Hi everyone,
I’m starting to plan my next trip to Southeast Asia this winter (2.5 months, leaving in early December), and here’s a rough outline of my route—I’d love to share it with you and hear your thoughts and tips.
- I’ll start in Bangkok and already have three spots I’ve marked: Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Uthai Thani (I haven’t been to any of these places yet).
- Next, I’d like to cross the country from west to east to reach the Laos border. I’d love suggestions for any interesting stops along this route—I don’t know this part of Thailand at all...
- Then I’ll head into Laos, probably at Savannakhet (you can usually get a visa at the border).
- > I’m tempted to spend a week in Hoi An, Vietnam, since I loved that city and the area when I visited two years ago. No visa needed for Vietnam now, so it could be a nice little detour. On the map, it doesn’t look too far, but I know you’ve got to be careful with these things, and I’m not sure if it’s a good idea. Any opinions on this?
- Back to Laos (maybe via Dakta), and I’ll head south along the Mekong, probably doing the Bolaven Plateau loop that I missed last time. Then Paksé, the 4,000 Islands... I’ve been before, but I’d happily go back.
- Crossing into Cambodia, I’ll follow the Mekong down to Phnom Penh (I know this area and love how untouristy it is). From there, I’ll probably spend a few days in Kep (quieter than Kampot). Still undecided, though.
- Then back to Thailand (BKK), likely by plane from Phnom Penh since the borders between the two countries are currently closed (plus, let’s be honest, Cambodian roads... ;-). We’ll see how things look when the time comes.
- After that, I’d like to explore southern Thailand, taking it slow with short hops. I’ve got my eye on Khao Sok National Park, and I’ve heard good things about Krabi... Again, I don’t know this region well, so any info or tips would be great.
So, I think this should be doable in 2.5 months, especially since I prefer short hops of 300 km max to avoid getting too tired, and I like staying 2-3 days in each place to explore. Plus, I’ll take a week off to relax if I find a spot I love—maybe by the sea for some real downtime.
Thanks for your feedback and for sharing your favorite spots!
Pascal
This is the first time I’ve seen someone on a forum planning to visit Uthai Thani. Since I don’t know the city, I’d love a quick rundown of what you’ve found to see or do there—thanks!
Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Uthai Thani (...).
- Then, I’d like to cross the country from west to east
I don’t think heading due east from Uthai Thani makes the most sense in terms of transport or interest before reaching Isan (the name for the northeast of the country). Since you’re planning to stop in Ayutthaya, it’d be better to do the trip in this order: Bangkok-Kanchanaburi-Uthai Thani-Ayutthaya-arrival in Isan.
arrive at the Laos border. I’d appreciate any stops that seem interesting along this route, since I don’t know this part of Thailand at all...
Following the logic of what I suggested above, starting from Ayutthaya by train, here are the towns/sites I know:
Stop in Pakchong to visit Khao Yai National Park with a wildlife guide—plan for at least 2 nights. This guesthouse is great for organizing forest treks (though you won’t be alone—it’s well-organized...) and the rooms are decent if you’re not looking for luxury: http://www.greenleaftour.com/rooms.html If you let them know your arrival time at the station, they’ll pick you up.
Then take the train again to Khorat.
For the Ayutthaya-Pakchong-Khorat train, the Express 71 is preferable.
Khorat: a big, ugly, congested, and polluted city... You’ll have to pass through, but just to catch a bus (1h15) to the more pleasant town below:
Phimai: a charming small town, great for 2-3 nights with a few accommodations and some of the region’s most interesting Khmer ruins right in the city center. You could get there the same day you leave Ayutthaya or Pakchong. However, it’ll be tricky to leave (few options) for your next destination without going back through Khorat (but it’s only a 1h15 bus ride), or ask the driver to drop you off at the Phimai/Route 2 junction and wait for another ride there.
Yasothon: an ugly town, a must-visit 4 days a year for its rocket festival (not during your trip), completely forgettable the rest of the year.
