Thailand forum

Hi All,

Thank you in advance for any assistance anyone can provide. 1st off, this is fairly immediate request which is why I am making it versus reading the other posts on the topic. I have read most of them and they have played a part in my decision.

We just got through with 10 days in Northern Vietnam and 5 days in Chiang Mai. We are looking to head to Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, or potentially Ko Tao . We have done our research to know that is likely where we will be getting our best weather as our options for timing are this week (starting Sat or Sun) or 2.5 weeks from now (we have some flexibility).

What I am specifically looking for are the following:

1. Location: I want a nice beach with beautiful water. Who doesn't?
2. Atmosphere: Do nothave to be in the middle of the Full Moon Party, but do want something to do. "Something to do" could be a couple of beach bars where we can chill and play dominoes...does not have to be in the middle of the action but we also do not want end of the earth.
3. Accomodation: Would prefer bungalow and we are willing to go a little up-market here. We have stayed well within our budget and can slide up the scale a bit for the beach. Something cool, chill, conducive to reading, some beers in the evening, swimming, snorkeling (we do not dive which may take Ko Tao out of the mix, I don't know), hammocks, etc.

I'm not an expert on the region and don't expect the advice/guidance to be soft peddled. Would appreciate the straight story on beaches (how difficult to get to...we are willing to take extra steps to get somewhere great..and are just as happy stepping off the plane and walking to our place...we don't care, quality of the water, too noisy, etc).

So please advise ASAP with weather, beach and accommodation recommendations.

Thanks so much.