Thailand forum

If I had a week and was planning to spend it on a Thai island or two, I'd probably pick the east or west coast and stick to one area. E.g., you could go to Samui and if you feel like changing islands, check out Pha Ngan or Ko Tao. Or, you could head to Phi Phi and check out Ko Lanta if you feel like it. Personally, I wouldn't recommend Phuket unless you have some specific reason to go there, but then I've only briefly seen the main beaches (which I hated) so maybe there are quieter spots too.

Both the east and west coasts see quite a bit of rain that time of the year, but from what I understand, it should be a bit sunnier on average in the east.

October not great on either coast, but if I had to choose, likewise I'd go east coast, so i'd suggest skipping Phuket and Phi Phi and having more time on the east coast -- perhaps head from Samui to Ko Pha Ngan or Ko Tao depending on your interests.

if you're already committed to Phuket, then if you do one of the long day trips out to Phi Phi can be quite a good deal, and less disruptive than moving house just for the one night (if you know what I mean).

You can go elephant riding on Samui.

The floating market is a long day trip out of Bangkok, and it is a bit of a tourist trap -- with just two days in Bkk I'd lean towards staying more local, perhaps see a few temples, Jim Thompson's house or perhaps do a bit of cycling.

SBE also has a write-up on Taling Cham floating market which may also be of interest (if you're in town on the weekend).

Hope that helps - cheers

I just got home from Thailand (very depressed), and i would 100% go to Ko Toa. It was beautiful and alot more relaxed than Samui (way too many Girlie Bars). however i would book accommodation as we found it quite hard with alot higher prices if you dont dive.