I really loved Thailand, but it was too touristy for my taste. So I'm hesitating about going back and wondering if Cambodia or Vietnam would be less crowded with tourists...
After Thailand, it depends where you go. But for me, without hesitation, I’d go back to Cambodia. It’s not at all overrun by tourists, and the people are really friendly
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Thailand, but too many tourists for my taste.
So I’m hesitating to go back and wondering if Cambodia or Vietnam would be less crowded with tourists...
Vietnam or Cambodia (among other examples) will be just like Thailand: if you deliberately rush to touristy spots like it seems you did, you’ll reach the same hasty conclusion.
In Thailand, four-fifths of the country—basically a huge chunk—isn’t touristy at all. Over 40 years, I’ve regularly traveled these places far and wide, and I can assure you many are charming and waiting for you.
Sure, Cambodia is a country worth recommending for a visit, but "not at all overrun by tourists"...
Phnom Penh, Kep, Sihanoukville, Siem Reap—no, not even a little? Come on...
and the people are friendly
Like in pretty much any Southeast Asian country, I’d say without much risk of being wrong.
Excerpt from your website:
Noirenvoyage, your expert in tailor-made trips. For personalized and unforgettable journeys. Explore the world’s hidden wonders, whether close to home or on the other side of the globe. With Noirenvoyage, your guide for a trip that reflects you—immersive, close to nature, solo, or around the world. Make your dreams a reality; I’ll help you overcome both practical and emotional obstacles.
Travel planner? For example, for 3 weeks in Cambodia, how much does your service cost?
Noirenvoyage, your expert in tailor-made travel. For personalized and unforgettable trips. Explore the hidden wonders of the world, whether close to home or on the other side of the globe. With Noirenvoyage, your guide for a trip that reflects you—immersive, close to nature, solo, or around the world. Make your dreams come true; I’ll help you overcome both practical and emotional obstacles.
Travel planner? For example, for 3 weeks in Cambodia, how much does your service cost?
Hi, I see that like me, you’ve spotted the woman who’s advertising her travel agency for free at VF’s expense. I hate that kind of behavior.
Agency to avoid at all costs!
Vietnam or Cambodia (among other examples) will be like Thailand: if you knowingly rush into touristy spots like it seems you did, you’ll end up with the same hasty conclusion.
Stop sending me digs and nitpicking. I made a mistake? Fine.
I didn’t rush in knowingly!!! I simply listened to someone else’s advice, not yours, and you’re jealous. That’s ridiculous! You’ve made comments about this several times—enough already, right? It’s done, over. Let’s move on.
It just so happens that several of you helped and advised me. But your opinions were completely opposite and contradictory. I’ve said this elsewhere. You even started bickering and throwing barbed compliments at each other. And there I was, like an idiot in the middle, keeping score and completely lost, wondering who to believe, who to listen to.
Despite your very tempting advice, you didn’t manage to convince me. And even though I hesitated a lot, I eventually let myself be persuaded by others who had convincing arguments—photos, testimonials, and travel journals to back them up.
Did I choose the wrong direction? Too bad for me. Thanks for not rubbing it in even more...
In Thailand, four-fifths of the country’s surface area—a huge chunk—isn’t touristy. Over 40 years, I’ve regularly traveled these places far and wide, and I assure you, many are charming and waiting for you.
If four-fifths of Thailand are charming and waiting for me, I’ll try to find and discover them. Maybe you can shed some light on where to find them? Knowing that I don’t have your age or the intention to spend two days here, three days there, and another day somewhere else, like you suggested. I don’t like spending my time unpacking and repacking a suitcase and changing rooms and beds every 2 or 3 days. I’m looking for a place to settle in a region that’s not very touristy and explore the surrounding area within a 50 to 80 km radius, even if it means spending a night away from time to time, while keeping my room where I’ve settled.
Is that clearer for you?
For now, my idea is maybe a week in Bangkok/Kanchanaburi/Ayutthaya, then head to Isan, which seems to be overlooked by the crowds, and spend the rest of my stay there—about a month. Unless there are other regions without excessive tourism besides Isan. One thing’s for sure: I don’t want to revisit overly touristy places, even if they’re extraordinary.
You're attributing jealousy to me that wouldn't make any sense, so yeah, let's move on.
Kanchanaburi—a city where I've stayed many times for various reasons. Even if it's much less so than Chiang Mai, the city is touristy. But if you venture into the province, you might find what you're looking for in Sangkhlaburi, a quiet town in a beautiful setting with some Thai tourism on weekends, or in Thong Pha Phum, a pleasant town with no tourism at all and a bit of a "middle of nowhere" vibe. The two are about an hour apart by bus or minivan.
