Bonjour à tous!
Nous allons en julllet en Thailande avec notre fille de 1an et demi et souhaitons faire une virée au Cambodge pour voir Angkor. Or nous avons éliminé:
1 l'option de la route jusqu'à Siem Reap car n'étant apparemment toujours pas goudronnée côté Cambodge, ca risque d'être vraiment trop dur pour la petite (+ pb des check points à la frontière) Qu'en pensez vous?
2 l'option avion => Phnom Penh puis bateau=> Siem Reap (apparemment dur aussi pour elle)
Ne reste que l'option avion=> phnom pehn puis 5h de bus sur route goudronnées.
Or le problème est le suivant: les horaires d'avion low cost (air asia) sont nuls car font perdre beaucoup de temps: on arrive à 17h à phnom pehn ce qui fait perdre une journée, oblige à repartir le lendemain sur Siem Reap, et à ne commencer donc à visiter les temples que le 3°jour.
Est-ce que certains connaîtraient donc les horaires de bus pour Siem Reap pour savoir si on pourrait le prendre directement en sortant de l'avion (18h30)? Est ce que les guest houses là-bas seraient toujouts ouvertes pour nous accueillir vers minuit?
Si on part au contraire pour Siem Reap le lendemain, est-ce que en arrivant vers 13h, on peut commencer à visiter les temples l'après midi? sont-ils loin de la ville?
On aimerait gagner du temps sur ce coup....
voyez-vous d'autres solutions?
1 l'option de la route jusqu'à Siem Reap car n'étant apparemment toujours pas goudronnée côté Cambodge, ca risque d'être vraiment trop dur pour la petite (+ pb des check points à la frontière) Qu'en pensez vous?
• Au lieu de détailler tous les pièges à éviter lorsqu’on entre au Cambodge par la route au poste frontière de Poïpet (et ils sont nombreux), le guide se contente de colporter des bruits et une énormité : « 160 kilomètres, encore en grande partie de piste. Prévoir 4 heures de route. La rumeur veut qu’une compagnie aérienne et des officiels corrompus soient à l’origine de l’état honteux de cet axe (…) ».
La réfection de la nationale entre Poïpet et Siem Reap s’est achevée début 2009. Elle met désormais la Cité des Temples à moins d’une heure trente de la Thaïlande sur une très belle double voie bitumée. Même si l’inauguration de cette nationale s’est faite lorsque le guide était sous presse, un simple renseignement auprès de la communauté expatriée en 2008 aurait permis de savoir que le chantier, qui a forcément duré plusieurs années, devait se terminer au début de 2009. Un minimum pour un guide qui imprime 2010/2011 sur sa première page !
"Quand l'injustice devient loi, la rébellion devient devoir. " Thomas Jefferson
« Le doute est l’apanage des gens intelligents, les cons n’ont que des certitudes »
(Alain Leblay)
1 l'option de la route jusqu'à Siem Reap car n'étant apparemment toujours pas goudronnée côté Cambodge, ca risque d'être vraiment trop dur pour la petite (+ pb des check points à la frontière) Qu'en pensez vous?
Ca a été dit à plusieurs reprises, la route Poipet-Siem Reap est toute neuve. Je suis passé par là en août 2009, la route était flambant neuve. On a fait SR-Poipet en 1h30 en taxi. Concernant la frontière, en effet, avec un enfant, ça peut être un peu problématique car attente à la douane, changement de bus et franchissement du no man's land entre les 2 pays uniquement possible à pied (200-300m à faire à pied).
avec des familles nombreuses et des jeunes enfants
une "bonne solution" puisque ce sera en cours de périple, c'est d'avoir un transport privé pour vous ammener en fin de matinée ou en début d'apres-midi a la frontière , au cours de votre périple
donc vous arranger pour organiser votre voyage par exemple si vous prévoyez de visiter AYuthaya Saraburi ou le parc de Khao Yai , de partir de la directement pour la frontière
( ou bien si vous etes dans le coin de Prachinburi - Chachoengsao ou BangPakong ( voir les dauphins ??)
de passer la nuit dans un resort , et le matin de partir tranquilement (Prachinburi frontière c'est a peine 150 km ) et une fois la frontière passée avoir un autre correspondant qui vous attends coté Cambodge pour vous emmener a Angkor ( 160 km de bonne route )
bien plus agréable que l'avion, car au moins on profite pour voir cette région , on s'arrete quand on veut avec les gamins
et puis la région de Chachoengsao ( le marché de Klongsuan, les duaphns a BangPakong, ....)
