I recently talked to someone who has been to Chumphon twice, 2004 and 5. They said they had fun there, but said if it is not windy there is nothing to do. I personally would not have a problem with that, as I can always be happy going snorkeling or just hanging. This person has also been to Mui Nei in Vietnam and much preferred it there. The wind in Chumphon is usually 15-20, whereas it seems that it us usually 20+ in Mui Nei.

Personally I really love Thailand and would probably be just fine chasing the wind there over the winter. It all depends on what you like.

In 2005, I was in Thailand and scouted two places that would be ideal for kiting. One was the north coast of Koh Lipe and the other was the SE corner of Koh Muk. Both of these are nice sand beaches, side on wind with no coral. These are both February spots. I would imagine that there are lots of undiscovered places to ride.

Remember that Thailand is very hot and you need not bring much other than the minumum
amount of clothing. Taking a kite and board would not be that big a deal.