Korean Job Discussion Forums

[mortin21]

Need some input on this one. For New Year's I will be in Bangkok and then headed to either island for 2-3 days. Both are the same price for flights and I believe Penang would be cheaper to stay in. I'm looking for nice beaches but don't want to be bored at night or chased by she-males in a sex tourist trap. I've read that Phuket can be fun but I'm thinking that a trip to Malaysia could be very interesting with a variety of food. Anyone been to these places and can offer some advice? Having never been to either Thailand or Malaysia I only have generalizations to go on. Thanks.

[articulate_ink]

Malaysia's terrific. I've been there 3 times now. Penang is a beautiful place with amazing food and cool architecture, and it's still kind of off the beaten track. I'm more familiar with Kuala Lumpur (which is also well worth checking out) but my memories of Penang are good ones. Haven't been to Phuket, though, so I can't make a comparison. If you're still leaning toward Thailand, also consider Krabi; I've heard great things.

[Max_Power]

The night life in Phuket sucks. All prostitutes, lady boys, and greasy old men who can't get laid without forking over some cash.

[mortin21]

Thanks for the help! I'm considering Ko Samui now as well (dropped Phuket from potentials). Thinking about staying there and hitting up the Full Moon Party. What are the best places in that area for snorkeling? Is there any must see Thai architecture in the region or are beaches the main draw? And of course, where is the best food?

[Moldy Rutabaga]

Depends what you want, bud. I liked Phuket very much; I stayed at Karon beach, away from Patong. It's quieter there, but if you want the nightlife Patong certainly has it in spades. Ko Samui has the reputation of being a drug/shagfest during these full moon parties, but I don't know if that's still current.

Penang is very pleasant, nice scenery, good architecture, great shopping. It's Singapore without the high prices. It's not a place for nightlife; it's a place for cafes and slow walks. Which New Year's do you mean? Do not, do not, do not go to Penang during Chinese New Year's. Everything is closed and what's left open is expensive or booked. This is not so much a problem in Thailand.

Ken:>

[brento1138]

I loved Phuket. I stayed at Karon beach also, and found it a quiet, relaxing place. You do see weird "Euro-trash" types around (old fat balding guys who ride motor bikes with short, stocky, ugly Thai women), but I couldn't care less about them. Mostly, 99.9999 % of the people I remember seeing were just well-off looking tourists, families, etc.

Phuket has an incredible variety of foods and places to stay. Travel around the island is cheap and inexpensive. There's practically no damage left over from the Tsunami.

I'm heading to Ko Samui next, so it'll be interesting to compare the two...