u/James1579

After Khao Sok National Park, I’m heading to Koh Samui but wondering if there’s anywhere worth stopping for 1-2 nights on the way that’s easy to get to (ideally simple transfer, ferry, bus etc).

Not looking to massively detour or overcomplicate things - just somewhere that fits naturally into the route and adds a bit of variety if it works out.

I have 10 more nights and I don’t want to spend too long on koh samui / koh Tao. Not crazy about phangan and it’s partying which is why I’m not going there

Any recommendations or is it best to just go straight to Samui?

Thanks!

I’m in Bangkok May 3–6, then flying to Chiang Mai and arriving late on the 6th. That gives me from the evening of the 6th until the morning of the 10th.

I’ve booked a full-day elephant, bamboo raft, and waterfall tour on Friday (9 hours), and I’m considering zip-lining on another day. Other than that, nothing planned yet.

Not sure if 4 nights in Chiang Mai is too much or too little - should I leave Saturday 9th or stick with Sunday 10th, given I’ll have full days Thursday and Friday?

Planning on flying to Koi Samui after

Picked up a GameSir Nova controller to play Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas on my iPad for a flight.

I’m used to GTA V on PS5 where I accelerate with R2 and brake with X, but on iPad it’s A to accelerate and RB to brake.

Is there any way to change the controls to match the PS layout, or am I stuck with the default?

Hi all, I am planning my first solo trip to Thailand (early May) and would appreciate some input please. I arrive in Bangkok the evening of Sunday, May 3rd, and will leave on the evening of Saturday, May 23rd. 20 nights total

Current Plan (Fixed):

• Bangkok – 3 nights (May 3rd – May 6th)
• Chiang Mai – 4 nights (May 6th – May 10th)

Undecided: South Thailand

After Chiang Mai, I have approximately 10 – 11 days left. I'm focusing on the Gulf Islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) for better weather in early May.

Or is it better to go to Krabi / Phi Phi island areas?

What I'm Looking For:

• Semi-social but not a full party scene (avoiding places with a strong "Mad Monkey" vibe).
• Good mix of chill and things to do.
• Nice beaches but not overly touristy, if possible.
• Easy enough to meet people (as a solo traveler).
• Cheap, cozy private rooms or hotels.

Questions:

1. For a balance of social and relaxed, which Gulf island combination is best for 10–11 days? (e.g., more time on Koh Tao vs. Koh Phangan).
2. Is it best to split the 10–11 days across two islands or three (Samui, Phangan, and Tao)?
3. Any final thoughts on my 3 nights in Bangkok and 4 nights in Chiang Mai?

Any suggestions, tweaks, and tips are much appreciated! Thank you.