This September, my partner and I are heading to North Sulawesi for 3 weeks. Our international flight is with Malaysia Airlines, departing from Paris. We have a layover in KL, then fly to Denpasar, followed by a domestic flight from Denpasar to Manado. We land in Bali Denpasar on 05/09 around 12:00 PM, and our flight to Manado is on 07/09 at 1:30 AM. The plan was to have at least one night (from the 5th to the 6th of September) between our international flight and our flight to Manado, just to recharge a bit since we're not 20 anymore 😛. My question is, given the very short stop in Bali (a day and a half), is it better to stay in Denpasar rather than go to Ubud for the night? I’ve been to Bali before, and from what I remember, even though the distances are short, transfers take a long time because of the extremely heavy traffic—but I was there in July, not September. I’m not sure if that makes a big difference?
If the answer is "it’s better to stay in Denpasar," are there any nice places to visit? There’s very little feedback about the city since tourists usually don’t stick around.
Thanks in advance for your replies.
Thanks for your reply. You're absolutely right about the issue you mentioned with the "conurbation."
We’ll give it a bit more thought, but yeah, in Ubud we might find some peace in the surrounding rice fields.
My question is, given the very short stop in Bali (a day and a half), is it better to stay in Denpasar rather than go sleep in Ubud?
Neither. I’d head to the seaside in Jimbaran—it’s only 15 minutes from the airport. Nothing extraordinary, but you can find some peace, eat fish on the beach, and there are a few nice places to stay right by the water.
Instead of dealing with the traffic jams, I’d also recommend taking a day to relax in Jimbaran: colorful fishing boats arrive in the morning at the north end of the beach, unloading their catch, followed by a fish market right on the sand. It’s a great way to ease into the local vibe when you first arrive.
The same boats head out again in the afternoon.
Sunset dinner on the beach at one of the many seafood spots—so relaxing!
Okay, thanks for the info. So if I understand correctly, Jimbaran isn’t just a beach resort area lined with hotels—that’s good to know because that’s the image I had in mind. I don’t know this part of Bali at all. I’ll check out accommodation options in the area.
I had a nice place to stay at Jimbaran Aahh Bali bed and breakfast, but apparently they’ve moved.
Now there’s just Jimbaran Lotus House Villa… same owners but probably run differently…
No dining options, I guess…
Now there's Jimbaran Lotus House Villa... same owners but probably managed differently...
No dining options, likely...
It seems to be apartments. Hard to say exactly what kind of services they offer and at what price since I couldn’t find a website.
For one night, I’m looking for something simple—preferably a room—and at a reasonable price.
So if I understand correctly, Jimbaran isn't just a beach resort area lined with resorts—that's good to know because I had that image in mind.
Well, Jimbaran, south of the airport, isn't a tiny lost village, but it's not the string of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and clubs like Kuta, Legian, and Canggu north of the airport either.
There are a few hotels and guesthouses, plus some local homes still around. I find this beach pretty calm and nice.
Okay, got it. Thanks.
I just took a look at your travel journal about Sulawesi, which I’d already read a few years ago before the forum closed. I’ll probably have some practical questions for you in the coming days and weeks about planning our trip. 😉
But maybe it’s better if I ask them directly in your thread or start a separate topic. Not sure, we’ll see.
I agree with other contributors—Jimbaran is the perfect stop for a short stay near the airport (30 mins). A long sandy beach lined with coconut trees and little makeshift shacks. Fewer tourists than in Sanur, which is also chosen for its proximity to the airport but packed with resort lovers and noise, where you can easily blow your last rupiahs.
Thanks. Well, I think all the advice is pointing in the same direction. I’ve started looking at accommodations, and the prices are all over the place, but mostly on the higher side—even really high 🤪.
If anyone has a good place at a reasonable price, I’m all ears. 😉
I feel like prices have almost doubled everywhere. At least in Jimbaran, I hadn’t seen prices like this six years ago...
