Séjour aux Philippines au sud de l'île Samar: plongée, balades, climat...?
by Kinou2809
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour,
Nous souhaitons passer 2 semaines au sud de l'île Samar (Sulagan Beach/Calicoan) fi février à début mars 2011.
Je remercie à l'avance les connaisseurs de m'indiquer si c'est un bon choix pour admirer les belles plages avec du sable blanc et une eau bleue turquoise, pour la plongée avec masque, pour le contact sympa avec les Philippins et les ballades diverses en bateau, à pied et en voiture. Est-ce que les conditions climatiques seront bonnes à cette pèriode dans cette région des Philippines ? Tous les conseils seront les
bienvenus. Merci à l'avance et à bientôt.
Bonjour !
Je ne connais pas les Philippines toutefois je vous propose d'aller dans "rechercher". Ici il n'y a ni guichets, ni bénévoles ! des voyageurs essentiellement et compte tenu de l'heure, un grand nombre d'entre eux doivent dormir profondément 😉
"pendant un instant l'usage des yeux : la lecture du monde. italo Calvino "Paroles de voyageurs" si tu n'as pas étudié, voyage".
Bonjour !
Pourquoi répondre en MP ? tu nous prives d'une info précieuse pour ceux qui planifient un futur voyage aux Philippines 😕
Pourquoi répondre en MP ? tu nous prives d'une info précieuse pour ceux qui planifient un futur voyage aux Philippines 😕
"pendant un instant l'usage des yeux : la lecture du monde. italo Calvino "Paroles de voyageurs" si tu n'as pas étudié, voyage".
Salut Eliade,
Pour des raisons étiques, lorsque tu donnes l'adresse d'un site, imanquablement tu tombes sur des rubriques qui peuvent être à caractère commercial.
Bien amicalement,
Denis.
Pour des raisons étiques, lorsque tu donnes l'adresse d'un site, imanquablement tu tombes sur des rubriques qui peuvent être à caractère commercial.
Bien amicalement,
Denis.
CouCou d'une perle des Philippines, Bantayan Island
Bonjour ,
Par le passé , souhaitant retourner aux Phillipines j avais posé des questions sur Samar/Leyte et l'est de Legazpi . je n ai guére eu de réponses si je me souviens .
il faut savoir que c'est un coin deserté des touristes , frappé souvent par les cyclones lesquels y font de gros degats. Dans les années 80 la guerilla NPA ( New people Army ) y etait encore présente . Consulte le Lonely Planet il parle de cette ile . Mais comme sa population ne doit guére voir de touristes etrangers , tu vas y etre accueilli comme un roi , tout le monde t'aidera , te posera des questions , ils sont curieux ces phillipins !!
Un jour j envisage un trajet cebu-Bohol-Samar-leyte-legazpi-Manille . avec le LP cela semble possible
cdlt jean
Par le passé , souhaitant retourner aux Phillipines j avais posé des questions sur Samar/Leyte et l'est de Legazpi . je n ai guére eu de réponses si je me souviens .
il faut savoir que c'est un coin deserté des touristes , frappé souvent par les cyclones lesquels y font de gros degats. Dans les années 80 la guerilla NPA ( New people Army ) y etait encore présente . Consulte le Lonely Planet il parle de cette ile . Mais comme sa population ne doit guére voir de touristes etrangers , tu vas y etre accueilli comme un roi , tout le monde t'aidera , te posera des questions , ils sont curieux ces phillipins !!
Un jour j envisage un trajet cebu-Bohol-Samar-leyte-legazpi-Manille . avec le LP cela semble possible
cdlt jean
OK 😉
"pendant un instant l'usage des yeux : la lecture du monde. italo Calvino "Paroles de voyageurs" si tu n'as pas étudié, voyage".
Merci pour ta réponse. Tu as raison pour les cyclones mais la période choisie devrait
m'éviter cela... J'ai pu voir quelques photos et il semblerait que dans le sud de Samar, il y ait de beaux endroits à découvrir ( plages ou à l'intérieur des terres) mais j'aurias aimé avoir confirmation. Effectivement il y a trés peu de touristes dans cette zone.
