I visited this branch of STA in May 2016 to plan a backpacking trip after uni. I had a vague idea of what I wanted, which included avoiding what I thought of as the 'tourist traps'. I spoke with an agent called Georgie who talked me through the best places to go in South East Asia. I was hesitant about Thailand, especially Koh Phi Phi, as I worried it would be swarming with tourists at that time of year. Georgie encouraged me to go by telling me how much great stuff was on offer and how much fun she had there, so I decided to make Thailand my first stop. After Asia, I'd planned to spend a few weeks in Australia and then head back to the UK. Georgie convinced me to get a Working Holiday visa for Australia so that I could stay longer and work if I wanted to. She was kind and eager to help, with lots of great tips from her own travels. And, sure enough, when I got to Koh Phi Phi, it did not disappoint. I had so much fun (almost too much - ask me about my cat tattoo), and on my second night there, I met an Aussie guy. We travelled together for a while and then he went back to Aus, where I met him a month or two later. Now, six years later, I'm still here and we are still together. I found a job I loved and I went on a partner visa, and I'll get my citizenship next year. I've never been happier. Today, I thought about the fact that in one conversation, Georgie changed the course of my whole life. She may never read this, but I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to her and to STA. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas. read more
