Bonjour,
Mieux vaut tard que jamais! Je vous fais enfin part de notre voyage d'un mois à Bali-Lombok-Java réalisé en été 2008 en famille ( 2 adultes et 3 enfants de 6, 9 et 12 ans). Cela fait plusieurs fois que j'essaye de poster ce message sans succès...
Voyage Indonésie : été 2008
Note : le petit déj est toujours inclus.
BALI
Voyage avec Qatar Airways ( ++).
A l'arrivée, sortir de l'aéroport de Denpasar, kiosque des taxis à droite. DAB à côté.
Aéroport-Jimbaran en taxi : 50000 rps
1. JIMBARAN p 128 LP ; p418 GDR; p117 F ; 4 nuits: 9/10/11/12 juillet
Plusieurs hotels fermés. Hotel :Puri Indra Prastha, très moyen avec piscine. 2 ch x 4 j = 1 700 000 roupies ( 200000-250000 la ch). Non conseillé.
Hotel Puri Bambu serait mieux mais + cher
- plage sympa, calme, sable.
- restau poisson et fruits de mer
1er soir, Lia Café, centre, TB, 234000 rps/famille
2e soir: restau au sud. 736000 rps/famille avec langouste et homard ( langouste : 350000 rps/kg; homard: 100 000 rps/kg)
3e soir : restau au nord : danse legong
- coucher soleil
Excursion avec guide + chauffeur francophone le 11/07 : 40 euros/j . Guide: Gus'man Dipa ( tél : 085 238 458 870; email: gus.man72@yahoo.com). Très sympa.
- marché de Denpasar (achat épices + sarong)
- péninsule de Bukit : plage Dreamland pour voir surfers + Temple Pura Luhur Ulu Watu au coucher de soleil pour voir danse Kecak ( TB) p133 LP
2. OUEST BALI : chauffeur Jimbaran- Gilimanuk : 580000 rps avec arrêt au
Temple Pura Tanah Lot p 267 LP
+ route des épices jusqu'à la traversée d'un arbre près de Manggissari
Nuit à Gilimanuk à l'hôtel Sari (2 ch pour 200000 rps). C'est le seul hôtel correct!
3. JAVA
Départ par ferry le matin ( 30 mns; 0.70 euros ).
A Java, bemo chartérisé 600000 roupies pour aller jusqu'à Cemoro Lawang ( Mont Bromo). Le mieux aurait été de louer une voiture.
- Nuit à l'hôtel Lava View Lodge (à réserver : 0335501020) p 329 GDR: 600000 rps la suite ( TB).Arrivée en milieu d'aprem : ballade ( très beau paysage) + réservation excursion pour la nuit.
- départ 4h ( il fait très froid) pour voir volcan Bromo au lever de soleil. Réserver une jeep la veille à l'hôtel 24euros . Spectacle grandiose de la plateforme où nous emmène la jeep puis après le lever du soleil, la jeep nous ramène au pied du Bromo pour l'ascension à cheval du volcan ( 3 chevaux : 300000rps). Après l'ascension, la jeep nous ramène à l'hôtel vers 8h pour petit déj.
Pour repartir de Cemoro Lawang, bémo (taxi collectif)jusqu'à Probolinggo. De là, bus jusqu'au port de Java : arnaque + bus qui s'arrête tout le temps alors que c'était un soi-disant express! On conseille soit de louer une voiture du port de Java pour aller jusqu'au volcan et la rendre au retour, soit chartériser un bémo pour l'aller et le retour entre le port de Java et le Bromo directement.
Ferry puis de nouveau nuit au Sari à Gilimanuk à Bali( 1 ch = 186000 rps)
Bémo chartérisé pour Gilimanuk-Lovina(Kalibukbuk): 250000 rps.
4. LOVINA p 257 LP : 16/17/18/19 juillet
Location 4x4 : 12 euros/j; essence 6000 rps/l
4 nuits à l'hotel Bayu Kartika dans les bungalows face à la piscine et à la mer : meilleur rapport qualité-prix; superbe piscine, bien situé, beau cadre. 300 000 rps les 2 bungalows/j
Le 17 : repos + marché de Singaraja
Le 18 : temple Pura Ulun Danu sur le lac Bratan ( sur la route, cérémonie puis singes) puis accrobranche au Bali Treetop Adventure ¨Park à Candikuning.Super!
Le 19 : excursion ( tour : 300 000 rps): temple bouddhiste+ sources chaudes Air Panas banjar ( p 263 LP)+ rizières +Munduk+ lacs + cascades de Git Git
Le 20: départ très tôt (vers 5.30-6h) avec pêcheur pour voir dauphins en pleine mer au lever du soleil ( 60000 rps /pers).Retour hôtel à 8h pour petit déj puis départ à 9h avec autre bateau pour snorkeling ( 60000 rps/pers). Très beaux fonds et poissons. Retour à 11h.
Changement d'hôtel pour dernière nuit à Lovina : hôtel Melka excelsior (réservé en arrivant à Lovina) . 2 ch = 60 dollars
- A l'hôtel, nage avec dauphins dans piscine: 600 000 rps pack family ( environ 1/2h pour la famille) + spectacle de dauphins. Pas très écolo mais les enfants ont adoré!
Négociation pour garder la voiture pour 10 euros/j et la rendre à Padangbai avant d'aller sur l'île de Lombok.
5. EST : AMED ( p 231 LP; p 474 GDR; p 184 F)
Seul endroit où on a galéré pour trouvé un hébergement.
1 nuit (21/07)au Amed café dans beau bungalow pour 450000 rps.
- snorkeling en face restau sama sama café
- Jemeluk : point de vue
Restau Sama Sama très bon poisson barracuda
Le 22 : route de Culik à Candidasa (belles rizières) puis tirtatangga water palace.
Choix de l'hôtel à Candidasa puis village traditionnel de Tenganan.
6. CANDIDASA
2 nuits ( 22/23 juillet) au Sekar Orchid Beach bungalows : 360000 rps / fam/j. Maison d'hôte, magnifique jardin face à la mer, succulent petit déj. Recommandé.
Le 23: -Plage p 225 Lp Pasir Putih à l'est de Candidasa ( 7 kms)
- rizières de Sidemen( route qui relie Lung-Kung à Sidemen et Iseh); route de Rendang à Amlapura 210 LP; p 455 GDR
7.PADANGBAI
Pour aller à Padangbai de Candidasa, compter 1h30.
A Padangbai ( 216 Lp; 463 GDR; 165 F): Padangbai beach inn le 24/07 : 225000 les 2 ch. Bon accueil.
