Very solid advice. We have traveled to India four times or so by now. The first time, we focused on Rajasthan - Delhi, Agra, Fathepur Sikri, Jaipur and Udaipur. The Mughul sites are fantastic. The second time, we got a pass on Indian Airlines (no idea if they still offer it) that allowed us a certain number of flights at a set price. We then did a loop that included Calcutta, Madras, Mysore, Mumbai, and Goa. Throw in a business trip or two and fast forward to our last trip. This time, we picked up the more remote Rajasthani cities of Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. We then flew down to the Kerala region of India, which we loved.

Rajasthan is awesome for culture.

Kerala is great for natural beauty.

But I have to say budget travel in India is not for the faint of heart - and western level comfort comes at a significant price. If you are finding Japan too expensive, you'd best draw up a budget for India before you emotionally commit.

As for China, beware the pollution in any large city. It's horrible. If you decide on China, Shanghai is a great place to base yourself. You can easily take the train to Suzhou and Hangzhou. Beijing has a lot to see and do. If you are redeeming Star Alliance miles, you can do a trip into Beijing and out of Shanghai, with a connecting flight between, all on the same award itinerary.

Have you been to Vietnam? I love it. You could have an awesome trip there.