Hello everyone

We're planning our first trip to Thailand with our two small children (3 and 6 months).

We're looking to experience a relaxing beach holiday. (In as much as that's possible with little ones). We usually escape to Bali, but are chasing a change of scene.

Prefer to keep away from the busy / party / touristy scene. Some shops and restaurants close by would be good. May take in a few day trips, so not too far off the beaten track.

Mid range villa style accommodation with a couple of bedrooms would be best. Self contained preferred.

Not sure where to start!!

if its beaches your after then phuket is your place - may be a bit hot at times for two younguns tho' - there is a cookery school run by pat - who has amountain bunglow for rent - you would need a car - but at 1000 baht a night its a bargain - or you could search phuket villas

pats site is here Pat's Home Thai Cooking Classes - Culinary Thai Cooking School in Phuket Thailand

Agreed with Phil MCFC about Phuket being a prime spot for self-contained bungalows and right on the beach. Plenty of options at Holiday villas, holiday homes, holiday rentals, Private Vacation Homes by owner - Villarenters

Best of luck!

Koh Samui may be another option to explore

Hi there

Phuket has several beaches from which to choose, and I would say that Kata beach is one of you best bets. It is wide, there are many styles of accommodation to choose from and have boat trips to enjoy as well (other beaches)

I have also heard very good things about Ko Tao- harder to get to, but less crowded and very relaxing.

Have fune!

Federico
maitravelsite dot com

Thanks for your advice guys.

Can anyone tell me the main points of difference between Phuket & Koh Samui?

Is Samui better value? More to do and see at Phuket?

Please excuse my green-ness!

Rachel

phuket is more expensive - but a lot more to do and great great beaches - although even Phuket can be done on a budget - let me know what exactly you want from Phuket and will tell you where to go exactly - deal ?

I'm picturing a nice place to stay. Semi-self contained. With a pool. At least two rooms. Good service. No more than $200 / night AU. Pref cheaper.

. . . and when we're not relaxing there, a bit of light shopping, restaurants serving authentic local food, cocktails, massage, a bit of exploring the local sights.

Looking forward to your suggestions!

There are a few reason not to go to Pattaya, however, I'll tell you the reasons I'll going to recommend the place.

1. There are a huge number of things to see and do, probably the most attraction rich area in the country.
2. There are excellent accommodation spots available, for a very good price.
3. It has all the infrastructure (internet, hospitals, good roads, lots of restaurants) of a large city, but still has a small town feel to it.

If that doesn't convince you, my next recommendation would be Ao Nang. I don't like Phuket much, it's far too touristified, there is zero local culture left, and ditto for Samui. Ao Nang is still a sleepy seaside resort town, but has access to a very wide range of activities. There are also some excellent hotels.

Either way, good luck and happy travels!

In short one is more developed/commercial (Phuket) and the other is more remote. Not to say either one is better; just different.