Hi, I’ve read that these two volcanoes are super popular and that there are *tons* of people for sunrise, especially in July. I’m looking for firsthand accounts from anyone who’s done it later, around 9–10 a.m.
Thanks for your help!
Laëtitia
Circuit en Birmanie
by Filflap
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Aucun problème pour téléphoner de là-bas en Europe. Cependant, les prix sont supérieurs à ceux pratiqués en Thailande, je crois même me rappeler que ce n' était pas donné.
J'y étais en Mars dernier, et à cette époque, des serveurs internet comme Yahoo ou Hotmail étaient controlés et donc vérouillés par le "gouvernement". Certe, quelques birmans informaticiens sont capables de contourner les "barières", mais vu la lenteur des machines, on a rapidement tendance à se décourager avec Internet...
Pour la monaie, prends Euros ou Dollars mais toujours en grosses coupures (meilleur change au marché noir, dans la rue pas de PB vers la Sule Paya à Rangoon) et en parfait état. Evites les vieux billets.
Enfin (j' en remets une petite couche 😉😉😉), mais si tu n' as rien signé avec ton TO, vas-y en solo... Crois-moi, nul besoin d' être un "super héro" pour venir promener ses guêtres en Birmanie...
Namasté
Pour la monaie, prends Euros ou Dollars mais toujours en grosses coupures (meilleur change au marché noir, dans la rue pas de PB vers la Sule Paya à Rangoon) et en parfait état. Evites les vieux billets.
Enfin (j' en remets une petite couche 😉😉😉), mais si tu n' as rien signé avec ton TO, vas-y en solo... Crois-moi, nul besoin d' être un "super héro" pour venir promener ses guêtres en Birmanie...
Namasté
je confirme, pas de soucis pour ce qui est du change, ni pour le tel qui est, il est vrai, cher...mais les texto passent bien .. 😉
quant à internet.. ça peut ne pas fonctionner au top..; soit parceque il ya contrôle, soit parce que tt simplement les connexions sont mauvaises.. il ne faut pas voir le loup partout...
et puis moi j'ai osé me ballader toute seule... mais il m'a fallu 2 voyages avant de le faire...et c'est vraiment facile, surtout quand tu connais le mode opératoire du pays... donc.. profites à fond de chaque instant.. sans te poser 36000 questions, imprègnes toi de la gentillesse et de l'hospitalité des birmans, n'hésites pas à lacher le TO pour te promener tt seul, rien à craindre....si tu teperds on te prendra par la main pour te ramener là où tu dois aller... et plizzzzzzzzz fais une offrande de ma part dans la 1ère pagode que tu visiteras... merci 🙂
bonjour Phil
je viens de voir les derniers messages et je t'assure qu'il faut également des petites coupures en dollars pour payer les achats dont je t'avais parlé précedemment, si tu donnes une grosse coupure, ils te rendront la monnaie en kyats. La préparation de ce voyage m'avait stressée car j'avais reçu des informations contradictoires et je ne savais plus qui croire. Ne fais pas la meme erreur que moi. J'étais angoissée car j'étais obligée d'appeler en France et à condition de payer 5 dollars la minute, je n'ai eu aucun probleme (dans la rue), la communication n'était pas toujours impec mais on s'est toujours compris. Pour internet c'est long mais on y est arrivé, c'est à Mandalay qu'on a payé le moins cher, mais ce n'est pas exorbitant. C'est un pays ou on se sent bien et j'y retournerais avec joie sans encadrement, mais je trouve que d'y aller une première fois accompagné, permet d'avoir un aperçu plus rapide des sites importants. Nous avions enmené des T-shirts à donner et gonflé notre pharmacie que nous avons laissé à notre départ. Nous avons regretté d'avoir acheté des boites laquées à l'usine soi disant de meilleur qualité, mais, nous pensons que c'était mieux de les acheter aux petits vendeurs. D'autre part, si on veut les aider financièrement, c'est certain qu'il faut marchander mais raisonnablement. Je m'insurge également contre le fait d'arroser de bonbons les enfants, il ne faut pas oublier qu'ils ne se lavent pas tous les dents ! et que les soins la bas, sont aux antipodes des notres. Je reste à ta disposition, pense serainement à tes vacances et j'espère qu'à ton retour tu me donneras tes impressions.
je viens de voir les derniers messages et je t'assure qu'il faut également des petites coupures en dollars pour payer les achats dont je t'avais parlé précedemment, si tu donnes une grosse coupure, ils te rendront la monnaie en kyats. La préparation de ce voyage m'avait stressée car j'avais reçu des informations contradictoires et je ne savais plus qui croire. Ne fais pas la meme erreur que moi. J'étais angoissée car j'étais obligée d'appeler en France et à condition de payer 5 dollars la minute, je n'ai eu aucun probleme (dans la rue), la communication n'était pas toujours impec mais on s'est toujours compris. Pour internet c'est long mais on y est arrivé, c'est à Mandalay qu'on a payé le moins cher, mais ce n'est pas exorbitant. C'est un pays ou on se sent bien et j'y retournerais avec joie sans encadrement, mais je trouve que d'y aller une première fois accompagné, permet d'avoir un aperçu plus rapide des sites importants. Nous avions enmené des T-shirts à donner et gonflé notre pharmacie que nous avons laissé à notre départ. Nous avons regretté d'avoir acheté des boites laquées à l'usine soi disant de meilleur qualité, mais, nous pensons que c'était mieux de les acheter aux petits vendeurs. D'autre part, si on veut les aider financièrement, c'est certain qu'il faut marchander mais raisonnablement. Je m'insurge également contre le fait d'arroser de bonbons les enfants, il ne faut pas oublier qu'ils ne se lavent pas tous les dents ! et que les soins la bas, sont aux antipodes des notres. Je reste à ta disposition, pense serainement à tes vacances et j'espère qu'à ton retour tu me donneras tes impressions.
