So. Let's see. Firstly - Hello from Vermont! (Tiny state in New England -USA - Nestled in between New York, New Hampshire, and just below Canada!)
Seems like a great forum here filled with TONS of useful information.

I am roughly plotting out a trip for myself. Having never traveled far from the continental US (besides Canada, and Puerto Rico), I've decided I've really got to explore what's out there.
A co-worker was telling me all about his trip to Thailand four+ years ago - he's full of information, but it's not all up to date - so that's why I'm looking to you all for some tips and advice.

I'm trying to put together a 90 day trip. So far, these are the places I KNOW I want to explore -

Bangkok - (obviously!)
Pattaya
Ko Samet
Ko Lanta
Ko Phi Phi
Phuket
Khao Sok National Park
Ayutthaya
Ratchathani
Kohn Kaen
Phitsanulok
Chiang Mai
Pai
Mae Hong Son

While looking through my "Lonely Planet Thailand" and "Let's go: Thailand on a Budget" books, I know there are literally a hundred more places that I would like to visit.
How long would you recommend when visiting some of the places I've listed?
Does it seem feasible to want to cover so much ground in 90 days? Would I be able to visit even more places?

I'm on a bit of a Budget. Besides the money spent on the airfare - I'm planning on having around $3,000 USD to spend for everything I encounter while in Thailand - Getting around, accommodations (BUDGET ACCOMMODATIONS!), entertainment (drinks, park fees, small treks), Meals, supplies, etc.

Does it seem like I'm on the right track here? or am I waaay off course?

I'm looking to leave somewhere in the beginning of Nov. '08 through the first week or so of Feb. '09.
Any advice of where to start (Bangkok first I suppose), but then in which direction I should head off to next...and thereafter?

So many questions - and this is such a long post - I'm just so Excited. Looking forward to exploring Thailand - learning about the culture and history - taking in the sights, food etc....

I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about - as you remember back to your first trip to Thailand...

Thanks for any advice you have to offer...or any links to suggested previous posts that could be of help.

It's off to bed now for me - but again, THANK YOU ALL!

-James

__________________
I need all the advice and tips you can give me!
Planning a 90 day trip to Thailand.
Looking to leave November '08
Returning Feb 1-5th '09.