Hi everyone, I’m starting to plan my next trip to Southeast Asia this winter (2.5 months, leaving in early December), and here’s a rough outline of my route—I’d love to share it with you and hear your thoughts and tips.

- I’ll start in Bangkok and already have three spots I’ve marked: Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Uthai Thani (I haven’t been to any of these places yet). - Next, I’d like to cross the country from west to east to reach the Laos border. I’d love suggestions for any interesting stops along this route—I don’t know this part of Thailand at all... - Then I’ll head into Laos, probably at Savannakhet (you can usually get a visa at the border). - > I’m tempted to spend a week in Hoi An, Vietnam, since I loved that city and the area when I visited two years ago. No visa needed for Vietnam now, so it could be a nice little detour. On the map, it doesn’t look too far, but I know you’ve got to be careful with these things, and I’m not sure if it’s a good idea. Any opinions on this? - Back to Laos (maybe via Dakta), and I’ll head south along the Mekong, probably doing the Bolaven Plateau loop that I missed last time. Then Paksé, the 4,000 Islands... I’ve been before, but I’d happily go back. - Crossing into Cambodia, I’ll follow the Mekong down to Phnom Penh (I know this area and love how untouristy it is). From there, I’ll probably spend a few days in Kep (quieter than Kampot). Still undecided, though. - Then back to Thailand (BKK), likely by plane from Phnom Penh since the borders between the two countries are currently closed (plus, let’s be honest, Cambodian roads... ;-). We’ll see how things look when the time comes. - After that, I’d like to explore southern Thailand, taking it slow with short hops. I’ve got my eye on Khao Sok National Park, and I’ve heard good things about Krabi... Again, I don’t know this region well, so any info or tips would be great.

So, I think this should be doable in 2.5 months, especially since I prefer short hops of 300 km max to avoid getting too tired, and I like staying 2-3 days in each place to explore. Plus, I’ll take a week off to relax if I find a spot I love—maybe by the sea for some real downtime.

Thanks for your feedback and for sharing your favorite spots! Pascal

Dear VoyageForum members,

For the past two months, I’ve been checking flight ticket prices to spend 4.5 weeks in Thailand from early July to early August. I’m traveling from Brussels with a young child, so I want to avoid layovers. That’s why I’m only looking at Thai Airways’ website and only choosing direct flights.

At the end of August, I saw tickets for 955 € per person. On October 1st, they were 1,225 €. Today (October 22nd), the price is the same as on October 1st. (Same dates: Departure: July 4th, Return: August 7th.)

My question is: Is it possible these prices will drop significantly in the coming months?

Note: I clear my browser cache before every search, which I always do during the week and in the evening. This time, I also checked with my work computer, which has a VPN. So, the price isn’t influenced by cookies.

Thanks in advance for your feedback and tips.

Damien

Hi there,

The round trip to Bangkok is almost booked.

Here’s the itinerary I’ve planned for this new trip to Thailand:

Arrival – 2 nights in Bangkok (any hotel recommendations? Very quiet, near Chinatown or by the river)

Train or taxi (which app should I use for Thailand?) to Phetchaburi – 2 nights (any hotel recommendations?)

Daytime train to Surat Thani – 1 night there (any hotel recommendations?)

Pick up the rental car and head to Khao Sok – 1 night there (any hotel recommendations?)

Drive to Ko Kho Khao – 3 nights – relaxation (any hotel recommendations?)

Drive to Phang Nga Bay – 1 night (any base recommendations?)

Excursion in the bay, then drive to Krabi – 2 nights (any hotel recommendations) or any other spot with beautiful, quiet beaches that you might know?

Return to Surat Thani – overnight train to Bangkok, then Ayutthaya (any hotel recommendations?)

Visit the site and transfer to the airport – sniff, time to head back!

If you have other suggestions, keeping in mind the trip’s vibe: beach time without crowds or entertainment, a bit of nature, a bit of culture, no stress... No domestic flights and charming accommodations (not at 150 € per night, even though the budget is reasonable!)

Not sure I’ll follow them all, but all your ideas are welcome! 😉

Thanks. 🙂

I really loved Thailand, but it was too touristy for my taste. So I'm hesitating about going back and wondering if Cambodia or Vietnam would be less crowded with tourists...

