More than two years since I left, I was back in Thailand. It felt instantly like coming home, something I wasn’t expecting. I’d left in such a rush, without a proper chance to say goodbye, full of emotion. So it felt like coming full circle. I’ve come so far since I left, grown in so many ways. It was so hard to leave, but it was the right decision at the time. Now though, it was just great to be back.
Driving to Pattaya, from the airport in Bangkok, over the highways, still busy, even at midnight, past the huge billboards, I already felt like I’d come home. I’d made that journey so many times. Pattaya itself was even busier than before. More high rises and shopping centres had popped up. It was looking prosperous with trees planted and flowers growing everywhere.
It was so nice to go back to our old haunts; Surf n Turf, our seat by the beach, Bamboo beach, massages at midnight. Hair raising motorbike rides, Terminal 21 for an AC break. My hairdresser was overcome with emotion that I’d remembered her and come back, though annoying little Lucky was now living in Bangkok with an auntie. I met up with old friends and caught up with the old and the new and the years in between, like I’d never been away. Mr. Fair was happy I was back, in his quiet meditative way, and tried to help me remember how to breathe.
7-11s were duly visited, sunsets were watched, tropical drinks in hand. Too many watermelon smoothies and rice and stir fried vegetables meals were eaten. On our last night we watched the sun set over the islands in the distance, from the 50th floor of the Hilton Hotel. And I thought about how much this place had taught me. And what an impact being here had on my life. Forever grateful I made the decision to come here, when I did. Till next time, Thailand.
Today is Min’s birthday. We miss you, Min xx
