Belles plages en Thaïlande: Ko Chang, Ko Samet ou autres...?
by Croufie
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
😉Hello,
Après un petit périple au Laos de 15 jours, nous souhaitons finir notre circuit par une plage en Thailande. C'est la 4ème fois que nous allons en Thailande, autant dire que nous connaissons deja pas mal les iles du sud : Phuket (jamais plus d'une nuit), ko phi phi, ko lanta, ko lipe, et d'autres. Nous ne voulons pas aller si loin cette fois-ci et cherchons donc une ile pas trop eloignée de BKK. Alors, quand je regarde les post à ce sujet, je vois ko CHang ou ko Samet. Ma question est donc : sont-elles aussi belles que les iles du sud (ci-dessus citées). Qu'en pensez-vous? Pour vous permettre de répondre de façon plus précise, autant vous dire que nous aimons les iles "genre ko lipe", cad que nous ne recherchons pas l'animation, qu'un petit bungalow de bambou "aéré" nous convient très bien et que nous aimons par contre les balades, les villages de pêcheurs, observer les locaux.... Nous avons un fils de 3 ans donc pas question non-plus de trek dans la jungle!, mais des balades en forêt, oui. Voilà, j'espère avoir été claire dans ma question. En fait j'ai peur que ko chang ou ko samet ressemblent à ko phi phi, ou lanta (qui nous a d'ailleurs déçus en 2007, la 2ème fois qu'on y allait!). On voudrait quelque chose de plus sauvage. Merci de vos réponses.😎
Les grands voyages ont ceci de merveilleux que leur enchantement commence avant le départ même. On ouvre les atlas, on rêve sur les cartes. On répète les noms magnifiques des villes inconnues. (Joseph Kessel)
aroythai
Bonjour Aroythaï,
Tu as ce site sur Koh Chang qui est très bien aussi . 😉
Tu as ce site sur Koh Chang qui est très bien aussi . 😉
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
😉 Merci de vos réponses, mais j'attend surtout des avis de votre part, sur le côté authentique et sauvage de ces iles...😎
Les grands voyages ont ceci de merveilleux que leur enchantement commence avant le départ même. On ouvre les atlas, on rêve sur les cartes. On répète les noms magnifiques des villes inconnues. (Joseph Kessel)
salut barbot
merci pour le site complementaire de celui que j ai donner
a bientot
merci pour le site complementaire de celui que j ai donner
a bientot
aroythai
personne pour m'aider à faire mon choix? peux-être dois-je faire plus simple dans ma question : ko lanta, ko phi phi, sont-elles plus touristiques, bétonnées et animées que ko chang? ou moins?😉
Merci à tous
Les grands voyages ont ceci de merveilleux que leur enchantement commence avant le départ même. On ouvre les atlas, on rêve sur les cartes. On répète les noms magnifiques des villes inconnues. (Joseph Kessel)
J'apprécie lKo Lanta plus calme que Phi Phi (évident somme toute).
"Dans vos phrases, n'utilisez qu'un sujet, un verbe, un complément d"objet direct ; Quand vous aurez besoin d'un adjectif, venez me trouver." (Georges Clemenceau)
Je ne pourrais qu'acquiescer a tes propos (évident somme toute) 😉😄😏😏😏😇
Khun maa jak nai krap?
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
Salut
Curieusement, c'est le contraire😮, je vais bientôt sur Phujet ou Krabi, je suis allé à Ko chang en 2005, sympa bcp de petites plages lieux de pêche 😊, on trouve de petits bunglows confort un peu rudimentaires vraiment pas cher 😉.
Ah j'oublie des ballades, a faire dans bois et des waterfulls a voir aussi 😎
je regrette que cette belle nature (sauvage même inhabitée il y a peine 20 ans ) soit "défigurée" par le tourisme de masse (tout ce construit vite ) 🏴☠️
je vous souhaite bon séjour
alain
Curieusement, c'est le contraire😮, je vais bientôt sur Phujet ou Krabi, je suis allé à Ko chang en 2005, sympa bcp de petites plages lieux de pêche 😊, on trouve de petits bunglows confort un peu rudimentaires vraiment pas cher 😉.
