Howdy all,

Sorry to be another one of "those guys," but I'm feeling a little lost trying to plan my trip to Thailand with my girlfriend in late December. Between Koh Chang, Rayong, Krabi, Khao Lak, Samui and others, I can't decide! So, I've come to you all for advice. Here are our parameters:

- Seaside hotel
- Crystal-clear, calm waters
- Secluded enough to feel private, but near some modern amenities (grocery store, markets, etc.)
- A vacation that locals would take (I want to avoid Western touristy places)
- Spacious, air conditioned lodging, but prefer rustic, one story ranches to large hotels
- Budget up to 2000 Baht (about $66 USD) per night
- Romantic
- Three to four nights anywhere between Dec. 26 and Jan. 2nd

I love the idea of staying at a less expensive property and buying one of the more expensive rooms - I did this at The Time Hotel in Hanoi last year (got the king suite) and it worked out great. But, generally, I will consider inexpensive and well-maintained lodging, provided it meets the above parameters.

What do you all think?

Fondly,
flyingmusicianlax

P.S. We are also willing to consider other (non-Thai) southeast Asian beach destinations, as long as Star Alliance will get us within a few hours of there on award travel and we can take a train or boat to the final destination (have considered Sihanoukville and a couple of the Malay beaches, among others).