Going to Thialand and need some help.

[Matt]

I'd like to dive the Similans some day. I did some diving off Koh Tao, in the Gulf of Thailand, and that was incredible and the island was fantastic. I really liked Kao Lak, which you'll see if you're heading that way. I haven't seen it since the tsunami, but there were some fantastic resorts, great beaches... very relaxing.

I'll second all the advice so far, in general; don't miss Bangkok, if only for a day or two. It is overwhelming, but still well worth experiencing. The Ko Phi Phi area in the Andaman is practically a cathedral. Take a long boat ride through the islands. Also, if I may, allow me to express my dislike for Phuket. It is not my style at all.

I like all the food, but it gets hotter and better as you go north, in my opinion, so a trip up towards Chang Mai, Chang Rai might be worthwhile to you.

If you plan to spend 3-4 days in an area, you can see 3 or 4 regions in your stay, so I think you'll have a great time. Do allow yourself a full day or so to crash when you arrive.