Hi, I’m heading to Thailand for the first time in early 2026 and I’m really struggling to pick a neighborhood to stay in Bangkok. Apart from being close to public transport (metro, skytrain, BRT), I’m torn between several areas. I don’t mind using public transport or walking long distances, but if every trip takes 45 minutes or an hour, it’ll quickly become a hassle given our relatively short time there.

We’ll be in Bangkok twice during our trip: first for a “short” 2-night stopover (arriving from France in the mid-afternoon, then leaving the day after next for southern Thailand by plane), and then again for 3 nights before flying back to France (arriving at the airport in the late afternoon, 3 nights there, then departing for France in the late morning).

I’ve seen so many different recommendations that I’m having a hard time deciding. I’ve read that staying near the river is great for sightseeing, and that taking the boat to get around is really pleasant. But I’m worried about being a bit isolated for evening outings (eating at a cheap little restaurant, having a drink—nothing too wild!).

Chinatown is tempting for the food—it looks amazing—and it doesn’t seem too far from the main sights with public transport. But I’ve read that it’s very noisy because it’s super touristy and there’s constant truck traffic. My friend isn’t thrilled about it, especially since another neighborhood interests her because she has a great discount at a hotel near Victory Monument/Phaya Thai (the Pullman hotel). Even though it’s close to public transport, I’ve seen that it’s mostly a shopping district? And even with transport, isn’t it a long trip to visit places like the Grand Palace?

We also had a plan to stay at an ibis near BTS Nana station in the Sukhumvit area, but again, I get the feeling it’s mostly a shopping district?

Anyway, I’d love to hear your thoughts because I’m really torn!

It’s also true that I haven’t really planned our Bangkok stays yet. I’d like to do the “classic” tourist sights like the Grand Palace and eat really well! Someone told me that the big shopping malls also have amazing food 🙂

Thanks for your input!

Hello,

Our flights are booked, and we’ll arrive in Thailand at the beginning of January.

Originally, we were supposed to spend 14 days there. But after booking the flights and seeing the prices, we’ll now be there for 20 days instead.

Our initial plan was: 2 days in Bangkok 1 day in Ayutthaya 4 days in Chiang Mai 6 days around Krabi

So we have 7 more days to fill. What do you recommend?

An extra day in Bangkok? Adding more days in the north? If so, where? Exploring another region, like Kanchanaburi or Cheow Lan Lake? Traveling north in stages instead of taking the overnight train?

A few extra details about us: For us, vacation isn’t about relaxation—we love walking, exploring, and packed days don’t bother us. Hiking for hours and doing active things is what makes us happy. That said, we also enjoy visiting villages and towns if they’re worth the detour. In Thailand, we’d like to visit temples too. We’re early risers, so our days tend to be long. 🙂 In short, we like to keep things moving during our trips. 😉

Unfortunately, seeing terraced rice fields isn’t possible in January. I read there are rice fields around Sukhothai. Are they green in January?

In the north, do you recommend Doi Inthanon, Huai Nam Dang, or Doi Chiang Dao National Parks? Which one is the most beautiful and best for January?

Hi everyone, I’m a die-hard fan of India, but it’s time I discovered Thailand too to broaden my Asian horizons. I’m heading there on January 19, 2025, for a 46-day trip (no visa needed as I’m French). I’ve pored over a few guidebooks and travel blogs. Based on what caught my interest, I’ve put together a rough itinerary and list of sights. But since I know absolutely nothing about Thailand, I’m kind of flying blind here. Since I’m not exactly a spring chicken anymore, I’ve opted for a few bases where I’ll stay several days in the same place. That way, I won’t have to change locations and hotels every day or so, packing and unpacking my suitcase constantly. Instead, I plan to explore the surrounding area each day, within a maximum radius of 50 to 70 km. So, first question: Is that kind of round-trip distance manageable in a day in Thailand? In India, renting a car for a day—with a driver—currently costs around 35 to 40 € per day. Knowing that 1,300 to 1,500 THB would be my absolute max, and even then, only if I don’t rent a car every single day. Which brings me to my second question: Am I being unrealistic? Otherwise—third question—once I’m settled in the city I’ve chosen as my base, can I get around within that 50–70 km radius using public transport? I’ve already booked all my hotels—with free cancellation—on booking.com at an average price of 950/1,000 THB per night. Does that put me in a good range for value for money? Or am I dreaming?

