Laos is less crowded, more economical, and a slower paced lifestyle. See http://www.worldhum.com/features/ask-rolf-potts/given-the-dire-economy-should-i-travel-overseas-this-year-20090401/. From the article:

Asia

If you don’t mind running into other backpackers every day, Thailand is the obvious choice in Asia. Bangkok is a major flight hub and recent political troubles have scared people off, so airfare deals are frequent. (Just be sure to check the latest security reports before going.) It’s an easy place to travel around and there’s an excellent infrastructure of cheap hotels ($5 to $15 a night for a basic double), direct buses, a good train network, and local travel agencies who can sort it all out for a minimal fee. If the crowds get to be too much, just hop over the border to Laos, which is like stepping back in time to a simpler age—and even lower prices.