After two wonderful visits to Koh Samui in the past four years, it's time to explore elsewhere. Can anyone recommend any quiet beach resort about a ten-twenty minute walk to shops and bars? I'm not rich, but judging by the rates I've seen on the island, price is not a problem. Thanks and excuse the newby for any forum protocol flubs.

Koh Chang is one of main destination for my short vacation So, If you need some quite beaches on Koh Chang you must ignore White Sand Beach! Klong Prao is a bit better, I would reccomend you the Kai Bae Beach area. 7 Eleven can be find throughout the island, as well as small super market and Restuarants. Bar Beers can be found alot on White Sand Beach.

Thank-you, Songchai. Can you tell me what the surf is like in January on Koh Chang?

Hey Rick

We spent a month on Ko Chang a couple of Xmas' ago, and really loved it. No doubt the construction and tourist population have increased since then, but having travelled through most islands Id really recommend it. Stayed at Kai Bae Beach, at Porns Bungalow. Nice quiet loungy beach area, with an awesome relaxed bar/restaurant, and many other places close by to eat at too. I think we paid about 4-500B back then for a basic but suitable bungalow. As for the surf - no waves for surfing. Great beach for swimming, quite clean. YOu can also easily get to KoMak which is also great, and quieter. No worries with access to little supermarkets, easy walking distance.

Thanks, tviolet. Nice calm surf is what I want to hear. The location you recommend sounds perfect. Since I'm hoping to spoil my wife next year, I'm going to blow the budget on a luxury hotel this time. Any suggestions?

Also have a look at Koh Lanta, an island not far from Krabi. It's absolutely beautiful and a lovely place to relax.