Korean Job Discussion Forums

[bosockers]

Looking for advice/opinions on where to go for our "last" vacation.

After three years here in the ROK, we're heading back to the states but want to go on one last SE Asian vacation. The problem is this time we're doing it with a three month old so the good old days of bungalows and shared bathrooms are over. We're all about the beach and don't plan on doing too many excursions because of the baby. We also need somewhere to hide from the sun during the middle of the day so baby doesn't burn so a nicer hotel/apartment is in order, but we don't want to spend a fortune.

We've spent a fair amount of time in Phuket and LOVED it and are currently planning on going back there for the beaches, food, and decent prices but are also thinking we'd like to try out another country before we leave.

So, any suggestions? Should we stick with Thailand or can anyone recommend another cheap beach destination?

Thanks!

[BoholDiver]

Just like my name states, I recommend Bohol, Philippines.

Flights to Manila are pretty cheap these days. You could fly there and then to Tagbiliran, or fly to Cebu and take a boat.

It's not the cheapest place around, nor is it overly expensive.

[Moldy Rutabaga]

I think you have your pick of many good places. My favorite is Bali because it's inexpensive compared to Thailand and the culture is more interesting. Some people don't like the noisy nightlife in Kuta, but there are nice resorts on the north side of Kuta which are calmer.

I like the Philippines too. By far the people were the most amicable and I think it would be very kid-friendly. I've heard good things about Bohol. I've been to Puerto Galera and to Boracay and enjoyed both.

I'm hoping to make our next vacation on Tioman island or Langkawi in Malaysia. Something different. If you liked Phuket, you might also like nearby Phiphi island, which is quieter (no cars!) and smaller, but no cheaper.

I sound like a travel agent.

$ingapore is al$o likely ea$y for kid$ but ha$ it$ drawback$.

[ttompatz]

come to Bohol.

Alona beach is kid friendly, affordable (beach front cottages with private bathroom and breakfast for p1200(fan) - 1900(air-con) ) and you are within easy distance to the city (Tagbilaran) for your shopping fix.

I personally like the Alona Tropical resort but there are many to choose from along the beach. They also can arrange for a sitter if you and the Mrs. want some time away, just some quiet time on the beach or an evening of adult time while the baby is in bed.

http://www.bohol.ph for a listing of resorts and lots of other information as well.

You can fly here via manila (cebu pacific now has flights without changing terminals in Manila - they go through NAIA3).

You can also get flights to Cebu on Cebu Pacific for about 300k won return (taxes included).

A little more touristy is Boracay (and it is a great beach) but the prices go with it. You would be looking at p2000+ for your room and meals are about double (or more) what you will pay elsewhere.

Cebu has some nice resorts as well but the prices go with the 5*s. Plantation bay, shangri-la and the hilton top that list. (prices from $200-400 per day + meals and "extra" activities)

ps. just for the record - I DO live and have a house here on Bohol (when I am not actually away working) - just so I don't get accused of having a private agenda when recommending Bohol.

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