Bringing the pages alive

Hey 2026!

I have to say that I'm full of excitement for the year ahead. 

Kicking-off hosting my very first tours in Thailand will be a massive thrill. 

As with most things I turn my mind to these days, I only decided to do this late last year. The itinerary was already in my head. The hardest part being limiting it to a 10 day adventure. I want my travellers to go behind the scenes and I can't wait to be the one that can open that door for them.

Retracing some of my steps and visiting those who made me so welcome in Kata in 2023 will definitely be a highlight. I’ll introduce my travellers to the warm-hearted locals who I write about in my book. For those who've read it, they'll feel as though they've stepped right into its pages.

Phuket is where it will all begin — alive with energy and colour! Ending in Khao Lak will be the complete opposite — quiet streets and relatively deserted beaches.

Seeing this country that I love through the eyes of others will be extra special for me. That first mouth-full of sticky rice and mango, stepping into the warm tropicals waters of the Andaman sea without trepidation, looking into the eyes of a majestic elephant as they slowly munch on bananas...

I can already picture Kunya smiling and laughing as she cooks us lunch and of course having Pui by my side providing that Thai hospitality as only she can. They're both beyond excited to think people are coming from Australia to meet them. So many firsts.

And of course those spontaneous moments that can't be captured in an itinerary, just the best.

Happy 2026 to you. I hope you have a wonderful year full of things that make you smile or at least bring you joy, most of the time.

Mel x