Roi Et: a peaceful and pleasant town with its artificial lake in the city center (a bit like the vibe in Phayao, up north), great for 2-3 nights. A few other things to see in the area.
That’s all for the places I know in this part of Isan.
You didn’t ask about Kanchanaburi and its province. I’ve been there at least fifty times, from 4 nights to 2 months, for all sorts of reasons—so if you need info, you know where to ask.
In the south, aside from Hua Hin (which I hated), I only know cities that aren’t by the sea, so I won’t go into detail: Phetchaburi*, Trang, Phatthalung, and Nakhon Si Thammarat*
* Worth staying 3 nights.
In southern Thailand, I really liked Phattalung—a small town with neighborhoods built on stilts by Lake Thale Noi. Fishing activities and everywhere you look, locals weaving baskets while sitting in front of their doors. A sunrise boat trip to see the birds (gorgeous, but I didn’t have the right photo gear). It’s an international meet-up spot for bird lovers!
Since I’ve never posted photos on this site, I just extracted a few JPEGs from my catalog in the right format for VF... but it won’t accept them, with the message:
Oops! An error occurred: You tried to upload an attached file, but this feature has been disabled.
I’ve had this issue before. So many crashes with this new VF. It’s really discouraging.
Okay for doing Bangkok-Kanchanaburi-Uthai Thani-Ayutthaya first, then heading toward Isan. I’d actually hesitated, and if it’s easier, I’ll follow your advice no problem.
I’ll check out all the cities you mentioned in Isan—thanks a bunch!
For the south, I’d also passed through Hua Hin and didn’t like it either (a beach resort for the wealthy), but I might stay there one night as my first stop toward the south.
I’ll look into the other cities you mentioned too.
Thanks for your reply—there’s already tons of useful info, and if you’ve got any tips for Kanchanaburi, I’m all ears! ;-)
PS: And thanks for the maps—they’re great for seeing the main routes and rail lines! !
Thanks Gaura, I’ll note down Phattalung and check it out (Songsam mentioned it too, so it can’t be bad!).
For the photos, are you definitely using the two buttons "1. Choose a photo" then "2. Upload the photo" under "Add a photo to the message"?
Once that’s done, you can then choose to insert the photo into the text...
That’s what I did yesterday, and it worked without any issues. But hey, a bug is always possible...
I also recommend Prachuap Khiri Khan—beautiful beach, quiet town, prices and daily life typically Thai, and few foreign tourists.
For photos... I’ve been on VF for 15 years, I know the site, but lately the crashes have been multiplying. I just tried again on the off chance... same message
Uthai Thani looks really interesting.
To get there from Kanchanaburi without going back through Bangkok, I think I remember that the Kanchanaburi-Chiang Mai bus stops in Chainat, which is very close. Take the morning bus because the others will pass through in the middle of the night.
I can confirm that Wat Tham Suea is nice to visit. However, to get there from Kanchanaburi, there’s no direct public transport for the whole journey—you’ll first need to take a bus or songthaew to Tha Muang, and from there, a motosai. Otherwise, consider renting a motorbike or car, or hiring a motosai (make sure to bargain!) directly in Kan. It’s a 2-3 hour trip including the visit.
If you have any tips for Kanchanaburi, I’d love to hear them! ;-)
For the town of Kanchanaburi and its immediate surroundings, plan for 4 nights; for the whole province, count about a week. For a bit of inspiration, you can read my reply from 01/09 at 6:23 PM here: https://voyageforum.com/forum/vos-recommandations-20-jours-en-thailande-d10779172-1/
For the rest, I’ll let you explore the town and province before answering any more specific questions you might have.
Just a heads-up—the buffalo market is only on Tuesdays.