- plage Blue Lagoon
Réservation par l'hôtel du transfert jusqu'à Gili Trawangan le 25/07
Pick-up pour aller de l'hôtel au port + ferry (6h)+ bemo à Lombok + bateau entre Lombok et île Gili Trawangan: avec agence Wisata ( 120000 rps/adulte; 60000 rps/enfant).
Départ 8h30; arrivée 19h
8. GILI TRAWANGAN p 296 LP; 517 GDR; 276 F du 25/07 au 29/07.4 nuits. On a adoré!
Arrivée le soir : difficile de trouver un hébergement. On a rechangé le lendemain matin pour loger à l'écart sur la côte est plus au nord : Gili Ranta ( 2 bungalows neufs pour 500000 rps/j ).Coin très sympa, calme, très peu de touristes( à l'inverse du centre). Recommandé
- tour de l'île en cidomo ( carriole à cheval): 60000 rps le 26/07
- location de vélo du 26 à 16h au 27 à 16h : 150000 rps les 5 vélos. Tour de l'île en vélo pour voir le coucher de soleil au Nord le 26.
- Le 27 : tour des 3 îles ( Gili Trawangan + Meno+Air) en bateau à fond de verre + snorkeling : tortues, beaux fonds, poissons) pour 400 000 rps.
L'après-midi, promenade en vélo dans le village.
- Pas de DAB ( prévoir argent)
- plage + snorkeling + ballades + vélo + jeux avec les petites indonésiennes( famille et voisines).
- couveuse à tortues
Pour repartir, on a chartérisé un bateau puis à Lombok, taxi jusqu'à Sengiggi où on a cherché à louer une voiture que l'on garderait jusqu'à notre départ vers Bali ( remise au port): 12 euros/j. De Sengiggi, nous sommes allés à Kuta (Lombok)
19. KUTA LOMBOK ( 5 nuits)du 29/07 au 2/08.
Kuta Indah hotel avec belle piscine : 300000 rps les 2 bungalows/j
- marché de Kuta mercredi matin
- Plages Taugung Aun + Taun à l'est; à l'ouest, plages Mawun, Selong Blanaak , Mawi.
- excursion au marché de Sengkol le jeudi avant 10h et village de Rembitan
- Excellent restau végétarien avec magnifique vue.
Départ le 02 pour le port, remise de la voiture, traversée en ferry. On avait réservé un chauffeur au Padangbai Beach Inn pour aller jusqu à Ubud.
10. UBUD p 170 LP du 03/08/au 10/08
Hotel Dewi Sri : 2 bungalows pour 350000 rps. Magnifique cadre.
Location de voiture: 120000rps/j ; voiture que l'on rendra à Kuta.
Restaus : Café wayan ++le 03/08(banquet dimanche soir à réserver); Bumbu Bali le 06/08 ( bien); casa luna (jalan raya)le 07/08 bien; 3 monkeys ++ le 10/08 ; le 08/08 :réservation au Ketut's Place ( un peu décevant).
- palais le 03/08 + spectacle legong barong le 06/08 ( 240000rps/famille)
- Sacred Monkey Forest ou Mandala Wisata Wanara p 174 LP le 03/08
- Le 07/08: rafting Sungai Ayung A FAIRE : 200000 rps / pers ( transport, rafting, repas inclus) ++
- spectacles théatre Wayang Kulit le05/08
- le 08/08 : Trekking vers village de Kiliki : 3h de marche dans les rizières avec Dolit ++ ( 08 155 79 14 33) (retour motorisé).Celui-ci nous a emmenés chez lui : repas + instruments+peinture. A ne pas rater!
- achats : marionnettes, intruments, ...
- le 05/08 : Volcan Batur + procession au temple Tirta Empul
- Le 06/08: crémation à Kintamani
- Le 09/08:- Bali Bird Park p 198 LP + Rimba Reptil Park p 198 LP . Pour les 2 parcs: 15/7.50 dollars. www.bali-bird-park.com.Les enfants ont adoré (dragons du komodo; parc où on peut porter tortues et autres iguanes)
- Puaya près de Sukawati (sud d'Ubud) et Peliatan (à l'est) : fabrication de marionnettes
- artisanat (environs)
Le 10/08, derniers achats puis départ pour Kuta
11. KUTA: 1 nuit
New Arena Hotel: 2 ch communicantes; piscine; déj non inclus ( 500000rps)
Shopping
le 11/08:Waterbom Park au Sud de Kuta (Bali)à Tuban p 103 LP : parc aquatique www.waterbom-com. Mega-surprise pour les enfants!
Départ le soir de l'hôtel pour aéroport.
Merci. Des photos, j'en ai tellement que je ne saurais lesquelles mettre!
Ce post est surtout destiné aux personnes qui prévoient un voyage afin de les aider dans leur préparation (itinéraire, excursions, budget, guides, etc). En tous cas, ce fut un très beau voyage qui nous a marqués tous les 5.
Nous n'avions rien réservé par avance et avons ainsi pu comparer les offres et négocier plus facilement. Nous nous étions fixés 30 euros / nuit pour les 5 petit déjeuner compris et avons réussi à tenir ce budget en ayant le + souvent 2 bungalows et une piscine. La location de voiture n'a pas été un souci et nous a permis d'avoir plus de liberté. Seul inconvénient : le manque d'indications parfois.
Cet été, on part en Thaïlande et on espère être aussi enchantés.
Tout d abord merci pour toutes ces infos, qui font rever, , ,
Je suis en train de préparer un voyage en Indonésie au mois de juillet. J aimerai également passer quelques jours sur les iles Gili, dont Gili T.
Je me demandais comment c etait passé ta premiere nuit en arrivant sur l ile assez tard. J ai pu lire un peu partout qu il faut absolument reserver une chambre avant d arriver, chose que je n ai pas fait...
Est ce que ca ete tres difficile de trouver un hotel sans reserver ???
Je remets sur le forum la réponse que j'avais envoyée en MP ayant dépassé mon quota!
Nous n'avions pas réservé avant et avons essayé d'appeler du bateau en vain. Nous sommes arrivés plus tard que prévu car on t'annonce 4h de ferry mais le bateau a ensuite attendu 2h dans le port... On a effectivement eu un peu de mal à trouver mais surtout les hôtels en profitent pour faire payer plein pot des chambres parfois limite.On a donc pris 2 chambres qui nous convenaient moyennement ( prix élevé pour les chambres) et le lendemain matin, sommes allés à la recherche d'un autre hébergement : Gili Ranta, 2 bungalows nickel qu'une famille venait de construire sur une partie beaucoup moins touristique. On a adoré. Seul problème : les coupures d'électricité presque chaque soir! Bien sûr, ils ne figurent sur aucun guide. Leur n°: 081805241860.
Ne t'inquiète pas, nous n'avons jamais réservé et avons toujours trouvé et pourtant on était 5.