Cela donnera peu être de nouvelles idées pour ceux qui se plaignent des îles trop touristiques... Bonne préparation pour ton futur voyage.
Bonjourj
j'espère te donner satisfaction , bien que je ne suis pas un habitué de Samar ;Leyte car j y suis passé un peu vite environ 20 jours et je dois approfondir ma connaissance en mars/avril 2011 sur leyte sud.
En Mars 2007, venant du sud de luzon par car ceres après un passage par Donsol /legaspi au sud de Luzon; j ai fait la traversée Matnog/alien sur SAMAR.
Notre itinéraire nous a mené depuis Alien sur CALBALOG/CATBALOGAN.dans un premier temps;la route côtière escarpée de cette cote est est superbe dominant la mer des philippines;
Trés sauvage mais malheureusement , peu de resort et de logement pour touriste!
Cest le principal problème de Samar, non pas les typhoons , une dixaine par an qui ne sont pas tous violents comparable a de bons coup de vent à 130KMH sur la pointe du raz ou à la pointe de socoa et le mois d avril n est pas concerné par le passage de typhoon .
Bien sure la cote Pacifique est plus exposée mais moins que l ile de Catanduanes qui est la principale exposée, plus au nord et à l'ouest sur le passage.
Samar est une ile trés boisée et la végétation est luxuriante;la cote ouest est plus jolie que la cote pacifique.pas de route intérieure ;
Depuis Catbalogan cote ouest;jai traversé l'ile par une nouvelle route, trés peu indiquée sur les cartes et rejoind Borongan sur le pacifique;Ce coin ;Borongan, ne m 'a pas laissé un souvenir impérissable.la cote est plus jolie avant le Juanico bridge juste avant Tacloban.
Depuis Tacloban , j ai rejoins lile de Biliran qui est trés sympatique du genre caminguin
tres beau marché au poisson à Naval le capitale de l ile;
puis je suis passé sur Marippipi une petite ile extraordinaire très boisée toute ronde en son milieu trône un volcan à 1000m d'altitude.
mon commentaire:
Pour moi Samar n est pas une ile à découvrir pour ceux qui ne connaissent pas encore les philippines, tu risque d etre déçue pour un premier voyage si tu recherches le white sand et les eaux turquoises;
Celà tu les trouveras en mieux sur les visayas (bohol;Banayan, siquijor);Busuanga ou Palawan, voire Romblon plus au nord ou Caramoan et castanduanes au sud de luzon!
Le sud de leyte et la région d'Ormoc;
la cote nord du coté de catarman parait interressante.
Tu devrais commencer par les classiques et tu ne regretteras pas :Palawan et visayas
car aux philippines; touristique ne veut pas dire foule:imagine la fréquentation de la cote basque ou st tropez en plein hiver sous la pluie avec une eau à 30 degré air et mer et un soleil resplendissant et un sable blanc coralien et ça tu le trouveras sur bantayan, siquijor, bohol.carabao, romblon;
Pour les eaux turquoises Busuanga, Coron Palawan sont inbattables !
et fin février le climat sera meilleur dansles visayas ou palawan;
Nav
Bonsoir !
Tu devrais commencer par les classiques et tu ne regretteras pas :Palawan et visayas car aux philippines; touristique ne veut pas dire foule:imagine la fréquentation de la cote basque ou st tropez en plein hiver sous la pluie avec une eau à 30 degré air et mer et un soleil resplendissant et un sable blanc coralien et ça tu le trouveras sur bantayan, siquijor, bohol.carabao, romblon; Pour les eaux turquoises Busuanga, Coron Palawan sont inbattables ! et fin février le climat sera meilleur dans les visayas ou palawan;
bantayan, siquijor, bohol.carabao, romblon;
janvier ? février ? pour ces îles c'est OK ? je recherche essentiellement des sites de snorkelling, de vrais sites !