Here’s my plan:

BANGKOK (13 days, 14 nights): 1 week for exploring Bangkok – Kanchanaburi/Erawan National Park? – Ayutthaya/Lopburi? – Muang Boran – Samut – Songkram/Amphawa

Bangkok -> Chiang Mai by overnight train in first-class sleeper

CHIANG MAI (6 days/6 nights): Mae Hong Son – Hot springs – Chiang Dao – caves – Lamphun – other places to be decided on the spot based on what’s worth seeing and transport options

Chiang Mai -> Chiang Rai

CHIANG RAI (7 days/8 nights): Fang – Tha Ton – Chiang Saen – Doi Tung – Chiang Khong – Doi Ang Khang, Phu Chi Fah, etc.

Chiang Rai -> Phrae

PHRAE (4 days/5 nights): Lampang and surrounding areas, depending on what’s interesting to see

Phrae -> Loei

LOEI (4 days/5 nights): Phu Kradung – Chiang Khan and surrounding areas, depending on what’s worth seeing

Loei -> Buriram

PHIMAI (Nakhon Ratchasima/Khorat) (5 days/6 nights): Phimai – Prasat Muang Tam – Phanom Rung – Prasat Phanom Wan

Phimai -> Khorat (airport or train station) -> Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)

Day 46: BANGKOK -> KOCHI

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and advice!

Good evening,

Our family trip (2 kids, boys aged 6 and 9) is coming up fast, and I have a few questions. I’ve seen that quite a few people on this forum are active about Thailand, so I hope you can help me out :-)

- I have a Free mobile plan with a good amount of data abroad (35GB). Do you know if the Bolt or Grab apps work well with a French SIM? I’ve read that the app might not work if the SIM isn’t Thai, but I’ve also seen French travelers using their SIMs in Thailand, so I’m not sure what to think.

- What tips do you have to avoid traveler’s diarrhea (especially for our 6- and 9-year-olds)? I’m already preparing them to wash their hands often and not put their hands in their mouths or brush their teeth with tap water (they’re still little and might not control the water well in their mouths). Are there certain dishes or food stands to avoid? Are ice cubes really off-limits too?

- We arrive in Bangkok at 9 AM, and we have a French-speaking guided tour scheduled for the next morning (all day). The itinerary isn’t finalized yet with the guide—I need to get back in touch soon. What do you recommend doing on that first day, which might be tiring after the long flight and jet lag? Our hotel has a nice pool, but I’d love for us to get out and explore a bit :-)

- Is the Grand Palace really best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds?

- I’d love to visit a night or floating market, but they’re all on weekends. Unfortunately, we’re in Bangkok from Wednesday to Saturday morning (then we take the train to Ayutthaya in the morning). Is there a market on Friday night? I saw Chatuchak, but Friday night doesn’t seem like the best time—is it still worth going?

I’ve looked for answers to these questions, but I’m either not finding a definitive answer or I’m overwhelmed by all the things to do/see in Bangkok. So, I’m hoping your advice or experiences can help me out!

Thanks in advance, and have a great evening! :-)

Hello everyone,

My husband and I are planning a trip to Thailand from January 2 to 10. Departure from Brussels on January 1 – arriving in Bangkok at 6:00 AM on January 2. Departure from Bangkok on January 11 at 2:00 AM, arriving in Brussels at 1:25 PM the same day. For professional and personal reasons, we can’t extend the trip.

I don’t plan on just lounging on a beach in Phuket, so with 9 days on the ground, I know it’s short... But having done this before in Hong Kong and Shanghai, I know it’s doable, refreshing, and enjoyable. We did it with the kids and included a 2- or 3-day stay at Disneyland in each city. Basically, we spent 5-6 days in each city.

Anyway, I’m reaching out because I’ve heard and read so many conflicting opinions that my head is spinning.

Following the saying, "don’t bite off more than you can chew," I’m assuming I should keep it simple. So I’m torn between just Bangkok or Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

If I go with the second option, I’m debating whether to head straight to Chiang Mai on the day we arrive (but given the flight times, we’d lose pretty much the whole day) or spend two days in Bangkok first, then go to Chiang Mai for 3-4 days, and return to Bangkok.

Thanks for your advice!