Cordialement.
Bonjour taq, je pars en couple a bali en octobre, je sais que le reve de mon amie serait de nager avec des dauphins ! est il possible de le faire au melkia excelsior ? combien de temps faut il y rester ? 2 nuits ?
enfin dernière question quel sont pour vous les choses à ne surtout pas manquer à bali ?
merci de votre réponse et pour ce post très intéressant et complet qui donne envie de partir au plus vite.
à bientôt et bon voyage en thailande ! (si vous passez vers chiang rai faites un stop a naga hill hotel, tres sympa)
fabien
Bonjour,
Oui, à Lovina, vous pourrez voir les dauphins au lever du soleil ( de 6h à 8h) en mer.
Au Melkia excelsior, ils ont quelques dauphins en piscine et il est possible de nager avec; enfin nager est un bien grand mot car ils ne pensent qu'à jouer; vous aurez des gilets de sauvetage et la séance doit durer une vingtaine de minutes. Il y a aussi des spectacles avec les dauphins. Je ne pense pas qu'il soit obligatoire d'y résider mais il y a un tarif préférentiel. Pour nous, c'était plus intéressant d'y passer une nuit ( nous sommes 5). Peut-être ont-ils un site avec les tarifs.
Quant aux choses à ne pas manquer à Bali, tout dépend de vos centres d'intérêt et du temps dont vous disposerez?
En tous cas, nous, on a adoré. On revient de Thailande, chouette voyage mais on a tout de même préféré l'Indonésie.
Taq
Hello, je vois que tu as fait l ascension du Mont Batur depuis Ubud. Combien cela t'a couté? A quelle heure es tu parti d'ubud? Temps d'ascension?
Est ce que ça a été difficile de trouver un guide pour cette excursion depuis Ubud?
Merci.
Mes photos de voyages || Carnet de voyage Bali & Gili Island
Je me permets de te contacter car je pars en famille avec mon mari et mes deux garçons (9 et 11 ans) du 4 au 29 décembre 2011 et mon itinéraire ressemble pas mal au tien. Je sais que ça fait un petit moment que tu as poster le tien (j'y ai pris quelques bonnes adresses) mais j'avais quelques questions à te poser.
Avais-tu fait des réservations d'hôtel à l'avance ou improvisé sur place?
Concernant ta voiture de location sur Lovina, peux-tu me donner ton contact, où l'as tu louée, quel était le tarif? Peut-on se la faire livrer sur Pemuteran et la rendre à Padangbai? quel tarif? N'est ce pas trop risquer de louer une voiture à Bali? Avais-tu une assurance? Est-ce facile de conduire à Bali? Avais-tu une carte?
Et sur Lombok, quel était ton contact?
J'ai vu que tu avais passé 9 nuits sur les Gilis et Lombok, aviez vous pris un traitement anti palu? si oui lequel? était-ce le même pour les adultes que pour les enfants?
Pour nous ce sera 4-5 jours max entre les gilis et lombok, que me conseilles-tu de faire?
Je passe 3 nuits sur Java pour faire les volcans Ijen et Bromo, faut-il un traitement pour java?
Concernant le volcan Batur, avez vous fait l'ascension? est-ce facile avec des enfants? Aviez vous pris un guide pour monter? Est-ce facile de le faire d'UBUD ou ne vaut -il pas mieux prendre un hôtel en bas du volcan?
En tout cas je te remercie d'avance si tu as le temps de répondre à mes questions.
Je te laisse mon mail : jmplantenc@yahoo.fr pour la réponse.
Bonjour,
Je vais tenter de répondre à tes questions.
Pour les hôtels, nous avons tout trouvé sur place. J'avais fait une sélection pour chaque endroit d'après les guides et forums. Le mieux est d'arriver le matin, d'en visiter 2 ou 3 pour faire son choix. Cela permet de voir et aussi de négocier le prix.Le seul endroit où nous avons eu du mal à trouver est Amed ( et Gili Trawangan mais nous sommes arrivés tard le soir).
Concernant les voitures de location, je n'ai pas les contacts. Je me souviens que nous avions du voir dans 2 ou 3 agences de Lovina.Le prix était très peu élevé, une douzaine d'euros par jour (en 2008). Nous avions loué la voiture à Lovina et l'avions laissée à Padangbai où une personne est venue la chercher moyennant un supplément permettant de couvrir son AR à Lovina.
Nous avons procédé de même à Sengiggi sur Lombok et avions rendu la voiture au port. Cela devait être un peu plus cher à Lombok ( 16 ou 17 euros).
Bien sûr, pour obtenir ces 2 tarifs, nous avions négocié.
Est-ce risqué? Il faut bien sûr rouler lentement sachant que les 2 roues et les animaux déboulent de partout. Nous n'avons eu aucun souci. A Lombok, c'est plus calme.Quant à l'assurance, elle était incluse mais certainement "légère".Pour être bien assuré, mieux vaut prendre une compagnie internationale mais les prix ne sont pas les mêmes. Il me semble que nous avions commandé une carte de Bali sur le net mais l'office de tourisme en France nous avait aussi envoyé de la doc et des cartes de Bali et Lombok.
Oui, nous avions pris un traitement antipaludéen pour Lombok: de la malarone.Le dosage est différent suivant le poids des enfants.Il faut donc voir le médecin pour la prescription et consulter aussi sur le net la liste des pharmacies où la malarone se vend moins cher car cela constitue un sacré budget...Nous nous sommes demandés si cela était nécessaire car n'avons pas été piqué (en août).Il y avait peu de moustiques et nous prenions toutes les précautions ( douche+vêtements longs imprégnés avant la tombée de la nuit, répulsifs). Si vous prenez des chambres avec clim, pas de moustique. La malarone se prend la veille de l'arrivée dans la zone impaludée et il faut poursuivre une semaine après mais le médecin vous expliquera.
En 4-5 jours, je te conseille de choisir entre une Gili et Kuta. Faire les 2 me semble difficile vu la distance.La région de Kuta est magnifique ( splendides plages, marchés)mais nous avons trouvé que la mer y était dangereuse pour les enfants et nous avons trouvé un peu pénible d'être sans cesse sollicité. Notre préférence va donc à une Gili ( nous ne connaissons que Trawangan) pour le repos assuré, baignade, tour de l'île à vélo et en cidomo et surtout le snorkeling (tortues, poissons, etc...).Si vous allez sur Trawangan, nous étions logé à l'écart de la foule chez une famille qui n'avait que 2 bungalows Gili Ranta.Nous avons adoré cet endroit et y serions bien restés plus longtemps.
