Bali (Indonesia), Phuket (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Boracay (Philippines)???
 

I have heard so much about these places and I have decided to finally get my own share of the experience. I can only visit 2 of the 4 destinations above though. Please help me select the best 2. I want the vacation to be very relaxing and comfortable with easy access to fun, shopping, and great nightlife! but very nice beach and atmosphere first and foremost. I need your expert advices. PLease please, I want this to be perfect. Thanks in advance!

Hi there. I'm Paolo from the philippines. If you need to know more about Boracay Islands, yes not just one paradise island but couple islands, go to http://www.boracay.com/<BR>one thing for sure, it's paradise.<BR><BR>you can also try the palawan islands, the link is:<BR>http://www.palawan.com/<BR><BR>have a nice trip. if you need more information, shoot me an email, [email protected]<BR>

These places are famous but you should also realise that they are, especially Bali and Phuet total 'tourist traps', they are vacation resorts, little of the local culture. There are so many wonderful places throughout Asia it is a pity, or I guess for many of us a blessing' that people just flock to these places and see little if anything of the real people and their rich cultures. Do try and venture away from the tourist haunts for a real experience. That does not mean living in a hut, there are great places, but you need to seek them out.

Reifmon:<BR><BR>What Monica has written is good advice for Sociology or Anthropolpgy student. If you are traveling for fun,experiences,and an all around great travel experience go to Bali and Bangkok 2 days onward to Chang Mai and Chang Rai. Chang Rai is very close to the Myanmar (Burma) border. <BR><BR>If you are very interested in Temples Ruins and getting close to the people you can get a cheap flight from Bangkok to Cambodia and you can get your visa for Cambodia at the airport. Of course shop aroud in Bangkok for your air fare. If need the name an internet tour company for a package. Give us aline.<BR><BR>All the best.

I think the point Monica was attempting to make, am guessing here, is that in all countries mentioned there are some better places than those particular resorts. Of course these places have all the tourist facilities but there seems to me certain areas that are 'promoted/pushed' in certain countries. In Australia they push Bali and Penang first, then to a lesser extent Phuket and Langkawi. Sadly these are not the best that those particular countries have to offer.

I've been to all except Boracay. Despite being heavily touristed, you can find secluded areas in Bali and Phuket. I would choose these 2 for the range of activities and hotels they have. Langkawi is pretty quiet and not as beautiful as Bali. Their Datai hotel is magnificent but Bali has 20 of those hotels. Boracay is more for the budget traveller. Think of "the Beach".

I was in Langkawi in January. It is very quiet and my family found it to be thoroughly relaxing. It all depends on what you are looking for in a holiday. We didn't want to shop, look at touristy things - just wander along beautiful beaches (and here they are miles better than Bali) and chill out I guess. The Sheraton Langkawi was superb - wonderful accommodation, delightful and helpful staff. Weather was brilliant. Wherever you go, have a wonderful time.