dmpim

We're having a horrible time finding accommodations but here's a bit about us and what we're currently thinking. We are in our late 20's, this trip will be to celebrate our 1 year wedding anniversary.

Arrive Bangkok on 12/28 for 2 nights at the Pennisula. We've booked Tong as our driver for this time.

After Bangkok we want to go to Phuket (12/30-1/3) but are having a very hard time finding available accommodations and have been reluctant to book our flight transfer from Bangkok to Phuket without having those accommodations. Right now it looks like we'll be booking at the Aspasia. Any experience there? We want to be on the beach, able to swim and enjoy some pretty scenery, relax, take in some spa activities, enjoy dinner, etc. Our first choice was the JW Marriott but they are booked solid.

After Phuket we wanted to go to Koh Samui (1/3-1/6) but again having a hard time finding places to stay. We are considering the Buri Rasa there. Is the beach nice in this area?

We weren't going to go north to the Chaing Mai area at all but now that we're having such a hard time finding places to stay on the islands we're reconsidering a bit. My husband would definitely enjoy some more active stuff like trekking, etc. Any recommendations are much appreciated!

kathrynj

I stayed at Marina Phuket this past January---right on Karon beach and town. Lots of Europeans so it may also be booked.....beautifully landscaped and nice rooms (if available book an oceanfront or jungle room)

Bella_Bluebell

The beach by the Buri Rasa is fantastic in terms of sand quality - v white and powdery. Not all beaches in Samui are like this. In fact the reason that Chaweng is so developed is because it had the best beach! Buri Rasa is in central Chaweng, which is v busy out on the road and possibly on the beach as well but I have read that Buri Rasa is a bit of an oasis from the crowds. Also, it has a large patch of lawn by the beach so you can avoid hawkers by sitting on that. (hawkers tend to be present on all but the quietest beaches in thailand). It is fairly new - there are some recent reviews over on tripadvisor.com both in the Thailand forum and the reviews section itself.

Tedkarma

I live on Phuket - so can give you a little feedback about the island. AspAsia is an excellent resort/hotel, but it is not right on the beach. You will have to walk down a rather rickety set of steep steps to get down to the beach. But, that said, good views, great rooms, one of the best spas on the island. Kata Beach is one of the nicest beaches on the island.

A good website about Phuket - from a resident expat's view is at: www.PhuketDelight.com

24Lisa

How about Krabi (Rayavadee for example)? This was our favorite.