Pour Java, nous n'avions pas pris de traitement antipaludéen puisque nous avons voyagé de jour et qu'au Bromo, aucun risque de palu vu l'altitude et le froid.Nous ne sommes pas allés à Ijen car nos enfants étaient + petits et on nous l'avait déconseillé ( terrain glissant, émanation de souffre).
Nous n'avons pas fait l'ascension du Mont Batur. Nous nous y sommes rendus en voiture de location au départ d'Ubud.
En espérant avoir répondu à tes attentes, je te souhaite une bonne préparation!
Merci Taq pour tes réponses; Elles vont bien m'aider dans la préparation de notre voyage.
J'en sais un peu plus maintenant sur le traitement anti palu et c'est vrai que la Malarone revient souvent sur le forum. Plus qu'à prendre rendez vous avec le médecin!
En ce qui concerne la voiture de loc je pense qu'on verra sur place.
Peux-tu me dire quel office de tourisme tu avais contacté en France pour avoir des infos et cartes?
Encore merci pour tout.
Laurence
Je suppose que c'était là :
Section consulaire de l'Ambassade d'Indonésie à Paris
47-49 rue Cortambert, 75016 Paris
Métro : La Muette, ligne 9 ou Passy, ligne 6.
Tél : 01 45 03 07 60 - Fax : 01 45 04 50 32
Ouverture : de 9h30 à 12h30, du lundi au vendredi.
E-Mail : komparis@online.fr
Site de l'Ambassade d'Indonésie à Paris.
4. LOVINA p 257 LP : 16/17/18/19 juillet
Changement d'hôtel pour dernière nuit à Lovina : hôtel Melka excelsior (réservé en arrivant à Lovina) . 2 ch = 60 dollars
- A l'hôtel, nage avec dauphins dans piscine: 600 000 rps pack family ( environ 1/2h pour la famille) + spectacle de dauphins. Pas très écolo mais les enfants ont adoré!
Bonjour,
Nous partons mon ami et moi pour l'indonésie dans 3 semaines pour 18 jours.
On se tate à faire un détour pour aller à LOVINA car un de nos rêves est de toucher et nager avec des dauphins... D'après les photos ils sont dans une "petite" piscine... Ca fait un peu foire à bestiole, non...? 🏴☠️ As-tu vécu un moment inoubliable de cette expérience ou cela t'a déçu ?
Grâce à tous vos renseignements nous avons fait de merveilleuses rencontres et de belle découvertes sur Sumatra en famille, franchement c'était top!! la beauté…
Dans le cadre d'un voyage en famille de 3 semaines au mois d'aout (Indonésie + nord Australie: voyageforum.com/... nous avons débuté notre périple par une…
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Nous sommes une famille de 4 personnes (avec 2 jeunes filles de 8 et 13 ans) nous venons de reserver nos billets pour le mois d'aout pour Bali et nous venons…
I’d love some advice on choosing a Christmas destination for a trip with my partner and our two kids, aged 10 and 12.
We’re looking for a place where we can enjoy great, easy snorkeling with the kids—ideally from the beach or in shallow water.
And if possible, a beautiful spot to explore, with nature, hikes, and a more laid-back, backpacker-friendly vibe than big resorts or mass tourism.
A "reasonable" flight time and not too much jet lag would be ideal!
I’ve been considering Mauritius, Zanzibar (plus possibly Tanzania), Martinique, or Guadeloupe—but maybe you have other suggestions or thoughts on these options?
I wanted to share our experience after a 5-day trip to Armenia with my wife and our 8-month-old baby.
It’s a destination that’s still relatively unknown, but it’s really worth the trip, especially if you enjoy cultural, spiritual, historical, and human-centered travel.
We were looking for a change of scenery but not too complicated with a baby—and easy to organize (even though our travel agency helped us a lot, thanks to them! 😊). In the end, Armenia was a wonderful surprise. It’s not a "postcard-perfect" destination. It’s a raw, mountainous, ancient country with real depth.
And most importantly: Armenians *love* children.
That’s probably what surprised us the most. In restaurants, waitresses, owners, or even other customers would naturally come over to play with our baby, hold them for a few minutes, smile at them, or keep them entertained while we ate.
It wasn’t intrusive. It was very natural, very family-oriented. You can tell that children have a real place in society. For parents traveling with a baby, it’s honestly a pleasure.
Day 1 — Yerevan
We started with Yerevan, a pleasant capital that’s quite easy to explore with a child.
The city isn’t huge. You can stroll around Republic Square, visit cafés, discover markets, and walk at a relaxed pace.
With a baby, it’s pretty practical: you can easily take breaks, return to the hotel, or go back out in the evening. The vibe is laid-back, family-friendly, and we felt safe.
In the evening, Yerevan is very lively. The restaurants are welcoming, and almost everywhere, our baby drew smiles.
Day 2 — Etchmiadzin and Khor Virap
On the second day, we headed to Etchmiadzin, the spiritual heart of Armenia. It’s an important place for understanding the country and its Christian identity.
Then, we visited Khor Virap, facing Mount Ararat.
It’s probably one of the most striking places on the trip. The monastery, the plain, the distant Ararat—everything is visually and symbolically powerful.
With a baby, you just need to plan a relaxed pace, avoid rushing, and take your time.
Day 3 — Garni and Geghard
The third day was one of our favorites.
We visited the Temple of Garni, very different from the monasteries, with a stunning setting in the mountains.
Then we went to Geghard, a monastery partially carved into the rock.
The atmosphere is incredible. It’s quiet, mineral, almost timeless. Even if you’re not very religious, you feel something.
With a child, the visit goes well, but again, it’s best not to overload the day. The key is to keep a flexible pace.
Day 4 — Noravank
On the fourth day, we headed to Noravank.
The road itself is an experience: dry landscapes, mountains, red rocks, valleys. The monastery is surrounded by impressive cliffs.
It’s one of the most beautiful sites we saw in Armenia.
You really get the sense that Armenian monasteries were built in impossible places—between sky, stone, and mountain.
Along the way, you can also pass through the Areni region, known for its wine. With a baby, we mostly prioritized simple breaks, relaxed meals, and uncompressed travel times.
Day 5 — Lake Sevan and return to Yerevan
For the last day, we went to Lake Sevan.
The lake is vast, bright, and surrounded by mountains. The Sevanavank Monastery, up high, offers a beautiful view.
It’s a gentler stop, perfect for ending the trip.
Then we returned to Yerevan for a final dinner. Once again, the welcome in restaurants stood out. In Armenia, traveling with a baby isn’t seen as a hassle. On the contrary, people spontaneously come up to the child.
Our overall impression
In 5 days, you obviously don’t see all of Armenia. To reach Tatev, Dilijan, Haghpat, or Sanahin, you’d need more like 7 to 10 days.
But for a first visit, 5 days are enough to feel the essence: Yerevan, the major monasteries, Mount Ararat, the landscapes, the Christian history, and the Armenian hospitality.
