So last year i travelled to Ao Nang for a week and loved it, this year i would like to return with my new Vietnamese wife for a slightly ate honeymoon, she has never traveled before and wants to see some nice islands and beaches.
I have started looking at hotels, i usually use Booking.com and used them last year for this same area, i would like to book something refundable due to the fact her visa could be granted to come live with me by August or September and we may need to change plans.
The refundable rates for this year even being low season are astronomical, our budget is about 4500-5000thb per night, but refundable rates and reasonable hotels are ridiculous compared to last year and it is the middle of low season then.

Does anyone have any suggestions where to find good deals or when would be best to book accommodations? i was thinking of waiting until may to book, would waiting make any difference??
Any help appreciated.

Is there anywhere else anyone would suggest we might go for that sort of budget per night? preferably within easy reach of an airport as the wife gets airsick and carsick rather easy so anything that doesnt require long transfers is great. Neither of us are into the party scene or drink much, dont need beachfront but close by is a bonus. Wouldnt mind some island tours on boats (had a good one to hong island last year) wouldnt mind getting her to try snorkelling, also good thai food at the hotel or nearby is also a plus, was over eurothai the first time i was silly enough to go to a tourist restaurant.