As for the hotel I chose, it was the Uthaithani Resort.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Thanks to your info, I’ve started planning the Kanchanaburi leg. Here’s what I’m thinking, with a few questions about what you mentioned:
- Arriving in Kanchanaburi, and I’ll stay for 3 nights to explore the town and surroundings, probably renting a scooter—it’s more flexible that way. Specifically, the Bridge on the River Kwai (a must-see, but apparently quick to visit), Wat Tham Suea, Wat Tham Khao Pun, maybe the "giant tree," and surely other spots. If you’ve got any recommendations, I’m all ears.
For Erawan Park and/or Sai Yok Park, though, I’m not sure how to handle it... should I choose between the two? They seem touristy but also really beautiful. I’m thinking of going by bus unless I take an organized "tour." What do you think?
- Then I’d like to follow your suggestion: take the train, get off at Tham Krasae, join the road, then waterfall, Hellfire Pass... all the way to Thong Pha Phum. That should make for a great day! But I don’t see myself doing all that while carrying my backpack (I’m not as young as I used to be)... Do you know if it’s possible to have my backpack transported to Thong Pha Phum by van/minibus (hotel to hotel)? I imagine it can be arranged?
- One night in Thong Pha Phum, then heading to SangkhlaBuri: you mentioned 3 nights—do you confirm? The place seems worth staying to soak in the atmosphere and vibe!
- Then back to Kanchanaburi for one night and leaving the next day via Uthai Thani, taking the bus to Chiang Mai and getting off at Chainat.
Here’s my first draft—8 days spent in Kanchanaburi.
Thanks for any comments and suggestions! ;-)
Yes, with a motorcycle license plus the international one.
If you recommend any, I’m interested.
In town, there’s this little temple near the river located here 14° 1'37.32"N 99°31'26.46"E that’s nice (and quiet since few travelers know it exists). I’ll post a photo of it below.
For Erawan Park and/or Sai Yok Park, though, I’m not sure how to go about it... do I have to choose between these two parks? They seem touristy but also very beautiful... I imagine going by bus
For Erawan, located on route 3199, there are buses. For Sai Yok Noi and the short turnoff to Sai Yok Yai N.P., both located on route 323, any bus or minivan heading to Thong Pha Phum or Sangkhlaburi can drop you off there. Route 3457 connects 3199 and 323, but no public transport runs on it, which means to go from Erawan to Sai Yok Noi or Yai, you either need your own wheels or have to go back through Kanchanaburi... but if you have your own wheels, you can’t take the train to Tham Krasae or Namtok 😕 So I’d recommend going to Erawan round-trip from Kanchanaburi.
unless I take an organized "tour"...
A tour for Erawan and Sai Yok Noi (probably including Phrasat Muang Sing*), that should be available. But for Erawan and Sai Yok Yai, probably not, since it’s too far to do both in one day. After three visits to Sai Yok Yai N.P., I don’t remember seeing any tour buses—it’s a pretty quiet spot, and people go there with friends, family, or as a couple to spend a night on a raft, in a floating hotel, or in a bungalow. Accommodations for a solo traveler can get quite expensive. You can also just stop by Sai Yok Yai to see the nice scenery, but even for an hour, you’ll have to pay the park entrance fee (200 or 400 baht, I don’t remember which). Same at Erawan, by the way.
* The westernmost ruins of the Khmer Empire. Accessible by train from Takilen station + motorbike taxi or scooter since it’s not too far from Kan, or through an agency. However, it’s impossible to do as a train stop between Kan and Tham Krasae or Namtok due to the schedules.
- Then I’d like to follow your suggestion of taking the train, getting off at Tham Krasae, joining the road, then waterfall, Hellfire Pass... all the way to Thong Pha Phum. That should make for a great day!
Yes, roughly leaving at 5 AM and arriving in the late afternoon makes for a great day... Personally, between Tham Krasae and route 323, I ended up hitchhiking for the 3-4 km uphill.
But I don’t see myself doing all that while carrying my backpack (I’m not that young anymore)... Do you know if it’s possible to have my backpack transported to Thong Pha Phum by van/minibus (hotel to hotel)? I imagine it can be done?
