im ment to be heading to thailand on 23/05/10 but given the current riots and political situation im really thinking about giving it miss if it doesnt return to normal soon.

but ive also been looking at other countries in the area, such as malaysia and bali but ive been put off. after reading that its not as relaxed as thailand. would i have trouble drinking, partying and heading into rural areas as they are both muslim states? any suggestions thanks

Not sure which part of Thailand you intend to visit and if it's for holiday or work or whatever. I can tell you that I am currently staying in Phuket, Thailand. There is absolutely NOTHING untoward going on here. If you're just coming for a holiday, then GO. It's a great place for a holiday. Just don't go to Bangkok at the moment.

Trouble with UK is that they've put out a blanket message. It's a bit like if there were riots, etc going on in say Newcastle, saying don't go to the UK. It's a bit silly really.

I've never been to Bali though others say it is fabulous. I thought Bali was mainly Christian? Certainly no problems with booze.

Malaysia you can drink, maybe not in the North-east corner which is very Malay (muslim). Other parts are fine. Enjoy!

ok cheers thats been a big help. im heading all over thailand and phuket is one of my stops would you suggest any where to stay? and my mistake about bali it is christian i got confused as most of indonesia is muslim. thanks for your help

I lived in Bali for a while and would never want to return, but many people love it, the Australians party hard in the resort of Kuta its a No1 destination for them.
Not sure what you are looking for if you want fun, booze and beaches then Kuta or possibly Jimbaran Bay area.

I was in Candi Dasa for a while thats a very tranquil and beautiful resort area where you can get away from everything.

why dont you just stay home then? after all, wales is loads of fun.

Come on.
You've been to Wind Street on a Saturday night????????

For me just come back from Malaysia.
We like it.

No problem going to Phuket.

Been to Bali a year after the bombing there in which a good mate of mine was killed.
But won't go there at the moment, or anywhere else in Indonesia although I really want to try out so many places there.

Well I don't know you obviously, so I don't know what you like/dislike. There's the sleeze of Patong if that's your thing. If you want quietish and nice beaches/views, Cape Panwa, Mai Khao, Nai Harn, Kata Noi. Kata, Karon are a bit livelier. Some like Rawai. If you want VERY quiet, try the north-east of Phuket - lots of golfing up there too. Take your pick.

Bali is a tourist trap, Lobok is a gem as well but much more relaxed.

20 years ago in Lombok we found the smell of horse manure too overpowering and off putting.
Dunno if it's changed.

Which part did you go to?

Just a short trip to Desaru

Actually Bali is mostly Hindu....but a very different and unique form of Hinduism compared to how it is practised in India.

The main problem with the FCO giving out travel warnings against travelling to Thailand is that it will almost certainly invalidate any travel insurance! Do check carefully with your travel insurer...

As others have mentioned here, Kuta in Bali is 'party central' with loads of Aussie & British/European backpackers...probably the reason it was the terrorist target a few years ago as it was seen by the extremists as too decadent .

No problem with drinking alcohol in Bali - the local Indonesian "Bintang" beer is pretty good but all imported wines and spirits are expensive due to taxes on them.

We were in Bali just before Christmas last year (our 3rd time there); loads to do in the rural areas, walking/trekking, cycling, white-water rafting etc. and the beauty of the rice terraces is breathtaking. I much prefer Bali to Phuket because of the culture and countryside, although the beaches in Thailand are nicer than Bali's.

Its not the same horse now.

thanks for all the advice guys its been a big help and for the record im going for a good time and see some beauitful coast line and different cultures. and yes ex reg i am a regular on wind street but swansea is no where near as hot and sunny as the far east. il run all this info and advice past my friends and see where they want to go. cheers