I’d like to do a kind of personal retreat this winter and I’m looking for a destination near the sea (preferably an island) that’s quiet. Is that possible in Thailand, or should I consider another destination? Thanks for your thoughts. Dayi

So happy to see that VoyageForum is back up! We're planning a trip to Thailand in October 2025. We're looking for quiet islands with nature/jungle, beaches, and pretty villages (no party scene!). We'll be traveling with our 5-year-old son. I've done some research and found a few islands that seem to fit our criteria. We're torn between the islands on the Gulf side (Koh Chang, Koh Mak, Koh Kood) and the Andaman Sea islands (Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai). What are your tips? Any area to prefer in October? Are there other islands you'd recommend? Thanks

Hi there!

I think the question’s in the title...

What price can I expect to pay in 2025 for a ride of about two kilometers in the tourist center?

Thanks😉

Hi everyone,

I’m heading to Thailand for the first time at the end of January 2026 for two weeks. I’m traveling with someone who’s already been there, so we’re planning to hit some of the must-see spots but also visit places my partner wants to see—like Krabi, for example. We want a bit of everything: cities, food, culture, walks, but also beach time and relaxation. I’d love your thoughts on this itinerary idea—is it doable without feeling too rushed? We’ve got 16 nights there. There’s a part of the trip that’s still up in the air where I’m not sure what to do. Either we add a national park or a city like Erawan? The goal is to see beautiful landscapes, waterfalls (if there’s water at that time of year!), and wildlife... Or maybe we don’t add anything and just extend our time in the other stops! Depending on the final choice, the order might need adjusting 🙂

Day 1: Land in Bangkok from Paris at 2 PM—either we take a direct flight to Krabi to start our trip there (and end in Bangkok on the way back), or we stay in Bangkok for 3 days. Day 1/Day 2/Day 3/Day 4 (3.5 days, 4 nights): Bangkok (temples, floating market, possibly a day trip to Ayutthaya) Day 5/Day 6/Day 7/Day 8: Travel to Krabi, Railay, and day trips to the surrounding islands Day 9/Day 10/Day 11/Day 12: Travel to an island (probably Koh Tao), snorkeling, diving, trekking, Ang Thong excursion? Day 13/Day 14/Day 15: Leave the island for an undecided destination—a national park (Khao Sok? Khao Sam Roi Yot?)? Or Phang Nga Bay? Or Erawan? Day 16: Return to Bangkok Day 17: Departure (flight at 2 PM)

What do you think? Any advice or tips on the itinerary or the ideas for Days 13-15? (Which could be moved to another part of the trip depending on the route.) Just to note, we’re not big hikers or adventurers, but we do enjoy discovery, nature, and cultural visits like temples. Thanks in advance for your valuable tips 🙂

Florence

Hi, just a quick note mainly for Samsong, even if he’s still giving me the silent treatment. I’ve been in Nan since yesterday and... I love it! So thanks, Thierry. It’s exactly the kind of place I’d been dreaming of... Even if communication is a bit tough, it’s not impossible. They don’t even know the most basic English words! Everyone laughs and they’re the first to pull out their phones to... translate. They’re even quicker on the uptake than I am. And then there’s the time I say Nan (pronounced "Nane"). They don’t understand me. After a while (sometimes a long one), they reply: "Ah, Nan?" (pronounced "Nane") 😵🤳😃

The town is exactly how you described it back in 2022. Though I’m surprised to find so many trendy, slightly intellectual "Cafés." Apparently, coffee—excellent everywhere—is king in Nan. It feels like a university town. And it seems pretty lively at night! But for now, I’m going to bed early. I caught a nasty cold, which didn’t stop me from walking 12 km this morning. But I came back to my accommodation by 3 PM (gorgeous and luxurious with top-notch service for 800 baht—even a cute local welcome gift this morning, plus other unexpected touches like a bottle of honey and chrysanthemum flowers for tea. The lady must’ve guessed I was coming down with something yesterday). I thought about going out for dinner but didn’t have the energy. I think I’ve got at least 39°C fever...

Anyway, I’m sending you this message, Thierry, because you mentioned a daily bus to Chiang Rai, so I didn’t look into it. But now it’s a real problem—no buses to Chiang Rai, only taxis. At least 2,500 baht for the cheapest one! I’ll check the bus station directly tomorrow. Online, it’s all taxis, no buses. I’d like to explore the countryside/mountains if I can find an affordable driver. Any ideas for destinations or itineraries? Thanks.