Prachinburi ( les rapides de la SaiYai river et aussi Wat Sansi Bird park )
a plein de choses intéressantes pour les gamins , sans mentionner le passage possible par le parc de Khao Yai
comme toujours attention si vosu prévoyez un retour par la route: visa de 15 jours seulement au passage frontière dans le sens retour Cambodge Thailande !
Cela fait pourtant 2 semaines que je google "etat de la route pour Siem Reap", "comment est la route bla bla bla" et j'en passe, les forums et blogs étaient unanimes: une piste chaotique. A noter: j'ai même été consulter, dans une grande enseigne qu'on ne citera pas, l'édition 2010 du Lonely Planet qui dit la même chose que le Routard...c'est grave!
En revanche, pensez-vous que l'attente à la frontière soit jouable avec un bébé? (les 300 m à pied ne sont pas un souci). Si il s'agit d'attendre debout 2h sous le cagnard avec la police qui surveille, évidemment ça va être dur..Comment cela se passe-t-il réellement? et l'attente sera-t-elle moindre en taxi?
mais si la route est goudronnée, pour moi c'est le bonheur! on pourra effectivement voir le paysage et le choix est alors tout fait entre l'avion et le bus.
en revanche concernant les régions de Thailande dont vous parlez, aucune mention dans le Routard, donc j'avoue que là, je ne situe pas. Peut-être n'existaient-elle pas encore lors du tirage de l'édition 2010...😉 plus sérieusement, pour revenir sur votre article concernant le Routard, HMH, quels sont les nombreux pièges à éviter à la frontière puisque la route n'est plus un problème "Au lieu de détailler tous les pièges à éviter lorsqu’on entre au Cambodge par la route au poste frontière de Poïpet (et ils sont nombreux)"?
Si on part au contraire pour Siem Reap le lendemain, est-ce que en arrivant vers 13h, on peut commencer à visiter les temples l'après midi? sont-ils loin de la ville?
On aimerait gagner du temps sur ce coup....
voyez-vous d'autres solutions?
Salut !
Pour le trajet, les autres ont déjà répondu, et je confirme il y a plein de vols avec Bangkok Airways depuis Bankgok vers Siem Reap.
Les hôtels se trouvent au centre et sur la route de l'aéroport, maximum à 30 min de l'aéroport. Pour aller sur le site, tout dépend du programme de la journée, ça prend entre 20 et 40 minutes depuis le centre. Le mieux c'est de visiter des journées entières car tu dois pour entrer sur le site acheter un "pass" (20 $ / jour, 40$/3jours etc) donc si tu arrives à 13h tu vas gâcher 1/2 journée de pass ...
Si tu veux une idée de programme de visite des temples dis-moi, j'y vais chaque année !
Qu'ils soient d'ici où de n'importe quel parage
Moi j'aime bien les gens qui sont de quelque part
Et portent dans leur cœur une ville ou un village
Où ils pourraient trouver leur chemin dans le noir
Qu'ils soient d'ici où de n'importe quel parage
Moi j'aime bien les gens qui sont de quelque part
Et portent dans leur cœur une ville ou un village
Où ils pourraient trouver leur chemin dans le noir
un vrai merci pour toutes ces réponses...oui ça paraît bête, mais ça m'a toujours fait halluciné que des gens, sur n'importe quel forum, puisse venir t'engueuler du genre "pourquoi tu ne passes que 4 jours au Cambodge, y'a pas que Angkor dans ce pays..." au lieu de t'aider avec tes contraintes, ce qui est, à l'origine, la raison d'être d'un forum finalement... et comme je n'ai pas, à mon grand regret, 2 mois à passer en Asie... bref, c'est bon, mon coup de gueule est passé, et comme ce n'est pas le cas ici justement, merci merci!
donc Bangkok/Siem-Reap par Bangkor Airways:checké bien sûr depuis longtemps et trop cher pour notre petite bourse et notre grande envie de voyage.. mais le bus est bien plus sympa et me va parfaitement à partir du moment où je n'emmène pas ma fille dans la galère décrite par le Routard (oui, toujours lui)
En revanche, très intéressée par tes indications sur les temples à visiter Isi, je suis open!