Ayutthaya: even if it’s a quieter choice than Bangkok for the first day of a trip to recover from a long flight, it’s still touristy—though again, less so than Chiang Mai.
Isan: I’m thinking of the villages along Route 211 by the Mekong—several of them could serve as a base for you.
But if you prefer, I can also give you tips on Cambodia.
Many have enjoyed the provinces of Nan, Phrae, or Loei for a less touristy experience.
A little statistic based on my reading of the past 12 years on VF—take it for what it's worth.
For Isan, I’ve looked into it a bit, and two routes stand out: one in the north, along the Mekong, and another in the south, with hills and Khmer temples.
The locals eat very spicy food there—you’d be happy.
« 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
Thanks for your quick reply.
I checked it out. Your photos are stunning—they’re a nice change from what you usually see in travel journals. They really make me want to go see for myself! But once again, you’re suggesting a route, a list of villages to visit in stages. What I’m looking for is a small town where I can settle in, take my time, wander around, and do day trips (or two-day trips if it’s too far) and come back to my HQ in the evening.
I need to get a map of the area to see how I can organize my stay and visits to the villages. Do you have a map recommendation? Thanks.
I think I read that you didn’t appreciate me sending links in PMs
That’s not quite it. I got the impression you were using VF to "divert" regulars to the other parallel forum. Back then, I was really into VF, which isn’t quite the case anymore...
But if you prefer, I can also give you info on Cambodia.
Sure, why not?
I think this time you’ve better understood what I’m looking for:
1. Go where no one else goes
2. Settle somewhere for a LONG STAY and explore the area on day trips, returning to my room in the evening. And, as I mentioned, the option to stay out one or two nights occasionally while keeping my room where I’m based.
Many enjoyed the provinces of Nan, Phrae, or Loei for their less touristy vibe.
A little stat based on my reading of the last 12 years on VF—take it for what it’s worth.
For Isan, I’ve looked into it a bit, and two routes stand out: one in the north, along the Mekong, and another in the south, with hills and Khmer temples.
The locals eat *very* spicy food there—you’d be in heaven.
Hi Joël, and thanks so much for your quick reply!
I don’t want to start bouncing all over the place again like I did last year. That’s why, since I’m leaning toward Isan, I don’t really feel like looking elsewhere and risking the same indecision I had when planning my last trip...
If the food’s *that* spicy on top of it all, then it’s perfect!
But yeah, Nan, Phrae, and Loei were on my list of places I wanted to visit last year. I can take a peek, but once I’ve made my choice, I’m sticking to it—no switching!
you’re asking me for an itinerary, a list of villages to visit in stages.
Originally, I put this together as a loop, but for you, think of it more as a list of possible villages—you could pick just one as your base.
I’m looking for a small town to settle into, take my time, and wander around with no particular plan
The two towns at either end of this route (Chiang Khan and Nong Khai) are bigger and busier, but the three villages in between fit your description.
and take day trips (or two-day trips if it’s too far) and return to my HQ in the evening.
To get from one village to another, there’s public transport—a little green bus that runs from Nong Khai to Pak Chom three times a day, plus a few songthaews. So, it’s best to be prepared to potentially stay overnight* if there’s nothing left to get you back to your base.
You could also hire a "driver" with a car for a full or half day (round trip). In remote Thai villages, that’s usually how it works: you mention it to your accommodation, and they’ll ask a family member to take you in their personal car.
As for exploring the countryside (only during daylight), in the small villages I mentioned, you’re already in the greenery just a 10-minute walk from the main street. Or you can rent a bike or motorbike—same deal, ask your host, and they’ll sort one out for you.
* Each village listed has accommodation options.
I need to get a map of this region to plan my stay and village visits. Do you have a map recommendation?
I never use maps when I’m there—I just go with the flow because I like getting lost. But to help others plan their trips on forums, for Isaan, I recommend this one: https://www.thailand-ticket.de/issan/issan-map.htm
Cambodia. Yes, why not?
I’m thinking of three spots—two of them are great for day or half-day bike or motorbike rides (scooter, etc.) on flat, easy roads or paths. Are you up for using that kind of transport? If not, on foot, would 10 km in a day be doable for you?
Your search for a step away from mass tourism could match the countryside of Southeast Asia as a whole, since the vast majority of tourists rarely venture off the beaten path and prefer to crowd onto beautiful beaches or famous landmarks.