Ah j'oublie des ballades, a faire dans bois et des waterfulls a voir aussi 😎
je regrette que cette belle nature (sauvage même inhabitée il y a peine 20 ans ) soit "défigurée" par le tourisme de masse (tout ce construit vite ) 🏴☠️
je vous souhaite bon séjour
alain
Bonsoir,
Au niveau beauté des lieux, Koh Chang n'a rien à voir avec Koh Lipé ... La mer à Koh Chang n'a rien du turquoise de Koh Lipe et le sable n'est point comparable à la 'poudre blanche ' que l'on foule là-bas tout au Sud !!!
Koh Samed, je ne connais pas, par contre ... Autre avantage de Koh Lipé, l'absence de voitures ....
Ceci dit, depuis 2001 je passe tjs quelques jours en Janvier à Koh Kood ou Koh Kham, celà devrait vous plaîre ....
Belle soirée
Rangoon
Au niveau beauté des lieux, Koh Chang n'a rien à voir avec Koh Lipé ... La mer à Koh Chang n'a rien du turquoise de Koh Lipe et le sable n'est point comparable à la 'poudre blanche ' que l'on foule là-bas tout au Sud !!!
Koh Samed, je ne connais pas, par contre ... Autre avantage de Koh Lipé, l'absence de voitures ....
Ceci dit, depuis 2001 je passe tjs quelques jours en Janvier à Koh Kood ou Koh Kham, celà devrait vous plaîre ....
Belle soirée
Rangoon
🙂Bonjour,
Connaissant Phuket et ses îles environnantes ainsi que Koh Chang, il me semble que pour la tranquilité c'est encore vers Koh Chang qu'il faut s'orienter. Mais en Thaïlande tout se transforme trés vite et depuis ma dernière visite en 2005 l'île a du bien changer. Le parc national de Koh Chang est assez grand pour trouver encore je pense un petit coin de paradis même si les plages ne sont pas aussi impressionnantes que dans la mer des Andaman. Trés bon voyage!!!!!
Connaissant Phuket et ses îles environnantes ainsi que Koh Chang, il me semble que pour la tranquilité c'est encore vers Koh Chang qu'il faut s'orienter. Mais en Thaïlande tout se transforme trés vite et depuis ma dernière visite en 2005 l'île a du bien changer. Le parc national de Koh Chang est assez grand pour trouver encore je pense un petit coin de paradis même si les plages ne sont pas aussi impressionnantes que dans la mer des Andaman. Trés bon voyage!!!!!
sur ko chang tu as sur la côte EST (côté cambodge) un petit village de pêcheurs plutôt tranquille au bas de l'île, car pas encore de charters pour les îles environnantes, il s'agit de "salaphet"
environ 5km avant le village la route principale se sépare, en empruntant celle de gauche et aprés 4 à 5 km goudronné, une piste continue, facile dans sa 1ere partie puis assez raide sur la fin, tu arrives sur une plage sympa avec juste un seul ensemble de bungalows à louer bien intégrés dans la nature
je vais essayer de retrouver le nom (pour info les propriétaires possédent le "tree lodge" sur lonely beach
tujoh gunong ;sembilan lautan
kalau ta-mati , sahaya turitkan
Pour Koh Samet, si tu recherches le côté sauvage et authentique, évites les plages principales (Had Sai Kaew et Ao Wongduan). Beaucoup moins de monde qu'avant.
Koh Chang est beaucoup plus grande et encore sauvage; un peu comme Phuket il y a une vingtaine d'années.