What Thais commonly do anywhere is go to the bus station and have a package checked in to be put on a bus to the chosen destination, where someone is waiting to receive it. But in your case, from hotel to hotel... In Thailand, you can often solve a problem just by talking about it around you, especially at your accommodation’s reception, so don’t hesitate to ask them the day before or earlier—they might have a solution for you (I’d bet 51% they do).
Sangkhlaburi: you mention 3 nights, do you confirm?
Yes. Or more. It’s a relaxing town in a pretty setting. In that area, 15° 8'41.69"N 98°27'7.35"E, you have access points leading down to the floating houses, some of which are nice little restaurants.
Kanchanaburi, the little-known temple:
Sangkhlaburi, Wat Wang Wiwekaram temple in the village on the other side of the wooden bridge:
A bit of adventure off the beaten path and a way to avoid crowds of tourists: visit the Huay Mae Khamin waterfalls!
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Thanks, it sounds great, but how do you actually get there? Because I see it's 110 km from Kanchanaburi and 43 km past the Erawan intersection.
Doing a round trip by scooter from Kanchanaburi in one day seems like a lot... Unless you hire a taxi for the day? That explains why there aren’t many people there...
Especially the Bridge on the River Kwai, of course (a must-see but it seems to be quick to visit)
To get good lighting (for photos), see a train passing, and avoid crowds, the only decent time to go is at 7 AM for the Namtok-Thonburi train. Be patient, though—trains are rarely on time. At any other time, it’ll either be too dark, too bright, or packed with people.
You can walk on the bridge, even when a train is passing (they go very slowly and signal well in advance), because there are visible niches—check the two photos below. Nearby: T-shirt vendors, other souvenirs, an exhibit of old rusty railway vehicles used during construction, and riverside cafés/restaurants. Not far away on Maenam Kwae Road, there’s a museum about the bridge, but it’s not great. You’re better off visiting the JEATH Museum and the one on the street to the right of the Allied War Cemetery (third photo).
Plan for about an hour at the bridge.
This is about the Nam Giang (VTN) / Dakta Ok (LAO) border crossing:
But anyway, I’ve kinda given up on the idea of making a detour through Vietnam and Hoi An. Even though it looks doable on the map—about 500 km from the TH-LA border at Savannakhet to Hoi An—it’s actually a lot of travel time, and I remember how rough the roads in Laos are (my back still hasn’t forgotten!). So even though the idea was nice, I think I’ll skip it, especially since the rest of the trip will probably fill up my two and a half months just fine. (Plus, I’d rather take my time than try to hit too many places.)
I’ve been busy this week, but I’m still planning my trip. I’ve almost finalized Uthai Thani, where I’ll stay for 3 nights (2 full days there), and I’ll start looking into Ayutthaya, where I’ve never been.
After that, I really like your suggestions for Isan. They follow a central route, leading to the border at Mukdahan/Savannakhet, which works well for me.
I’ve seen there are lots of other places to see in Isan, especially along the borders, but on the Cambodian side, it’s not the best time to hang around there, and on the Laotian side, going too far north—like around Udon Thani—would make the route too long, I think.
Well, no, so far I haven’t looked into anything very serious for my Laos route... I just have the idea of heading south roughly along the Mekong. I’ve already been to Laos once, and I skipped the center (overnight bus from Pakse to Vientiane). So the plan is to explore the central part of the country.
The Mukdahan/Savannakhet border is just a rough estimate of where I’ll be after Roi Et (following the spots you recommended)...
I even saw that a bit further north, there’s Thakhek with quite a few things to see or do around there:
https://www.novo-monde.com/boucle-thakhek-konglor-cave-laos/
So that’s where I’m at: exploring the center of the country a bit, then heading down to Pakse and the 4,000 Islands before crossing into Cambodia.
I was ready to suggest a detailed route for you that goes through Prasat Phanom Rung and Khong Chiam before entering Laos via Pakse, but your new idea of entering through Tha Khek to visit the area is a good one.
Nakhon Phanom is a pretty pleasant town.