The ideal is to have your own transport so you can explore quite far from your accommodation each day—around 60-80 km, for example (depending on road conditions, of course, and how much your backside can handle the bumps before giving up!). That’s better than being limited to just 10-20 km around the village by bike.
Take my village, for example—it’s nothing extraordinary or even particularly special compared to the three countries you’re considering. But within a 25-30 km radius (even though it’s right next to the Vietnamese border, so the area to explore is smaller), there are plenty of great walks. You’ll pass through small, typical villages, rice fields, orchards, rubber plantations, cashew trees, durian groves, and you can even swim in a waterfall pool. Along the way, you’ll see street vendors, carts pulled by motorized plows, kids piled onto vintage motorbikes, water buffalo with their herders, and more. But you’ll never run into another tourist 😉
And that’s something you can experience almost anywhere in the Southeast Asian countryside. I think it’s much more rewarding and "authentic" (as tourists like to say!)—both culturally and in terms of the people you meet—than sticking to the main tourist spots in these countries.
The downside is that almost no one speaks English, so it’s best to do some research to find accommodation where they do and to learn a few basic words and phrases beforehand for everyday life (food, directions, polite phrases, etc.). Nothing overwhelming, though! !
The first time I saw you in this forum, I looked up Tbong Khmum on Google Earth and figured you must be living pretty peacefully there (and probably happily too). I expected to see you chime in on this discussion, and your description of your "habitat area" perfectly captures Southeast Asian countryside in general.
we come across (...) carts pulled by a motorized tiller,
The Kubota—a multi-purpose tool for so many farmers...
For Issan, I’ve looked into it a bit, and two routes stand out: one in the north, along the Mekong, and the other in the south, with the hills and Khmer temples.
The locals eat *very* spicy food there—you’d love it.
Thanks again... I’m looking into it now, but it’ll almost certainly be the North, along the Mekong. Really excited about it...
I’m already buzzing with anticipation. I hadn’t planned this at all, even though I’ve got a ton of stuff to sort before my next trip to Thailand...
Any updates on the rumor about the visa exemption being extended to a month?
Hello and thank you so much for your kind and interesting message!
The ideal is to be motorized so you can explore quite far from your accommodation each day—around 60-80 km, for example (depending on the state of the roads/tracks, of course, and how much your backside can handle the bumps before giving up!). That’s better than being limited to just 10-20 km around the village by bike.
Biking, and scooters even less, aren’t for me. It’ll be on foot or with a driver (I don’t feel ready to drive in Thailand).
You pass through small typical villages, rice fields, orchards, rubber plantations, cashew trees, durian groves, and you can even swim in a waterfall pool. You’ll see street vendors, carts pulled by motorized plows, kids piled four-deep on an old-school motorbike, water buffalo with their herders, etc. But you’ll never run into another tourist ;)
Beautiful description. That’s exactly what I’m looking for. You totally get it.
And you can experience this pretty much anywhere in the Southeast Asian countryside. I think it’s way more enriching and "authentic" (as tourists say!)—both culturally and in terms of encounters—than sticking to the main tourist spots in these countries.
You’re preaching to the choir ;)
The downside is that almost no one speaks English, so it’s best to research accommodations where that’s not the case and learn some basic words/phrases beforehand for daily life (food, directions, polite phrases, etc.).
Yes, that’s a bit of an issue for me, but since I’m not much of a talker, my voice translator should handle daily life, as you put it. 😏
Nothing insurmountable!
Oh, for me, it *is* insurmountable. I’ve already tried with Malayalam in Kerala, where I live for six months a year, and also in Thailand during my last trip. At my age, all the words sound the same—I mix everything up and remember nothing. After five minutes, I’ve forgotten what I learned, and I have to start over. So I gave up...
But struggling to understand or make yourself understood can also lead to big laughs that bring people closer. You have to fight, use gestures, draw, show pictures, etc. And these days, voice translators are a godsend!
When it comes to the visa exemption story, we won’t be sure of anything until the very last minute.
This exemption was obviously meant to attract more tourists and bring in more money. Then they realized it was letting in a lot of bad apples—people causing trouble, scandals, and some high-profile incidents.
So they decide to scrap the visa exemption, but by then the latest stats show the country’s starting to lose its tourist appeal compared to its neighbors. So, what do they do?
On a whole bunch of issues, they’ve just kept flip-flopping based on the latest news. By the time you get back, they might’ve changed their minds twice more.
