misslindsey

I am quite new to researching vacations outside of the caribbean so I could use some help; I would love to visit Thailand, but there are many locations that seem alluring and I'd like some guidance as to what would full fill my vacation "wants." Is there such a region/resort/area that is somewhat secluded (not mexico or dominican republic mass quantity of people), has nature surrounding it (not high rises), still has modern amenities such as air conditioning, and ridiculous beautiful beaches? all of the pictures are so gorgeous, it's hard to tell which would be best.

i realize this is probably super touristy of me, but i would love to be in an area that is reminiscent of the famous islands you see when you google phuket images. i have no idea if that's even possible. I think they're referred to as the james bond islands?

thanks!

rhkkmk

Thailand has been building it's tourist infrastructure for 40 years or so. that said there are some areas which are less touristy.

the area which we return to over and over again is khao lak. we love the jw Marriott there and the le meridian is very nice also, but there are many smaller places and ones to fit every budget... no hi-rises here.

koh samui, while over-run with development has a certain old world charm about it. we stayed at peace resort and found it to be a nice 1950's kind of place and family run.

some of the smaller islands also are laid back.

Bangkok is not to be overlooked as a destination either. with beautiful pools at many of the hotels you often feel like you are on a tropical island but are in fact in the middle of a world class city. I prefer the anantara riverside, chatrium riverside, or peninsula for this feel.

get a decent guidebook for help with planning.

tell us about your budget, when you plan to travel and some more of your likes and dislikes and there are plenty of folks here willing to help you, even some who live in Thailand.

rhkkmk

Thailand has been building it's tourist infrastructure for 40 years or so. that said there are some areas which are less touristy.

the area which we return to over and over again is khao lak. we love the jw Marriott there and the le meridian is very nice also, but there are many smaller places and ones to fit every budget... no hi-rises here.

koh samui, while over-run with development has a certain old world charm about it. we stayed at peace resort and found it to be a nice 1950's kind of place and family run.

some of the smaller islands also are laid back.

Bangkok is not to be overlooked as a destination either. with beautiful pools at many of the hotels you often feel like you are on a tropical island but are in fact in the middle of a world class city. I prefer the anantara riverside, chatrium riverside, or peninsula for this feel.

get a decent guidebook for help with planning.

tell us about your budget, when you plan to travel and some more of your likes and dislikes and there are plenty of folks here willing to help you, even some who live in Thailand.

Kathie

Forget James Bond Island - it's a total tourist trap and there is no accommodation on the island.

All of the beach areas in Thailand have been developed as international beach resorts so have excellent accommodations and amenities. Some areas are more or less crowded than others. On Phuket, the most crowded beach is Patong, but others like, Kata and Kata Noi are much less crowded. Also consider Khoa Lak and Krabi. Krabi is very scenic with the karsts rising out of the water.

Do spend some time in Bangkok - an amazing city.

How much time do you have? Are you only interested in beaches or are there cultural experiences that would interest you?

crellston

A good starting point would be http://www.travelfish.org/country/thailand click on the drop down list on the left and go to islands for some pretty accurate descriptions of islands and beaches. This sight is primarily aimed at backpackers but many of the islands do have luxurious accommodations with all mod cons. Some of these islands may involve a trip by bus, boat etc. but we well worth the effort. As bob says, Khao Lak is nice and is one ofntehbmore accessible less touristy resorts. Personally, would avoid Koh Samui and Phuket as hey are too busy.

Do check the weather at the time you are thinking of visiting as monsoons affect different parts of the country at different times.

misslindsey

wonderful advice, thanks guys!

I have no idea when we would go yet because we are both students and life is hectic; but i like to plan far in advance and try and not completely crush my dreams of going on a beautiful vacation, haha