Alright, the Thailand part is starting to take shape. Following your advice, it’d look something like this:
Bangkok (1 night)
Kanchanaburi (3 nights)
Thong Pha Phum (1 night)
Sangkhlaburi (4 nights) -> I really like this place
Kanchanaburi (1 night)
Uthai Thani (3 nights)
Ayutthaya (3 nights)
Pakchong (2 nights)
Phimai (3 nights)
Roi Et (3 nights)
Udon Thani (3 nights)
Nakhon Phanom (3 nights)
There you go—all places I’ve never been to, and that already fills up a month without even realizing it! I’ll have to scale back my plans because traveling along the Mekong (Laos + Cambodia) is going to take some time. What’ll be left for southern Thailand?? Gotta make some tough choices... 😐 (another reason to forget Vietnam!).
On the other hand, I’m having trouble checking available transport. I usually use 12Go.asia, but it’s not giving me anything useful (except flights and private taxis). For example, from Roi Et... Do you know of a better site for this?
Personally, and especially as you get older, I’d **avoid** one-night stops—better to do fewer legs and really scope out the ones you pick.
4 nights in Sangkhlaburi seems like too much to me.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Well, because I can't find any direct transport between Roi Et and Nakhon Phanom...
If I have to go back via Khon Kaen, then Udon Thani is on the way.
But if there's a more direct route, I'm all ears...
Overnight stops are just passing-through stops where I don’t have much choice or that help avoid overly long travel days:
- Thong Pha Phum: a stop after a long day. Maybe I could skip it and head straight to Shangkhlaburi, but I’m not sure...
- Kanchanaburi: this is the return from Shangkhlaburi before catching a bus north the next morning, so it’s a must.
Because I can't find direct transport between Roi Et and Nakhon Phanom...
If I have to go back via Khon Kaen, then Udon Thani is on the way.
But if there's a more direct connection, I'm all ears...
I had a feeling, hence my not-so-naive question...😎
I've never done this route (I arrived in N. Phanom from Bueng Khan), but with my experience traveling by bus in Thailand, I can still tell you there will be a way—maybe not direct, perhaps with an immediate connection in Kalasin or Sakon Nakhon—but there will be one. No matter the option, you can make the trip in a single day if you leave Roi Et before 10 AM. The best place to find this info is always directly at the bus station (or from your hotel if there isn’t one) by asking the day before. Definitely not on sites like 12Go, which only show options that earn them money through bookings and carefully hide the ones you can’t reserve—like the bus(es) that’ll take you to N. Phanom.
I’m having trouble checking available transport: I usually use 12Go.asia
Bad habit.
I’ll have to scale back my plans
Already 3 nights saved...
Bangkok (1 night)
If your flight arrives before noon and you're feeling brave and energetic, you could easily skip this stop: from the airport, take a taxi to Mo Chit minivan station (Sathani Mo Chit Lot Tu) and hop on an air-conditioned minivan to Kanchanaburi. The trip takes 2.5–3 hours with several departures per hour (luggage on your lap).
Thong Pha Phum (1 night)
Or 2.
Ayutthaya (3 nights)
3 nights is great if you have the time. Don’t miss the boat ride at sunset—it lets you see some ruins in a different light, creating a whole new atmosphere. Ask your accommodation to arrange it for you.
Nakhon Phanom (3 nights)
Or 2.
Thong Pha Phum: A stop after a long day—maybe I can skip it and head straight to Sangkhlaburi, but not sure...
If you do the planned route (6-hour train to Kan, Tham Krasae, Sai Yok Noi, Hellfire Pass, maybe Sai Yok Yai), you’ll probably be pretty wiped out. Adding another 1.5–2 hours of bus or minivan to Sangkhlaburi... Plus, at that hour, you might not even find transport.
Thanks for all these details. I’m adjusting my plans accordingly.