They really struggle to plan ahead or prepare for the future—they mostly live in the moment, and that explains a lot of 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
Okay, thanks again. All of this is really interesting and tempting—it’s exactly what I’m looking for. But is it still relevant in 2025? I stumbled across a heated discussion about Isan (Isan or Issan?) where people were arguing over a nice guy’s travel journal about Isan. The topic was the massive influx of tourists in Isan and all the consequences we’re familiar with.
The last message in that thread (which ended up being closed) left me wondering about the mentality of some people on this forum.
Anyway, I’ll look into all of this. I still need to pick THE village to settle in. Or maybe leave most of my luggage in storage at my accommodation and head out for a few more days—or even a week—somewhere else in one of the villages you mentioned. And why not a quick detour to Vientiane for a few days?
Let’s stay in touch.
If you have any additional tips, they’d be more than welcome. Thanks again.
For the visa exemption story, we won’t be sure of anything until the last minute.
This exemption was obviously meant to bring in more tourists and more money.
Then they realize it’s letting in a lot of bad customers who cause trouble, scandals, and some high-profile incidents.
So they decide to cancel the visa exemption, but by then the latest stats show the country is starting to lose its tourist appeal compared to its neighbors. So, what do they do?
On a whole bunch of issues, they’ve just kept flip-flopping based on the latest news.
By the time you come back, they might’ve changed their minds twice more.
They struggle to plan ahead and prepare for the future—they mostly live in the moment, and that explains a lot.
Yeah, I get it, but we tourists need certainty to book our flight tickets ;)
Personally, it’s less of a hassle for me because I’ll only decide once I’m back in India since I’m leaving from India, not France. I don’t need to plan too far in advance. On the other hand, I have to plan my stay in India and set my exit date after 90 days—that’s easy. But I also need to plan my return date to India and book my return ticket to France within another 90 days... And for that, I need to sort it out right now. I almost missed out on a great Air France deal by two days because people jumped on it, and there’s no availability left
Without knowing when I’ll be back from Thailand, I can’t set my return date from India to France...
Looking back at what you wrote about Route 211, I came across the link for Route 105. It seems pretty good too and matches what I like and what I'm looking for. But there’s apparently a lot of police presence, which isn’t very pleasant...
I said I didn’t want to spread myself too thin, but now’s the time to make a choice...
Do you have a map reference for this route? Thanks.
I mentioned Isaan because I’ve read in several places over the past year that Isaan is the least-visited region in Thailand, but if there are other areas just as quiet and picturesque, I’d be interested too. I only have one preference, one criterion: as few tourists as possible, and a pleasant, peaceful, and picturesque region to visit, no matter the district—but in the north of the country...
Side question: Why do you always say *a* guesthouse? A guesthouse is feminine, right? I noticed that last year too. *A hotel, a guesthouse...* 😏😏😏
Yeah, these things are indestructible! They're not very fast, but they can haul just about anything—from a cart piled sky-high with several tons of cassava to a traveling shop selling mattresses, wicker baskets, utensils, brooms, and everything you need for the house. Plus, they handle field and rice paddy work like a charm! !
Awesome if the voice translator is that reliable!
For daily trips, even if a scooter isn’t your thing, you’ll definitely find a tuk-tuk driver around who’d be happy to have a regular customer and can take you just about anywhere. Could even be the start of a great friendship.
I stumbled quite by chance on a heated discussion about Isan where the participants got into a spat over a nice guy’s travel journal about Isan. (Isan or Issan?) It was about the large influx of tourists in Isan and all the consequences we know about.
I went and read the thread in question (not in full). The guy who started it, recounting his trip, may not have been tactful in his title by using the word "real," which could have rubbed some expats living elsewhere the wrong way. But to counter-argue by suggesting that Isan is becoming more and more crowded and so on is a huge exaggeration and, in my opinion, bad faith.
Offering very few "photogenic" sites for the average foreign tourist, it’s not tomorrow that Isan will be on the banana pancake trail or featured in travel agencies’ brochures worldwide. Just take a look at their catalogs to see for yourself.
These days, what kind of independent foreign tourist goes to Isan, and to see what? Those who’ve been to Thailand before and, on a second or third trip, set aside 2 nights in their itinerary for Khao Yai National Park (which really only requires a small detour from the "Northern route") and, at a stretch, 2 more nights for Phimai and Phrasat Phanom Rung.
You’ll also find some tourist traffic in Nong Khai (usually quite brief), but that’s just because it’s a crossing point to Laos.
There’s the Surin Elephant Round-Up, but that’s only a few days in November, and since Thais book most of the accommodations months in advance, few foreign tourists make it there. Plus, it takes 4-5 nights to really enjoy it—a long time for many people for a non-beach stop... And you go for the elephants, not for Isan.