Tu devrais commencer par les classiques et tu ne regretteras pas :Palawan et visayas car aux philippines; touristique ne veut pas dire foule:imagine la fréquentation de la cote basque ou st tropez en plein hiver sous la pluie avec une eau à 30 degré air et mer et un soleil resplendissant et un sable blanc coralien et ça tu le trouveras sur bantayan, siquijor, bohol.carabao, romblon; Pour les eaux turquoises Busuanga, Coron Palawan sont inbattables ! et fin février le climat sera meilleur dans les visayas ou palawan;
bantayan, siquijor, bohol.carabao, romblon;
janvier ? février ? pour ces îles c'est OK ? je recherche essentiellement des sites de snorkelling, de vrais sites !
"pendant un instant l'usage des yeux : la lecture du monde. italo Calvino "Paroles de voyageurs" si tu n'as pas étudié, voyage".
Bonsoir eliade de Nantes
Je suis nantais aussi; exilé au sud ouest et aux philippines!
la saison pour le snorkeling aux philippines est bien de mi fevrier à Mai période idéale!
+ Au Nord les plus beau coins sont;
sur busuanga, coron et tout le calamian group
Sur palawan et le bacuit archipel
+ Dans les visayas les plus beaux coins:
Bohol et depuis Bohol rejoindre balicasag island, sumilon;apo, cabilao, palimacan.
+ sud luzon à donsol pour les requins baleines en snorkeling
Voila bon trip
Nav
Merci beaucoup Nav pour toutes ces informations. J'avais déjà commencé à me renseigner pour une autre destination qui serait Bantayan (San José) pour la même période.
Je pense que tu connais... Y a-t-il assez à faire sur l'île pour s'occuper 12 jours (snorkeling, ballade, farniente...). Est-ce facile et assez rapide d'aller en bateau visiter les îles environnantes (chaque jour, une île différente). je pense à Malapascua, Camotes, Calanganan ou autres si tu connais? Merci et à bientôt. Christian.
bonsoir Ami
Effectivement en 12 jours c'est possible et bantayan comme Malapascua sont vraiment interressantes a visiter. et a vivre
mode d emploi !
SI tu atterris a manila /ninoy aquino airport , des que possible reserve un vol sur Cebu Pacific pour Cebu/mactan airport de là tu prends un taxi et tu te diriges vers North terminal Bus environ pour 200 php et tu prends le premier bus pour hagnaya environ 2H30 de bus par Ceres cie qui est la meilleure cie de bus des philippines, les chauffeurs sont super bons!
Depuis hagnaya le ferry te mènera sur santa fee la capitale de Bantayan.
A ce propos tu peux contacter mon ami Denis belge de nationalité marrié a Riezel sa charmante épouse Filipina.ils tiennent le coucou lodge un restaurant hotel ou on se sent bien?
Sur batayan deux choses principales à faire;le tour de lile en moto à la portée de tout le monde si tu n"est pas motard.Tu loue tout simplement une honda 125 xrm avec vitesses automatiques and...................enjoy.
Tu verras ici ce que représente des eaux turquoises et la liberté d aller a travers de palamerais magnifiques et toujours au plus pre dela cote.
deuxiemme superbe idée pour enviro 1500 php tu loue une bangka avec poisson a griller compris pour te rende sur virgin island r y passer la journée, emmenne palme et masque!super corail et sanctuary fish !
magique....................
Bantayan est un paradis
Une fois bien reposer tu reprends la route pour Malapascuaqui qui est une petite ile sympa plus orientée plongée mais tu y trouveras aussi de belles plages et du snorkeling.
pour cela depuis hagnaya tu reprends le bus pour maya et de là, la bangka pour malapascua.