What we loved most:
- the kindness of people toward our baby;
- the very family-friendly atmosphere;
- the monasteries in incredible landscapes;
- the view of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap;
- the atmosphere of Geghard;
- the cliffs of Noravank;
- the food;
- the feeling of safety;
- the fact that the country is still relatively untouched by mass tourism.
What to know when traveling with a baby:
- distances can be longer than expected;
- some roads are mountainous;
- avoid overloading the day;
- it’s better to have a driver or a car;
- plan for breaks, water, diapers, baby meals;
- a stroller isn’t always practical on ancient sites;
- a baby carrier can be very useful.
Recommended 5-day itinerary
For a first trip, I’d suggest:
Day 1: Yerevan
Day 2: Etchmiadzin + Khor Virap
Day 3: Garni + Geghard
Day 4: Noravank + Areni
Day 5: Sevan + return to Yerevan
It’s balanced, not too tiring, and gives a great first impression of the country.
Conclusion
Armenia is a wonderful destination with a baby, as long as you travel slowly and don’t try to see everything.
What touched us most, beyond the landscapes and monasteries, was the attitude toward children. There, you feel that babies are welcomed with real tenderness. In restaurants, people naturally helped us, played with our child, and gave us a few minutes to breathe.
That’s rare, and it makes a big difference in the travel experience.
Armenia isn’t a destination you consume quickly.
It’s a country that you *feel*.
For those who love cultural, spiritual, historical, family, and human-centered travel, I highly recommend it.
I’ve read the forum a lot and found a wealth of information. I’ve tried to compile all of it into our itinerary and would love your feedback to finalize the bookings (we’re planning this *very* last-minute).
Here’s what we’re thinking of doing:
22 July: arrival in Johannesburg
Night of 22–23: Johannesburg
Nights of 23–26: Marloth Park (with Kruger visits on the 24th, 25th, and a crossing visit on the 26th)
Nights of 26–28: Graskop (visiting the canyon and Panorama Road on the 27th and 28th)
Nights of 28–30: Hoedspruit (visiting the central area of Kruger on the 29th?)
Nights of 30 July–1 August: Balule Park (private reserve with safari)
Nights of 1–5 August: flight from Hoedspruit to Cape Town, then 2 days in Cape Town, 1 day on the peninsula, and 2 days for wine (just the route) or something else based on your advice (we don’t know where to stay—whether to stay all 5 nights in Cape Town and where in the city, or do 2 nights in Cape Town and 3 nights nearby—but where?)
Night of 5–6 August: Kelders for penguins and whales
Nights of 6–8 August: Tsitsikamma (what is there to do/see?)
Nights of 8–10 August: Addo Park on the 9th
10 August: flight from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg and back home
What do you think?
Is there a lot of driving time?
We’d really appreciate your comments and suggestions.
Thanks!
Hi everyone,
We're heading to Colombia soon for two weeks as a family with our two 10-year-old boys. I'm a bit behind on planning our itinerary and could really use your advice!
We arrive in Cartagena, where we'll spend 3 nights.
Next, we're heading to the Tayrona area for 3 nights. Could you recommend a nice hotel with a pool, ideally family-friendly? Unfortunately, Senda Watapuy and Senda Koguiwa are already fully booked for our dates.
After that, we were thinking of spending a few days in Minca. Is that a good idea in late July/early August? How many nights would you recommend?
Finally, we're looking for a last stop before returning to France. We've heard about Mompox, but we're hesitant because it seems like a big detour. We love nature, animals, beautiful landscapes, beaches, and authentic places. Do you think Mompox is worth the detour with two kids, or would you recommend another destination (Palomino, Barú, La Guajira...) instead?
We don’t want to take any domestic flights.
Thanks in advance for all your tips and experiences!
This summer, we’ve decided to do a 3-week road trip starting from Nice and heading down to Ksamil in Albania.
We’re leaving from Nice, and our route is already pretty much set:
Nice - Verona (Italy) - Rijeka (Croatia) - Zadar - Split - Budva (Montenegro) - Shkodër (Albania) - Ksamil, then back through Italy via Bari.
The itinerary is packed! 🙂
Do you have any suggestions for things to see—visits, beaches, viewpoints, villages, or excursions—to make the most of our journey?
Hi there, we're planning our vacation in Indonesia. We're a family with two kids aged 11 and 14. We leave on July 26th and return on August 17th, 2026.
We initially planned to visit Bali, Komodo, and Flores, but after looking into it more, we came across Sumatra, which is less touristy... a real plus for us. However, skipping Bali might be a shame.
I was wondering if spending 12 days in Sumatra and finishing with about 7 days in Bali is a doable plan.
Hi,
I’m traveling with my 5-year-old son this summer to Northern Thailand, Northern Vietnam, Yunnan, and Indonesia. I plan to equip him with a GPS tracker, but the SIM cards come with a contract. Do you know what the options are in Asia?
Thanks,
Nora
Hi there,
We’d like to spend 2 days in Lyon in May with our 8- and 12-year-old kids, exploring the city on foot.
We’ll arrive on day 1 around 11 AM and leave on day 2 around 6 PM.
I’ve mapped out two routes and was wondering if they’re doable in our 2 days, and if you have any tips or info on visit prices.
We’re not sure where to stay yet, but we’d like to optimize by booking accommodation (hotel or Airbnb) between the two routes, maybe?
Hi there!
I’m planning a trip with my wife and our three kids (ages 9, 6, and 3) from April 16 to May 6.
I’ve started sketching out the itinerary, trying to alternate between visits, hikes, safaris, and downtime. I want to keep the pace relaxed given the kids’ ages.
Could you let me know what you think of this route? I removed Nuwara Eliya, which I had originally planned before Ella, to cut down on stops. I was also wondering if I should break up the Arugam Bay to Colombo leg with an overnight in Galle, since it’s a long drive.
