Too expensive, too dangerous, too smelly.
With the recklessness of youth, why not?
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Try entering your addresses into the Rome2Rio app—you’ll get a rough idea of the price.
Travel tip for getting around Asia: the GRAB app. It’s the local Uber, but for tuk-tuks.
The upside? No more haggling, and no surprises at the end.
Downside: you need a data connection...
"Le véritable voyage de découverte ne consiste pas à chercher de nouveaux paysages, mais à avoir de nouveaux yeux."
Marcel Proust
I downloaded Grab but I only see car taxis or motorbike taxis.
No tuk-tuks.
Honestly, I’ve only used it in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and you could select tuk-tuks there. Maybe you don’t have access to them in Thailand. Worth checking with the Thailand experts.
Tell me, I was wondering how you pay on Grab.
Directly through the app with a card, and Grab pays the driver?
You pay through the app by registering a credit card. Just be careful to use a card that doesn’t charge you fees (like BoursoBank or Revolut) because you pay for each ride.
"Le véritable voyage de découverte ne consiste pas à chercher de nouveaux paysages, mais à avoir de nouveaux yeux."
Marcel Proust
I found this on Google, not sure how accurate it is at all.
For this kind of app, I use a "burner" credit card—a free online account with only about a hundred euros on it, so no nasty surprises if it gets hacked.
Watch out in BKK—according to friends who went last year, tuk-tuk rides can quickly become a nightmare between the heat and pollution in traffic jams. They preferred taxis.
"Le véritable voyage de découverte ne consiste pas à chercher de nouveaux paysages, mais à avoir de nouveaux yeux."
Marcel Proust
I'm in Thailand right now and I can confirm that the Grab app lets you pay in cash directly to the driver.
Unfortunately, Grab isn’t efficient everywhere—especially in places like Samui where the taxi mafia rules the roost...
Also, watch out for the return trip. In January, the Hua Hin → Pranburi route was easy and cheap, but for the return trip in the late afternoon, no Grab driver accepted the ride...
For the tuk-tuk, it’d just be for a single ride.
I’ve already taken this kind of vehicle in Thailand and India, but my partner hasn’t!
Be careful when talking about a race: Three people were seriously injured when two tuk-tuks crashed while racing on a Bangkok road.
The two speeding tuk-tuks collided on a street in Bangkok late Monday, March 3, police said.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
(For now, the scariest mode of transport I’ve been in was a taxi in the United Arab Emirates. When I saw it going over 180 km/h, all I wanted was to get there... )
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
(So far, the scariest ride I’ve ever had was in a taxi in the United Arab Emirates.
When I saw it was going over 110 mph, I just wanted to get there...)
That was the mistake! When he saw you were in a hurry to arrive, he sped up!! 😎😛
One of the (rare) times I’ve been scared in a mode of transport was the driver who took us from Kasane to Victoria Falls.
I was in the passenger seat and the driver fell asleep twice while driving. I made him pull over and threatened to drive myself. The earful I gave him definitely woke him up for the rest of the trip
"Le véritable voyage de découverte ne consiste pas à chercher de nouveaux paysages, mais à avoir de nouveaux yeux."
Marcel Proust
Tip for getting around in Asia: the GRAB app. The local Uber but for tuk-tuks.
The advantage, no more haggling and no surprises at the end.
Downside: you need a network connection...
Hi,
Three times I tried to use Grab for a tuk-tuk or a songthaew, and when I got in touch with the driver, he asked for a much higher price than what Grab had shown—almost double. Then, when I protested, he started negotiating, haha!
Of course, I refused the ride.
The first time, I thought it was a one-off, but after three times...
And I stopped using GRAB...
But, well, that was in Tourist-City, also known as Chiang Mai
Tip for getting around in Asia: the GRAB app. The local Uber but for tuk-tuks.
The advantage: no more negotiating and no surprises at the end.
Downside: you need a network connection...
Hi,
Three times I tried to use Grab for a tuk-tuk or a songthaew, and when I got in touch with the driver, he asked for a much higher price than what Grab had shown—almost double. Then, when I protested, he started negotiating, haha!
Of course, I refused the ride.
The first time, I thought it was a one-off, but after three times...
And I stopped using GRAB...
But anyway, this was in Tourist-City, also known as Chiang Mai
Well, the good news is you *can* book a tuk-tuk with Grab...
