MEET THE TEAM: JUKKIS - KHAO LAK DESTINATION MANAGER

Our PADI diving instructor Jukka, better known as Jukkis, arrived in Thailand in the early 2000s and has been enjoying life under the sun — more or less for about 25 years.

For nearly all this time, Jukkis has been an essential part of the Raya Divers team, and he currently oversees operations in Khao Lak as the destination manager, a role he has held for the past three years.

Jukkis's journey in Thailand hasn’t been all sunshine and diving; he was there to help in the Phuket area when the tsunami struck Thailand almost exactly 20 years ago in 2004. Now, he shares his expertise at Raya Divers with a wealth of experience.

Best things about Thailand: “A more relaxed vibe compared to Finland, Khao Lak, clear waters, and nature reserves. Thailand is definitely a paradise for food lovers,” Jukka hints.

How do you spend your free time in Thailand? “In Finland, I work as a Taekwondo instructor, and in Thailand, I go to the gym. After long workdays, just relaxing is also much needed.”

Do you live in Thailand permanently? “I lived permanently in Thailand until 2010, and now I spend half the year in Finland and half in Thailand.”

An unforgettable memory? “The year 2022, when I met my future wife, Maarit, in Thailand.”

Jukka's tips for Thailand: “The real Thailand is outside the tourist beaches, so be bold enough to explore further and see what else is out there. Remember to respect the local culture, too.”

Your motto? “Things always have a way of working out.”