Job: Managing Director of Phuket Travel Company/Loveli Boutique Guesthouse.
What were you doing 10 years ago?
I was working as a sales director for ITC Classics and Deva Travel, an upmarket tour company in the UK. I was making travel arrangements mainly on faraway tours and trips and dealing with many stars and celebrities. And, of course, I was sending lots of customers to Phuket. Who would have thought I would come to live here myself?
How long have you lived on the island and why did you move here?
I have lived in Phuket for five years. I moved here from Chester in the UK. My reasons for moving here? The lovely, friendly people, wonderful climate, the variety of scenery, beautiful beaches, tropical islands, national parks and cosmopolitan lifestyle.
What were were doing before you moved here? I worked in the travel industry for 30 years working for many of the major airlines and travel companies, such as British Airways, Emirates, Thomas Cook, ITC Classics, and Pickfords Travel.
What is best thing about living here?
Living with my wonderful Thai partner and working with Thai people – they are very friendly and fascinating. It’s lovely to work in a warm tropical climate. As well as that, the opportunity to meet so many different people from all over the world, Phuket is such a multicultural society. Plus, the lovely places to visit such as Raya Island, Krabi, Phi Phi island, and Khao Sok National Park.
What do you do to relax?
I watch good old English television, including my favourite soap operas, Coronation Street and Emmerdale. I am such a soap opera freak. I also like listening to music of the ’80s and ’90s. But my real passion is of course travel, and this year I holidayed in the UK and Spain.
What hobbies or sports are you interested in?
My hobby is aviation – I am crazy about aircraft and have a wide collection of aircraft models. I also love music, and enjoy reading the newspaper at the end of a hard day.
Favourite food or dish?
I love Spanish food. Especially paella. Let’s have a good Spanish restaurant in Phuket!
What kind of music are you into?
Music from the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, including Human League, Spandau Ballet, Visage, Starship, and Gala. My favourite song and video is Gwen Stefani’s Cool.
What is the best tip you have for people moving to Phuket?
Research the island before you move here, particularly if you are planning a business. Do a business plan, study the market, and do your homework first.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you while living on the island?
My 90-year-old mother making a surprise visit.
The person you admire the most and why? My mother because she is so strong and courageous, despite losing her lifelong partner of 60 years. She continues to enjoy life to the full, with her great love of fashion, shopping and pop music even at 90 years old. She is my rock.
If you could come back as any other person who would it be and why?
I would come back as myself but not make the same mistakes I did the first time. I have enjoyed my life and the challenges it has given me, but in my next life I would have moved to Phuket at a younger age. I left it too late this time.
Is there anything you don’t like about living here? I miss the choice of UK brands of food. It’s improving all the time but I still miss the retail shopping in the UK. We now have Next, but can we have River Island and Burtons next, please? And a real Marks and Spencer with their lovely sandwiches – then Phuket will be a perfect place.
Favourite place on the island, and why?
I love Raya Island. It is beautiful and tropical and the complete opposite to Patong. Sitting on the beach watching the sunset with a pina colada – heaven!
What’s your favourite night out?
Dinner with my Thai partner at my favourite restaurant, the Irish Times in Jungceylon, with great owners Tommy and Ronnie. This followed by a few drinks and a visit to a karaoke bar to sing a few songs. I am so good at singing Born to be Alive, and Sky High (I’m starting to show my age.)
What’s the naughtiest thing you've done as an adult?
Always a good boy. Honest.
Where in Phuket would you take someone on a first date?
A seafront restaurant in Rawai.
What would you choose to be your final meal?
Maybe the Bill Bentley Pub at the airport – my last chance for a Mai Thai cocktail.