About what you mentioned, I had this discussion with a driver in Phnom Penh:
The thing is, according to them, the app generates prices that are too low for rides (even though they’re based on averages). So drivers accept the rides on the app to "hook" the customer but refuse payment through the app so they can raise the price. Or they’re just nostalgic for the days of constant haggling...
I refused rides outside Grab, sticking to the principle that the app connected us and I didn’t want to negotiate for a ride... Sometimes the driver agreed, sometimes he turned around—probably depending on how his day was going...
"Le véritable voyage de découverte ne consiste pas à chercher de nouveaux paysages, mais à avoir de nouveaux yeux."
Marcel Proust
For the tuk-tuk, it would only be for a single ride.
I’ve already taken this kind of vehicle in Thailand and India, but my partner hasn’t!
So, why not the metro? I only used this mode of transport and loved it. Easy, comfortable... I didn’t do it to save money but for the convenience of being completely independent wherever I wanted to go.
P.S.: Did you see my message about the café? On another thread...
The metro isn’t like Paris—there aren’t lines everywhere.
Okay, tuk-tuks are a lot of fun and they weave through traffic better than taxis, but you really do pay double or triple what you would for an air-conditioned taxi.
We took them sometimes at first, but we often ended up with drivers who drove *very* aggressively. And there’s zero protection in those things.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
The metro isn’t like Paris—there aren’t lines everywhere.
Sorry, Joël, but the current lines, which keep getting extended (I already learned that during my stay), are more than enough for tourists and people just passing through who don’t need to go into local residential areas. Now, you can even take the metro to visit Chinatown, the Grand Palace, and everything around there. It’s not like what you experienced a few years ago when the boat was the best way to get to that area.
We’re only staying 2 nights in Bangkok and will be going where all the tourists go.
This area isn’t served by the metro.
Sorry, Agnes, but that’s a myth spread by pre-COVID paper guides, travelers who haven’t been there in ages, and outdated online sites... And probably also by those who have a vested interest in taxis and river shuttles not losing their tourist clientele. That was the first thing my accommodation owner told me: "You can’t get to the tourist center by metro or bus. You’ll have to take a taxi!!!" And I replied: "Then I’ll go by boat!" I saw right through him, the guy with his taxi commission.
I can tell you there are two or three metro stations right in that area. And since there’s plenty to see around there anyway, you’ll have to walk. Unless you’re one of those people—like many Thais—who need a car or public transport just to cross the street.
And how far is the metro station from the Grand Palais?
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
And how far is the metro station from the Grand Palais?
I’ve completely forgotten all that—I’d need to check a map, and more importantly, I’d need to remember the name of that station. You just have to cross the street to enter—through a side entrance—into the whole complex, because if I remember correctly, everything is connected... . But I’d need to confirm that because it’s a distant memory, and I don’t want to say something silly. Anyway, no, it’s not far, except for those who’d want the metro station to be right in front of the entrance—or better yet, why not in the courtyard of the Grand Palais? Might as well suggest it to the authorities managing the site. 😉
Please give me some time—I’ve just arrived... I shouldn’t have jumped in on this thread, but it made me jump when I read that there’s no metro access in this area.
I’ve got too much to handle right now, not least a "drinking water" issue at home that’s forcing me to buy 2-liter bottles. I’ve been without drinking water at home since I got back. Great, India!
And how far is the metro station from the Grand Palace?
Now I think I remember. The entrance I’m talking about on the other side of the street, right across from the metro, is the temple of the so-called Emerald Buddha—though it’s actually made of jade. Why do the Thais lie about it?
People visiting the Grand Palace, once inside the grounds, wander around on foot as far as I know... So starting with this temple and then going to the Grand Palace is basically the same thing, right?
If I’m talking nonsense, let me know. Maybe my memory’s playing tricks on me?
And how far is the metro station from the Grand Palace?
Here’s what I found:
Sanam Chai station is located in the middle of Rattanakosin Island, or Bangkok’s old town, which is a conservation area with historical significance. It can be considered the only station in the inner Rattanakosin Island (around the Royal Grand Palace) and is recognized as one of the four MRT stations with the most beautiful design (along with Itsaraphap, Sanam Chai, Sam Yot, and Wat Mangkon stations).
