Fiji Vs Bali Vs Thailand vs Maldives

Hello all

I know there's an ongoing thread on Tahiti and Oceania region.

I thought I'd start another one as I would like some expert opinion on these as non revs.

We are a young couple looking to travel east. We have been to Australia/NZ/Hawaii but now want to explore something more tropical. Our dates for travelling are from Oct 17-Oct 28.
We currently reside in greater Detroit area. We are not looking to spend a fortune but can spend a little for a nice vacation. Snorkeling is probably one of our favorite activities, other than checking out local restaurants and relaxing on beaches.
We'd ideally love to go to Fiji or Maldives but being nonrevs, we may be out of luck and might have to spend a fortune. We're also considering Bali and Thailand. Problem is that we're on a tight schedule and are not sure what'll be best for us.
We'd love to hear from seasoned non revs here about getting in and out of these places, considering the fact that we live in the Midwest, as well as accommodations and your experience overall.

Thanks!

Hi Samzaidi,

My wife and I are going to BKK as nonrevs. We were thinking of going to Fiji at one point but it looked like we were going to be spending more time in the air than we want to. MRS767 gave me some pointers that were very helpful so id contact her or any of the others for help.

Bali waters are kind of murky. If you want snorkeling, I'd recommend PALAU. Nice clear blue waters. Saipan had some nice snorkeling as well, along with Guam and the Marianas. But Palau takes the cake. Bali is a party place. Kuta beach but most activities regarding the ocean is usually surfing there. Not good for snorkeling. I can't speak for Thailand though I'm sure some of those islands there are nice for that.

Nonrev from Detroit to Japan. NRT or KIX, from there, you can go just about anywhere in Asia. Thailand, Philippines, Bali, Guam. There is an island hopper from Hawaii that goes to Guam via several small islands. Like Pohnpaei, Korsae, Kwajelien, Johnston Atoll, Chuuk, Here is an interesting web site, but you need LOTS OF TIME to do this and some flexible schedule. I'd take the island hop and go to at least POHNPEI. Check this out. I have never done this route, but I wouldn't mind just checking out Pohnpei at least for NAN MADOL.

United Island Hopper: HNL-MAJ-KWA-KSA-PNI-TKK-GUM | Milepoint