can anyone tell me about the weather I can expect? I know the stats but am wondering if the rain comes in brief spells or if it would really spoil the holiday?

I always believe that it is up to the individual whether you let some rain spoil your vacation or not. In general the rain is short sharp bursts. But if you can change your 'mind-set' then you can change what might be a problem into an advantage.<BR>A vacation is different for different people, but in general it is about getting away from work, seeing new things, new experiences, but most of all it is a change and a break from day-to-day hard work routine.<BR>Travel can be tiring. IF it rains I would recommend a pleasant verandah or balcony, a good solid novel and a cool drink. Put your feet up relax, look at the view, enjoy your book.<BR>The sound of the rain, the freshness in the air, the cooling temperature, relax.....the true 'scents' of the fauna only come out in the rain.<BR>Honestly, take the chance to put in a day of relaxation, have a massage, write those postcards. You can still go out and about, umbrella, easy.<BR>I know it won't be sun tan time but I honestly believ a day of rain here and there can be turned to an advantage.<BR>It is NOT going to rain all the time. Balance that with hotels being probably 30-40% of what they would cost in high season and less tourists around in general. Believe me, there are clear distinct advantages in going in low season!

thanks Sarah Rey<BR>Have to say though that if the rain is anything like it was in Koh Samui it would be impossible to sit out on the balcony! I am happy enough if the rain is in short sharp bursts- just didn't want to have full days of rain. We have certainly been offered a good deal though.

i've been there in august and i would not recommend it<BR>overcast, rain, brown sea<BR>whenever from the end of november to april is better though april is very hot

It's luck, we had 8 days in August and I think it rained twice in the late afternoon for about 20 minutes, that was all.