u/djillll

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some recommendations on destinations for a trip with a group of friends and their partners. We'd be around 8-10 people in total and spread all over the world (California, Belgium, Dubai, Canada, and the Philippines), so accessibility is something we'll need to consider.

Our initial idea was Bali. The plan was to rent a large villa and spend a week hanging out together while doing a few activities. The challenge is that about half the group has already been there several times. For others, including myself, Bali isn't necessarily a bucket-list destination.

I'm not particularly interested in heavy tourism, overpriced attractions, influencer culture, or some of the stereotypes Bali has become known for. I'd much rather find a destination that's a bit more authentic, affordable, and easygoing while still offering plenty to do.

I've been looking at a few alternatives:

* **Lombok**: Seems more relaxed and less crowded than Bali, but I'm wondering if it might be *too* quiet. We still enjoy going out for drinks, live music, bars, and the occasional night out.
* **Chiang Mai**: I've heard great things, although I've only been to Bangkok. Not sure if it would provide enough nightlife and social activities for a larger group, and I've heard it's become fairly touristy.
* **Chengdu, China**: This is currently my favorite option. Amazing food, relatively inexpensive accommodation, lots of bars and nightlife, and it appears to be less tourist-focused than many Southeast Asian destinations.

Does anyone have experience with these places or other recommendations that might fit what we're looking for?

We're all in our late 30s to 40s and looking for somewhere that is:

* Lively but not a party destination
* Not overly touristy
* Reasonably affordable
* Good food and nightlife
* Interesting culture and things to explore
* Suitable for a group villa or similar accommodation

I'd love to hear any suggestions or insights. Thanks in advance!

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some recommendations on destinations for a trip with a group of friends and their partners. We'd be around 8-10 people in total and spread all over the world (California, Belgium, Dubai, Canada, and the Philippines), so accessibility is something we'll need to consider.

Our initial idea was Bali. The plan was to rent a large villa and spend a week hanging out together while doing a few activities. The challenge is that about half the group has already been there several times. For others, including myself, Bali isn't necessarily a bucket-list destination.

I'm not particularly interested in heavy tourism, overpriced attractions, influencer culture, or some of the stereotypes Bali has become known for. I'd much rather find a destination that's a bit more authentic, affordable, and easygoing while still offering plenty to do.

I've been looking at a few alternatives:

• Lombok: Seems more relaxed and less crowded than Bali, but I'm wondering if it might be too quiet. We still enjoy going out for drinks, live music, bars, and the occasional night out.
• Chiang Mai: I've heard great things, although I've only been to Bangkok. Not sure if it would provide enough nightlife and social activities for a larger group, and I've heard it's become fairly touristy.
• Chengdu, China: This is currently my favorite option. Amazing food, relatively inexpensive accommodation, lots of bars and nightlife, and it appears to be less tourist-focused than many Southeast Asian destinations.

Does anyone have experience with these places or other recommendations that might fit what we're looking for?

We're all in our late 30s to 40s and looking for somewhere that is:

• Lively but not a party destination
• Not overly touristy
• Reasonably affordable
• Good food and nightlife
• Interesting culture and things to explore
• Suitable for a group villa or similar accommodation

I'd love to hear any suggestions or insights. Thanks in advance!