Any suggestions on which beach destinations to seek out in Thailand. I have three weeks there but am also considering Cambodia and Vietnam. Museums, temples and markets are also on the menu. This is my first time in Asia, so any advice is much appreciated.
Thanks.

What time of year are you traveling? The beach areas in Thailand are affected by two different monsoon systems, so which beach to visit depends on when you are going.

Some general comments for a first trip to Asia. Slow down... Asia lends itself best to slow travel. Remember you lose a day in travel time to SE Asia because of the international date line. If you have, say, 20 days on the ground in SE Asia, choose not more than 4 destinations. You lose most of a day each time you change locations. So in 20 days, you might visit Bangkok, a Thai beach, Siem Reap, Cambodia and one other place... perhaps a northern Thai location or one VN city.

I am arriving on Feb. 27th and am there till March 21st. Do you think I should just stay in Thailand?

You certainly could spend the whole time in Thailand. There is plenty to do and see. The one recommendation I would make is that if you've always wanted to see the temples at Angkor, go soon.

Feb - Mar is a good time for Thai beaches. You should have good weather both on the Phuket (Krabi, Koh Lanta, etc) side and on the Gulf of Thailand side (Koh Samui).

Vietnam is a fascinating country. You may want to save it for your next trip, as you can easily spend all three weeks there.

Tell us more about what you want to see/do/experience and we can be more helpful. Some time in Bangkok is a must for everyone as so much is there. Some of us can spend endless time in Bangkok without getting overwhelmed, others find it a bit too intense and year for smaller cities and countryside.

Let me invite you to look at photos of some of our travels to SE Asia: www.marlandc.com This may give you ideas about what you do/don't want to do.

the most memorable beaches in thailand are on phi phi islands. (bluest, shallowest, calmest waters)

phuket is good for beach, nightlife and activities mix. krabi is good for rock formations and climbing. all those locations are good for that time of the year.

have fun. i had much more fun in cambodia than thailand. Thailand is too much like Europe's version of mexico for me.

i would add that choosing the right hotel for yourself can make or break the trip even if you only sleep there....do this carefully...there are hotels at all budgets...

i would leave VN for another trip as it really deserves a full vacation in itself...

cambodia is easy to add, especially if you only go to siem reap...about 4 days there is perfect, so as not to get 'templed' out....

i always suggest that people start and end their trips with time in bangkok....several days at each end...

With three weeks, you should definitely go to Angkor Wat. It is stunning. It is also getting more built up by the moment. The best way to get there is to buy a Discovery Pass from Bangkok Air, the only carrier from BKK-Siem Riep. You call their 800 number (call 800 directory assistance). The pass gives you three or more legs at a decent discount. Before you call, map out a projected itinerary. For example:

BKK-3 days
SR-4 days
Phuket-4 days
Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai-5 days
BKK-4 days

This is just a suggestion. I would not go to more than four destinations. You will waste too much time travelling.

Map out your plan, call Bangkok Air, book the flights, pay for them and then you can do the on the ground planning, e.g., hotels, guides, etc.

Thanks all.
My plan now is to spend 4 days in BKK then take the overnight bus to Phuket - spend a few days. Then to Phi Phi - Krabi - Koh Samui - back to Bangkok. Then off to Siem Reip. This will give me about a week and a half left.
I was planning to go to Vietnam from there, unless I am missing out on other things.
Kathie, your pictures are great!