Hi there,
I’m so glad the VoyageForum is back up. Reading 'Montagnard74’s' Laos trip report (which I read yesterday) made me want to share my own (which I already posted a year ago on another forum).
Here’s a little recap of our 3 weeks in northern Laos, plus a few days in Vientiane.
By the way, we could easily go back to the north—there’s so much to see and do; probably in a few years.
This was our 3rd trip to Laos after having already done:
1st trip in 2012 (3 weeks), a quick overview:
Vientiane
Vang Vieng
Luang Prabang
Plain of Jars
2nd trip in 2017 (1 month):
Vientiane all the way to the 4,000 Islands via
Thakhek, Kong Lor, the Bolaven Plateau, Savannakhet, Pakse...
Some general info (2023):
For those who’ve already been to Laos: everything has gone up a lot—I think prices have almost doubled for transport, accommodation, meals... everything. But Laos is still a budget-friendly country for us.
As a couple, we spent 1,100 € for a month, all included (and we definitely didn’t skimp on massages :)).
Don’t trust the transport signs posted everywhere—at travel agencies, bus terminals, hotels... THEY’RE ALL WRONG (especially the schedules). They haven’t been updated since before Covid.
There are hardly any bikes for rent anymore, but scooters are easy to find everywhere. We switched our mode of transport toward the end of our stay: from bikes to scooters, which let us go farther. In Vientiane, we only saw one bike rental place, near Ong Teu Pagoda.
BCEL bank doesn’t charge a commission on foreign currency exchanges.
Using ATMs is expensive due to fees.
Outside Laos, Lao kip are basically worthless.
There’s so much inflation that I couldn’t find a single bank or exchange office willing to swap the kip we had left. So, don’t exchange too much toward the end of your trip.
Some little tips from our experience (2023):
The Muang Koua to Muang Ngoi boat still runs daily. At the dam, you have to get off and take a bus, then get back on the boat.
The boat from Muang Ngoi to Nong Khiew only leaves at 9:30 AM (don’t miss it or you’ll pay a lot for a private boat). From Nong Khiew to Muang Ngoi, there are at least two boats a day.
From Luang Namtha to Muang Sing: 4 to 5 buses a day, the last one leaves around 3:30 PM.
From Luang Namtha or Muang Sing to Nateuy or Boten (to catch the new train): 3 to 5 buses a day.
The new train is really hard to book—it’s often fully booked 48 hours in advance, even the local train (5 hours from Boten to Vientiane instead of 3 hours on the high-speed train).
(That makes it tough to travel day by day, which we love... too bad.)
For baggage checks: don’t bring anything flammable (sprays...) or sharp. My mosquito repellent (flammable but in a small plastic bottle) got through. Water bottles and a tiny pocketknife are okay. But it seems to depend on the station.
Some guesthouses prefer to be paid in dollars, otherwise the price is much higher.
If you’re entering Laos from Vietnam via Dien Bien Phu, you have to get your visa at the embassy in Hanoi—otherwise, you’ll be refused at the border (no e-visa or visa on arrival).
Apart from Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Muang Ngoi/Nong Khiew, there are very few tourists.
Some bus prices (in addition to those mentioned in my trip report) (with pick-up) 2023:
Luang Prabang to Luang Namtha: 320,000 kip per person, 9h
LP to Phonesavan: 250,000 kip per person, 7h
LP to Phongsaly: 450,000 kip per person, 13h
LP to Huay Xai: 420,000 kip per person, 14h
Train Nateuy to Vientiane: 400,000 kip per person
LP to Chiang Rai: 780,000 kip per person, 18h
LP to Hanoi: 900,000 kip per person, 24h
LP to train station: 50,000 kip per person
LP to airport: 100,000 kip per person
Vientiane from train station: 180,000 kip by taxi
Boats:
LP to Pak Beng: 300,000 kip per person, 1 day
LP to Houay Xai: 500,000 kip per person, 2 days
LP to Pak Ou: 180,000 kip per person, 5h
Even though we had plenty of time, you’ll see that we would’ve loved to stay longer in some places.
When it comes to accommodations, you can find cheaper options, but our requirement is: a private bathroom :)
- Arrived on November 8, 2023, in Vientiane (coming from BKK) to check the exact date of the Boun That Luang festival. As always, we stayed near the Mekong in the city center ($20 a night).
