Keeping this on a friendly even keel, I would have to agree with some of what you say here. But 'water speculations' no; and 'irrational fear mongering' no.

The medical specialties most applicable to and competent in these areas would probably be Travel Medicine and Infectious Diseases. Why do experts in both these areas unhesitatingly and strongly and consistently recommend taking diligent specific precautions with water and food in these parts of the world, especially the more rural areas?

Why do the same medical professionals also say that these precautions are unnecessary in Tasmania, mainland Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and mainland USA?

They strike me as being both quite rational, and well informed scientifically and medically.

And this is what they say.

You might put Thailand in the #1 spot. Others, including this one over here, would not. I didn't find it that interesting. I much prefer Hawaii, among other places.

I find Mayan culture, people, and architecture fascinating; and the Yucatan would be on my short list. Others may not share the interest. People differ.

The more I thought about it, the more it seemed advisable for Dmitri to reduce the number of things that could go wrong, or the chances of things going wrong, especially for this introductory tour. I think Tasmania and New zealand and even the Australian mainland could be combined, or any one of these done on its own. Mainland USA has its possibilities as well.

And there is a long list of fascinating possibilities in Hawaii, including swimming or sailing with dolphins, manta ray night dives, world class snorkeling and scuba diving, active erupting volcanoes and lava rivers, otherworldly walks around Kilauea, excellent hiking and backpacking, multiple and varied islands, great camping and other accommodations, wonderful beaches and water recreation, easy communication, and a long list of other things.

And objective, rational experts agree that the drinking water and food in all of these places -- including Hawaii and Downunder -- have substantially fewer potential adverse health concerns or pitfalls.

If she enjoys this one, maybe she'll want more. As she gains skill and confidence, maybe they can do more together, and step up the challenges. A step by step approach seems best. And providing her with a good or a great initial or introductory experience seems like an excellent thing to keep in mind.

Peace to all.