Indispensable de faire le tour a pied et assister aux combats de coqs le dimanche le meilleur resto et le moins cher est le gingin garden. Bar et disco sur la plage;je n ai pas trop aimé le bar flottant squatté par des divers drunked! Ton idée est très bonne pour un séjour de 12 jours;une bonne approche des philippines! Rajouter les camotes risque de faire lourd , mais possible puisqu il existe un bateau depuis les environs de Sogod depuis Cebu island. inoubliable! good trip Nav.
Indispensable de faire le tour a pied et assister aux combats de coqs le dimanche le meilleur resto et le moins cher est le gingin garden. Bar et disco sur la plage;je n ai pas trop aimé le bar flottant squatté par des divers drunked! Ton idée est très bonne pour un séjour de 12 jours;une bonne approche des philippines! Rajouter les camotes risque de faire lourd , mais possible puisqu il existe un bateau depuis les environs de Sogod depuis Cebu island. inoubliable! good trip Nav.
Bonsoir Nav,
Un grand merci pour les renseignements. J'ai déjà eu un contact avec Denis. Je viens de voir sur internet son Hôtel/restau le Coucou. Dommage qu'il ne soit pas en bord de plage. Mais je compte bien y passer pour le restaurant avec la famille (8). J'avais également trouvé une belle villa à louer sur Puerto galera et une autre sur Boracay, mais vu les commentaires que j'ai pu lire, je préfère éviter et m'orienter sur une destination plus tranquille et moins fréquentée. par contre, notre avion arrive à manille à 13h. J'ai bien peur que ce soit trop juste pour arriver à hagnaya avant 17h pour prendre le dernier ferry. a moins qu'il y ait une solution pour aller plus vite. Qu'en penses-tu? Encore merci.Christian.
Un grand merci pour les renseignements. J'ai déjà eu un contact avec Denis. Je viens de voir sur internet son Hôtel/restau le Coucou. Dommage qu'il ne soit pas en bord de plage. Mais je compte bien y passer pour le restaurant avec la famille (8). J'avais également trouvé une belle villa à louer sur Puerto galera et une autre sur Boracay, mais vu les commentaires que j'ai pu lire, je préfère éviter et m'orienter sur une destination plus tranquille et moins fréquentée. par contre, notre avion arrive à manille à 13h. J'ai bien peur que ce soit trop juste pour arriver à hagnaya avant 17h pour prendre le dernier ferry. a moins qu'il y ait une solution pour aller plus vite. Qu'en penses-tu? Encore merci.Christian.
Salut Christian;
Denis sera de bon conseil , si tu cherches un logement sur la plage de Santa Fee !
Tu apprécieras l accueil et la cuisine du Coucou pour un prix très raisonnable.
en effet trop court donc deux solutions;coucher à CEBU et prendre le bus Ceres le lendemain ou arrêt à Catmon à coté de Sogod ici super resort style hacienda avec piscine au bord de l eau et très bon restaurant et de superbes prestations tenu parfaitement par un ancien banquier British très accueillant marié a une filipina.
reprendre le bus le lendemain pour Hagnaya; la route longe le resort
Chambre de confort supérieur aux prix philippins mais superbe si tu veux faire un écart de budget car la chambre est à 60 euros mais quelle bonne entrée en condition pour des vacances romantiques en famille!
J ai diné au restaurant très bon pour un prix correct compte tenu de la qualité 1000PHP/personne ça le valait
le nom et adresse;
LAS FLORES
Country and beach guest house
Virginia and Gillies
Flores:catmon 6006 CEBU ISLAND
TEL;+63 32 43 09390
nav
http://www.tripadvisor.fr/...es-Cebu_Visayas.html
http://www.tripadvisor.fr/...cr=dspv/htid=2242955
http://www.tripadvisor.fr/...es-Cebu_Visayas.html
http://www.tripadvisor.fr/...cr=dspv/htid=2242955
Salut Phil,
Comment vas-tu ?
L'appel des sirènes, et de une en particulier, n'est pas encore trop insupportable ?😉
Je crains que pour Christian, atterrissant à 13 H à Manille, ils ne doivent se contenter de viser Cebu. Aller jusqu'à Catmon me semble difficile. Je crois donc que le mieux est de loger à Cebu et de reprendre, après une nuit réparatrice à Cebu, le chemin pour Bantayan.