When I think that Indonesia (including Bali) used to be one of the cheapest countries in the world, along with India, Pakistan, and Nepal! Now we’re at the same rates as France—or almost...
I don’t know about Jimbaran in particular (never been), but 10 years ago we found small guesthouses at very affordable prices—even really low ones—with no problem for all our stops on the island, and with good service.
After taking a look around Ubud, it still seems possible to find a night at a more than reasonable price. But you’ve got to consider the taxi fare, which will definitely be pricier than for Jimbaran, so the choice isn’t easy.
Which platform did you find those rates on? Booking?
I started by typing "where to stay in Jimbaran" and came across several search engines with varying prices. When I click on offers, most redirect me to Booking. So I redid the search, asking it to sort offers from cheapest to most expensive (some are even under 20 €).
I just took a look at your travel journal about Sulawesi, which I had already read a few years ago before the forum closed. I’ll probably have some practical questions for you in the coming days and weeks about planning our trip. 😉
But maybe it’s better if I ask them directly in your thread or start a separate topic. I’m not sure, we’ll see.
Hi Annabelle,
I remember we exchanged messages in my travel journal Crossing the Celebes (Sulawesi) in photos.
For new questions, it’d be better to open a new topic—I think you’ll have a better chance of getting answers from other forum members than if you post your questions in my journal.
You’re right—we *did* exchange messages about Sulawesi before. Back then, I was planning a trip with my teenage son, and it was actually your story that sparked my interest in discovering that part of the world. That was in 2020, the year of the pandemic, and well… we all know how that turned out. The plan fell through.
Now I’ve revived the project, but this time with my partner, who’s never been to Asia. Sulawesi will be their gateway to discovering this amazing continent. 😉
Ubud (...) . But you do have to consider the taxi fare.
Like many, I think Jimbaran would be a better option for your case. However, regarding Ubud, you mention taxis as if they’re the only choice. But there’s a practical and much cheaper alternative: the four daily shuttles from Ubud to the airport run by Perama at 7 AM, 11 AM, 3:30 PM, and 6 PM, with an estimated travel time of 1 hour 45 minutes. The current cost for September is 115,000 IDR/5.75 €. This option only works in this direction because at the airport, they’re only allowed to drop off passengers, not pick them up (for the return trip, you’d need to take the shuttle from Kuta).
https://peramatour.com/b/en/shuttle-bus for info only—no need to book too far in advance. Note that the airport is only available as a destination.
Project revived, but this time with my partner who doesn’t know Asia at all. Sulawesi will be his gateway to discovering this wonderful continent 😉
Starting your Asian adventure in Sulawesi—your partner won’t be disappointed 🙂
Even if I’m not ranking Indonesian islands, Sulawesi is definitely one of my favorites. It’s not just beautiful (like the others), but especially diverse: culture (Toraja, Minahasa), beaches (Bira area), dream islands (Togians, Banggai), snorkeling/diving (Togians, Bunaken/Siladen, Banggai, Donggala, Selayar), a few volcanoes (less spectacular than in Java or Flores) around Manado, Lake Tempe villages, megaliths of Lore Lindu, treks in Toraja country... You’ll have enough to keep busy for weeks 😛😎
Thanks for the info and the price. I did mention taxis because they’re the easiest and most flexible option, but of course the shuttle can be a much cheaper good deal. For now, we’re leaning toward Jimbaran—the more we think about it, the less we want to end up in Ubud’s hustle and bustle.
I actually found a hotel in Jimbaran right near the beach that fits the budget we want to spend for this night in Bali.
