For much of the past decade, Thailand has been the envy of other Southeast Asian countries. Its landscapes and the image that it projects to the world make it an easily marketable tourist destination. In 2007, nearly 14 million international visitors arrived in the Land of Smiles. However, political instability is now threatening to end the country’s tourism renaissance.

The 2008 clash between supporters of opposing political parties led to an occupation of the country’s main airport by protestors. Tourists were left stranded or forced to find alternative exit points. Surprisingly, the industry bounced back rather quickly, only to suffer again in early 2010, when police and army soldiers clashed with civilian protesters throughout the country, leading to brief gunfights in popular tourist areas. This final round of instability might prove too much for Thailand-bound tourists to overlook.

This is especially true because other regional destinations are gaining popularity. There are plenty of options for those who want a stand-in for fun-and-frenzied Bangkok or tropical-idyllic coastal Thailand.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the cultural capitol of Malaysia, is known for its cheap luxury hotels. It is not the budget backpacker mecca that Bangkok is, but its cosmopolitan flare, nightlife and eating scene are equal to Thailand’s capitol. Despite a more conservative government, the city boasts plenty of after-sun fun, with major party centers like Bukit Bintang attracting a diverse mix of revelers.

Jakarta

Jakarta is the only city in Southeast Asia that eclipses Bangkok’s chaotic energy. If you are looking for the no-holds-barred urban experience that some of Bangkok’s neighborhoods are famous for, you will find everything and more in Indonesia’s capitol. From thumping nightclubs to sleazy bars to huge concerts, Jakarta is the alternative to the Thai capitol when it comes to having a true Southeast Asian urban experience.

Sihanoukville

Cambodia’s top beach resort city is a quiet but growing alternative to the region’s more popular and developed sun-and-sand destinations. It is fast becoming a popular spot, but is not nearly as crowded as Thailand’s best beaches. Budget-conscious travelers would be hard-pressed to find beachside guesthouses that don’t fit into the $10-$50 price range.

Kep

Cambodia’s other coastal getaway is an undiscovered (or recently rediscovered) gem. Kep is a former colonial luxury resort town that has become a destination for backpackers and hipsters seeking a laid-back stretch of sand where everything is cheap, save rooms at the few luxury hotels left over from the colonial era. The town is known for its fresh seafood and the plethora of reasonably-priced seaside accommodations: $5-$35 will get you a bed in a room with a view of the water.

Penang

Bangkok’s food scene is one of its greatest traits. Those who were planning to head to the Land of Smiles for its curries, papaya salads and hearty, fiery noodle dishes might want to try the region’s other culinary hotspot: Penang, Malaysia. Because of its proximity to Thailand, the street stalls and restaurants of Penang feature plenty of familiar flavors to Thai food lovers. However, there is much more diversity in Penang, with various Indian, Malay and Chinese cuisines creating an almost unbelievable mix of eating options.

Singapore and the Riau Islands

Singapore’s diverse food scene is more pricey than the region’s other food stall hot spots, but it is by no means unreasonable. The nearby Riau Islands, part of the island nation of Indonesia, are a favorite beach destination for Singaporeans as well as regional travelers. The infrastructure is fairly good, meaning a hassle-free tropical beach vacation is possible.

Hainan

China’s only tropical island is undergoing a major renaissance. Its tourism industry is growing and the island is becoming a resort destination for regional and international jetsetters, not merely for mainlanders looking for a weekend away from their smoggy cities.

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Kuala Lumpur: Zzclef

Sanya Yalong Bay: Jakob Montrasio