So I'll be escaping the charming, pollution ridden chaos that is China for a month: Jan 14th - Feb 14th.
As mentioned in the title I've been to Thailand about eight times: Bangers, Koh Samui, Samet and Chang. Enjoyed them all, mostly.
I was planning a day or two in Bangers to see what has (or HASN'T) changed, and get a new International Drivers licence (naughty me). Not interested is the gogo girls and ho's.
I was thinking then a few days in Chiang Mai and Pai, if the weather and smog aint too bad. And then heading over to Cambodia (haven't been, except for one border run).
Would be nice to see another SEA country. Was in Philippines and Vietnam this year.
Any recommendations on Cambodia? (I have read up, so have a fair idea of what to see and where to go. Will also be meeting a friend and his missus there for a couple days.)
Then I have a friend to meet on Koh Chang. Is it still decent? I was there seven years ago and it was good. Cheap bungalow for 300THB, on the beach, fan and mosquito netting. Simple and decent. But my friend is loaded so she's staying at Amari Resort ($100/night), I'll settle for something cheaper, nearby.
My queries/worries are:
1. Is it worth it to have a gander up north in CM and Pai for about 5 days?
2. Then head to Cambodia via which border? I know I can get an E-visa for Cambodia online, but some borders don't accept that.
3. Best way to get from Cambodia to Koh Chang?
*4. Is Chiang Mai and Koh Chang ridden with Chinese tour groups and Ruskies? I'm taking a vacation to get away from these creatures, but I'm sure I can handle a few flashpackers and firebreathers, provided they keep their pet fleas and lice away from me..
You responses would be most welcome.
Cheers
BB