Join me as I take you on an exhilarating journey through my work trip to Phuket with the incredible team at Appointy. Buckle up and get ready for a tale filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
As I reflect back on my third year of college, I can’t help but think about how it led me to the doors of Appointy. The summer of 2021 was a turning point when I embarked on a two-month internship. Although it was conducted entirely online due to the pandemic, the intensity and thrill of the experience were palpable. Virtual team-building sessions became the highlight of my days, compensating for the lack of a physical office environment.
But nothing could compare to the anticipation building up towards the annual offsite. Like a flame burning bright, it ignited our excitement throughout the year. Unfortunately, during my internship, I missed out on the offsite due to college exams. However, destiny had a surprise in store for me when I joined as a full-time employee in July 2022. The news of an offsite in Phuket set my heart racing, and with only a few weeks to prepare, I eagerly jumped into action.
First Phase – Mumbai to Phuket
The adventure began with our rendezvous in Mumbai. Most of us had been working remotely, so meeting the team face-to-face for the first time was exhilarating. The bustling streets of Mumbai greeted us with open arms, and indulging in mouthwatering vada pavs at the iconic CSMT station became an instant highlight. The sheer variety of vada pavs left me captivated, and I secretly vowed to return to Mumbai just to explore its culinary wonders.
Our journey to Phuket kicked off from Bangalore, where we gathered before catching our connecting flight. Sporting our Appointy T-Shirts, we easily spotted fellow colleagues at the airport, fostering a sense of camaraderie. As we waited for our flight, the content team cleverly seized the opportunity to capture moments, snapping pictures and creating reels. If you’re curious, head over to the ‘Life at Appointy’ Instagram page for a glimpse of the fun.
Finally, the day arrived when we touched down in Phuket, and the excitement in the air was tangible. With our first phase complete, we eagerly delved into the wonders that Phuket had to offer.
Second Phase – Phuket diaries
Let me whisk you away to the enchanting second phase of our adventure: Phuket Diaries. Brace yourself for an array of unforgettable moments that unfolded in this tropical paradise.
Our accommodation, nestled along a private beach, instantly stole our hearts. Every evening, we found solace on the sandy shores, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. Though the rocks made swimming a bit treacherous, the hotel’s beach served as a serene escape, inviting us to relax and soak in the beauty that Phuket bestowed upon us.
Eager to explore, a few of us set out to discover the vibrant Bangla Road, renowned as one of Phuket’s liveliest areas. Picture a carnival-like atmosphere, illuminated by neon signs, pulsating music, street performers, and an abundance of bars and cafes. It’s an experience that deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Trust me, Phuket isn’t complete without a visit to Bangla Road.
But the magic didn’t end there. As twilight cast its golden glow, we found ourselves on the beach, witnessing a dreamy proposal that unfolded before our eyes. Adorned with flowers, a charming little shed played host to a couple as fireworks illuminated the sky and melodious music filled the air. It was a spectacle unlike anything I had ever seen, and my heart overflowed with joy for the newly engaged couple.
The following day brought with it our quarterly conference, where we delved into current projects, company improvements, and future goals. It was an enlightening session that not only showcased the diverse functions of different teams but also inspired me to contribute to our company’s culture. As the conference concluded, spontaneity took over, and we decided to celebrate with a delightful dinner, forging deeper bonds as a team.
Now, let’s talk about one of the most challenging quests in Phuket: finding a vegetarian restaurant. After scouring the area, we stumbled upon a South Indian diner that was on the verge of closing. However, our enthusiasm and energy convinced the owner to keep the doors open for an extra hour. Indulging in mouthwatering dosas, I must confess that they were a taste of home, although not quite on par with the ones back in India. What truly struck me was witnessing the kindness and inclusivity within our team, irrespective of seniority. In that moment, I knew I had found my place at Appointy.
The next day, adventure called our names once again as we embarked on an excursion to Andamanda Water Park. Amidst a myriad of attractions and thrilling slides, it was the wave pool that stole the show. However, a momentary panic ensued when someone cried out about a loose snake. Thankfully, it turned out to be nothing more than a harmless piece of wood, much to our relief. We reveled in the water, floating on colorful inflatable rafts, courtesy of Rahul, our resident joker, who added a touch of mischief to our aquatic adventures.
Inside the water park, there was a café adjacent to an infinity pool, and it swiftly became one of my favorite spots. Unlike any I had seen in India, we could lounge in the water while savoring refreshments. Though slightly pricey, the captivating atmosphere and the camaraderie of those around us made it all worthwhile.
The pinnacle of our Phuket escapade arrived in the form of a private yacht. We gleefully took turns sliding down its thrilling water slides before disembarking on an island for a captivating snorkeling experience. As the day drew to a close, a foam party ignited our spirits, transforming the yacht into a dance floor. It was an unforgettable night, thanks to the infectious beats spun by a fantastic DJ who took over and saved the day, creating the perfect ambiance while we indulged in delectable Indian cuisine.
In the final leg of our journey, we decided to the visit tiger park and the breathtaking Buddha statue. Although initially daunting, the park surprised us with the serenity and composure of the majestic creatures. A snapshot may not convey the adrenaline coursing through our veins when we realized a tiger was just behind us, but it was an exhilarating experience. If you’re not too fearful or opposed to getting up close with tigers, this park is a definite must-visit while in Phuket.
Final phase – Back to India
As we bid farewell to this tropical paradise, we decided to make the most of our remaining time and revisit the vibrant Bangla Road. Café hopping and dancing in the streets with newfound friends became the perfect finale to our adventure.
The final hours approached, and as the clock struck 4 a.m., I found myself frantically packing, realizing sleep was a distant dream. Despite the rush, there were a few essential items on our checklist, one of which was experiencing a traditional Thai massage. Without divulging all the details, I can assure you that if you ever find yourself in Thailand, indulging in this massage is an absolute must.
As the offsite drew to a close, I wasn’t overcome with sadness but rather a sense of contentment. The entire experience had been incredible, and I eagerly anticipated more moments like these in the future. The time spent with the Appointy team, forging lasting memories together, will forever stand out as a highlight of my career.
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