Hanoi's going to be kinda cold. So bring layers. The Meridien & Sheraton are great. For a solid 4 star in Ao Nang - Ao Nang Villa. 200M from the E end of the main drag. HUGE pool. On the water but the beach is too shallow to swim. Railay is around the point. Haven't stayed there in 5 yrs, so check w/ TA. Railay is the place to stay, but when I was there, 2 stars was about it. Who cares ? What's better than a shack on the sand hearing the waves break all night ? wj