Pour Christian : Arrivée à cebu, vous sortez du terminal, et, aulieu de prendre le premier transport proposé par les rabatteurs pour votre hôtel, vous traversez la route et, sur la gauche, au bout du bâtiment, il y a un escalier, qui vous mène aux arrivées. Là, au-dessus des escalier, il y a une station de taxis officiels, blancs avec meter. Et hop, à l'hôetl choisi. Vous pourrez alors vous restaurer le soir à Ayala, à "Les Terraces". Ils y en a pour tous les goûts, et, notamment, des restos Philippins Hukad ou Laguna Café. Ensuite visez pour le lendemain un bus vers 10H, ce qui vous permettra de prendre le bateau de 13H30 et être sur place à santa Fé bien avant la nuit, vous pourrez alors visiter l'un ou l'autre endroit que vous aurez retenu. Pour la suite, vers Malapascua, je vous en parlerez sur place.
Bien amicalement,
Denis.
Comment vas-tu ?
L'appel des sirènes, et de une en particulier, n'est pas encore trop insupportable ?😉
Je crains que pour Christian, atterrissant à 13 H à Manille, ils ne doivent se contenter de viser Cebu. Aller jusqu'à Catmon me semble difficile. Je crois donc que le mieux est de loger à Cebu et de reprendre, après une nuit réparatrice à Cebu, le chemin pour Bantayan.
Pour Christian : Arrivée à cebu, vous sortez du terminal, et, aulieu de prendre le premier transport proposé par les rabatteurs pour votre hôtel, vous traversez la route et, sur la gauche, au bout du bâtiment, il y a un escalier, qui vous mène aux arrivées. Là, au-dessus des escalier, il y a une station de taxis officiels, blancs avec meter. Et hop, à l'hôetl choisi. Vous pourrez alors vous restaurer le soir à Ayala, à "Les Terraces". Ils y en a pour tous les goûts, et, notamment, des restos Philippins Hukad ou Laguna Café. Ensuite visez pour le lendemain un bus vers 10H, ce qui vous permettra de prendre le bateau de 13H30 et être sur place à santa Fé bien avant la nuit, vous pourrez alors visiter l'un ou l'autre endroit que vous aurez retenu. Pour la suite, vers Malapascua, je vous en parlerez sur place.
Bien amicalement,
Denis.
CouCou d'une perle des Philippines, Bantayan Island
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Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
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?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
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. Is it possible to take the train from Malacca to Ipoh? Thanks for your feedback.
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
Hello,
We’re a couple looking for a driver for 10 days to explore Northern Vietnam in April.
Best regards,
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).
Thanks!
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).
Thanks!
hi
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
Hi there,
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
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!
Hi there,
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. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
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. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
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! :-)
Hi there
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?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
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?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
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 everyone. As I’m planning my trip for next winter, I’m looking for hotel suggestions in Camotes, Bantayan, Malapascua, Bohol, and Siquijor. The ones I had in mind seem to be fully booked (unless it’s too early?). For those familiar with the area, is it easy to find accommodations on the spot in January/February? I’m specifically looking for hotels with a pool, beachfront, air conditioning, and easy scooter rental nearby. Thanks for your tips!
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
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
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
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
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.
Kanchanaburi:
Kanchanaburi:
Sri Chiangmai:
Soppong:
Tha Wang Pha:
Kanchanaburi:

Kanchanaburi:

Sri Chiangmai:

Soppong:

Tha Wang Pha:

🙂 Hi everyone!
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.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
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.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hi there,
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
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
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
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
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! !
Hi everyone,
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts) August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar August 17: Rammang Rammang August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Thanks in advance for your feedback! :)
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts) August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar August 17: Rammang Rammang August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Thanks in advance for your feedback! :)
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!