Beyond that kind of tourism and those places? A bit of Thai tourism, mostly on weekends, in the spots mentioned above, plus places like Chiang Khan, Khong Jiam, and a few others, not to mention some national parks. And travelers like me, very few in number, who don’t hesitate to spend time there to get lost.
In conclusion, don’t pay attention to the bitter expats who responded in the thread you’re referring to. Even in 2025, you’ll be far from "crowds"* on 99% of Isan’s territory.
* If the term even applies to Isan.
Isan or Issan? Since the transcription of Thai characters into Latin isn’t an exact science, it’s up to you. You’ll sometimes see it written as I’san.
Have you ever seen "Chiang Mai" spelled the same way everywhere on-site?
After rereading what you wrote about Route 211, I found the link about Route 105. It looks pretty good too and seems to match what I like and what I’m looking for.
Oh yeah, Route 105 is great too and would fit your criteria just as well. Plus, it’s a similar setup: lost villages by a river forming a border, so it’s interesting (in Southeast Asia, there’s always something interesting to see on border rivers...). I didn’t mention it because you seemed set on Isan.
If Route 211 is a bit out of the way and requires a long detour, Route 105 could easily be a much nicer alternative to the direct (but not very scenic) route from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai that many travelers take to/from the North. But no, hardly anyone goes there—too bad for them.
But apparently, there’s a lot of police presence, which isn’t very pleasant...
No, the police are only there for road checks (which, given the length of the road, aren’t that many) and won’t bother you unless you look Karen, as they’re looking for illegal immigrants (at one point, the road runs alongside the Mae La refugee camp for 3 km). Other than that, there’s no police presence anywhere.
Do you have a map reference for this road? Thanks.
Nothing except this one: https://www.thailand-ticket.de/Chiang-Mai-Hotel-Buchen/north-thailand-map.htm
Just be careful—regarding the road in question, I’ve never seen an accurate map (issues with village names or their locations, but the cities of Mae Sot and Mae Sariang are in the right places). Trust the directions I gave instead.
Sure, Cambodia is a country worth visiting, but "not at all overrun by tourists"...
Phnom Penh, Kep, Sihanoukville, Siem Reap—really, not even those? Come on...
I agree that these cities are more touristy, but there’s so much more to see!
and the people are nice
Like in all Southeast Asian countries, I’d say without much risk of being wrong.
I base my answer on my own experience. I don’t doubt you’ve had a similar experience across all of Southeast Asia, but that wasn’t the case for me.
Excerpt from your site:
Noirenvoyage, your expert in tailor-made travel. For personalized and unforgettable trips. Explore the hidden wonders of the world, whether close to home or on the other side of the globe. With Noirenvoyage, your guide for a trip that reflects you—immersive, close to nature, solo, or around the world. Make your dreams a reality; I help you overcome both practical and emotional obstacles.
Travel planner? For example, for 3 weeks in Cambodia, how much does your service cost?
I’m not a travel planner. I could become one, but I’m not yet. That said, I can help people who want to build their own travel plans.
Voyager Autrement est Possible
Un Voyage à votre image
Voyages en immersion et éco-responsables
Noirenvoyage, your expert in tailor-made travel. For personalized and unforgettable trips. Explore the world’s hidden wonders, whether close to home or on the other side of the globe. With Noirenvoyage, your guide for a trip that reflects you—immersive, close to nature, solo, or around the world. Make your dreams come true; I help you overcome both practical and emotional obstacles.
Travel planner? For example, for 3 weeks in Cambodia, how much does your service cost?
Hi, I see that like me, you’ve spotted the woman advertising her travel agency for free at VF’s expense. I hate that kind of behavior.
Agency to avoid at all costs! !
Why so much hate? For your information, I don’t yet have a travel agency. It’s a possibility, but not a reality. I’m trying to build a project around travel, but my blog is mainly a travel journal with stories and recommendations.
In my reply, I didn’t even mention it, and I recommended Cambodia because I’ve just returned from 6 months in Southeast Asia, where I visited the countries you’re asking about. Personally, I preferred Cambodia. I haven’t published my travel journals yet because I’m taking the time to process the experiences. And if it’s worth anything to you, if you’re looking for less touristy spots in Cambodia, the Ratanakiri region is really authentic with beautiful waterfalls. Further south, instead of Kep, I’d go to Kampot—you can visit an interesting project on Kampot pepper. And then there are the islands Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem if you like the sea. That’s it!