Hello, After a lot of searching, exchanging ideas, and thinking it over, I’ve decided to go back to my original plan of spending two weeks in Bangkok. From January 19th to February 2nd. I’ll also take a quick trip for one night/two days to Ayutthaya (and return to Bangkok, where I’ll have kept the apartment I booked), and possibly the same for Kanchanaburi, depending on how I feel once I’m there—whether I find something more interesting in Bangkok or nearby. The key word is: taking my time to take photos, observe, taste, savor (in every sense of the word), and most importantly, not rushing. Beyond the must-see tourist spots, I’d love to wander around the city and maybe within a 40 to 50 km radius for a day trip to discover unusual and lesser-known streets, houses, temples, markets, gardens, and more. I’ll also be spending two weeks in Chiang Mai and two weeks in Nan. I’m open to any suggestions. Thank you so much!

Bonjour,

Auriez-vous connaissance d'une compagnie de transferts privé ou taxi qui organise des transferts depuis la latitude de Sukhothai jusqu'à Chiang Mai ? Nos trajets sont Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong et Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. Mes recherches sur google map, 12Go et autres ne donnent pas grand chose...

Pour nos trajets Bangkok-Sukhothai j'utilise une compagnie que j'ai déjà testée mais elle ne dispose pas de flotte à partir de Sukhotai et doit passer par des compagnies tierces qui prennent, et c'est normal, leur commission. Ce qui quasi double les prix...

Nous sommes 4 et ne voyageons pas léger donc le mini-bus n'est pas une option. ;-)

Merci pour vos retours. DrSnuggle

Hello, I’m heading to Thailand for two weeks at the end of February with my family. I went there 20 years ago. I’d love your thoughts on a relaxed two-week trip that lets me show my kids the joys of travel while also taking time to unwind (after all, it *is* vacation! :)) I’m planning to spend 2 days in Bangkok, then take the overnight train to Chiang Mai (so my kids can experience that) and stay for 2-3 nights. After that, I’ll fly to Phuket for a few nights, then head to Koh Lanta for a few days before returning to Phuket to make my way back to Bangkok for the last two days before departure. Tons of people travel for two weeks during this time—any recommendations? So far, I only have my round-trip flight ticket to Bangkok. Thanks in advance!

Hello,

After a successful first trip in 2025, with the help of forum members, we’d love to return to this amazing cultural melting pot in 2026 for three weeks (2 adults, 2 kids aged 13 and 16).

We’d like to explore new places in the Northeast: fly into Khon Kaen and explore the region—Loei, Nong Khai, perhaps? A detour to the center to visit Sukhothai would be a great addition.

I’ll admit, planning this itinerary is a bit trickier for me since I’m less familiar with these areas and what they have to offer. The distances also seem longer than our previous transfers (BKK-Kanchanaburi-Kaeng Krachan-Sam Roi Yot...).

Do you have any suggestions or hidden gems to explore in the Northeast and Central regions that keep travel time between stops reasonable (3-4 hours)?

Thanks for your input!

just one question for February—should I pick Phuket or Krabi?

Hello, I’m traveling with 2 adults and 2 kids for the Christmas 2025 holidays. Here’s my plan: - 2 nights in Bangkok - 1 night in Ayutthaya (then an overnight train) - 3 nights in Chiang Mai (flight to Krabi) - 4 nights on Koh Lanta - 2 nights in Railay (flight back to Bangkok) - 1 night in Bangkok I have a few questions: 1) For Bangkok: how do you organize a visit to the klongs? Can I easily find an agency on the spot? 2) Do I need to book the bus or train to Ayutthaya in advance? 3) Chiang Mai. I’m planning one day for temple sightseeing + Doi Suthep, and I’m debating between two options for the other two days: - Option 1: Day 1: Doi Inthanon day trip + Day 2: elephant experience for the kids. - Option 2: 2 days/1 night for a trek, staying in a village, and seeing elephants. Whichever I choose, should I book in advance? Any tips or suggestions for good, affordable activities? What do you think of Get Your Guide excursions? Thanks for your advice!

Hi there,

I’m about to take a trip around the region in March. According to the "experts," which cities are really worth the detour? My key criteria: a slightly lively downtown + walkable. I’ve already been to the region a few years ago, but my memories are pretty mixed (Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen).

Thanks😎

Hi everyone, despite my many trips to Thailand, I’ve never been to an elephant retirement center. This summer, I’m traveling with friends who’d like to spend a few hours with elephants. Obviously, we’re looking for an ethical center (if such a thing exists in Thailand) where the elephants enjoy a peaceful retirement, near Chiang Mai or in Samui if possible. Thanks for your help!