- I arrive at 10:05 in Bangkok, so I can actually head straight to Mochit bus terminal to get to Kanchanaburi. Good point, especially since I always set aside 2 days at the end of my trip in Bangkok to do some shopping at Chatuchak Market...
- Why not 2 nights in Thong Pha Phum if you suggest it...
- And 2 nights in Nakhon Phanom—sounds good if I’m trying to save a few days...
That’s 4 days saved! 🙂
As for 12go.asia, yeah, I eventually figured out it only lists routes run by commercial companies—regular buses never show up...
Okay, moving on to Laos now. The first part in Thailand is pretty much set, though things can always change once I’m on the ground depending on unexpected stuff. But overall, the route is mapped out! 😎
There are several buses, including the blue and white government buses, that travel directly between Kanchanaburi and Songkhlaburi.
That’s one night saved!
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
the government blue and white buses, which run directly between Kanchanaburi and Songkhlaburi.
In nearly 40 years, I’ve only seen the 4-5 daily orange regular buses, the 3-4 daily red a/c1 or a/c2 buses (depending on the schedule) that used to run the Mo Chit-Kanchanaburi-Sangkhlaburi route—which no longer operate at that frequency—and minivans. Are you confusing them with the a/c1 bus 81 that runs Sai Tai-Kanchanaburi every 20 minutes?
But in any case, the plan here is to take the train to Tham Krasae, then walk 5-6 km to Route 323 before hopping on and off to visit certain sites along the way to Thong Pha Phum, not to take the direct route, which will only be done on the return trip from Sangkhlaburi.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I’m starting to plan a route in Laos, and so far it looks like this:
- Thakhek, then Konglor in Phou Hin Poun National Park, which seems like a beautiful spot. I’m either going straight to Konglor or doing the famous loop—or part of it—but I’m not sure because 450 km seems like a lot to do by scooter. I’ll see what alternatives are possible once I’m there.
- Then back to Thakhek and heading to Savannakhet, where I’ll stay for 2 or 3 days.
So far, so good, but I’m realizing that between Savannakhet and Pakse, there’s practically nothing to see or places to stop!
So, I’m wondering if it might be better to cross back into Thailand at Mukdahan (across from Savannakhet), and head to Khong Chiam, probably via Ubon Ratchathani, then cross back into Laos and arrive in Pakse...
Any ideas for a Savannakhet–Pakse route via Thailand? ;-)
I’ve never stopped in Mukdahan.
Next is Ubon Ratchathani, a big city but quite open and pleasant for 2-3 nights. Accommodation of all kinds.
Then head to Khong Chiam, a nice village (where I’m probably one of the few *farangs* to have gone twice...). That’s where another major river, the Mun, flows (splash!) into the Mekong—you can see the two rivers aren’t the same color. The village is quiet on weekdays, a bit livelier on weekends since it’s a Thai tourism spot, but even then it stays charming and peaceful. There’s a boat excursion nearby that Thais love. Several places to stay ranging from 500 to 1500 baht.
Getting from U. Ratchathani to K. Chiam, two options:
-A few direct *thamada* buses, but not many. Once I even ended up hitching the reverse trip.
-Via Phibun Mangsahan (on the route of buses heading to the border). You get off in Phibun where the bus drops you—it’s not the bus station. You walk partway through the (small and quiet) town toward the modest bus station near the Mun and wait for a bus to K. Chiam.
To continue to Laos after that, as you’ve figured out, no need to go back to U. Ratchathani—just change buses in Phibun M.
In Bangkok, I can actually head straight to Mochit bus station
Make sure to tell the taxi "Motchit Minivan" (Motchit Lot Tou), otherwise they’ll take you to the main station. Walking between the two only takes about ten minutes, but it’s poorly signposted, requires using an elevated walkway, and is a hassle when you’re lugging luggage—best to avoid it.
At Motchit minivans, there are four small buildings side by side (A, B, C, D) depending on the destination. For Kanchanaburi, it’s building D.
Oh damn, you're right—I thought with a one-month duration it would be fine, but no, if you leave early, it's over, you'll need a new one... :-( Well, if I have no choice, I'll do it.
