MEET THE TEAM: Familiar face from Khao Lak, Noora
A familiar face to many from the Khao Lak office, emails, and snorkeling trips. This winter, Noora is bringing her energetic touch to the diving team as well, guiding dives at the Khao Lak branch and making the trips even more memorable.
Who are you and what do you do?
Hello, Noora here from Khao Lak! Last season you might have come across me at the office or on snorkeling trips. This season, besides the office, you’ll also find me out at sea working as a dive guide.
In which destinations have you worked before?
My Raya career started in the 2016–2017 season in Krabi, then continued in Khao Lak and in 2018–2019 on Koh Lanta. Last season I was back in Khao Lak, and now I’m here again. It really feels like coming home.
Where are you from, and what did you do before joining Raya Divers?
I completed my PADI Open Water Diver course back in 2011 in Indonesia, but I didn’t really get into diving until I started working with Raya. Over the seasons, I’ve been able to take more courses and develop my skills and knowledge further. I ended up working for Raya through a friend — I was getting tired of the long winters working at ski resorts in Lapland and wanted to find some sun. A friend who had worked here recommended Raya, and that’s how it all began. Of course, my earlier studies in tourism had already given me a serious case of the travel bug.
What’s the best thing about your current location?
The best thing about Khao Lak is that it’s the “real Thailand.” Here it feels like you’re in peaceful countryside surrounded by beautiful beaches and nature. And of course, it doesn’t hurt that we get to dive every day at some of the best sites in Thailand!
What’s your favorite dive site and why?
My favorite site from Khao Lak is Koh Bon — a beautiful island that’s part of the Similan National Park. We go there once a week, which keeps it special. There’s always a chance to see manta rays, and even if the big fish don’t show up, it’s wonderful to enjoy the stunning corals and the rich variety of marine life.
What’s your favorite Thai dish, and where’s the best place to eat it?
My favorite Thai dish is Khao Soi. The best curry noodle soup in Khao Lak can be found at a local restaurant called Krua Mae Pa.
Big fish or small critters?
On my fun dives during free time, I love spotting all the small stuff — from nudibranchs to ghost pipefish — but in the Similans, I really enjoy the massive rock formations and breathtaking seascape dives.
Singha, Chang or fruit shake?
Island life drink of choice in the mornings is definitely a fruit shake — mango and passionfruit is my favorite combo! But after a workday, a cold beer tastes great — the local Leo is my go-to.
Beach bar or nightclub?
Khao Lak has some lovely beach bars, and it’s just perfect to relax there and enjoy the stunning sunsets after a day of diving.
Funniest or best moment of this season?
The best thing is when returning guests from previous seasons come back and we still recognize each other. This season I’ve even met familiar faces from nine years ago in Krabi! Just a couple of days ago, we were reminiscing about last season’s James Bond trip with some guests — it really feels like old friends coming back for a visit!