@+
Thibaut
personne pour m'aider à faire mon choix? peux-être dois-je faire plus simple dans ma question : ko lanta, ko phi phi, sont-elles plus touristiques, bétonnées et animées que ko chang? ou moins?😉
Merci à tous
Le choix pour nous est simple : Koh Phi-Phi, très beau mais très touristique (1000 touristes débarquent chaque jour !). A voir, mais pas y rester plus d'une nuit Koh Lanta, non, il n'y a rien à voir, tu n'es dèjà plus en Thaïlande mais en Malaisie : plus de temples ni de bonzes, que des femmes voilées et des mosquées tous les 400 m qui te réveillent à 5h du marin pour la prière... de plus la plage est infestée de rochers et on ne peut pas se baigner. Presque toutes les resorts ont leur piscine. Aucun intérêt ! Ces deux îles précédentes sont assez loin de Bangkok. Mais plus près, tu as : Koh Chang qui commence à être aussi très touristique. Nous n'avions pas aimé. Koh Samet qui est très sympa, un peu touristique certes, mais assez romantique. On peut faire le tour de l'île à pied, mais c'est parfois assez crapahut... dîner sur la plage, pieds dans l'eau
Nos îles préférées restent cependant 3 îles encore sauvages un peu plus au sud de Koh Chang. On les atteint par taxi, comme Koh Chang et speed boat au débarcadère. Le prix du billet n'est pas excessif, mais on ne se souvient plus. Koh Kood, 4° de Thaïlande en taille, très peu de touristes, très sauvage, des bungalows à même la plage, pas cher, notre préférée. Des ballades possible, pas de circulation (il y a très peu de routes), des cascades, des plages et petites criques, du sable très blanc... Koh Maak, plus petite, entre Koh Kood et Koh Chang, de grandes plages désertes, sable très blanc, des petits bungalows, propice à la ballade (tu loues une moto et tu te promènes, c'est pas dangereux, il n'y a pas de circulation du tout)... Koh Wai, encore plus petit, encore plus sauvage, entre Koh Maak et Koh Chang. Il y a deux resorts avec bungalows sur la plage, sympa là aussi; Jette un oeil sur notre site, tu y trouveras quelques détails et les noms et adresses des resorts pour réserver... Amicalement Jade & James
Le choix pour nous est simple : Koh Phi-Phi, très beau mais très touristique (1000 touristes débarquent chaque jour !). A voir, mais pas y rester plus d'une nuit Koh Lanta, non, il n'y a rien à voir, tu n'es dèjà plus en Thaïlande mais en Malaisie : plus de temples ni de bonzes, que des femmes voilées et des mosquées tous les 400 m qui te réveillent à 5h du marin pour la prière... de plus la plage est infestée de rochers et on ne peut pas se baigner. Presque toutes les resorts ont leur piscine. Aucun intérêt ! Ces deux îles précédentes sont assez loin de Bangkok. Mais plus près, tu as : Koh Chang qui commence à être aussi très touristique. Nous n'avions pas aimé. Koh Samet qui est très sympa, un peu touristique certes, mais assez romantique. On peut faire le tour de l'île à pied, mais c'est parfois assez crapahut... dîner sur la plage, pieds dans l'eau
Nos îles préférées restent cependant 3 îles encore sauvages un peu plus au sud de Koh Chang. On les atteint par taxi, comme Koh Chang et speed boat au débarcadère. Le prix du billet n'est pas excessif, mais on ne se souvient plus. Koh Kood, 4° de Thaïlande en taille, très peu de touristes, très sauvage, des bungalows à même la plage, pas cher, notre préférée. Des ballades possible, pas de circulation (il y a très peu de routes), des cascades, des plages et petites criques, du sable très blanc... Koh Maak, plus petite, entre Koh Kood et Koh Chang, de grandes plages désertes, sable très blanc, des petits bungalows, propice à la ballade (tu loues une moto et tu te promènes, c'est pas dangereux, il n'y a pas de circulation du tout)... Koh Wai, encore plus petit, encore plus sauvage, entre Koh Maak et Koh Chang. Il y a deux resorts avec bungalows sur la plage, sympa là aussi; Jette un oeil sur notre site, tu y trouveras quelques détails et les noms et adresses des resorts pour réserver... Amicalement Jade & James
Jade & James
Couple aimant la Thaïlande et y passant les 4 mois d'hiver
http://notrethailande.voila.net - jadejames@voila.fr
merci jadejames (et les autres), une petite question, pourquoi n'avez-vous pas aimé ko chang???