Oui, maintenant ce pass est plus souple et ils vont vérifier les dates pour voir si tu as bien fait les 3 jours en une semaine, par fractions de 1 ou 2 journées. C'est plus sympa, non ?
Mais te dire comment et où se font ces contrôles, je ne sais pas, je n'y suis pas encore allé !
J'imagine, vu la taille du site, qu'il doit y avoir plusieurs entrées avec des guichets, comme partout, et peut-être un pass avec des coupons de 1 jour. Donc c'est facile à vérifier. 😎
aaaaaaah ok je comprends ! Je croyais que tu disais qu'avec un apss de 3jours on pouvait visiter 7X 1 jour ...
Sarah , je posterai demain le programme que je fais là-bas (j'ai ça au bureau, pas chez moi)
Bonne soirée tout le monde
Qu'ils soient d'ici où de n'importe quel parage
Moi j'aime bien les gens qui sont de quelque part
Et portent dans leur cœur une ville ou un village
Où ils pourraient trouver leur chemin dans le noir
Pourquoi ne pas prendre un taxi jusqu'à là frontière du Cambodge , ainsi tu pourras faire un stop de temps à autre quand tu veux avec le bébé et moins contraignant que le bus et moins cher que le billet d'avion pour 1 personne . 😉
@+ , 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 .
ok Isi, no problem.
le taxi c'est en effet ce que j'étais en train d'envisager...
quel sont les tarifs approximatifs pour Bangkok/Siem Reap en bus et en taxi, que l'on ait un repère lors de l'annonce des tarifs par le chauffeur, ou encore l'agence si on prend un trajet organisé jusqu à Siem Reap (je me souviens qu'on m'en avait proposé pas mal à Bangkok...) D'ailleurs, une agence à conseiller pour son sérieux?
Et d'ailleurs, si on prend le taxi jusqu'à la frontière Thaï, pas de souci pour se trouver ensuite tout seul un taxi cambodgien jusqu'à Siem Reap ou comment ça spasse?
je confirme : la route est toute neuve coté Cambodge, pratiquement jusqu'à Poipet (depuis juin 09).. donc pas de pb.
le trajet BKK--Sien Reap prend à peu près 6h30 en MINIBUS,
le minibus me semble le meilleur compromis qualité / prix , comme souvent pour d'autres trajets.
la route / autoroute est très bonne coté Thailande. ça roule vite aussi ..
l'arrêt et le changement de bus à la frontière prend un peu plus d'une heure = temps de passer la douane. sauf affluence imprévue, la queue est courte et elle est à l'intérieur d'un batiment .. prendre soin de garder une bouteille d'eau, sinon en acheter une tout près de là .. il y a des boutiques / étals.
je crois me souvenir que le minibus démarre (arrive) à BKK de la place ronde de Victory Monument. chercher l'endroit au Nord/Nord-Est de ce lieu. demander aux gens du coin.
la plupart des minibus démarrent assez tot le matin .. s'informer la veille .. il y en a peut-être toute la matinée ..
si votre budget est serré, le taxi me semble "haut de gamme" ..
arrivés à Siem Reap, il y a quantité d'hotels .. pas de souci
ah ! j'oubliais .. on sort de son hotel à 06 heures du matin pour effectuer les visites d'Angkor Vat, car à 09h, il fait déjà trop chaud ! vrai ..
on effectue les visites (il faut trois matinées pour bien voir) donc en matinées. et on se repose un peu l'après-midi. surtout avec un enfant en bas âge ..
bonne découverte.
Les saines valeurs résisteront toujours à la folle marche du monde. Commissaire Laurence.
En revanche, pensez-vous que l'attente à la frontière soit jouable avec un bébé? (les 300 m à pied ne sont pas un souci). Si il s'agit d'attendre debout 2h sous le cagnard avec la police qui surveille, évidemment ça va être dur..
