Yes, the first time i travelled to SE Asia was about 8 years ago. I travelled for 6 months and I had a ball!! You could imagine! Since then i have lived and worked mostly in Asia. So, I can't blame any bloke who goes to Thailand and has a blast. I am just past it all now or just grown out of it. A lot of men don't and good luck to them.
Whenever i go to Thailand I usually stay in Sukhamvit. I know the area, it is a bit like what we posted earlier, but it is a familiar area with the sky rail and all of the western shops that i need (that i don't usually get). I also go there because of Bumrungrad Hospital which is where i get my yearly check ups.
Yet to get to the Phillipines. Not sure why, but it's just that Manila has never had appeal when Bkk is just as accessible. Would love to try some of the places you go to. Would be interested to see what you think. I love Hong Kong!!!
If you need Vietnam advice, i can help you on that one :)