If you decide on Vietnam, the island of Phu Quoc has some interesting things to see. Da Lat, the city of flowers, will enchant you if you love flowers. And in the north, Ha Giang offers an immersion in nature and the mountains.
If my message bothers you, I’m truly sorry. Let me know, and I’ll make sure not to respond to your future questions.
Best regards,
Voyager Autrement est Possible
Un Voyage à votre image
Voyages en immersion et éco-responsables
At worst, for 2000 baht, you can extend your stay by a month on the spot.
« 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
At worst, for 2,000 baht, you can extend your stay by a month once you're there.
Yeah, I know, but I can’t do that from my hotel room in some remote village in the middle of nowhere in Isaan, and all that paperwork and admin stuff really gets on my nerves.
At worst, for 2000 baht, you can get a one-month stay extension on the spot.
I think it's still 1900 baht, which is the equivalent of $58. The Laotian VOA, on the other hand, only costs $40, and a quick trip to Vientiane would allow you to return to Thailand with a new Visa Exemption (after filling out a new TDAC).
(Just to remind you, quote from Marien33 yesterday:
And why not also a short trip to Vientiane for a few days?
).
But all of this only applies if route 211 is chosen as the destination. If it's route 105, the only reasonably possible option would be the extension. In that case, the nearest Immigration offices are in Tak and Chiang Mai (I'm surprised there isn't one at the major Mae Sot border crossing).
« 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
Issan, I’m thinking of the villages along Route 211 by the Mekong—several of them could work as a base for you.
Route 105 is also great and would fit your plans just as well. Plus, it’s a similar setup: remote villages by a river that forms a border, so it’s interesting (in Southeast Asia, there’s always something fascinating to see on border rivers...). I didn’t mention it because you seemed set on Issan.
If Route 211 is a bit out of the way and requires a long detour, Route 105 could easily be an alternative.
I haven’t revisited my travel plans yet, but I’ll get back to them soon.
Personally, I think I’ll go for the villages along Route 211...
I was scammed online and lost nearly 22 000 €... money I’d been saving penny by penny for my retirement in case things got tough...
So my future—and my travels—will have to adjust to this loss.
Do you think accommodation will be cheaper on Route 211 or Route 105?
I’m really sorry to hear that—especially since it’s such a large sum. I assume you’ve already taken care of the steps for filing a complaint, contacting your bank, and reaching out to victim support groups.
For accommodation, local transport, and food, prices and options are pretty similar on Routes 105 and 211. In both cases, the budget needed will be lower than on the tourist highway.
Accommodation, local transport, and food—prices and options are similar on routes 105 and 211, and in both cases, the budget needed will be lower than on the tourist highway.
That’s not my main reason for choosing the countryside, you know, but I kinda suspected it and it’ll work out great for me.
Well, here we go—despite what some people tell me about not setting off on another long trip to India/Thailand, I’ve booked my flight ticket (one way) for 143 € and 31,000 miles, and my return (one way) for 540 € (with one or two interesting options). That’s a total of 693 €.
I just did a round-trip simulation for the same dates and times: 995 €. From the airport in my city to the Indian airport, both ways. Way cheaper than all the other airlines, which—since they only fly from and to Paris—would force me to take either a flight or a train from my city to Roissy, plus a night in an airport hotel. Living far from Paris really penalizes you. 😢
I’m planning five weeks in Thailand from January 19 to February 22, between two stays in India.
I still don’t know how to approach my stay in Thailand.
I don’t feel like lingering in Bangkok this time, even though I really loved the capital during my last trip. Maybe arrive in Chiang Mai instead of Bangkok?
I also don’t want to spend my time constantly unpacking and repacking a suitcase, hopping from one place to another every 3 to 4 or 5 days.
I’ve got Songsam’s tips in mind for the villages along Route 211 or Route 105. The first option (which appeals to me more) seems to offer either mediocre or uncomfortable accommodations or ones way over my budget. The second option is interesting, especially if I settle in for a while at:
Tha Song Yang, at the Wongtawan Resort, 800 Bahts with a "help yourself" breakfast included.
And go back there every night since our friend says the villages aren’t too far apart and there’s no decent accommodation in the other villages along that route 🤔. (I don’t see myself, like him, sleeping on a mat on the floor in the friendly shopkeeper’s store.) Plus, five weeks in Tha Song Yang might end up feeling really long and boring...
Another option is NAN, which we’d already talked about last year—much more "easygoing" and seemed to fit me perfectly. But yet another place supposedly off the beaten path that, thanks to being praised, recommended, and hyped as amazing and off the beaten path by so many travelers, agencies, and blogs, risks no longer being that at all. I had a really bad experience with that kind of thing, which I’ll soon write about in my travel journal (if I have the energy to keep going, since I’m pretty tired and busy right now).