Pour ce qui est du passage à la frontière, je ne connais que le poste frontière thaïlandais car je quittais le Cambodge pour revenir en Thaïlande. Il n'est pas en plein air, c'est dans un bâtiment. Il y a une file pour les thaïs qui quittent les casinos de Poipet pour rentrer en Thaïlande, et une pour les autres ressortissants. Quand nous sommes passés par là, il y avait pas mal de monde et donc environ 30-45 minutes d'attente. Dans l'autre sens, je suppose que ça doit être à peu près pareil.
Et pour le Guide du Routard, c'est en effet une grosse daube que je boycotte pour n'importe quelle destination : ton condescendant, donneur de leçons, bourdes en tous genres, informations datant de Mathusalem...
la solution "classique" bus de ligne climatisé ( compagnie Capitol) pour faire Angkor Bangkok ou dans le sens contraire
reste une solution économique mais aléatoire
en février un couple de mes amis ( voyage de 3 mois Vietnam Cambodge thailande) a pris le bus avec un billet "Capitol" Angkor Bangkok
départ le matin a l'aube d'Angkor route rapide jusqu'a la frontière sans probleme
passage frontière assez rapide:
surprise de l'autre coté : comme il n'y avait pas assez de passagers pour faire la partie frontière Bangkok ( ils n'étaient que 12 ) , la compagnie avait prévu à la palce d'un gros bus, un mini-van ( Toyota 10 places aménagé en 14 places et donc les bagages entassés sur les 2 dernieres rangées de sièges cela faisait qu'ils se sont retrouvé a 5 sur des banquettes prévues pour 3 et ce jusqu'a bangkok
seul petit avantage : arrivée du bus a bangkok en centre ville ( et non pas a la gare centrale des bus de bangkok )
Hello!
Comme promis voici le programme que je fais d'habitude à Angkor. Je précise qu'on part le matin de l'hôtel à 07h, on y revient vers 11h30 pour repartir de 15h à 18h (pour éviter les fortes chaleurs)
ps : je ne suis pas fan du guide du Routard non plus 😕
Jour 1
Pre Rup
Mebon oriental
Ta Som
Neak Pean
Preah Khan
Roluos : Preah Ko, Bakong + travail du cuivre par les orphelins juste à côté, Lolei
Jour 2.
Banteay Srei
Petit arrêt à Thommanon , Chau Say Tevoda et Takeo
Banteay Kdei
Angkor Thom (Bayon, terrasse du roi lépreux et terrasse des éléphants , Baphuon+ Phimean Kas)
Jour 3.
Angkor Vat
Prasat Kravan
Ta Prohm
Qu'ils soient d'ici où de n'importe quel parage
Moi j'aime bien les gens qui sont de quelque part
Et portent dans leur cœur une ville ou un village
Où ils pourraient trouver leur chemin dans le noir
itinéraire bien noté Isi. Je vais me faire mon Routard à moi...
Tiens d'ailleurs, vu que tu y vas tous les ans, aurais-tu pour ma rubrique "santé", des adresses de médecins ou hopital de qualité sur Siem Reap, en cas de souci pour la petite? Jsuis aussi preneuse si tu peux me conseiller des GH simples et authentiques avec mail pour réserver...
ça se précise bien niveau transport...
quelle est la fourchette de prix en bus, minibus et taxi pour faire Bangkok/Siem-Reap, je n'ai aucun repère...
Est ce que pour les bus/minibus on réserve forcément le "tout compris' (aller-retour Bangkok/Siem-Reap) ou est-ce qu'on doit se trouver un autre bus à la frontière Cambodgienne? Même interrogations pour la réservation, on passe forcément par une agence ou on se pointe à la place de Victory Monument pour payer son billet et monter comme dans n'importe quel bus?
plusieurs questions .. .. donc plusieurs réponses .. courtes
- on réserve essentiellement pour l'ensemble du trajet (donc on n'a pas le risque de se trouver coincé à la frontière) et stagner une nuit à l frontière n'a pas d'intérêt, même à Poipet)
- prix : je crois me souvenir que ça se situe entre 400 et 600 ou 700 bahts.
- comme il y a un changement à la frontière, le bus peut se transformer en mini-bus ou inversement.
- horaires départ de Victory Monument : si tu as vérifié (checké en bon français) la veille, tu te rends à l'endroit indiqué 15 min avant et tu prends ton ticket. il doit y avoir un guichet en plein air (une table ..). tu montes comme dans n'importe quel bus.
l'agence touristique prendra une commission, mais t'amènera de ton hotel au point de départ.
bon séjour.
Les saines valeurs résisteront toujours à la folle marche du monde. Commissaire Laurence.
itinéraire bien noté Isi. Je vais me faire mon Routard à moi...
Tiens d'ailleurs, vu que tu y vas tous les ans, aurais-tu pour ma rubrique "santé", des adresses de médecins ou hopital de qualité sur Siem Reap, en cas de souci pour la petite? Jsuis aussi preneuse si tu peux me conseiller des GH simples et authentiques avec mail pour réserver...
Hello!
Pour l'hôpital, je sais qu'il y en a un fondé par un pédiatre Suisse, au centre de Siem Reap, spécialement pour les enfants. En cherchant sur le net tu devrais trouver les coordonnées.
Les GH je n'en connais pas parce que je pars toujours avec des groupes de touristes que j'accompagne et on va dans des hôtels 4* (gratuit pour moi 😎)
Qu'ils soient d'ici où de n'importe quel parage
Moi j'aime bien les gens qui sont de quelque part
Et portent dans leur cœur une ville ou un village
Où ils pourraient trouver leur chemin dans le noir
Pour l'hôpital, je sais qu'il y en a un fondé par un pédiatre Suisse, au centre de Siem Reap, spécialement pour les enfants. En cherchant sur le net tu devrais trouver les coordonnées.
Vous pensez à l'hôpital Kantha Bopha mais cet hôpital est strictement réservé aux enfants cambodgiens.Aucune possibilité d'avoir une consultation pour votre enfant.
Pour une simple consultation, cette adresse d'un medecin néérlandais (parle francais)
Dr. JOOST HOEKSTRA, medecin generaliste et specialiste des maladies tropicales, de nationalité néerlandaise mais parlant françaisNaga Healthcare
660, Hup Guan street (derrière le marché central, une petite rue derrière l'ANZ) Tel: 092 793 180 (emergency, receptionnist)
Tél/Fax: 063 761 295 (office, secretary)
Mobile : 012 363 601
Email: nagahealthcare@yahoo.com
Pour des problemes graves necessitant hospitalisation l'antenne de la Bangkok Hopital( bons soins mais très très chers)
Et éventuellement, pour vos enfants si les adresses ci-dessus ne conviennent pas :
General Pediatric Hospital 100 Blvd Confédération de Russie, Phnom-Penh Tél : 023 723 673
Asie du Sud-Est › Cambodge / Thaïlande · 5 replies
Comme les discussions sur ce sujet remontent à plusieurs années je me permets de poser ces questions nous partons pour 4 semaines en Thaïlande l’été prochain.…
Asie du Sud-Est › Cambodge / Thaïlande · 5 replies
Voilà j'ai fait mes recherches quasi quotidiennes pour mon voyage en Thailande prévu en septembre, mais je ne pas trouvé d'infos récentes à ce sujet: Je…
Le mois prochain j'arrive en Thailande pour 2 semaines et voudrai aller a Angkor 2 jours depuis Bangkok. Est-il plus facile d'y aller en bus ou en train?…
Asie du Sud-Est › Cambodge / Thaïlande · 21 replies
Nous voudrions partir 2 à 3 jours au Cambodge depuis bangkok, pour visiter le site d'Angkor.Quelqu'un as t'il des renseignements à ce sujet? D'avance merci.
Bonjour,
Je voulais visiter le matin les plantations avec getyourguide ou en étant sur place
Combien de temps prévoir réellement ?
Je voulais reprendre un bus soit celui de 15h ou celui de 17h pour KL
Merci
Hi! I’d like to split my trip into two parts: 15 days in Phuket and 15 days in Krabi. Do you know if I can rent a car and drop it off in Krabi when I fly back to France?
Thanks for your feedback!
Have a great Sunday!
Martine
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.
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search.
I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
Hi,
On September 1st, we're heading to Kalimantan for six weeks, probably from Pontianak to the Derawan Islands.
I've scoured this site, which is usually my go-to 😉, and others like VoyageForum, but recent info is pretty scarce.
I'd love any tips on places you've visited—our itinerary is still a work in progress.
We're two couples traveling with backpacks, using buses, boats, guesthouses, and homestays.
Thanks in advance!
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices?
Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis?
What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc.
Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