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Day 1 – 04/16: Wilpattu
Arrival at the airport (08:00) + transfer to Wilpattu (180 km, 4–5 h) + afternoon safari
Overnight: Wilpattu
Day 2 – 04/17: Wilpattu
Morning & afternoon safari
Overnight: Wilpattu
Day 3 – 04/18: Trincomalee
Transfer Wilpattu → Trincomalee (200 km, 4–5 h) + beach relaxation
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 4 – 04/19: Trincomalee
Nilaveli Beach
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 5 – 04/20: Trincomalee
Pigeon Island snorkeling
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 6 – 04/21: Trincomalee
Fort Frederick & relaxation
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 7 – 04/22: Sigiriya
Transfer Trincomalee → Sigiriya (120 km, ~3 h) + visit to Dambulla
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 8 – 04/23: Sigiriya
Sigiriya Rock
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 9 – 04/24: Sigiriya
Minneriya safari
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 10 – 04/25: Sigiriya
Polonnaruwa & village tour
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 11 – 04/26: Ella
Transfer Sigiriya → Ella (230 km, 5–6 h) + rest
Overnight: Ella
Day 12 – 04/27: Ella
Little Adam’s Peak & Nine Arches Bridge
Overnight: Ella
Day 13 – 04/28: Ella
Ella Rock
Overnight: Ella
Day 14 – 04/29: Ella
Tea Factory & relaxation
Overnight: Ella
Day 15 – 04/30: Yala
Transfer Ella → Yala (110 km, 2–3 h) + afternoon safari
Overnight: Yala
Day 16 – 05/01: Arugam Bay
Transfer Yala → Arugam Bay (80 km, 2.5–3 h) + beach time
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 17 – 05/02: Arugam Bay
Surfing & relaxation
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 18 – 05/03: Arugam Bay
Local exploration
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 19 – 05/04: Colombo
Transfer Arugam Bay → Colombo (320 km, 7–8 h) + rest
Overnight: Colombo
Day 20 – 05/05: Colombo
City tour & shopping
Overnight: Colombo
Day 21 – 05/06: Colombo
Morning return flight from Colombo
We’re heading to Sri Lanka for three weeks in July with two kids (ages 6 and 13).
We’ve drafted a rough itinerary but would love to hear from those who’ve already been there 😊
Of course, we want to see everything, but we have to make choices—even though three weeks on the ground lets us do quite a bit.
We originally planned a schedule that felt too packed, so we had to cut one stop. We decided to skip Tangalle, even though we were really tempted. The monsoon won’t let us swim there, and the weather in the south is too uncertain, so we preferred to keep our stops on the east coast. Plus, we don’t think it’s reasonable to cut nights from other places.
We’ve added a stop in Batticaloa, which we think will be a nice break between Arugam Bay and Sigiriya. What do you think?
We’re also debating between Batticaloa and Passikudah.
Does the itinerary seem logical to you?
Here it is:
Sri Lanka Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival around 1 PM at the airport
Night in Negombo
Day 2
Drive from Negombo to Galle
Visit Galle and surrounding areas
Night in Galle
Day 3
Visit Galle and surrounding areas
Night in Galle
Day 4
Visit Galle and surrounding areas
Drive from Galle to Udawalawe
Night in Udawalawe
Day 5
Visit Udawalawe National Park
Night in Udawalawe
Day 6
Drive from Udawalawe to Ella
Night in Ella
Day 7
Ella Rock
+ Nine Arch Bridge
Night in Ella
Day 8
Visit Haputale
Lipton’s Seat and Dambatenne Tea Factory
Train ride back from Haputale to Ella
Night in Ella
Day 9
Little Adam’s Peak
+ drive from Ella to Arugam Bay
Night in Arugam Bay
Day 10
Visit Arugam Bay and surrounding areas
Night in Arugam Bay
Day 11
Visit Arugam Bay and surrounding areas
Night in Arugam Bay
Day 12
Drive from Arugam Bay to Batticaloa
Night in Batticaloa
Day 13
Visit Batticaloa
Night in Batticaloa
Day 14
Drive from Batticaloa to Sigiriya
Night in Sigiriya
Day 15
Lion Rock and Pidurangala
Night in Sigiriya
Day 16
Visit Dambulla
Drive from Sigiriya to Trincomalee
Night in Trincomalee
Day 17
Visit Trincomalee and surrounding areas
Night in Trincomalee
Day 18
Visit Trincomalee and surrounding areas
Night in Trincomalee
Day 19
Drive from Trincomalee to Anuradhapura
Night in Anuradhapura
Day 20
Visit Anuradhapura
Night in Anuradhapura
Day 21
Visit Mihintale
Drive from Anuradhapura to Negombo
Night in Negombo
Day 22
Day in Negombo and return flight
We’d love to hear your thoughts and tips! Thanks in advance!
We’re planning a 4-month trip in spring 2027. We’re looking for a third destination that optimizes transport costs. Ideally, somewhere very different from the other two (Polynesia and Indonesia). Thanks
Hi everyone!
We’re so excited to be heading to Italy for the first time this April with our two kids for a week. We’ve booked our round-trip flight, and we’ll be arriving and departing from Pisa.
Our rough plan so far includes visiting Pisa, taking the train to Florence, and exploring the Cinque Terre. Last night, a friend also suggested adding Siena to the list.
Our kids are 12 and 9 and are used to walking, but we’re not looking to rush around too much. We’d love any advice, especially about accommodation. Should we stay in Pisa and take day trips by train, or split our nights between a couple of different places?
We’re just starting our research, so any tips would be amazing! 😉
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone.
A few days ago, I asked my 14-year-old son to pick a destination for a trip, and he chose Germany. So, we’re heading to Berlin for four days in February. The catch is that I don’t know this city (or this country) at all—I hadn’t even considered visiting just a month ago .
Could you please share some suggestions to make this first mother-son trip abroad a success? 🙂
Thanks for your tips and great deals.
Nanyne
Next summer, we (2 adults and a 12-year-old child) have decided to visit Japan.
Admittedly, it’s still early to plan everything, but my wife will soon need to request her vacation time—either in August or July... and we’re hesitating.
I know summer isn’t the ideal time to visit Japan, but we don’t really have a choice... It’s either July or August. On one hand, I’d love to experience the O-Bon festivities from August 14th to 16th, and I’ve drafted an initial itinerary that would let us experience the Gujo Hachiman Bon Odori, possibly visit the Okunoin Cemetery in Koyasan, and be in Kyoto on the 16th for the Gozan Okuribi fires. But on the other hand, I’m worried it’ll be *packed*, especially in Kyoto, and less enjoyable than in July. So, have any of you experienced these celebrations? Are they worth it? Too crowded? Do you know of other celebrations or festivals in July?
Thanks for your input!
I’m reaching out because I’ve already read tons of info from other forums (thanks a million, by the way!) and blogs, but now I’m overwhelmed with details and have so many questions. I’m really hoping you can help us figure this out! Here’s the plan:
We’re leaving France for Senegal in our camper van (with two kids, aged 4 and 7), then shipping the van to South Africa before heading to Namibia. We’re planning to leave this summer and should arrive in South Africa in early September. The goal is to reach Réunion by early December, which gives us 3 months to explore Southern Africa. Originally, we wanted to pick up the van in Cape Town, head up to Namibia, and visit the main parks and iconic spots, then go north to Botswana (Etosha Park) and Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls) before heading back down to South Africa to enjoy the milder temperatures while exploring the country. But now we’re wondering how to get back to South Africa. We’ve come up with three options:
- Head back down through Botswana: I’ve read everywhere that Botswana isn’t recommended for kids under 6 (most parks) because it can be potentially dangerous—few enclosures for animals (even though we have a camper van with "secure" beds), and the agencies we’ve contacted don’t recommend it. Plus, southern Botswana is tough to navigate in a camper van.
