Dreaming of a Private Pool? Check Your Rental!
If you’re planning a getaway, the idea of having a private swimming pool can be incredibly tempting. It’s not just a luxury; it can turn your holiday into a relaxing retreat. But before you book, it’s worth checking if your rental property has one!
Holiday Gone Awry: A Tale from Phuket
Cynthia Choo, a Singaporean traveller, recently shared her unexpected experience at Thavorn Beach Village & Resort in Phuket. After heavy rains caused her room to flood, she had to move to one of the resort’s spare rooms. On November 29, she posted a TikTok video showcasing the aftermath of the torrential downpour, which left water ankle-deep in her original room.
In her clip, Cynthia opened the doors to reveal the flooded room and the resort’s exterior. Unfortunately, she and her boyfriend also faced food poisoning within 24 hours of their arrival. Cynthia explained that the flooding was a result of intense rainfall on October 30, which wreaked havoc across the resort, damaging air conditioning units and leaving muddy grounds.
Resort Staff Step Up
Despite the chaos, the resort staff were commendable. They offered Cynthia and her boyfriend a larger room, alongside complimentary laundry and breakfast. “No one was hurt, but I felt so sorry for the resort staff who had to deal with all the damage caused by the storm,” Cynthia shared. She expressed her gratitude for the team’s professionalism and their quick response to the situation.
One staff member even shared with her that his own home had been flooded, yet he worked tirelessly throughout the night to ensure guests were safe and comfortable.
Impact of Severe Weather in Thailand
Cynthia’s experience reflects a broader issue in Thailand, where heavy rains and tropical storms in September and October affected 59 out of 77 provinces, impacting around 450,000 homes. In fact, nearly 40% of the provinces are still grappling with floodwaters. Warnings for flash flooding were issued for popular tourist spots like Phuket, disrupting travel plans for many.
Food Poisoning: A Common Holiday Woe
Adding to the couple’s misfortune, two other Singaporeans also fell ill after trying “dancing shrimp” at Chillva Night Market in Phuket. Their experience was severe, leading to a hospital visit after suffering from prolonged vomiting and diarrhoea. It’s a stark reminder to be cautious with street food, especially while travelling.
Looking Ahead
This unfortunate series of events has certainly put a damper on what should have been a relaxing holiday for Cynthia and her boyfriend. Let’s hope their future travels are filled with sunshine, good food, and perhaps, a private pool to enjoy.
For more insights on travel safety and tips, check out Visit Singapore.