Hi there,

I have a question about the Rome2Rio app. Can you set it up to show routes using the BTS and MRT (for Bangkok) instead of buses or taxis? For example, I’d like to know how long the trip from Chong Nonsi to Bang Khun Non will take, but the app doesn’t suggest the MRT or BTS, even though it’s totally doable. Any tips on how to fix this?

Hi there,

I’m looking for a beach spot within 3 hours max of Bangkok for the end of my trip (January). I know full well I won’t find that postcard-perfect vibe of the more remote islands! But I don’t have a choice. If you’ve got any ideas... no high-rises, obviously not Pattaya, somewhere quiet, swimming possible, a hotel right on the beach (and not too dirty, the beach itself!) I’ve looked at hotels around Ko Samet or, across from it, on the mainland. I spotted the Bann Pae Cabana. But nothing really exciting on either side. New ideas welcome! 🙂

Hi there, I'm looking for a way to unwind and planning a trip to Southeast Asia starting in Thailand with a stop in Bangkok. To shake off the stress, I'd love to treat myself to a massage at Wat Pho. But while researching, I read somewhere (on a temple page I can't find anymore) that they offer massages with CBD among other things. Hmm... why not, I'm up for almost anything to feel better. 😐

That said, I've also heard that recreational cannabis use is still illegal in Thailand. Even though CBD isn't exactly cannabis and it's supposedly "therapeutic," is there a risk of a "misunderstanding" with police waiting for me after my massage session, especially if my body smells a bit... distinctive? 🤪

Hi, We’re supposed to cross this border at the end of July on our way from Siem Reap, and we just found out it’s closed. Is it easy to find a flight ticket from Siem Reap to Bangkok? Aren’t there really any other options? Thanks

Hi everyone, I hope you're doing well! Just a quick question—I wanted to know, excluding accommodation and flight tickets, just for leisure activities and food on the spot, I go out a lot so I’d like to know what the costs are for a budget that includes some outings, drinks, eating (local food), and a few massages (local massages). Could those of you who know share some prices, please? Do you think a budget of 100 € per day is reasonable? I’ve read in some places that it’s more than enough, and in others that it’s really tight 😕 I hope I won’t have to watch every penny 😅 I’m staying for two months, from May 27th to the end of July.

Hi there,

My friend and I are heading to Thailand for three weeks between December 14th and January 4th.

After a week of relaxation in the south by the beach, we plan to explore northern Thailand to see the mountains and discover the country’s history before wrapping up in Bangkok.

I’m torn about which region to explore. For convenience, we’ll arrive in Chiang Mai, spend a few days in the area, then head to Lampang, followed by Sukhothai, and finally Bangkok.

After Chiang Mai (1 or 2 days—I’m worried the period might be too crowded and we won’t enjoy it much), we’ll have 3 days and could go to: Mae Hong Son (with a potential return flight); Chiang Dao and Fang; or Nan province, though that seems a bit far for just 3 days. We could also spend only one day in Chiang Mai and have 4 days instead.

For these 3 (or 4) days between Chiang Mai and Lampang, we’d love to do some beautiful hikes, preferably on our own, and see stunning landscapes, nature, and small villages.

Among my options, which would you recommend? Or where can we find great hikes that we can do independently and that aren’t overrun by mass tourism? I’ll admit, I’m struggling to find info—there are lots of small national parks, but details are scarce, and even AllTrails doesn’t have much for some of them...

Just to clarify, we’re considering hiring a car with a driver if needed.

Thanks so much to anyone who can help, and have a great weekend!

Leslie

Hi there, We're heading to Thailand with our two kids (9 years old) for two weeks next February (2026). We plan to rent a car to stay independent and explore a bit off the beaten path. Still, we'd like to spend 1 or 2 nights on a nice, quiet island—just for some relaxation and especially snorkeling (even though I know it's not the best country for beautiful corals).

I've read dozens of forum pages and travel journals, but I'm still overwhelmed and can't decide where to go for a peaceful paradise-like beach with good snorkeling opportunities. We don’t need comfort—Robinson Crusoe-style camping or hammock nights work perfectly for us. No electricity or signal is totally fine. We just don’t want to pay 1000 € for a family of four to go to the Surin Islands, even if they do look like paradise.

Any suggestions?

Ideas for things to see and do