Mixed experience in Thailand — beautiful but overhyped

Thailand is undeniably beautiful. Wat Phra Kaew and the area around Koh Samui have a visual quality that photographs don't capture fully. I enjoyed massaman curry and appreciated beautiful islands. That's all real.

But extreme heat in summer was more of a problem than I expected based on reviews I'd read. It coloured parts of the trip in ways I hadn't prepared for. I'd still go back, but I'd approach certain aspects differently. A 4 feels generous on a bad day but fair overall.