This is an open letter to TV members who are more travelled than me. Basically, my job gives me 4 return trips to Thailand a year - so every 11 weeks, I get a 2 week paid holiday. My current Thai friend works in a government department in Bangkok and only gets 2 weeks' holiday a year.

I am looking for ideas where to spend my 2 weeks' holidays in February next year. The holiday does not have to be in Thailand - just Asia generally. I will pay the difference in the Brisbane-BKK return airfare. Options I am looking at include Bali, Phillipines, China, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.

I want to soak up some of local atmosphere, stay in 2 to 3 star accommodation (air-conditioned with private bathroom) and meet some of the locals.

I am thinking something along the lines of: Fly into BKK on a Friday evening - spend each weekend with Thai friend and visit one or two countries during the week - finish with a weekend in BKK then fly home to Australia.

Peter

This is an open letter to TV members who are more travelled than me. Basically, my job gives me 4 return trips to Thailand a year - so every 11 weeks, I get a 2 week paid holiday. My current Thai friend works in a government department in Bangkok and only gets 2 weeks' holiday a year.

I am looking for ideas where to spend my 2 weeks' holidays in February next year. The holiday does not have to be in Thailand - just Asia generally. I will pay the difference in the Brisbane-BKK return airfare. Options I am looking at include Bali, Phillipines, China, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.

I want to soak up some of local atmosphere, stay in 2 to 3 star accommodation (air-conditioned with private bathroom) and meet some of the locals.

I am thinking something along the lines of: Fly into BKK on a Friday evening - spend each weekend with Thai friend and visit one or two countries during the week - finish with a weekend in BKK then fly home to Australia.

Peter

Peter, I'd recommend Cagayan de Oro in the Philippines. It is on the Island of Minanao. Great beaches nearby. And two really good gay bars. Loads of cute guys and ladyboys there. In fact, if you decide to go, I can put you in touch with a friend of mine there who can act as a quasi tour guide for you.

I notice you didn't list Malaysia, but Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit. Outstanding shopping and three gay clubs that are completely different from each other. And Malaysian guys are very cute. There is also a resort/casino called Genting that is about 90 minutes bus ride from KL.