I can fully recommend the XLV 1000 Varadero, and the success of this bike in the European market speaks volumes, as it is Honda's best seller in various EU countries. It is no doubt one of the best touring bikes on the market.
It is the most comfortable touring bike I've ever ridden, and although its riding comfort will no doubt be matched by other bikes such as GoldWings, those bikes won't come near it in terms of cornering ability. When in Europe, I enjoy the luxury of being able to choose between several bikes (BMW GS1150Adv & Funduro 650, KLR650, XT350, XLV1000), and I can say that the Varadero is by far my preferred choice for touring in EU, as it offers far more fun and comfort. The BMW GS1150A is no comparison for the XLV, as it doesn't even come close to the XLV in terms of performance (the XLV just blows it away in acceleration!) and comfort. Even the newer GS1200 that I tried, which was a lot more fun than the GS1150, is still no match for the fun and comfort offered by the XLV
Two years ago I even took the Varadero on a track day on a race track in northern France, and although too softly sprung for flat-out riding around a track, it handles surprisingly well. I've taken it on several trips into the mountains in France, and I've never had more fun riding the twisting mountain roads than on the XLV.
Its only immediate competitors are the Suzuki 1000 V-Strom, Aprilia 1000 Capo Nord, Triumph Tiger, KTM 950/990Adv and the BMW1200GS. The KTM and V-strom have quite a bit more horsepower than the Varadero, but are less comfortable due to less wind protection (and saddle of KTM). No opinion on the Aprilia and Triumph, as I've never tried them.
I've been riding both XLV models, the early model with the carb and the later injection model. I prefer the later model as its suspension is better, the early model was too soft.
For long distance 2 up road riding, the Varadero is far superior to the AT. Of course, as you said, off road the AT would be the preferred choice. The question is, how much dirt riding are you planning to do 2 up and with luggage? I've taken the Varadero off road, and it is not very dirt worthy as it is far too heavy for tackling sand, mud and deep ruts. This said it'll handle very well on a nicely graded gravel road or fire trail with the right tyres.
The XLV engine is bullet proof and certainly more reliable and cheaper in maintenance than a BMW GS. The latter is not surprising given the exorbitant prices that BMW currently charges for parts and service.
If off road capability is not high on your priorities, the Varadero will put a big smile on your face for years to come. If the ability to tour off road is important for you, you are better off buying an AT or KTM950/990. Of course, performance wise (in terms of power, braking, chassis and suspension), the AT is no comparison for the KTMs. But I'm afraid you won't get a KTM, even if you can find one in Thailand, with the budget you have in mind. A viable and good alternative would be the V-Strom if you can find one. The GS1200 is available in Thailand, but is beyond your budget, and is in no way more dirt worthy and far less comfortable on-road than the XLV.
I don't know what your experience is riding trails and tracks in this part of the world, but dirt roads are rarely well maintained here, and often in bad condition with lots of deep ruts cut out by the rain. I ride mainly dirt bikes here (even race enduros), and in my experience long distance touring on a big heavy dual purpose bike with a passenger and luggage on badly rutted, sandy, rocky, or muddy mountain tracks is not my idea of fun. And I strongly doubt your passenger will enjoy it much. But to each his own I guess...
This said, whatever you end up buying, what matters most is to go out and ride the damn thing!
Good luck!
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