Thailand or Japan... did anyone go to either of these for the HM?

MMRoberts11

My FI and I are thinking of possibly going to Thailand or Japan.  If we go to Thailand we are thinking of staying in Chiang Mai and if we go to Japan we are thinking of Kyoto.  Has anyone been to either of these places?  What did you think?

kaesha

I lived in Japan for two years and LOVE Kyoto. Seriously, one of my favourite places. I've been to Thailand too, and it's gorgeous, but my heart belongs in Japan (it's where I met my husband).

What season are you thinking of going? I'd definitely do more than just hang out in Kyoto... fly in to either Osaka or Tokyo, take the bullet train to Kyoto and make sure you do a day trip (at least!) to Nara. If you have 10 days, I'd also take a trip south down to Hiroshima and Miyajima. Let me know if you have any more questions.

kelseydjames

I've been to thailand, my grandmother lives in Chiang Mai. I can't give an opinion on Japan, I've never been there, but there is something magical about Thailand.

mandrake1964

That's a tough one.  Thailand is amazing, but both times I've been there it's involved a backpack and lots of bug bits.  That being said, I wouldn't consider it an ideal honeymood destination.  I am very fond of Japan and I found it to be very romantic in a subtle way.  And no backpacks, so that would make it a winner if I were trying to choose a honeymoon. 

john&julie

I am definitely looking forward to more responses on this board - my fiance and I are planning to go to both Thailand and Japan for our honeymoon, so please keep your comments coming!

aylakate

I haven't been to Japan but I went to Thailand in October 2007 and LOVED it! We spent 3 days in Bangkok and 8 days in Phuket (Katathani Resort). We did a day trip to Phi Phi Island which was beautiful, I want to go back and stay there! I've also heard amazing things about Chiang Mai.

I would recommend Thailand 100%. Friendly people, great food, amazing beaches oh, and not to mention the shopping!

dandywarhol

Ooh, tough decision!  I think you would enjoy either.  I would give thought to what type of people you are (urban vs. nature) and what do you enjoy doing (hiking, shopping, sightseeing, etc.)

We are thinking of either Thailand or a combo trip to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.  I'm having difficulties deciding on that one!

Brody2011

I have been to Thailand, but spent all my time in the islands. Most beautiful place ever and cheap with great food. Chang mai I hear is great but its in the mountains and no beach. I would highly reccomend island hopping!

kaesha

I agree, Japan can be romantic too. It's really easy to get around there and customer service in that country is insanely amazing.

Aylakate - My first trip to Thailand, that's where I went too! We got our open water scuba licenses in Phuket. It was pretty amazing... although it was right after the tsunami, so the coral was a total wreck.