If you do go to Thailand, don't go through a local travel agency. With all the recent unrest in Bangkok and economic situation, the prices in the resort areas have plummetted. It's likely that this won't correct itself in the near term. Before you get over there, just book your first night or two on the internet or by phone, but when you get there, negotiate prices either through local agencies or directly with the hotels yourself. If you do this, you could save a fortune versus going through a UK/Irish agency. They will be more than willing to negotiate. Of course, before you go, check that there isn't too much social unrest!!