So back in March I finished a contract with my previous employer. I was hoping it would be extended, but in the current economic climate, that was not something that was on the table.

Over the past 6 weeks I've been job searching, and it's been tough. It's by far the most difficult market I've experienced during my career to secure an interview, let alone an offer. Pay (in my sector, at least) is down on 2000-2022 levels. Still, this is the risk I take as an IT contractor/job hopper, and I'm pleased to say that one week ago I received an offer for a new role, which I accepted. It will take a few weeks to complete the background/security checks, so that leaves me with some free time on my hands!

Around 7 years ago I worked for Etihad Airways, relocating from the UK to Abu Dhabi. It remains a career highlight, mainly for the travel benefits I received (hello, industry discount tickets), but I couldn't see myself living there beyond two years. I did however stay in touch with ex-colleagues, some of whom are still working there. So after clearing this unexpected window of opportunity for some spontaneous travel with Miss ID90, I reached out to my ex-workmates to see if any of them could book me last minute stand-by tickets on their staff travel allowance.

Fortunately, I was in luck. So 12 hours after making contact, I have a set of ID90 tickets, taking me from London, UK all the way to Bangkok, Thailand, via Abu Dhabi in the UAE. And I depart TONIGHT!

I choose Bangkok because there is a lot of capacity on the route (ideal for stand-by travel), it's warm, and loads of fun. I haven't visited since 2017.

The tickets are booked in stand-by Economy Class, with space available upgrade to Business Class, based on flight load and stand-by/upgrade priority. The cost is around £700 return, which is actually really high for an ID90 (e.g. 90% discount) ticket, and that's because of the unavoidable taxes when traveling from London Heathrow in a premium cabin, which around something around £400, I believe. Still, it's a good deal for last-minute travel, although stress and anxiety that comes with stand-by travel is not for everyone.

So far I have nothing booked apart from the flight this evening, and the train to get from my local town to London, which departs later this afternoon. Next priority is to pack, then book a couple of nights in a basic hotel. I have around 66k Marriott points, which I might redeem towards the end of the stay to stay somewhere I bit plusher, if anyone has a rec. I plan to be in Bangkok from Wednesday eve until next Tuesday morning.

Any recommendations for Bangkok, most gratefully received! I plan to spend the time relaxing, eating and enjoying spas.

Next stop, the train station in around 4 hours time.