- November 10: Van to Luang Prabang (8h, 400,000 kip/person), great road until Vang Vieng, then one pothole after another.
- November 10–13: Luang Prabang (if you’ve never been, I’d say you need at least 4 full days) with visits to Kuang Si Falls again, Mount Phousi, and the old town. In 2012, we also did Tad Sae Falls—really beautiful—and the Pak Ou Caves.
We stayed a 5-minute walk from the Night Market ($12 a night).
- November 13–17: Van to Nong Khiaw (3h30, 150,000 kip/p), good road, then straight to a boat for Muang Ngoi (1h, 50,000 kip/p).
We stayed 3 nights but would’ve happily stayed 2 more.
It’s a charming little town, and you can easily walk to 2 villages (Ban Na, a Khmu village, and another one) about 2–3 hours away (you can sleep there) while passing near a cave. You can get there via two routes: one following the road, the other crossing the rice fields.
This is where we stayed the cheapest with an amazing view of the Nam Ou River: 120,000 kip a night in a small bungalow (plenty of options), and where we ate the best curry of our trip.
Also, hike up to the viewpoint next to the pagoda in Muang Ngoi—it’s a climb, but the reward is worth it (small entrance fee).
We also took a boat trip (45 minutes each way) to two villages: Ban Hatsapel (very authentic), a Khamu village
then walked to the Thaidam village of Ban Sopchem (touristy).
Along the way, an extraordinary viewpoint. And a guesthouse by the pier with a paradise-like garden—it’s true, you could spend time there.
Returned the next morning by boat to Nong Khiaw (1 night, 250,000 kip, in the center near the bridge) and went for a bike ride in the countryside, visiting some lovely spots.
We could’ve stayed at least one more day—such a pleasant village with stunning landscapes.
- November 17: Van to Oudomxai (3h, 150,000 kip/person). Good road, a non-touristy but pleasant town to break up the long journey between Nong Khiaw and Luang Namtha. We got a VIP room, huge, for 250,000 kip.
- November 18–21: Van to Muang Sing (MS) via Luang Namtha (LN). (On the van to LN, we met some Lao people taking the connection to MS, so we tagged along. Total 6h30: 4h to LN, 1h wait, 1h30 to MS, 100,000 kip/person for LN, 50,000 kip/person for a taxi to switch terminals, 80,000 kip/person for MS.) From Oudomxai to Nateuy, good road, then it’s a disaster until LN, and again a good road to MS.
We stayed 3 nights in MS—few guesthouses are open (Phu Ji is, otherwise near the market are charm-free GHs). So we took Phu Ji (I mention it because few GHs are open; 250,000 kip per night with breakfast). We were even the only Europeans for 48 hours. The town is sleepy and waiting for tourists. We rented bikes from the GH to explore the surroundings for 2 days: Thaidam, Thai Hneu, Akha, and Lao Lu villages.
We would’ve happily added 2 more nights.
- November 21 to 23: Van to Luang Namtha (1h30, 80,000 kip/person), good road and beautiful landscapes.
We stayed 2 nights (200,000 kip per night) and would have liked to stay 2 more nights, but my husband wanted to see Boten too.
We always get around by bike and only managed to do part of the loop—there’s so much to see: lovely villages (Hmong, Lenten, Thaidam, Nam Dee with its waterfalls) and rice field farming.
- November 23 to 25: Van to Boten (1h30, 100,000 kip/person), terrible road.
In Boten, we spent ages looking for a hotel—nothing is written in English or Lao, just Chinese everywhere, even for payments. People prefer yuan. Finally, we found a hotel on the 19th floor, 410,000 kip per night! But the bedding still gives me sweet dreams today :)
This isn’t a pagoda but the border post for China :)
We wanted to leave the next day by train to Vientiane... BUT the train was fully booked until the afternoon of the 25th.
We paid for our tickets in kip at Boten station (4 km from the city).
Boten isn’t very interesting except for being on the Chinese border. There are only trucks, dust, and more trucks. Laos once wanted to turn it into the Las Vegas of Asia, and a few nice buildings remain, but now they’re planning to make it a super-modern megacity. It feels like China—everyone speaks and eats Chinese. The night market has great food, though.
