I would appreciate any info from anyone who has been to the islands around Thailand. I am going to China in Oct., and plan a side trip to Thailand. I do not have very much time, so I am interested in going to and staying at the island with the most gorgeous white sand beach and clear water. Also, where is the nicest (with all amenities) hotel to stay? Any info will be extremely appreciated. <BR>Or anyone know of a more beautiful island to go to in SE Asia? <BR>Thanks, Jane <BR>

Hi, I have a friend who works for an airline and they went to KOH-SAMUI last year. His post card reads "weather is hot and humid, resort is nice, right on the beach with pools, restaraunt, air conditioning, realitivley inexpensive. There are good deals to be had. He didn't give me the name of the hotel but if you want to email me I can find out for you.

Hi there, <BR> <BR> Phi Phi is undoubtedly the more beautiful of the two islands. The waters are crystal clear, the abundance of colorful tropical fish which surrounds one on stepping into the water is spectacular, the sand is tropical-island perfect and the coral can be viewed on a short swim offshore. However, being a small island, the accommodation is more limited than at Samui. It can also take some time to get there, involving flying to Phuket, getting from the airport to the ferry pier and taking the ferry to the island. Count on about 5-6 hours from Bangkok. <BR> <BR>Samui has a quiet charm albeit without the more frenetic nightlife of pHuket. There is a wide range of hotels to chose from. recommended is the Imperial Samui. <BR> <BR>A good web site with a lot of hotels on offer is www.asiatravel.com <BR>I am not sure, however, how the offers on this web site compare with prices available through other means.

I have been to both Samui and Phi Phi Islands- just back from Phi Phi last month. I agree with the previous poster- Phi Phi is more stunningly beautiful, but Samui has more luxurious resorts and is the easier of the 2 to get to since it has an airport.

<BR>Thanks so much for the responses. If Phi Phi is more beautiful, then that is where I am going. What would be the nicest resort there? Would like to have a/c,and be on the beach. <BR>Thanks, Jane

While I have not stayed at this hotel it does get some good reviews: <BR>Palm Beach Travelodge Resort on Laem Tong Beach <BR> <BR>The main thing on PhiPhi is to avoid places that cater for the large groups of day-trippers to the island. Prior to December you should be able to get a low-season rate.