Originally Posted by liquid
I know someone currently traveling in Asia who was to spend a few days in Phuket (Jan 4-7). Given the circumstances, it would most likely not be the most relaxing part of their holiday. I was asked for suggestions for alternative destinations that are a relative quick hop out of BKK. The tickets were booked on a *A Asian Airpass (UA, SQ, OZ, TG), so I am sure *A would accommodate. The only other constraint is that the destination have decent accommodations/dining (was booked at JW Marriott in Phuket) and afford the opportunity to lounge around on the beach for a few days.
I had suggested Koh Samui / Phangan or Bali, any other suggestions?
Samui only has flights on PG (Bangkok Airways) so that is most likely out if he doesn't want to go out of pocket. Bali is a good bet as there is a direct flight from BKK on TG (dep BKK @ 840a arr DPS @ 200p, dep DPS @ 500pm, arr BKK @ 840p). The problem with Bali is that it is a 4 hour flight and he'll most likely burn close to two days in transit.
Another option is Hua Hin although not nearly as pretty as the other places mentioned.