When my girlfriend’s birthday was approaching, I knew I had to outdo the extravaganza that I pulled off last year. This is why I decided to plan a trip to Phuket, Thailand. 

I most certainly did my research, as I read about local hotels and prices. In the end, I decide to go with a luxury villa. Not only do they accommodate up to eight different individuals, but are also packed with amenities - and space - that you won’t find in any hotel room. This worked out perfectly, since our trip included the two of us…along with our four best friends. In fact, the whole trip was so perfectly planned and romantic that two of our friends grew their relationship and became a couple.

I have to say without a doubt the most impressive thing about our vacation was the resort with a wide range of Phuket villas for rent. Not only did the inclusive resort offer everything from three-bedroom villas on the Surin beach to an eight-bedroom rental, but the views were absolutely stunning. We didn’t want to move – just sit, poolside, and soak it all in.

Another thing that I loved about the whole package was that the resort team was willing to meet us at the airport and actually take us to our villa. This not only eliminated the cost of additional cab fare, but it ensured that we would arrive at our destination safely without incident, which is something that every traveler desires – especially after a long flight. 

Once we rested up and recovered from our jetlag, we decided to venture on a sightseeing tour. Little did I know that this was going to be one of the most interesting things that we did on the entire trip. Not only did we get to view James Bond-type views, but we passed some of the most exciting landscapes that you will ever see in your life.

I have to say that another memorable excursion came when we toured Patong. There’s shopping at Jungceylon, street markets, gorgeous beaches, and, of course, surfing at Surf House, on their flow rider. Bangla Road is the party zone – listen to music, dance, and eat well in restaurants or on the street. Before night fell, we headed outside and wakeboarded at the Phuket Wake Park and ziplined through the rainforest canopy.

At the very end of the trip, we decided to celebrate the final kick off with a birthday party hosted right at the villa. The whole thing featured a professional disc jockey and a real fiery show right on the beach. The show was, without a doubt, cooler and more intense than anything I have ever experienced.

If this story doesn’t inspire you to travel, there is a good chance that you don’t have a pulse. And honestly? I don’t know how I’ll match this trip, for her next birthday…