Koh Samed
What to do with 11 days in Thailand? Originally my intension was to stay in Bangkok for the whole time. This is always the way I like traveling: spending a longer time in one place, rather than chasing the sights and rushing through.
But then a good friend of mine who is an adept of Thailand suggested I should at least spend a few days on an island, to complete a typical Thailand visit. He recommended Koh Samed which is an near by Bangkok and easily accessible, no domestic flight needed. I followed his advise and made a reservation for the medium priced resort “Lima Coco” at the north-west shore, away from the hustle and bustle of the party beaches (north-east).
Though my friend has never been there himself, his idea was brilliant! 
I instantly fell in love with the cozy Ao Phrao Beach where only three resorts offer accommodation and no traffic is disturbing the peaceful atmosphere. The beach is sandy, the water crystal-clear and the palm trees are green, what would you need more? If you are looking for party or more beach restaurants to choose from, it is just a 20 minutes walk to the other side of the island, where one also can find small shops.
After all, my itinerary turned out to be the perfect plan for a first time visit to Thailand: I spent four nights in Bangkok at first, getting used to the city, collecting impressions. Then I took a bus ride (three to four hours) to Koh Samed for another four nights. There it has been the time to relax, time for reading and swimming. Spending more than three days on a beach would have been boring for me, so I was happy to have another two nights in Bangkok.
City AND beach really was the perfect mix. For all you beach-lovers I would recommend, not only to spend 24 hours or less in Bangkok and considering a visit as “necessary evil”. This city has so much to offer, it would be a waste not to explore it!