Thinking about flying from US to Australia - (cruise to Hong Kong) from Hong Kong to Bangkok and then back to US.. any ideas on airlines (and would you fly on them)! Also, good hotel in Bangkok - want a very good one but don't want to take out a loan for a vacation to pay for it! Any help will be appreciated!

Airline: US - Australia Qantas. Hong Kong - Bangkok Cathay Pacific. Bagnkok - US Cathay Pacific. Both airlines belong to the "One World" alliance.

Hotel: Penninusula, Sukhothai, Marriotts etc all not that expensive.

There are lots of wonderful hotels in Bangkok. My recommendation is to choose one on the river.

There are also lots of options for airlines. Do you have an airline you normally use? If so, choose that airline or a partner airline to maximize your frequent flier miles.

hanumans suggestion is good..

you may also maybe try to see if you can do the trip using the cathey pacific all asia pass and chooding the Australian add on's..

since cost dosn't seem too matter too much I won't bother suggeston checking out china airlines, or eva..

actually if you flying this year call up delta... it's seems as if they are having a sale on asia.. I got a good deel from them wich even my budget consoidator was shocked with..

Sorry I should have said - we are looking at going in February - is that a good time? Also, think we have eliminated the cruise part and decided to spend the time in Bangkok!! couldn't see just sailing and not seeing anything! Money is not the prime problem since we our now spending our children's inheritance.. and if we don't enjoy it I'm sure they will!! So, will go into One World and see what they have.. definitely want a river view.. Thank you all for your help.. Looking at other postings I realize we are not very adventurous but.. we enjoy ourselves!!

oh yah check out

www.airtreks.com and other round the world/ circle pacific consolidators.. this will be one of youir best bets..

Many thanks to one and all.. will post when I get it sorted out - perhaps it will help others!

U could consider a day or even one night cruise from Bkk so u do not have to entirely abandon your cruise plans. In terms of hotels as Hanuman said Pen and Sukhothai rate up there. Newer hotels in Bkk are the metropolitan (branch of the famous London hotel) and The Davis. Neither is on the river however being new I hear they are both giving great deals. If u want something diff consider a villa on the river, Chakrabongse House. Check it out on thaivillas.com. The Thai style Riverside Villa suite is excellent.