- Return from central Botswana (Maun) to Windhoek and drive back to Cape Town via Namibia.
- Cross Zimbabwe and potentially Mozambique to head down to Kruger Park and Johannesburg.
Anyone familiar with this region have any recommendations?
Also, is it necessary to book accommodations in advance? Is that only required in certain countries (maybe Botswana/Zimbabwe)? We’d like a mix of camping and lodges.
Hi there,
We’re planning a two-week trip to Colombia with our two kids at the end of July – early August, with a round-trip flight to Cartagena.
What itinerary would you recommend, knowing we’d prefer to avoid domestic flights?
We were thinking of Cartagena, Tayrona Park, Mompox, and maybe an island.
Do you think it’s a shame to skip big cities like Bogotá or Medellín?
Thanks so much in advance for your help!
Good morning! We're heading to Cape Verde for 2 weeks at the end of April—São Vicente, Boa Vista, and Santiago. We’re a family of 5: 3 kids (4, 6, and 12) and 2 adults.
My questions revolve around beaches (a spot with interesting snorkeling and safe swimming for the kids), accommodation (kid-friendly, parks nearby, pool, beach, or nature—more like guesthouses or family-run pensions), hikes (accessible for kids), and whether renting a car makes sense depending on the island, even though local buses are an adventure in themselves.
**Santiago:**
- Beach & snorkeling: Tarrafal, Quebra Canela in Praia, Ribeira da Barca (okay for kids?), Águas Belas?
- Any nice places to stay?
- Hikes: Malagueta?, Baobab Boa Entrada, Pico António (accessible? elevation gain, time to climb, difficulty, interest for kids?)
**Boa Vista:**
- Beach + snorkeling: Santa Mónica, Praia de Chaves, Gatas, ... Estoril Beach in Sal Rei maybe?
- Can we swim at Turtle Bay to see the turtles even though it’s not nesting season?
- Any nice places to stay?
- Hikes: Viana Desert? Can we explore it solo by renting a 4x4 and easily find the points of interest?
- Is it worth renting a 4x4 for our stay in Boa Vista?
**São Vicente:**
- Beach + snorkeling: Laginha, Porto Grande, Praia Grande, Baía das Gatas, São Pedro...? (safe, good snorkeling?)
- Any nice places to stay?
- Hikes: cliffs?, Monte Verde?
Thanks for your feedback, great tips—especially for accommodation where we’re totally in the dark! And your thoughts on whether renting a car is a good idea and which beaches are safest for kids.
Hi,
We’d like to visit the Alpes de Haute-Provence for 2 weeks with our 2 (adult) kids.
Any ideas for things to see and do?
Where should we choose our accommodation (house only) to be centrally located for sightseeing? We’re looking for villages with restaurants and bakeries.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Best regards
Hi there, we’re heading to Tuscany in the second half of August with two kids (8 and 6 years old).
We’ve zeroed in on the area around Siena and Florence for now.
I’m looking for recommendations on places to stay and things to see that are great for families.
Also, just to add, we’ll be traveling by train and plan to rent a car once we’re there—any tips on car rental companies?
Hello everyone,
We’ve decided to head to Quebec next year—it’s been a dream for the whole family (after watching so many travel shows and the like...). There’ll be five of us: 2 adults, 2 teens (16 and 13), and a child (8 years old). We’re all pretty good walkers, though maybe the teens a little less so—it’s just that age, you know? 😊 That said, they’ve got no problem doing 15 km hikes, just not every single day.
We’re planning to go from July 23 to August 14, arriving and departing from Montreal, so almost 3 weeks.
I’ve started looking into logistics and accommodation prices, but before I dive into bookings, I’d love some advice on the itinerary. I’ve read a few threads here and there.
Our idea is to visit between 3 and 5 different places over the 3 weeks, so that means the same number of accommodations. The goal is to optimize travel as much as possible—I’ve realized that getting around can take a long time.
I think the first two days will be in Montreal to adjust to the time difference, and the last two in Quebec City, though that’s not set in stone.
Anyway, I’m not really sure about the route. I’ve got time to plan everything, but I know the longer we wait, the more expensive and scarce accommodations will get.
Same goes for budget—we’ve set aside a mid-range budget, flights included: 3k per person (1k for the flight). So if you’ve got any great tips or advice, we’re all ears!
I was thinking of going up the St. Lawrence River, but I’m not sure how long that takes or where to stop. Maybe there are other places worth visiting farther away...
Anyway, thanks for reading this far! If you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate.
I hope you're starting this new year with your head full of travel memories or plans!!
I’d love to spend a week in July on a Greek island with my 8-year-old son. I’m totally in love with Amorgos, but not all the beaches are accessible for him. I’ve been to Santorini and Naxos before and don’t want to go back. Would you have an island to recommend that’s not too crowded 😕, with a few accessible beaches and where we won’t have to fight to get around or park?
A few months ago, I posted a message in the Southern Africa section about a family trip in July/August. In the end, since I had too much trouble deciding on the destination and procrastinated too much with the planning 😎, I changed my mind and we’re going for a completely different trip—to Madagascar, a country we already know a bit since we’ve traveled there several times for 4 to 6 months each time, though our last visit was back in 2012!
The tickets are booked: 19 days on the ground (excluding arrival and departure days in Tana), spanning July and August.
We’re not looking to rack up landscapes (and kilometers). The kids really want to see lots of animals, while we mostly want to show them what daily life is like in Malagasy villages. So ideally, we’d like a trip split into two parts:
- For 8/10 days, a hiking portion. The idea isn’t to do a tough trek in very remote areas but rather to walk from one village to another. Let’s say 3-4 hours a day. And when we arrive in each village, we’d have time to explore a bit, chat with the locals, let our kids play with the village children, etc. Stay with locals when possible. Move to a new village every day or every 2-3 days.
- A few days visiting 1 or 2 national parks (with lemurs if possible to keep everyone happy!)
- With the inevitable travel days, we’ll quickly hit 19 days.
Does this kind of trip sound doable (and fun) to you? Do you know of any villages that would fit our hiking plans?
I don’t have a preferred region yet, except that very dry landscapes appeal to me less. My real love from past trips was the highlands and their bright green rice paddies against red earth, but I’m a bit worried about the cold at this time of year.
After my initial research (thanks to this forum), I get the impression that the Ambalavao/Ambohimahamasina area might meet our criteria. I saw there are "accueil paysan" (farm stays) in that area, which could match what we’re looking for and would let us visit Andringitra National Park and Ranomafana on the way there or back.
