Hi.

I have a wedding in BKK to attend from the eastern USA December 16. The closest I've been is HKG, so outside of preliminary reading I am mostly unfamiliar.

A friend and I would like to consider visiting the usual places (Chang Mai, Phuket, Ko Samui, Angkor Wat, Bali, etc are in play) over 2weeks+. If it matters, I am more of a historical/natural-wonders (eg elephant/hill-people) traveller and less of a city/shopping traveller.

We are flexible enough to travel: a) first half of December, b) second half of December, c) or straddle the wedding in the middle.

I am hoping those knowledgable about holidays, crowds, tourist demand could help me choose our timing wisely. For instance, I've been told by the wife-to-be (who is Thai) that there's a holiday in early Dec; however, she couldn't predict whether that made it a better or worse time to go.

Bonus question: I'm looking to fly TG or SQ out of NYC. Can those familiar with pricing levels between now and December tell me when -- in general -- the best time to buy airfare would be (or is the price steady)?

Thanks much.