- On November 25, we finally took the first available local train: 390,000 kip/person! The fast train would have cost 1,700,000 kip/person, which is expensive, but there were no seats anyway.
5 hours to Vientiane, a pleasant trip with beautiful landscapes along the way.
We arrived at Vientiane station, which is about 10 km from the city center, and headed back to our favorite guesthouse.
- November 26 and 27: We take part in the Boun That Luang festival. Laos’ most important religious festival, it lasts 2 days. Then a few more days in Vientiane.
- November 29: Van to Vang Vieng (2h, 160 000 kips per person), 2 nights in a hotel with a view of the pretty mountain (320 000 kips per night). The town has changed a lot since our last stay in 2012 when there was still plenty of partying...
This is our second visit, but if you’ve never been, it’s better to stay 4 nights to explore the lovely valley with its landscapes, small lakes, and caves.
In the valley, there are several pools with stunning water.
Up in the mountains, there are usually caves to visit.
You’ll need to bring your own flashlights, but it’s still a bit adventurous.
Then back to Vientiane, and after 4 weeks in Laos, we head to BKK and 2 weeks at the beach (Pattaya, 2 nights—we had no choice since there were no more seats on the bus to Koh Chang (the downside of traveling day by day without booking in advance)), then 5 nights on Koh Chang and 6 nights on Koh Kood).
At the end of our trip: 3 nights in BKK at our favorite hotel with a view of the Chao Phraya.
Hi Elisabeth,
I just came across your travel journal—it’s really interesting! I’m heading to Laos and northern Thailand to cross the land border. This year, I’d like to explore northern Laos all the way to Vientiane. I’ll be traveling from October 23 to November 25. I’m planning to spend 8 to 10 days in Thailand and the rest of the time in Laos.
I haven’t finalized my itinerary yet, but I’ll definitely draw inspiration from yours. I’ll have to make some tough choices 🤔 since it’s my first trip to Laos, and I’ve read that spending a week in Luang Prabang isn’t too much.
I’ll probably reach out again for some tips.
Do you have a paper guidebook you’d recommend?
Thanks, and have a great day!
Mariejo
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
hi there,
what a wonderful trip you’ll have!
Feel free to reach out again if you need anything.
Here’s a little suggestion (which is also one of my plans for my next visit to Laos):
descend the Mekong by boat from the Thai border all the way to Luang Prabang. It takes 2 days.
For a paper guidebook, I’d say any up-to-date one will do—just pick one that’s either practical or culturally focused, depending on what you’re looking for. Also, every guesthouse is well-organized to offer a whole range of minivans or buses.
Thanks for your reply.
I did read that you can travel down the Mekong to Luang Prabang, and it’s really tempting. I’ll get back to you once my plans are more solid. For now, I’ve got a travel journal to write about my last trip to India.
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
That’s it, but not just that! 🤗😊
Mostly off-the-beaten-path spots 😉😆
And I just got back from Nagaland—so unique and beautiful—Assam, which I loved, and Meghalaya, gorgeous but *super* rainy.
So many new discoveries! 🤩🤔😉
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
"We’re staying 3 nights in MS—few guesthouses are open (Phu Ji is, otherwise it’s guesthouses near the market with no charm). So we booked Phu Ji (mentioning it since so few are open; 250 000 ₭ per night with breakfast)."
Would you happen to have the contact details for your guesthouse, Phu Ji? I can’t find anything about it in Muang Sing.
Thanks.
Is it possible to do a day trip from Muang Sing → Luang Namtha → Houeisai and then take the bus to Chiang Rai? It’ll be a long day, but is it doable?
Thanks and have a good evening,
MarieJo
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
""Could you share the contact details for your guesthouse Phu Ji? I can’t find anything in Muang Sing.
Thanks.""
**I found it in an old Laos guidebook: Phou Ji or Phou Iu Guesthouse 2.
It’s on a small street to the left as you enter the village. But since late 2023, I think others may have reopened.
I Googled Phou Ji and found this guesthouse :)**
""Is it possible to do in one day:
Muang Sing - Luang Namtha - Houeisai - and then take the bus to Chiang Rai? It’ll be a long day, but is it doable?""
**We did the reverse route from Oudomxay, but Houeisai is even farther! Total time: 6h30: Oudomxay to LN is 4h, 1h wait, 1h30 to MS, 100,000 LAK per person for LN, 50,000 LAK taxi to switch terminals, 80,000 LAK per person for MS.