merci pour ta proposition
je pars au Myanmar entre la mi octobre et le debut decembre pendant 2 semaines un peu plus si necessaire
je cherche deja le meilleur tarif pour l'avion
ensuite je voudrais faire Yangon, le rocher d'or, Mandalay, Bagan et le lac Inle
Mais toutes les idées sont bonnes a prendre
j'espere partir avec un chauffeur (si j'en trouve un digne de confiance) nous seraont que 2 ma femme et moi
je voudrais savoir combien ca coute pour pouvoir envoyer suffisament d'argent sans en prendre de trop non plus
tous les conseils que tu pourras me donner me seront profitables (change, herbergement, restaurant, guide, visites, affaires a emmenées, tous se qu'il faut faire ou ne pas faire, moutiques enfin toute ton experience)
merci pour la reponse
jean-jacques
Bonsoir Jean-Jacques
Pour avoir de bons prix pour les billets d'avion tu t'y rends un peu tard.
Je te conseille fortement la THAI, peur-ètre un peu plus cher mais tellement mieux.
Essaie de rester au moins 3 semaines, + si tu peux.
En 2 semaines tu ne pourras pas faire le circuit avec une voiture: les distances sont très longues et les routes en très mauvais état.
Tu n'auras aucun mal à trouver un chauffeur digne de confiance serviable et très compétent.
Je sais que mon guide/chauffeur préféré est pris ( avec des amis que je lui ai envoyés ) tout le mois d'octobre et du 22 Nov au 20 Déc.
Je pense qu'il est libre les 3 premières semaines de Nov., mais s-il ne pouvait pas son et notre ami THAN fera très bien l'affaire.
Voici les coordonées de WYN : wynmyint@gmail.com
Si cela t'intéresse envoie lui rapidement un MAIL en lui donnant ton programme
C'est la meilleure façon de découvrir ce magnifique pays, car tu peux t'arrèter où et quand tu veux, et WYN t'évitera tous les tracas et s'occupera de toutes les réservations.
Pour 3 semaines, voiture hôtels (très corrects entre 15 et 25 dollars )restaurants entrées des sites, compte à peu près 2000 Euros pour 2.
Ne perds pas de temps et tiens-moi au courant, je te donnerai toutes les autre infos après.
A bientôt
LOBO
LOBO
Bonjour
Je m'en occupe aujourd'hui
LOBO
LOBO
bonjour
la Birmanie m'interesse et nous voudrions pouvoir réaliser un circuit avec "un guide-chauffeur" je recherche des infos pour un circuit culturel de 11 à 14 jours au travers de ce pays.Tous les renseignements seront les bienvenus.
merci de m'éclairer sur ce que je dois savoir et faire.
bonjour,
je prends connaissance de votre message avec un retard certain.....cependant, si vous avez encore des informations pour effectuer un circuit en birmanie avec un chauffeur guide, nous serions preneurs ; nous avons trouvé un vol à prix intéressant mais nous sommes un peu suffoqués des prix pour des tours organisés pour le terrestre bien voyageusement à vous
je prends connaissance de votre message avec un retard certain.....cependant, si vous avez encore des informations pour effectuer un circuit en birmanie avec un chauffeur guide, nous serions preneurs ; nous avons trouvé un vol à prix intéressant mais nous sommes un peu suffoqués des prix pour des tours organisés pour le terrestre bien voyageusement à vous
Bonjour
Depuis 8 ans nous voyageons tous les ans avec le même guide/chauffeur.
C'est devenu un véritable ami.Oui les prix ont considérablement augmentés.
Il y a 3/4 ans une voiture en Kilométrage illimité avec guide /chauffeur coûtait 40 Dollars, aujourd'hui tu peux multiplier par3.Il faut dire que le prix de l'essence a été multiplié lui par 5.
Si mon ami t'intéresse je te donnerai ses coordonnnées en MP.
Il s'occupe de toutes les réservations, c'est assez génial.
Bonne prépa.
Lobo
Idem, je veux bien récupérer les coordonnées stp =)
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After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
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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.
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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.
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Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
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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!
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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...
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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...
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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.
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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)?
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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
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 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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
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.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
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?
Hi there,
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?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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 everyone,
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.
Thanks
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.
Thanks
Hi,
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.
Thanks
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.
Thanks
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 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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
Time to hit the road again!
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...
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...
Hello,
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:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
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.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
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:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
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.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday







