A trip sampling the diversity of Southeast Asian destinations can take you from the sleek modernity of Singapore to the ancient temples of Cambodias Angkor Wat. And then there are the beaches of Thailand: relaxing and beautiful with gorgeous stretches of sand, water sports, nearby outdoor activities and cheap food and drink.

Off the Andaman Sea are famed Phuket and Koh Phi Phi, which rose to international prominence after being featured in the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach, but the beaches along the Gulf of Thailand have an equally renowned trio of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

Each of these has its own charms and attractions, and regular boat service makes it easy to travel among them. All three have vibrant party scenes, as well, drawing young people from around the world.

As for the recent political unrest in Thailand, tourist numbers at the beaches were down midwinter as some visitors canceled trips, but the islands have been unaffected and some hotels have been willing to negotiate room rates.

Heres a look at some of the Thai island destinations:

Koh Samui

This is the main transport center for the islands, with a fancy airport it even includes its own Park Avenue with designer shops and built-up infrastructure.

The island boasts gorgeous beaches all over its coasts. Chaweng Beach appeals to the young; its dotted with hotels for all budgets, open-air massage parlors where you can get an hourlong treatment for less than $10, and vendors peddling everything from corn on the cob and pineapple to beachwear and decorative wooden keepsakes.

Thats by day. By night, the main drag, a block away from the beach, buzzes with thumping music and busy restaurants. The laid-back daytime schedule means the venues dont become crowded until about 10 p.m. or 11 p.m.; penny-pinchers should head to Walking Street for cheap pint bottles of Chang beer, barbecued crocodile or fruit shakes, affordable swimwear and sarongs, and people-watching.

Koh Phangan

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From peacefulness to wild parties on three Thai islands