underway by then.

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha said on Facebook that a review of their vaccinations are important first are the first step so they are prepared, as it’s important that Thailand proceed in line with other countries.

‘Those in the tourism business would like to get certified soon. But there is still a lot to be uncertain about. “The main thing is we have to go along with other countries as well”

And this really is the main issue at the moment globally facing us all! We are seeing hopeful signs of the end to the dreadful COVID-19 pandemic and this is a HUGE FIRST STEP!

 

Tourism is one of Thailand’s biggest industries and major employers, accounting for an estimated 13 per cent of GDP. For our part, together with our hospital teams we are happy to announce that we are open for bookings from October 1 onwards.

 

AND….. We have a huge announcement to make!!! Nip Tuck Holidays we would like to introduce you to our selection of brand new hotel partners partnerships with a selection of international hotels and resorts for the ultimate recovery post-surgery!

 

Four Points Sheraton, Patong Phuket

 

This brand new beachfront, luxury resort two outdoor pools, five fantastic restaurants & bars and the latest facilities for the ultimate holiday in Phuket and recovery post-op. You will come home feeling rested, renewed , looking and feeling like a new person!

In Phuket we have the brand new Four Points Sheraton, Patong Phuket to provide our trademark hands-on approach to our business and clients as you recover in these luxurious surroundings with beachfront views, special privileges and bonus inclusions.

 

The Doubletree by Hilton Banthai Patong, Phuket is a luxury resort in the heart of Patong Beach.While you rest your body in these luxurious surroundings and ease of access to attractions in Phuket such as shopping centres and  beauty clinics which are a favourite post-op for clients recovering from cosmetic surgery.

 

 

 

 

As our clients recover in these luxurious surroundings with beachfront views, we offer special privileges and bonus inclusions we provide options for companions and even suites to bring along the whole family.
As NipTuck clients you will be treated like extra-special guests while you recover from surgery!

In Bangkok, our partnered resort  Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 is the best choice for new hotels in Bangkok and so central just a few steps to BTS Asoke  Station!

That means less stress and worry about getting around the city in the heat, especially in bandages and when you have stitches. Here you have all that Bangkok has to offer at your fingertips ensuring your best post-surgery recovery possible whilst recovering in Thailand and having an enjoyable holiday!

 

Four Points by Sheraton Bangkok, Sukhumvit 15 Relax and refresh- sleeping on the signature Four Comfort bed is like sleeping on a cloud, and doctor’s orders upon discharge from hospital.

Recover in style at this  luxury oasis while you sample the best that Bangkok has to offer on this vibrant city.

 

 

We will be rolling out new surgery holiday packages and prices shortly so make sure you are on your newsletter so you have the latest news! Here are our contact details to get in touch! https://niptuckholidays.com/contact-us/