Interview with Lucy Vieira, Vice President, Away by TTI Travel & New Talent Development
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS DESTINATION?
TTI Travel was proud to once again be recognized by Virtuoso as a top performing agency. To celebrate we are invited to the annual Chairman’s Trip and this year’s destination was Bangkok. Along with experiencing our local partners, hotels and culture, we have the opportunity to discuss best business practices, travel trend information, and industry issues and opportunities.
WHAT WERE YOUR HIGHLIGHTS?
A big highlight for me was being exposed to all sides of Bangkok – old and new, historical and modern, traditional and contemporary. Guided by local insider, David Robinson, co-founder of Bangkok’s Creative District, we explored Bangkok’s backstreets and alleyways and were immersed in its cultural heritage as he shared the history of buildings and introduced us to the street art scene, local designers and artisans. I am of Portuguese decent so learning of the Portuguese influence in Thailand and strolling through its community, visiting its museum and tasting our traditional Portuguese cakes was a big highlight for both me and my husband.
Ending our stay beachside at the Belmond Napasai in Koh Samui was also special. The tranquility of this tropical yet rustic resort perfectly perched hillside and set within its own little jungle was the perfect complement to our urban experience in Bangkok.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE?
Life & getting around on the River of Kings. From how the drivers maneuvered their way in and out of each stop to the communities and commerce on the water. Entire neighbourhoods and from single ladies selling their daily selection of flowers and fresh produce to full markets….all on the water.
WHAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST?
There is art in everything Thai. From the ‘Phuang Malai’ flower bracelets & smiles of our greeters upon our arrival, to the intense scents and vibrant colors in both the traditional and nuvo cuisine we experienced, to everything from graffiti and murals we saw and the vast variety of traditional and contemporary museums…….art.
