we arrived after a nightmare journey from chaing mai, don't go by bus! the island is beautiful but very commercialized. having said that you can still escape the crowds. the beaches are what you expect, and because of the time of year fairly empty. the weather was not good but the sea is warm so no excuse not to go in! the food is good and resonable priced. to be on the beach and look at the stunning mountains is worth the trip alone. this has set us up nicely to move on to the smaller islands with less . we went to a ladyboy show which was good entertanment and worth a visit. just need the weather and it will be spot on!