We'd primarily like to spend time in Chiang Mai and points north (Mae Hong Song and Sappong, specifically) but would like to spend 3-5 days on the beach on one end or the other of our trip. The airline tickets are already booked or I'd change them to avoid what I guess is peak season, so the question is: beach time on arrival, or at the end? We fly back to the U.S. on February 14th and I just found out we need to plan around Chinese New Year's our three last days as well, and am realizing it could be quite cold in the areas we want to visit up north (Sappong caves, especially).

Any recommendations much appreciated.

Kevin

The easiest beach area to get to or from Chiang Mai I think would be Phuket.

There are direct flights between the two.

I don't see much of a difference one way or the other. Weather will be pretty much the same no matter where you are.

What beach are you considering? I think the deciding factor for me would be cost of transport and hotel. If it's expensive on one end, move that part of your trip to the other and see if you can save some money????

Thanks very much!

Probably get used to the sun and leave the beach and full exposure/sunbathing till the end of the trip when you are acclimatised.

You don't want to get sunburned on the beach at the start and spend the next few days of your trip suffering, plus you can unwind at the end of the trip and before flying home.

Edited December 31, 201213 yr by Bpuumike

I have to agree with Craigt3365, It doesn't really matter. You have to get used to the sun anyway. Transport cost and hotel are more important, for the planning of your trip.