First time in Asia, where should we go?
 

My husband and I will be in Asia for two weeks in August. Our second week will be spent in Singapore, but we are trying to find somewhere else to go beforehand. We really don't have an interest in going to Bangkok at this time, but have considered Japan or Bali. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. This is our first time in Asia.

Thanks!

Bali is a good option, a quick flight from Singapore. What is wonderful about Bali (in addition to the lovely scenery and lovely people) is how accessible the culture is. With a week in Bali you can split your time between a beach location and an inland location near Ubud. It's an excellent destination for a first time visitor, as there is good infrastructure for visitors, lovely hotels and good places to eat.

As you will be in a big city your second week, it makes sense, IMO to spend the first week outside of big cities. If you want something more off the tourist track than Bali, consider Java. Our photos are at http://www.marlandc.com/Java2012/index.html There is a link on the first page to my trip report.

Have a wonderful trip!

As Kathie said you could easily fill up a week in Bali -- split between the beach and the inland areas. YOu'll get good weather in August, but it's also high tourist season so be sure to make your reservations in advance.

The big Islamic holidays that follow Ramadhan will take place around August 7/8 this year so the first week of August wouldn't be a be a good time to visit Java. This holiday doesn't directly affect Bali, except that there will be even more August visitors than usual.

its high season in bali...

how about penang or langkawi in Malaysia, or both

It really depends what you like to do: beach, history, cuisine, architecture, etc. I would recommend Kyoto/Osaka in Japan as it would give you a flavor of northern Asia which is so different from SEA. This way you get to experience some very different areas.

Siberia. August would be a great time to go too and be a nice contrast to the heat of Singapore.

I would not go to Japan in August - hot and muggy. Bali would be perfect, but book ASAP.

If weather is important to you then go to Bali where there is great scenery, culture and food and some amazing hotels and places to stay. Apart from the weather issue Japan wins hands down IMO. The food is simply amazing, as is the architecture culture and scenery.

Yes, it’s high season in Bali.
It depends on what you want to do but Penang seems to be a good option for discover Asia the first time.
Two reasons:
Georgetown is a bustling city where cultural life is rich. A good way to discover the city is to focus on the religious buildings erected by these communities. Chinese, Indian and Malay food are also delicious.
There are some beaches very quiet and nice.

why not Bangkok? it's such a great place with tons of things to do. If u have made up your mind on not going to Bangkok already then Bali is very nice.

I do agree with Gambir, Bangkok is popular city and has various tourist attractions like amazing temples, luxury shopping malls, famous restaurants, modern and boutique accommodations etc. Bangkok is one of famous and interesting city that you must visit.

Where will you be coming in from - the Pacific or from Europe? If from the Pacific, then stop in Japan - Tokyo for 3 to 4 days - sweltering hot but an amazing city in August. Stay in trendy Shinjuku area the Shinjuku Hilton or Park Hyatt are great hotels. Eat great food, enjoy quirky things and perhaps spend a day or 2 in Hakone outside Tokyo. Then fly to Da Nang and spend 2 to 3 days lazing by the beach at the Pullman or Hyatt reort and enjoying Hoi An a UNESCO heritage town. Make your way to Singapore and 3 to 4 days here would be great. If however you are coming from Europe, then I would seriously consider a stop in Colombo, Sri Lanka for 3 days making a trip to Galle - also a UNESCO heritage town. Stay either on a the beach or in the fort itself - the Galle Fort Hotel is beautiful - private and next to the Aman Resort at a fraction of the price and they have the better chef! Then come to Singapore. Where do you plan to stay in Singapore? If you want to be upmarket - the Marina Bay area hotels are great. If you want super convenience then the Swiss Hotel or Fairmont. When in Singapore you can do an escapade to either Bali ( very crowded ) or Phuket/Krabi in Thailand - daily short flights available. Have a great holiday!