Advice on itinerary, booking and destinations//first time visitor

Hi everyone, I am visiting Thailand (and Vietnam) for the first time in January and February. I have about 8 weeks for both countries (flying in and out of Bangkok). As I am working on a book project which requires writing abt 5hrs a day and a certain routine this is not supposed to be a super busy journey. Looking for easygoing places, preferably with some cafes and restaurants but nothing too crazy. Also happy to stay away from extremely touristy areas and places that are full of parties/drugs etc.

My plan so far is to stay in Bangkok for about a week (luckily I have a local contact there) and then fly to Ranong to visit Koh Phayam for about ten days. Not really sure yet where to go from there. I could either visit one of the islands on the other side of the mainland or head back to Bangkok and over to Chiang Mai. As I definitely want to visit Hanoi and Hoi An/Da Nang in Vietnam (was also recommended Ha Giang and Cat Ba) I feel this might make most sense as I could fly from Chiang Mai straight to Hanoi. Still doing research though and open to all suggestions (cities, islands, more rural settings). Also interested in ideas for a smooth route.

I’m also curious whether people recommend booking everything in advance (just heard back from a favored homestay on Koh Phayam that they’re already completely booked in January) or to just play things by ear. Thanks very much in advance 🙏

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