What's in Your Bag Part II

It’s in the Bag Part II:  What Phuket’s Packing

Searching through the contents of someone’s bag is like reading their palm and diary at the same time.  With the busy and exciting lives of so many in Phuket, this is a rare sneak peak into their quirks, qualms and sometimes-surprising circumstances. Part two of exploring the insides of residents’ packs highlights two more interesting islanders.

The Party Animal: Bruno Figueiredo,

English Teacher, Animal Enthusiast.

This dog lover prides himself on being prepared for every part of his day, even if that day entails looking up a wild berry or two. From day to night, Bruno has no trouble transitioning from nightlife to wildlife.  Not many people in Phuket would be caught toting around a Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness and Travel Medicine, but Bruno says being ready for anything is the name of the game.  “Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!”  As a longtime camping and hiking devotee, he admits that he would love more time between work and a busy social life to hit the trails.  With his newly appointed sidekick Mia, a half chiwawa, half pug puppy, he’s still got to expect the unexpected.  Bruno’s secret to a happy K9 is always carrying a small dog bone in his bag. Never knowing where his path will lead him encourages him to be equipped for anything.  A four-piece screwdriver set allows him to make small repairs on the go and he’s even fastened a protective cap for the tools from a wine cork popped at his grandmother’s 75^th birthday bash.  Never one to miss a moment or memory, this life of the party doesn’t leave his beachside retreat without his mobile phone or Canon IXUS 130 point and shoot packed away in his Camelback.  Bruno’s always on the hunt for the newest scene, currently sporting stickers from one of Phuket Town’s newest bars, Jammin’. He’s definitely one to have by your side whether venturing out and about on the town or into the wild.  It is certain he will be ready for any twist or shake life happens to throw his way. 

The Health Nut:  Laura Chapman

Swim Instructor, Fitness Fanatic.

Whether she’s hitting the pavement for a 6:00 am run or swimming laps at sunset, this ball of energy never forgets to pack a smile.  When a workout demands a bit more than just a positive approach, Laura always has the essentials at her disposal.  The most important item in her workout bag is, without a doubt, a full bottle of water.  She boasts drinking close to three liters a day, never wanting to find herself too dehydrated during a workout.  Being the exercise enthusiast that she is, it’s surprising to hear that she has never belonged to a gym in her year and a half in Phuket. But don’t underestimate this one; in terms of calories burned, she’ll almost always top the charts. Her at home necessities include resistance bands and a jump rope to tone her already sculpted muscles and keep her heart rate up between sets.  She has devised personalized workouts and recently set out to conquer the P90X DVD series.  When swimming laps she sports her own cap and goggles, always slathers on the sunscreen and can’t forget her towel and a few toiletries for after she hits the showers. Laura says her motivation comes from wanting to feel fit and be in shape. “I just feel better about life when I know I’m healthy and active.”  This little miss sunshine’s mental drive could motivate the masses.  There’s no doubt her inspiration and positive lifestyle feed each other in her constant quest for the bright side.