Thong Nai Pan Yai, Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan isn't exactly the first place that springs to mind when thinking about a relaxing beach holiday. But away from the party beaches there are quiet havens, particularly on the north east side of the island.

We travelled to Thong Nai Pan Yai during low season and it was so quiet that we often felt like the only ones on the beach.

We stayed in a beach hut, complete with a hammock and pet dogs. Our days were all about coconuts, deck chairs, tiny crabs and tropical fruit salads.

Halfway through our stay the coup was declared, but life on our corner of the island continued at the same slow pace.

And after a week and a half it was time to get our Hua Hin stickers on, jump on the ferry and head back to the mainland.

For more info on Thailand, have a look at my posts on Bangkok and Hua Hin.