Thanks, Karin. We're hoping to stay for about $60/night although it appears it will be more like $100/night in the Phuket area. I had thought that we could stay in one place for the week in Phuket area--maybe Nai Harn or Kato Beach and day travel to the park & Raillay Beach from there. Too far? Are those good places to use as headquarters? Thinking of Kata Poolside Resort as a possibility---any others? Other great things to do in the area?

In Chiang Mai--also planning to do day trips from one place. Any recommended places to stay in that area? Good local craft & weaving places to see? Would also like to take a Thai cooking class--any suggestions? What's the best way to travel to Lampang?

I've heard the Asia is nice in Bangkok. Don't really know yet what we'll do there---need to do more research.

Is there anything we just shouldn't miss during this trip? Thanks for any and all advice.