Dreaming with the Atlas open to...

[10CaratBlue]

Ok, the trip under consideration now is Southern India, with hops to Japan and Thailand enroute. Let's say, five weeks total. My friend and I have different constitutions, which is to say I'm a beach/spa enthusiast and she's a culture hound. Has anyone got a good thought about how we can manage our time in Southern India? I'd like to get on a Kerala backwater houseboat and drift away, but I'm not sure that's too satisfying for her. Shall I postpone my need to lie under a palm tree with six books until I get to Thailand, and check into a spa without her? Also, I'm a confirmed jewellry addict. Who's got a man in Bangkok to see? Or, should I skip it and remain on massage table as per spa rejuvenation?

[kyshel]

Are you getting around the world tickets?

FYI--Visas are not cheap for India.

You can ck out Dellta and partners for ATW flight deal. US to Paris to BOM and partners to any of these: Bali/Thailand/Singapore or Hong Kong (wow--it can be a real treat to stop there!) I loved it!) retutrn via Tokyo thru Atlanta and home? Delta will have service to Korea, too as another option.

Tokyo was tres pricey, so I just passed thru--didn't really interest me much anyway unless I could visit the "country" not cities...Good stop for overnight to get re-adjusted to time changes. You can stay Pan Pacific and watch the jumbos in and out of NRT airport. Very cool way to relax before going home.

Bali is my bet for culture and spa--Ubud is the place and LL has the pkgs (Kupu Kupu Barong!!) Look at their deal...or find small places like Blue Moon on the coast and mix the 2 destinations.

HKG was great--had room overlooking harbour (floor/ceiling windows) corner of 22nd floor for about $120 us at Bishop Lei Hotel (shhhhh--don't tell anyone!) Transport pass got me verywhere easily--very user friendly city. Take empty bag and pack only what you need for the whole trip--wash and wear and shop!!!