We’re sticking to the north for our 3-week trip, so we’ve had to make some choices. Still hoping we’ll have time to make it to the Togian Islands via Gorontalo, though. I’ve got a rough itinerary in mind, but nothing’s set in stone since we’re not booking hotels in advance—we’ll decide on the spot based on how we feel and whatever unexpected things come up. 😄
Just to let you know, I found a room in Jimbaran (now booked) for 18 €—breakfast not included—right near the beach. I think it’s the best value for money. There were cheaper options, but they either had a worse location or really bad reviews. Except for this hotel, if you want all the conditions (good location, decent amenities, comfort, good ratings, etc.), the price jumps up pretty quickly. So, it seems like (to be confirmed once I’m there, of course) a great compromise. At that price, you can’t ask for the moon either. 🙂
Thanks to everyone who helped me with my search. [;]
Just confirming—you're on the list. 😉
I’m like you—I don’t like making hotel reservations, and the rest of the trip will be spontaneous, but I usually like to secure the first and last night.
My question is, given the very short stop in Bali (a day and a half), is it better to stay in Denpasar rather than go sleep in Ubud?
Neither. I’d head to the seaside in Jimbaran—it’s only 15 minutes from the airport. Nothing exceptional, but you can find some peace, eat fish on the beach, and there are a few nice beachfront places to stay.
Ahh, grilled fish in Jimbaran at sunset 😎. The last evening of my honeymoon—memories, memories :P
Il n'y a pas de problème sans solution... et si il n'y a pas de solution, il n'y a pas de problème !
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I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling.
For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees?
We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo.
Thanks for your tips and help!
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi! I’m planning a 15-day trip to Malaysia. The idea is to visit KL for 2 or 3 days, then Borneo, and I’m wondering what to do with the rest of the time. I’d like to finish with the Perhentian Islands... What do you think? Any tips or advice would be great—I’d really appreciate it!
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before:
- Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees.
Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands.
Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way).
Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan.
Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide).
Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre.
Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island.
Day 10 – Head to Semporna.
Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai.
Day 15 – Bohey Dulang.
Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous.
I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing.
I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture.
But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary.
If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai?
Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai.
My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok:
No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna:
From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄).
Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM.
Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau:
Found this via AI—is it legit?
No online booking, as far as I can tell.
Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly????
And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Hi there,
we’ll be in Mai Chau in June and we’re thinking of heading to Sapa, but first spending a few days in Bac Ha to do some hiking and explore the area.
Is this a good idea for those who’ve been there?
How do you get there?
Thanks for your feedback.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there,
I’m planning an itinerary and would love some feedback on whether it’s doable and if the number of days per destination is enough—or too much. I was also debating whether to add an extra night on an island or spend an extra night in Kampot to visit Kep or Battambang.
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning
March 24: Phnom Penh
March 25: Phnom Penh
March 26: Depart for Kampot
March 27: Kampot
March 28: Depart for Battambang
March 29: Battambang
March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap
March 31: Siem Reap
April 1: Siem Reap
April 2: Siem Reap
April 3: Siem Reap
April 4: Siem Reap
April 5: Departure
Hi there,
Yesterday in the Thailand section, 100% of the new threads were just about beach destinations 😕...
So here’s the counterattack in the form of this photo thread, dedicated solely to the countryside: the locals, their livestock, fields, farms, rice paddies, small rivers, and agricultural machinery. If you’ve got any pictures that fit these categories, feel free to add them!
Comments welcome.
For each photo, I’ll (or you can) indicate the area where it was taken.
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta.
21/09: Borobudur
22/09: Prambanan
23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang)
24/09: Bromo
25/09: Kawa Ijen
26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran
27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran
28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk
29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk
30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk
01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud
02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud
03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud
04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo
05/10: Komodo cruise
06/10: Komodo cruise
07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo.
08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar
09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore
10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Hi everyone,
My girlfriend and I booked our tickets with Saudia Airlines for a trip to Thailand this summer, from July 5th to August 3rd. Given the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, we’re keeping a close eye on the news.
I was wondering if anyone here is in the same situation as us?
• Have you heard anything about possible mass cancellations or if the airline is still maintaining its routes to Asia?
• Are there any travelers who’ve recently returned who could tell us if air corridors have been changed (longer flight times)?
The idea is to know what to expect so we can prepare as best as possible. Thanks for your replies! !
