Where did you go?
Sara Ghassemi Jumani: The first leg of our trip was in the mountainous island, Phuket. We stayed at a beautiful resort called Como Point Yamu, on the tip of Cape Yamu. Our second part of the trip was exploring Bangkok. The hustle and bustle and vibrant street-life of Bangkok was a nice change to resort life. And lastly we made a quick stop in Dubai before heading back.
What made you go here?
SGJ: We attended our lovely cousin Ayesha Jatoi’s wedding in Phuket. Her wedding celebrations began with a brunch the first day at Nahmyaa. The second night was a party at the beach club followed by a stunning reception on the third night at La Sirena.
What did you pack?
SGJ: This trip I made sure to pack a lot of resort clothing. Right now I have a love affair with Vita Kin – a designer who makes lovely exuberantly decorated and voluminous dresses. I packed a few of my favourite dresses that ended up being perfect for Phuket. I also brought along a couple of Misha Lakhani kaftans that are always lovely and versatile for any occasion.
What was your favourite meal/restaurant?
SGJ: My favourite meal was in Bangkok at the Nai Lert House, which is a picturesque heritage home that is over 100 years old. The restaurant was called Ma Maison and it was divine. They proudly serve the Nai Lert family’s home-cooked generational recipes.
What was the biggest highlight of your trip/most memorable moment?
SGJ: My most memorable moment was meeting up with my high school friend in Bangkok after many years. I went to an international high school so it’s always fun reconnecting with old friends in different parts of the world.
Favourite shopping destination?
SGJ: Chatuchak is the ultimate Bangkok market and one of the biggest in the world. It has thousands of booths selling just about anything you can imagine from every corner of Thailand and it has been there for decades.
Some sights worth seeing?
SGJ: The Jim Thompson House is a museum in central Bangkok, Thailand, housing the art collection of American businessman and architect Jim Thompson. And no visit to Bangkok would be complete without visiting its most famous landmark – the dazzling and spectacular Grand Palace.
What are some spots for a night out?
SGJ: My favourite spot was definitely Maggie Choo’s – a famous themed bar in Bangkok that serves food and drinks along with daily performances of live bands. It has a unique interior and decoration inspired by an underground cabaret of 1930’s Shanghai. My other favourite was Sky Bar, the world’s highest open-air bar that offers a stunning panorama of Bangkok’s bright lights.
Travel essentials?
SGJ: My Mophie Juice Pack to charge my phone on the go, and my backpack – the trend has taken over street style and it’s so much more convenient than a shoulder bag when travelling.
Any travel tips you would like to share?
SGJ: I always buy mini version travel sized shampoos, conditioners, lotions and creams for trips. If you can’t find the travel sizes, then at home you can decant all your favourites into clear, travel-size containers.
INTERVIEW: MEHR KASSIM; PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY SARA GHASSEMI JUMANI
