For anyone who has vacationed in both places, which one of these two did you prefer and why? Which would you go back to and which do you say "OK been there, done that, don't need to go again". I know they are two entirely different parts of Asia with different cultures and food and it's a tough comparison to make. I have been to most SE Asian countries on vacation and am looking for somewhere different to go in Asia. We will be going to Indonesia, to Java and Bali in August and have been to peninsular Malaysia for a 10 day vacation 15 years ago. WE have not been to India.

Our travel style is middle level of hotels, nice 3-4 star local places. We won't be staying at luxury resorts, that is not important in a vacation. We like having a private tour with a driver/guide taking us around part of the time. We do not like big group tours. We are fine with trains and local flights between cities.

We are looking for a trip with wildlife, some outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking as we are physically fit and active for our ages (58-63) We also want to experience local culture, temples, museums.

One note for me is about food: I cannot eat spicy food with chilies and curries. The cuisine and food part of a vacation is important for me. My husband not so much.

Our time frame to travel is the first half of 2014. As I will be using FF miles, it's about time to start making decisions if we wanted to go in Feb. or March.

Comments and advice please.