Thailand- The Start of My Southeast Asia Trip

The plot twist to the end of the year that I needed, was another trip to remind me that I have the freedom to do so while still unemployed and I know I keep using that excuse, but it is a valid one.

I have to also admit, that prior to this trip, I was spiraling in self-doubt about myself and questioning whether I am being true to myself or do I have imposter syndrome, am I a genuine person and to the extent that I suddenly felt a lack of self confidence in myself and was questioning the decisions I had made for myself, by myself. Of course, I never really portray that on social media, but my blog is my outlet where I share my thoughts with what's going on with me.

So, this journey was to be alone, challenge myself, serve as a creative reboot given my field of work that I have had, discover how far I can push myself out of my comfort zone, question and sit with my decisions and to just enjoy existing in another country. The other motivation to travel to Southeast Asia and in particular, Thailand was to train and learn Muay Thai.

I love box fit and albeit being different to Muay Thai, I enjoy throwing punches and after much research I thought, you know what let me do this. I did 2 weeks only because I just wanted to learn the concept and basic techniques with the hope of one day returning to fully learn it.

It was tough and painful, but I came out of it stronger and more confident, overcame my self-doubt and my body insecurities. It truly is an experience when you are in pain and being told to kick 20 times! At one point, I thought my shins were going to bleed but I pushed through. I completed it feeling super proud of myself. The first weekend, I fell sick and was miserable but overcame that one coconut at a time! (Didn't tell my family because you can imagine the concerns!).

Thailand, and in particular Chiang Mai has been amazing. I am glad that I went directly to Chiang Mai instead of Bangkok. I would train and then do one activity which involved some sort of sightseeing. Muay Thai is tiring, and it would take me up to 3 hours to recover before being on the move again. To the extent that I was very antisocial and just didn’t have the energy to make small talk with anyone really. I think during the last 3-4 days is when I finally thought, ok it's time to be social and I did end up making friends with such lovely and kind people.

I am writing this in Bangkok, and I have to say, I prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok! These 3 days in Bangkok is more of a treat to me after Muay Thai, taking it easy, a lot of sleeping, then emerging to eat at some rooftop restaurant. I cannot wait to get out of here! If I ever come back, it will be to Chiang Mai and then to Chiang Rai, which I am told is equally amazing.

Leading up to this trip, I was anxious about travelling alone in a country I have never been to. Solo traveling in Thailand has been a pleasant experience, and I felt safe at all times, even during the evenings when I was out at dinner by myself or just walking about, no one bothered me or anything.

I am grateful to those of you that shared your experiences, recommendations, tips, dos and don’ts, because it really helped me and I appreciate you for that. Also love how you knew that I was not looking for the usual tourist trap activities to do, and definitely not here to party on the beach or go to the Islands because I come from the Islands! Hehe!

Thailand and in particular Chiang Mai will forever be my favorite place, a place where I found my strength, regained my confidence and determination, reaffirmed with myself that the decisions I have made are the correct ones for me in this phase of my life. Till next time Thailand!