Koh Samui
Why go?
The original backpackers' island paradise has seen plenty of change over the past decade. Sprawling development, western supermarkets and English-style pubs are some of the worst side-effects; but the good news is that none of the buildings are, by law, taller than a palm tree, and the white-sand beaches are as beautiful as ever. At 15km wide, it's a big enough island to hide the crowds and offer some unexpected coves, waterfalls and rainforest. In fact, if you want to combine Thailand's classic island scenery with some of the comforts and distractions of home, then it's a pretty good bet.