So, in LN, you’ll already need to switch bus terminals if coming from MS... unless it’s the same for Houeisai, but I doubt it since one is north and the other south.
Then in LN, you’d have to catch another bus to Houeisai, then another to Chiang Rai... and knowing Lao transportation, I’m not sure it’s 100% possible. (They tell you the bus leaves at a certain time, but you wait until it’s full...)
So, better to plan ahead: either through a local agency (though at the end of 2023, there weren’t many in LN and none in MS), or maybe an overnight in Houeisai.**
Okay, I think I’m being greedy on the way back 😋
I’ll plan a stop along the way and adjust my itinerary. It’s not always easy to predict how many days you’ll need once you’re there. 😅
I need to cut out one day somewhere. I still have time to think about it 😊😊
Thanks Elisabeth
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
Hi there,
During my 4th trip to Laos, I opted for the Mekong River descent from Houay Say (or Xai) to Luang Prabang. The starting city itself is interesting to me—the views of the Mekong’s banks are really beautiful. A night in Pakbeng was pleasant, and at the end of the day, the elephants from the reserve across the city come to drink and bathe in the river.
On the second day, there were two stops: a village with a distillery (a bit... touristy) and a visit to the Thousand Buddhas Cave, which is always a pleasure to explore.
A great experience overall.
Happy cruising to you two forum members who have this trip planned!
Eric
During my 4th trip to Laos, I chose the Mekong River descent from Houay Xay to Luang Prabang. The departure city itself is interesting to me—the views of the Mekong’s banks are stunning. A night in Pakbeng was pleasant, and at the end of the day, elephants from the reserve across the town come to drink and bathe in the river.
On the second day, two stops: a village with a distillery (a bit... touristy) and a visit to the Thousand Buddhas Cave, which is always enjoyable.
A great experience overall.
Hi Eric,
Sorry for the delay—I planned this itinerary on arrival.
I’ll adjust my return trip to two days... I’ll have to cut one day from the route. I’ll think about it in the coming days and share my plan with you.
Have a good evening.
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
Hi there,
My partner and I are leaving on January 12, 2026, for three weeks, and so far I’ve only booked the flight tickets. We’ll be traveling just the two of us with backpacks.
At the very bottom, I’ve listed the stops I’m imagining:
- Are the durations I’ve noted reasonable, or should we stay longer in some places and visit fewer towns/villages?
- Regarding reservations (train, bus, accommodation), is it doable to book as we go to keep things flexible, given the transport times?
Thanks so much if you can share your experience with us!
And most of all, have a wonderful holiday season!
arrival days transport visits Vientiane Mon 1/13 at 10:45 AM 1 sightseeing + find bus Phou Khao Khouay Tue 1/14 2 bus Phou Khao Khouay National Park + Tad Xay and Tad Leuk Waterfalls + hikes =Phou Pha Phae + Ban Hat Khai Loop Vang Vieng Fri 1/16 2 train or bus Kaeng Nyui Waterfall + Nam Xay viewpoint + Blue Lagoon + kayaking + Tham Chang Cave
COPE Visitor Center + Wat Si Phouthabath Phonsavan Sun 1/18 2 minivan taxi MAG Visitor Center + survivor info center + Plain of Jars (Sites 1, 2, and 3) Luang Prabang Tue 1/20 2 minivan taxi info center + Pak Ou Caves + Kuang Si Waterfall (rent a scooter)
Phu Si Stupa + Nong Khiaw Thu 1/22 2 minivan taxi Phadeng Peak Viewpoint + Som Nang View Point + Sleeping Lady Peak + Phao Kao viewpoint + 100 Waterfalls Circuit, stream walk + massages
Muang Ngoi Neua Sat 1/24 2 boat hike to Phanoy + Phaboom Oudomxai = Muang Xai to Nateuy Mon 1/26 1 minivan taxi overnight break Van to Luang Namtha Tue 1/27 2 minivan taxi pretty villages (Hmong, Lenten, Thaidam, Nam Dee with waterfalls) and rice field work. Muang Sing Thu 1/29 2 minivan taxi We’ll rent a bike at the guesthouse to explore the area for 2 days. Villages: Thaidam, Thai Hneu, Akha, and Lao Lu. Vientiane Sat 1/31 2 train back to Vientiane COPE Visitor Center + Patuxai (Lao Arc de Triomphe) + Wat Si Muang Temple
Wat Si Saket + Wat Haw Pha Kaeo + That Dam + Pha That Luang (Great Stupa)
French Quarter & Samsenthai Street + Talat Sao Morning Market + Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) = Rent a bike or tuk-tuk (25 km from Vientiane).