Another possibility is going back to my accommodation in Chiang Rai (out in the countryside, in a tiny village about 20 km from the city). The welcome was incredibly friendly, comfortable, and peaceful. Big room, large covered wooden terrace where it’d be great to read and daydream while listening to the birds 😊. But I have no idea what the surrounding countryside and villages are like. Five weeks is a long time!
I’m open to any suggestions. Thanks!
It’s true that Cambodia has fewer tourist-crowded spots than Thailand (first) and Vietnam (second). But the must-see places like Angkor, Siem Reap, and Battambang are just as busy... In Vietnam, unfortunately, more and more places are getting overvisited, but there are still plenty of preserved spots in the North, the Southwest, and the southern tip.
For me, in Thailand, modernity has reached every province—roads, accommodations—though places like Isaan have fewer tourists in a modern setting. I really enjoyed Thailand the month they reopened the country after Covid.
Happy travels to the original poster!
Hi Thierry,
Thanks...
I’m looking into it...
I’m thinking of staying several weeks where I stayed last year in the countryside about twenty km from Chiang Rai and exploring the area, including Tha Ton and Mae Salong.
Hi,
As I mentioned in another thread, I had some personal issues that kept me away from VF and even my travel plans.
I’m slowly getting back on track and diving back into preparing for my next trip, which I’m planning for 5 weeks from January 19 to February 22.
Like I said in my previous post, I’ll be spending a long stay in Chiang Rai at the guesthouse where I stayed last year. I need to unwind and enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the countryside.
But it would be a shame to limit myself to just that.
So I’m thinking of spending eight days in Bangkok - Kanchanaburi - Ayutthaya. Then I might head back up to Loei and then Chiang Rai...
Hi Thierry,
I’m kinda back around... Sorry if I upset you—I was really going through a rough patch... I won’t bore you with my life story...
If you’re still mad, my bad... If you’re not too upset, I’d love to pick up our DM convo about my trip. If you’re up for it, of course...
See you soon, maybe,
Jean Marie
Kanchanaburi is an excellent choice for you. The city is particularly long and stretched out. As a walker, you’ll love it. You can even continue walking along the railway tracks. 🙂
« 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
Kanchanaburi, excellent choice for you. The town is particularly long and stretched out. As a walker, you’ll love it. You can even continue walking along the railway track. 🙂
Hi Joël,
Thanks for replying to my message.
Actually, I’m gonna skip Ayutthaya.
I’ve had my fill of temples, crowds, and archaeology last year.
I much prefer small towns, not too busy, and nature.
I had the best time during the last part of my trip in Chiang Rai last year.
Instead of spending 21 days in Chiang Mai and 9 days in Chiang Rai, I should’ve done the opposite…
I’m gonna make a detour to Nan instead and spend a week there since it’s on the way before heading back to Chiang Rai.
I need to check what’s the most interesting, enjoyable, and comfortable way to get to Nan from Kanchanaburi. Train or bus?
January 19: Kochi -> Bangkok
January 19–21: BANGKOK – 2 days, 3 nights
January 22: Bangkok -> Kanchanaburi
January 22–25: KANCHANABURI – 4 days, 4 nights
January 26: Kanchanaburi -> Nan
January 26 – February 1: NAN – 7 days, 7 nights
February 2: Nan -> Chiang Rai by train or bus?
February 2–22: CHIANG RAI – 21 days, 21 nights (with trips to Tha Ton and Mae Salong, based on Songsam’s recommendations)
February 23: Chiang Rai -> Bangkok
February 23–24: BANGKOK – 2 days, 2 nights
February 25: Bangkok -> Kochi
Hi Thierry,
I just found this message I’d kept somewhere in the back of my mind:
Phrae is a town with a pleasant center, ideal for a stopover of one or two nights—maybe even three at a push—but five? Good heavens! In that same area, I’d plan for five nights in Nan instead. Nan: a quiet provincial capital with lots of charm, some beautifully renowned temples, little car traffic, respected bike lanes (and bikes loaned out by the municipality*), very little tourism (except for Thai visitors on weekends, but it stays manageable), accommodations for every budget, and a really lovely province to explore on day trips (preferably by car or scooter since public transport is limited). You can even head up to Thung Chang for a few days to wander around the charming villages nearby.
I’ve been to Nan three times—plus once to Thung Chang—each time for at least five nights, and I never get tired of it.