The interior is decorated with a theme from the early Rattanakosin era, designed by the Thai architecture expert and national artist Pinyo Suwankiri. The inside features Sadom pillars (main pillars), which are carved with tiles shaped like the Pikul flower, symbolizing prosperity. The edges of the pillars are adorned with lotus blossoms, with long curved petals leaning toward the center. The base of each large petal is carved with smaller petals and covered in gold leaf. The floor and walls resemble city walls, while the ceiling is painted with star-shaped stencils to evoke the atmosphere of a throne hall from the Rattanakosin era. The station has a higher ceiling than most MRT stations along the line because the ventilation system was installed on the side instead of directly above.
Exit 1 was specially designed by CH.Karnchang PLC without a roof and with custom escalators to avoid obstructing the view of the Siam Museum located behind the exit. [3] [4]
In addition to being in the heart of Rattanakosin Island, the station is also close to Wat Pho, Saranrom Park, Saranrom Palace, the Siam Museum, Pak Khlong Talat, Rajini School, Wat Ratchabopit, Wat Rajabopit School, Wat Ratchapradit, and more.
The MRT Sanam Chai station makes it easy for tourists to access Bangkok’s iconic attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Po Temple on the historic royal island of Rattanakosin, as well as the Bangkok riverside.
Here’s a list of other Bangkok attractions near a BTS or MRT station:
Grand Palace | Wat Po – Sanam Chai MRT
Wat Arun-Itsaraphap Station
Jim Thompson House – National Stadium BTS
Lebua State Tower (Sky Bar from *The Hangover*) – Saphan Taksin BTS
Lumphini Park – Silom MRT
Khao San Road – Sanam Chai MRT
Sukhumvit 11 Party Street – Nana BTS
Soi Cowboy – Asoke BTS and Sukhumvit MRT
Soi Nana and Nana Plaza – Nana BTS
Benjakiti Park – Asoke BTS or Sukhumvit MRT
Siam Paragon and IMAX Cinema – Siam BTS
Central World Mall – Chit Lom BTS
Emporium | Emquartier | Emsphere Malls – Phrom Phong BTS
Chatuchak Market – Mo Chit BTS and Chatuchak MRT
Ari Neighborhood – Ari BTS
River ferries and longtail boats for sightseeing – Saphan Taksin BTS
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Oh really? No thanks to me? I’ve been hammering for two days that the metro lets you reach the main tourist sites, while it’s been said it’s not possible... Plus, I spent time researching because I was afraid I’d said something stupid
I should know by now that I need to be super specific when I write something on the forum.
I’m aware of the metro extension.
Besides, I didn’t even ask any questions about it...
But:
-The closest metro station to my local place is several kilometers away—further than the Grand Palace...
-The entrance to the Grand Palace is a kilometer from the metro exit.
Anyway, for me to get to the Grand Palace, there are 5 options:
-On foot: about 2 kilometers. Not too far, and that would be the chosen option if it weren’t 35°C in Bangkok while I’ll be leaving with almost snow here. I’d rather save my energy for the rest of the day...
-By boat: few rotations on Sundays and not early in the morning. Why not during the day? It’s usually my preferred mode of transport.
-By bus: not very practical. Quite long. Maybe.
-By taxi: door-to-door, air-conditioned, around 3 € for 2...
-By tuk-tuk: gotta find one, negotiate, no AC, more expensive than a taxi if you’re a poor negotiator. Basically, I’ll try it once but later.
There you go, now you know everything! !😉
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
Oh really? No thanks to me? Who’s been hammering you for two days that the metro gives access to the main tourist sites, while it’s said it’s not possible... Plus, I spent time researching because I was afraid I’d said something stupid
But yeah, it was you who just gave me the idea to look it up. And that info won’t be much use to me personally.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I’ll only use taxis in Bangkok. For pretty much everything else, I’ll have a vehicle.
Don’t forget to drive on the left. And watch out if you drive like a grandma like you would back home—here, they won’t hesitate to overtake on the right! 😎
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
By now, I should know that you have to be super precise when writing something on the forum.
By now, I should know to keep quiet and not give my opinion when nobody asked for it on the forum.
I didn’t actually ask any questions about that...
That’s exactly what I thought at first. She asked for the price of a tuk-tuk ride—she didn’t ask which mode of transport to use. But when I saw all the other replies and things started going off the rails, I chimed in with my opinion. I shouldn’t have. Sorry.