arrival nb days transport visits Vientiane Tue13/1 at 10:45 AM 1 visits + look for bus to Phou Khao Khouay Wed14 2 bus Phou Khao Khouay National Park + Tad Xay and Tad Leuk Waterfalls + hikes =Phou Pha Phae + Ban Hat Khai Loop Vang Vieng Fri16 2 departure by train or bus Kaeng Nyui Waterfall + Nam Xay viewpoint + Blue Lagoon + Kayaking + Tham Chang Cave
COPE Visitor Center + Wat Si Phouthabath Phonsavan Sun18 2 minivan taxi MAG Visitor Centre + survivors info center + The Plain of Jars (Site 1, 2, and 3) Luang Prabang Tue20 2 minivan taxi info center + Pak Ou Caves Tat Kuang Si Waterfall (rent a scooter)
Phu Si Stupa + Nong Khiaw Thu22 2 minivan taxi Phadeng Peak Viewpoint + Som Nang View Point + Sleeping Lady Peak + Phao Kao viewpoint + 100 Waterfalls circuit, stream walk + massages+
Muang Ngoi Neua Sat24 2 boat hike to Phanoy + Phaboom Oudomxai= Muang Xai to Nateuy Mon26 1 minivan taxi break for the night Van to Luang Namtha Tue27 2 minivan taxi pretty villages (Hmong, Lenten, Thaidam, Nam Dee with waterfalls) and rice field work Muang Sing Thu29 2 minivan taxi We take a bike at the GuestHouse to explore the area for 2 days. Thaidam, Thai Hneu, Akha, and Lao Lu villages... Vientiane Sat31 2 return by train to Vientiane COPE Visitor Center + Patuxai (Lao Arc de Triomphe) + Wat Si Muang Temple
Wat Si Saket + Wat Haw Pha Kaeo + That Dam + Pha That Luang (Great Stupa)
French Quarter & Samsenthai Street + Talat Sao Morning Market + Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)= Rent a bike or tuk-tuk (25 km from Vientiane).
?? What a wall of text!...
Your post is anything but clear—it’s really hard to read. Plus, listing the days of the week and every single detail of your visits at each stop isn’t all that helpful. How about rewriting it like this:
Vientiane 3 nights
Vang Vieng 4 nights
Luang Prabang 5 nights
etc.
?
Your itinerary looks great... but it’s not really suited for a 3-week trip.
In Laos, you should plan about one day for each journey since the roads aren’t like in France, so things move pretty slowly.
From what I’m reading, you’ll only have one full day at each stop for sightseeing, which is a shame after traveling so many kilometers—especially since the landscapes and places to visit are stunning, and I’m sure you’ll want to stay at least two full days at each stop!
So, either skip the Plain of Jars side or drop the Luang Namtha and Muang Sing part.
Wishing you a fantastic trip—you’ll see, Laos is amazing.
- Regarding bookings (train, bus, accommodation), is it feasible to do them on the spot as we go to keep some flexibility, given the length of the transports?:
**You can book transport and accommodation as you go, depending on your plans and progress. However, for trains, it's better to book a few days in advance, otherwise you might get stuck or have to take the bus, which is much longer.**
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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).
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! 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
Also, hike up to the viewpoint next to the pagoda in Muang Ngoi—it’s a climb, but the reward is worth it (small entrance fee).
We wanted to leave the next day by train to Vientiane... BUT the train was fully booked until the afternoon of the 25th.
We paid for our tickets in kip at Boten station (4 km from the city).
Boten isn’t very interesting except for being on the Chinese border. There are only trucks, dust, and more trucks. Laos once wanted to turn it into the Las Vegas of Asia, and a few nice buildings remain, but now they’re planning to make it a super-modern megacity. It feels like China—everyone speaks and eats Chinese. The night market has great food, though.