If I haven’t convinced you to at least consider it by now, my name isn’t 2-3.
* Also available through AirAsia at the airport.
So I’m wondering if it wouldn’t be a better idea to spend two weeks in Nan and two weeks in Chiang Rai, instead of one and three. It seems like Nan has incredible potential for visits and walks (especially on foot) off the beaten path.
But since I upset you and you’re not talking to me anymore, I don’t know if you’ll even reply...
Could we bury the hatchet, maybe?
Hi Joël,
Following your example, I think it’d be a good idea to head to Bangkok after Kanchanaburi and take a domestic flight from Bangkok to Nan?
Or should I skip Kanchanaburi again and head straight to Nan when I arrive in Bangkok?
We’re not gonna start with the formal ‘vous,’ are we?
« 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
We’re not going to start using formal ‘vous,’ are we?
I think in French, when two people travel together, we say ‘vous’ 😉
Silly me!
So, regarding your question, I’ve always tried to rationalize my routes, especially since we mostly took the bus at first.
On AirAsia, we pretty much only booked BKK/CM or CR flights and BKK/Krabi.
So, if I’d done CR, I would’ve added Nan and Phrae to keep the area manageable.
I’d have included Kanchanaburi in a circuit around Bangkok’s provinces or as part of a southern Thailand route, for example.
In that area, to be thorough, you’d also want to do Kancha/Tong Pha Phum/Sangkhlaburi.
That said, from BKK, buses go to these destinations without issue, so I don’t have any strong arguments against doing BKK/Kancha/CR/Nan.
« 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
On AirAsia, we’ve pretty much only booked BKK/CM or CR flights and BKK/Krabi.
So, if I’d gone with CR, I’d have added Nan and Phrae to explore a not-too-large area...
Am I silly too? 😉 Took me a while to figure out CR and CM.
I’d have included it in a circuit around Bangkok’s provinces or a southern Thailand loop, for example.
I thought I’d been clear last year: circuits aren’t (no longer) my thing. I prefer picking two (or three) spots that appeal to me and settling in to explore the surrounding area...
But you must’ve forgotten. I forget a lot of what people tell me too... 😉
It’s decided—here’s the plan:
First night in Bangkok to recover from the trip, then a flight to Nan, where I’ll stay for 13 days.
I found/reserved a really lovely, super-comfy modern bungalow set in a big garden with all sorts of amenities for 10,400 THB, with a nice long-stay discount I didn’t even have to ask for...
Then 3 weeks in Chiang Rai, with little getaways of one, two, or three days, depending, including 1 or 2 overnight stays.
I can’t find that PM on my account... No message from Songsam on those dates...
You also mentioned another village... I’ve forgotten the name...
I’ll have to argue with the driver to make sure he doesn’t drive for hours on the Highway before taking the small road(s) to get me to these places. Plus, I’d like to spend two or three days in the area, and I can’t/won’t ask him to stay with me for several days.
And I remember the desert-like vibe of Mae Salong last year. All the restaurants were closed. I had to settle for eating whatever in the only one that was open. So if it’s the same for accommodation...
The other village was supposed to be Tha Ton. The PM was probably the link to the guide I wrote about the two villages in the other forum. It seems that some information there has become outdated: there are no longer regular songthaews connecting the two villages.
Someone updated that guide on January 17th of this year after a very recent trip, so I’ll let you look it up.
I’m surprised you’re considering going back to Mae Salong if your first attempt left you unpleasantly surprised (everything closed). Maybe it was too quick (just a few hours, if I understood correctly)? For a curious traveler who enjoys day hikes in the countryside toward villages*, Mae Salong as a base deserves *at least* 3 nights, or even longer for you.
*The first ones are less than a 45-minute walk away.
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I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
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...
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi,
On September 1st, we're heading to Kalimantan for six weeks, probably from Pontianak to the Derawan Islands.
I've scoured this site, which is usually my go-to 😉, and others like VoyageForum, but recent info is pretty scarce.
I'd love any tips on places you've visited—our itinerary is still a work in progress.
We're two couples traveling with backpacks, using buses, boats, guesthouses, and homestays.
Thanks in advance!
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,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
However, I’m not quite sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight)
· Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok)
· Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x")
· Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there, we’re landing at Hanoi Airport and would like to head straight to Cao Bang without going into Hanoi. Does anyone know if there are buses that go directly from the airport to Cao Bang (especially in the early afternoon)? Thanks in advance!
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!
. (Isan or Issan?) It was about the large influx of tourists in Isan and all the consequences we know about.
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