If you have, give me the tips on low key places not normally traveled.

Planning a trip.

Before anyone asks. I’m going with my wife. She might be into lady boys, but I ain’t. I am looking for nice beach locations outside of the party/main tourist traps.

Look for some Thai stick.

Been there but was back in 97. And I was in the thickest darkest bush this side of Oprah's.
We did get some r&r in patiya beach.

Cobra Gold?

Did 2 of those myself and yeah, patiya is the shit. 5 dollar lunch and massage. All day, every day.

That was it. Half through the exercise my wife's dad passed away. It was adventure to get back to Camp Pendleton. The red cross took care of ticket and dept of state walked me through security and customs in Bangkok, Tokyo and LA becuase i had no passport.

I don't recall having a passport when I was on active duty. My ID card and orders were sufficient to get me through immigration.

That's true in most cases but on my flight back it was all civilian and I was alone.

That's strange. I often traveled alone and on commercial flights. I guess times have changed. Nice to have the State Dept help you out.