Where to go for an end-of-uni trip?

The problem with tropical South-East Asia and Oceania is that this is smack in the middle of the rainy season, and also the cyclone season across much of this region. Since it coincides with our own summer holidays it's peak time for visitors from Australia so cheapness and freedom from crowds are not easy.

My first and best choice would be Sri Lanka. A little further than where you're thinking but the weather in January and February is great in most of the areas you'd be likely to visit, prices are reasonable and Sinhalese culture is all pervasive and highly photogenic. The beaches rate as some of Asia's best, relaxation is a given and the country still has novelty value, at least for most Australian travellers.

On the downside, this is also prime time for tourism in Sri Lanka and you can expect plenty of visitors, many of them escaping Europe's deep winter chill.

Most journeys in Sri Lanka involve a circular route in a clockwise direction from Colombo, and five weeks would give you plenty of time to explore the ancient cities of the interior, Kandy and the tea country, Galle and the beaches of the south-west coast.

My second pick would be India, focusing on the states of Rajasthan for the culture and Goa for the beach and relaxation chapters.

Wherever you decide on you should book now, the cheaper airline seats will be disappearing as travellers firm up their plans and aircraft seats fill.