miloworld

Based in HKG, 2.5 weeks ain't that much to go around Asia.

Since you're from NYC in the middle of a snowstorm,

I would start off at a beach resort location, Thailand;
then somewhere still hot with resorts but carries a city vibe, Singapore;
and then a city definitely not to miss, Hong Kong;
An optional day trip to Macau for the resorts/casinos, 1/2 landmarks
Definitely spend some time in unique cities in Japan;
Then end with a place of discovery, Vietnam, India or Cambodia;

Skip Malaysia, Macau if you had a chance to visit Casinos in SIN but I would go just for Sheraton Macao, the biggest in the world, it's stunning.

I would spend most time in Japan but you could pick a choice exotic location.
Skip South Korea if you'd visit Japan, would be a similar experience for a foreigner.
and no huge LG TVs or PSY dancing as expected.

Disclaimer: I've never been to Vietnam, India, SK or Cambodia

I would suggest:
HKT/BKK (4 days) > SIN (3) > HKG/Macau (4) > HND+KIX (5-6) > Choice (2)
= 18-19 days

Adjusted for direct flights from NYC to HKG or NRT:
HKG + Macau (4 days) > HKT/BKK (4) > SIN (3) > Choice (2) > KIX + NRT (5-6)

*pts burning potentials:
Naka LC, Phuket
W Hong Kong (or Ritz HK if you're really feeling it)
Sheraton Macao
SIN - none (Go for Marina Bay Sands, trust me)
Sheraton Grande Tokyo (if visiting Disney only)
SR Osaka

jamesgbbc

These are some great ideas so far!

I will update when I get around to looking at bookings...

jamesgbbc

I've had a bit of time to look across various threads... what do people think of the following idea?

Do suggest your favorite hotels as there's so many to choose from!

Fly into and out of HKG on CX from NYC. Would be in Biz class as far as I can see.

3 nights in Hong Kong at W

Then on to Bangkok.

3 Nights Bangkok

3 Chang Mai / Chang Rai ? (Worth doing both? Easy to get between the two?)

2 Nights Koh Samui

Then onto Siem Reap in Cambodia for 2 or 3 nights

Finally ending in Macau for two nights before leaving back from Hong Kong.


I only have miles with OW carriers.

A couple of things... is it worth stopping in Vietnam at all as its so close to Cambodia?

Others have suggested I should surely see Singapore whilst I'm in the area but it looks a bit out of the way when everything else is comparatively near.

The beach part at Koh Samui is not a must for me... but if there are any other suggestions I'd love to hear.

Same too for any property advice. I have mainly SPG but a few HH and Mariott points could be burned.

miloworld

I would do 1-2 nights less in Thai cities, they carry similar atmospheres. Contribute those days to HK, much more to see and EAT here.

Also do Macau during HK stay. Bring short trip clothes and store big bags at W HK. Will make travel much more easier and efficient.