But I’m open to all your more original ideas!
For logistical questions (transport, guides, accommodations, etc.), I’ll tackle those later—it’ll depend on the area we choose.
We’re a family with young kids (6 years old, 3 years old, and a newborn) and we’d like to spend about ten days in Aquitaine (in Gironde or Les Landes).
We’d love to be near pretty villages to visit and, if possible, close to the sea.
We’re planning to stay at a campsite with a pool so the kids can play.
Could you recommend any places/villages/campsites for us?
We don’t know the region at all.
We’re a family of five (our kids are 6, 15, and 19) and we’d love to go somewhere warm with our feet in the water during the first two weeks of August 2026. We’d also like to do some cultural visits and a bit of hiking. We were thinking of Guadeloupe—I know it’s not the ideal time of year, but we don’t have much flexibility. Is it really a bad idea, or can we still enjoy it despite the weather?
Another option for us would be Madeira, which seems more reliable weather-wise, but it sounds like the beaches are less accessible and not as nice.
We haven’t really looked elsewhere because everything else (except the Canary Islands, Balearics, or Corsica) seems way too expensive. But if you’ve got any recommendations, don’t hesitate—we’re just starting to look into it.
Hi,
This summer, we’re spending a month in Malaysia. There are 3 adults and two kids in our group. I’ve just finished planning our itinerary and I’d love to get your thoughts on whether it feels "coherent."
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Christelle
07/07 Depart France 10:30 AM
08/07 Arrive KL 7:50 PM
09/07 KL
10/07 KL / Batu Caves
11/07 KL
12/07 KL → Kuching (flight)
13/07 Kuching
14/07 Bako National Park
15/07 Bako → Kuching
16/07 Semenggoh Reserve
17/07 Kuching → Mulu (flight)
18/07 Mulu National Park
19/07 Mulu → Kota Kinabalu (flight)
20/07 Kota Kinabalu → Sandakan (flight)
21/07 Kinabatangan
22/07 Kinabatangan → Sandakan / Sandakan → KL (flight)
23/07 Malacca
24/07 Malacca → Chin Swee Caves Temple
25/07 Chin Swee Caves Temple → Kuala Tahan / Taman Negara Park
26/07 Taman Negara Park
27/07 Kuala Tahan → Kuala Besut
28/07 Perhentian Islands
29/07 Perhentian Islands
30/07 Perhentian Islands
31/07 Perhentian → George Town
01/08 George Town / Penang
02/08 George Town / Penang
03/08 Ipoh
04/08 Cameron Highlands
05/08 Return to KL
06/08 Return to France
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a 3-week trip to Malaysia this July with my 6-year-old son.
I’d thought we’d go this year, but we ended up returning to Samui instead.
I’ve decided to limit it to 4 stops to avoid moving around too often and to fully enjoy each place without rushing. The travel times between each spot aren’t too long, except for the one between Sandakan and Langkawi.
* 05: Arrival in KL in the afternoon.
06: Day in KL. I’ve been there a few times and know the city a bit.
* 07: Head to Kota Kinabalu
08 – 09: In KK
* 10: Flight from Sandakan to Sepilok
11: In Sepilok
* 12: Flight to Kinabatangan
13 – 14: In Kinabatangan
* 15: Head to Langkawi
15 – 21: In Langkawi
* 22: Return to KL
23 – 24: In KL
* 25: Return flight
Any thoughts on this itinerary? I have a rough idea of what we’ll do at each stop after checking online and with ChatGPT.
We’re heading out at the end of February for a road trip with our two kids, ages 3 and 7. Our itinerary includes Ait Ben Haddou, Tizi-n-Tichka, Sourate, Tinghir, Zagora, Ouarzazate, Ouzoud, and Essaouira. I’d love recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and typical/spectacular spots to visit. We’d like to spend a night in the Zagora desert. We’re looking for authenticity and a friendly vibe—not tourist traps—for our trip. We’ll be there during Ramadan—any tips?
Thanks in advance!
Your fellow globetrotter’s perspective is invaluable.
Wednesday, March 4 – Friday, March 6 — Sine-Saloum
Drive to Toubacouta via the Trans-Gambian Highway (Gambia)
Stay with a local host / camp on the bolongs
Activities: pirogue ride in the delta, Serer villages, biking, handicraft discovery
Overnights: Sine-Saloum (3 nights)
Saturday, March 7 – Sunday, March 8 — Petite Côte
Drive to Somone / Ngaparou (~3 hours)
Stay with a local host
Activities: beach, safari at Bandia Reserve, kayaking on the lagoon, craft market
Overnights: Petite Côte (2 nights, including Sunday, March 8, to enjoy the full day before the nighttime departure)
Monday, March 9 — Departure
Transfer to Blaise Diagne International Airport (~45 minutes)
Flight leaves at 2:00 AM
I’ve got a few questions:
- Is an afternoon on Gorée Island worth it? I really want to go, but the ferry departure days are a bit limiting.
- How easy is it to get around between these different stops? Can we find a taxi that fits all five of us?
- Do you have any accommodation recommendations? I’d love to stay with locals as much as possible—we’re not looking for luxury, just a bed and a shower.
- February 28 is my birthday, and I’d love to do something “special”: any ideas for a nice place to stay, a great restaurant, or an out-of-the-ordinary activity? We’ll be around Cap Skirring.
- Does this itinerary seem coherent? I really want to visit Casamance, and we’d prefer to stay no more than 3 nights in the same place.
Don’t hesitate to share your tips! Thanks so much!
Hello,
I’d like to go to Morocco with my 10-year-old daughter for three weeks in February.
Do you think, as women traveling alone, we’ll feel comfortable? Sorry if my question seems odd, but when I mentioned my plans, I got some hesitant reactions.
I’ve never been to North Africa. I’ve traveled several times to the Sultanate of Oman, where I felt very at ease as long as we respected the basic cultural norms. For those who know Morocco, do you think it’s different? Would it be appropriate for me to cover my head?
I was thinking of arriving in Agadir and spending a few days in Taghazout and the surrounding area.
After that, if you have any tips, I’m all ears. We’re looking to discover Moroccan cultures, see artisans at work, or even try our hand at a local craft—we’d love that. Simply meeting families, seeing landscapes, animals, and soaking in the culture gently, opening ourselves to something new—that’s what motivates us. And if there are opportunities to listen to local music, even better.
We’ll be traveling by public transport.
Thanks in advance for your ideas.
Happy travels to everyone.
we’re taking our grandkids in early 2026 (14 and 10 years old) without their parents. Do we really need to have birth certificates and other forms translated by a sworn translator?