Les grands voyages ont ceci de merveilleux que leur enchantement commence avant le départ même. On ouvre les atlas, on rêve sur les cartes. On répète les noms magnifiques des villes inconnues. (Joseph Kessel)
Je commence:
On venait de Koh Samet qui est connue pour ses plages de sable blanc. A l'arrivée à Koh Chang, je n'ai pas eu le feeling. La plage "white sand" n'avait de white que le nom. Bref, une petite déception. Mais heureusement, cette déception s'est estompée dès le lendemain et nous avons passé un agréable séjour.
merci jadejames (et les autres), une petite question, pourquoi n'avez-vous pas aimé ko chang???
merci jadejames (et les autres), une petite question, pourquoi n'avez-vous pas aimé ko chang???
@+
Thibaut
en fait pour nous c'est surtout "l'ambiance" qui compte plus que le blanc du sable. Si ce n'est pas trop touristique (genre ko phi phi, ou même lanta à certains endroits), et si il y a des balades sympas à faire, alors ça nous plait (un petit bain de mer de temps en temps aussi, tant qu'à faire...).😉
Les grands voyages ont ceci de merveilleux que leur enchantement commence avant le départ même. On ouvre les atlas, on rêve sur les cartes. On répète les noms magnifiques des villes inconnues. (Joseph Kessel)
😛😛😛 Pas fait exprès désolée je ne voulais pas crier!!!!
😉 Donc Koh Chang reste trés bien puisque de toute façon à partie de là vous pouvez rejoindre les autres îles trés facilement en bateau. Et il y a de beaux endroits et de belles balades à faire sur l'île.
hello!
je prépare un voyage pour juillet...
en revenant du Cambodge, direction l'aéroport de Suva, par la frontière d'Hat Lek, j'aimerais passer quelques jours sur une île... à buller et faire de l'apnée... pensez-vous qu'à cette période (mousson!), les îles dont vous parlez soient propices?
j'avais compris que seule Ko Samet dans ce secteur était vraiment préservée??
merci pour vos conseils JC
merci pour vos conseils JC
Désolés de répndre aussi tard.
Nous n'avions pas aimé Koh Chang car beaucoup trop touristique et à ce que l'on nous a dit, cela l'est encore plus aijourd'hui.
De plus, il y pleuvait. Nous avons eu de la pluie pendant 1 semaine sans arrêt (nous étions début mars...).
A la fin, nous avons pris le bateau pour une île du sud (Koh Wai ou Koh Maak) et avons retrouvé le beau temps, le ciel bleu et le soleil éloignés d'à peine 2 km de Koh Chang !
En fait, tous les nuages restaient accrochés à la montagne...
Et puis nous préférons le sauvage des îles du sud !
Jade & James
Couple aimant la Thaïlande et y passant les 4 mois d'hiver
http://notrethailande.voila.net - jadejames@voila.fr
Koh Samet préservée ? Nous ne savons pas. Nous ne pensons pas qu'il y ait une différence entre les îles de cette région.
Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Wai ou Koh Maak sont dans le même secteur et nous ne connaissons pas la mousson puisque nous ne connaissons la Thaïlande que pendant nos mois d'hiver (jusqu'à Mai).
D'après ce que nous savons, la période des pluies donne des orages violents un peu tous les jours, mais brefs, séparés par des périodes de beau temps. Donc, il ne devrait pas y avoir de problèmes.
Jade & James
Couple aimant la Thaïlande et y passant les 4 mois d'hiver
http://notrethailande.voila.net - jadejames@voila.fr
merci pour votre réponse... c'est le LP qui évoque Samet comme une île "préservée" de la mousson! si vous obtenez des infos par vos contacts sur place éventuellement, ça m'intéresse... en effet ça m'éviterait de speeder pour rejoindre Ko Tao, et me permettrait de rentrer tout tranquillement du Cambodge par la côte...
votre photo donne très très envie!
Cette photo a justement été prise à Koh Maak, le cocotier est tombé aujourd'hui, malheureusement, à cause d'une construction juste à côté qui a fragilisé ses racines.
