I'm pretty much doing that. Reading books in Thailand, enjoying life, learning another language. Tip: If in Bangkok, then get your books at Dasa Book Cafe (google it).

Really if you do not party all the time and decide to live in the non tourist areas then besides having a great experience you don't burn a lot of money either.

I'd say that living in a non western culture for a while will actually help you in your career later on as it puts things in perspective.