The advantage of an excursion to Kwai is that the guide talks non-stop about the country, its rulers, economy, etc. - the best thing for the first visit. This tour also includes elephant trekking. When buying an excursion, pay attention that the houses on the water have all the amenities and air conditioning (with such hotels on the water there are even swimming pools). If you don’t go to Kwai, then you can ride in the elephant village. You don’t have to go to the island of Koh Samet from Pattaya, as you will have enough clean beaches on Koh Samui. Yes, Nong Nooch Garden is a must for a day trip. An interesting dinosaur exhibit has recently opened there, and the elephant show is great and is now held in an indoor hall. For a hundred baht you can take a photo (elephants will lift you up on their trunks), emotions are indescribable. Very interesting animals in the Khao Kheo zoo and many at arm's length, kangaroos come close to you, deer, flamingos and animal shows without the participation of animal trainers on stage - very entertaining.