Hi there,

We're off to Bangkok in two weeks (leaving 3rd Nov). We'd like to go north and south (probably a week each).

We're new to Thailand, but have spent time traveling other places, including 6 weeks total in India (from Kanyakumari to Dharamsala in two 3 week hols).

We don't have a travel plan yet, but would like to take in the following, in roughly this order:

Bangkok
Chiang Mai (train from Bangkok, hopefully in one go)
Mae hong son

Work our way back via:
Sukothai
Ayuthaya
Kanchaburi - go north up through the national parks etc, away from tourists if possible.
Possibly to nam tok
Possibly back to Bankok (but probably not if we can avoid it)
South to Ko Tao for some diving and beach slobbing, avoiding tourist crowds and parties if possible.

As you can tell - my current itinerary is aiming to provide 'real' Thailand, not the bucket drinking pill-popping variant that many others seek.

I'm not after comfort living: budget accom and travel are fine. Would like to avoid resorts + discos etc.
Do you think these areas have serene parts where we can relax?
Am thinking we'll spend a few days in and around each place listed.
Cheers,
F