But I thought it might also interest others to know that you can get to the historic center by metro, contrary to what’s often said (that only taxis are possible!)
Yeah, someone who’s within metro range would definitely be happy to hear about the line extension to near the "historic" center. 😉
But I’m not sure that person would think to look for that info in a thread titled "Price of a tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok in 2025."
I think to make the most of this useful info, you should start a new thread.
Like: New metro station opening near Wat Pho
I’m an old fart who doesn’t know how forums work... Thanks for reminding me. And thanks for the "Lesson."
We’ll see what you’ll say, what you’ll do, what you’ll write when you’re my age—if you make it that far and are still energetic enough to keep traveling, and have to deal with new technologies, new social behaviors, new "codes" of conduct...
What I'm wondering is whether this station was built recently or not.
Our big trips in Bangkok were between 2013 and 2018.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I ended up paying 200 baht for about 6 kilometers from a back alley in Chinatown. (At night, with music included)
The starting price was 300.
Not necessarily representative—the guy barely spoke a word of English and wasn’t used to tourists.
Judging by his delighted face when we paid him, I think the real rate was probably lower.
It was fun.
200 baht is roughly half a day’s pay for a laborer in Thailand.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Yeah, it’s been a long time since it became touristy. I can see why young people love it—it’s scorching hot, loud, colorful, totally exotic, and you’re out in the open.
Those who’ve got the cash and are only there for two weeks squeezed between school or work years? Sure, why not.
But man, it’s nice to take the journey in a well-air-conditioned taxi with tinted windows...
I’ve always seen locals using these tuk-tuks—they probably take whatever’s available and likely don’t pay the same fare.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
In Cambodia, at Angkor, tuk-tuks arrived with the tourists. There weren’t any during my first trip. A ton of them by the second. Only for tourists.
The local transport there was moto-taxis. There are some in Bangkok too, by the way—I haven’t tried them. They seem to have replaced tuk-tuks for locals. It’s fast, cheap, and not overrun by tourists (though not entirely safe...).
Back to Cambodia.
Becoming a driver for tourists was the most lucrative job. Educated people would start as moto-taxi drivers, then move up to tuk-tuk drivers with higher rates. The guy fresh from the countryside who didn’t speak English would ferry locals at local prices. The contrast was striking. With the first group, the base fare was in dollars; with the second, in riels. The drivers’ outfits were impeccable for some, patched and holey for others. Perfumed scent versus a whiff of sweat. A scowl if there was no tip, a big toothless grin if you handed over an Alain Delon after the ride...
Tourist tuk-tuks are spreading all over the world. You even find them in Europe now. 😮
And back to Thailand—I don’t remember them being like this 25 years ago. They were more like Indian rickshaws. Already without meters...
Avoid them if you hate negotiating. Or if you spend your vacation obsessively trying to pay the same price as locals. Or if you’re an ecotourist... (But would you even go to Thailand in that case? 😄)
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
I ended up paying 200 baht for about 6 kilometers from a back alley in Chinatown. (At night, with music included)
The starting price was 300.
Not necessarily representative—the guy barely spoke a word of English and wasn’t used to tourists.
Judging by his delighted face when we paid him, I think the real rate was probably lower.
It was fun.
200 baht is roughly half a day’s pay for a laborer in Thailand.
That’s true, but this kind driver still has expenses—fuel, buying and maintaining the tuk-tuk, the yellow license plate....
And the fair price is when both parties are happy.
Je suis à Bangkok en ce moment, pour la premiere fois je prend des moto-taxi, Je n'ai trouvé aucune info sur le net sur le prix "normal" d'une course, à mon…
Je ne sais pas si le site est connu, je suis tombé dessus par hasard, il sous estime pour les trajets que j ai effectué de 10/15% mais c'est drole de voir des…
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!
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 everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
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! 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
Les 10 plats thaïs préférés des touristesFR
Quelle île thaïlandaise choisir quand on est avec un enfant?FR
Ici et là, dans l'est de la Thaïlande et le sud du LaosFR
De Angkor à Hong Kong, le grand écart asiatiqueFR
Another side of my trip to Thailand: Villages, nature, countryside, mountains...
Que voir à Bangkok?FR
