i second the recommendation for Krabi. The countryside, coastline and islands are absolutely stunning. Ao Nang, which is the main resort area, is developing fast but still has a long way to go before catching up with Phuket. Krabi Town is still a sleepy provincial town but now has a Tesco Lotus (including Major Cineplex cinema) and there is Big C about to open any time soon. Best of all its only 2 hours from Phuket
