Welcome Rider,
First, welcome to the board.
I agree with MrDK that November might be a little tougher to find deals on airfaires and rooms... but my philosophy is the sooner the better. If you can get over in November ... do it! Who knows, maybe you'll be so inspired that you'll come again in April.
I agree with flying Thai Air within Thailand, very easy to change if needed. If your international flight gets into Bkk at a reasonable hour, then just give yourself 2 hours and book the next Thai Air flight to HKT (usually 8 or so flights each day).
I would highly recommend Summer Breeze Hotel, but probably already booked for November. Expat is ok too.
Good luck.
MDT