Vous pouvez sans doute encore le retrouver sur la plage d'Ao Khao, un peu plus au sud de "Monkey Island Resort" (voir notre site)
Jade & James
Couple aimant la Thaïlande et y passant les 4 mois d'hiver
http://notrethailande.voila.net - jadejames@voila.fr
Log in first, then come back to this page.
You might also like
More discussions
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hey everyone,
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi. Is it possible to take the train from Malacca to Ipoh? Thanks for your feedback.
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
Hello,
We’re a couple looking for a driver for 10 days to explore Northern Vietnam in April.
Best regards,
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
hi
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
Hi there,
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Hi there,
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
Hi there
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
Hi there,
we’ll be in Mai Chau in June and we’re thinking of heading to Sapa, but first spending a few days in Bac Ha to do some hiking and explore the area.
Is this a good idea for those who’ve been there?
How do you get there?
Thanks for your feedback.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi everyone. As I’m planning my trip for next winter, I’m looking for hotel suggestions in Camotes, Bantayan, Malapascua, Bohol, and Siquijor. The ones I had in mind seem to be fully booked (unless it’s too early?). For those familiar with the area, is it easy to find accommodations on the spot in January/February? I’m specifically looking for hotels with a pool, beachfront, air conditioning, and easy scooter rental nearby. Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
I’m planning an itinerary and would love some feedback on whether it’s doable and if the number of days per destination is enough—or too much. I was also debating whether to add an extra night on an island or spend an extra night in Kampot to visit Kep or Battambang.
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning March 24: Phnom Penh March 25: Phnom Penh March 26: Depart for Kampot March 27: Kampot March 28: Depart for Battambang March 29: Battambang March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap March 31: Siem Reap April 1: Siem Reap April 2: Siem Reap April 3: Siem Reap April 4: Siem Reap April 5: Departure
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning March 24: Phnom Penh March 25: Phnom Penh March 26: Depart for Kampot March 27: Kampot March 28: Depart for Battambang March 29: Battambang March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap March 31: Siem Reap April 1: Siem Reap April 2: Siem Reap April 3: Siem Reap April 4: Siem Reap April 5: Departure
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
Hi there,
Yesterday in the Thailand section, 100% of the new threads were just about beach destinations 😕...
So here’s the counterattack in the form of this photo thread, dedicated solely to the countryside: the locals, their livestock, fields, farms, rice paddies, small rivers, and agricultural machinery. If you’ve got any pictures that fit these categories, feel free to add them!
Comments welcome.
For each photo, I’ll (or you can) indicate the area where it was taken.
Kanchanaburi:
Kanchanaburi:
Sri Chiangmai:
Soppong:
Tha Wang Pha:
Kanchanaburi:

Kanchanaburi:

Sri Chiangmai:

Soppong:

Tha Wang Pha:

🙂 Hi everyone!
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hi there,
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta. 21/09: Borobudur 22/09: Prambanan 23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang) 24/09: Bromo 25/09: Kawa Ijen 26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran 27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran 28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk 29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud 02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo 05/10: Komodo cruise 06/10: Komodo cruise 07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo. 08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar 09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore 10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta. 21/09: Borobudur 22/09: Prambanan 23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang) 24/09: Bromo 25/09: Kawa Ijen 26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran 27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran 28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk 29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud 02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo 05/10: Komodo cruise 06/10: Komodo cruise 07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo. 08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar 09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore 10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
Hi everyone,
My girlfriend and I booked our tickets with Saudia Airlines for a trip to Thailand this summer, from July 5th to August 3rd. Given the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, we’re keeping a close eye on the news.
I was wondering if anyone here is in the same situation as us?
• Have you heard anything about possible mass cancellations or if the airline is still maintaining its routes to Asia?
• Are there any travelers who’ve recently returned who could tell us if air corridors have been changed (longer flight times)?
The idea is to know what to expect so we can prepare as best as possible. Thanks for your replies! !
Hi everyone,
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts) August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar August 17: Rammang Rammang August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Thanks in advance for your feedback! :)
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts) August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar August 17: Rammang Rammang August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Thanks in advance for your feedback! :)
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!