To continue on to Laos after that, you’ve got it—no need to go back to U. Ratchathani, you change at Phibun M.
Oh, really? I was hoping to go directly from Khong Chiam to Chong Mek—I see a road on the map. But anyway, it's all very close, so if I have to go through Phibun M., no problem.
Monchit minivan, yeah, I’ve been there before! I arrived from Sukhothai by bus and ended up at Mo Chit "main." The day had been, let’s say, complicated from the morning, and I was super tight on timing. So I crossed that famous footbridge in full stress mode and made it to the minivan for Hua Hin with only 10 minutes to spare before the departure I’d booked on 12go.asia! I still remember it... After that, the driver was really speeding—it was a bit sketchy. I can tell you, my first beer in Hua Hin was *well* deserved! (Even if Hua Hin later disappointed me, but that’s another story.)
Thanks again for this info—always super helpful. I think I’ll do it this way, and I’ll minimize the kilometers on Laos’ roads too! ;-)
Oh, I was hoping to go directly from Khong Chiam to Chong Mek—I see a road on the map.
I see, route 2173 followed by 217. Check on the spot if there’s a regular songthaew at least as far as 217. Otherwise, since this shortcut makes the total trip to Chong Mek only 25 km, talk to your hotel owner—they might be able to sort something out and find someone willing to drive you for a few small bills. That’d be a max of 30 minutes compared to 2-3 hours by bus via Phibun, so I think it’d be worth a try, as long as the driver doesn’t charge an exorbitant amount, of course.
the departure of the minivan I booked on 12go.asia!
On the planned route so far, the only things I see you need to book are:
-The day before (on the spot), the minivan from Sangkhlaburi to Kanchanaburi. If you take the regular bus that takes 5 hours, it’s unnecessary (and impossible anyway) to book, but still check the schedules because there are only 4-5 departures per day.
-The day before at Ayutthaya station, the Express 71 train (recommended + upper class) for Ayutthaya-Pak Chong, and at the same time, this same 71 for two days later from Pak Chong to Khorat. Note that this last leg can also be done by minivan (whereas for Ayutthaya-Pak Chong, the train is really the best option).
For everything else, you don’t need to book—just arrive at the bus station, buy your ticket, and go.
Don’t forget that for Kanchanaburi-Chainat, I wrote "I think I remember"—make sure to confirm this in advance. If it’s not correct, take an early regular bus to Suphanburi and check at the bus station upon arrival for the next leg to Uthai Thani or Chainat.
I think you might want to reconsider your entire route because there are some options that could make things unnecessarily complicated for you.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Well, so far this route doesn’t seem bad to me. The fact that it’s not all linear and easy isn’t a problem—juggling things a bit is part of the travel experience, and I don’t mind that. The most annoying thing I see is having to pay for the Laos visa twice, but Thakhek seems worth the detour, as does stopping in Khong Chiam... You’ve got to make choices, after all.
l'ensemble de votre parcours qui est à revoir car il y a des options qui vous compliquent la vie
I’m open to comments, info, and ideas—that’s the point of this post—but that’s way too general to be useful. What are these options that complicate things for me?
Here’s the updated itinerary:
THAILAND 1
Kanchanaburi (3 nights)
Thong Pha Phum (2 nights)
Sangkhlaburi (3-4 nights)
Kanchanaburi (1 night)
Uthai Thani (3 nights)
Ayutthaya (3 nights)
Pakchong (2 nights)
Phimai (3 nights)
Roi Et (3 nights)
Nakhon Phanom (2 nights)
LAOS 1
Thakhek - Konglor - Thakhek Loop (5 nights, details to be defined)
Savannakhet (3 nights)
THAILAND 2
Ubon Ratchathani (2 nights)
Khong Chiam (3 nights)
-- That’s 39 nights so far --
LAOS 2 (still to be defined)
Paksé
Bolaven Plateau loop
Champasak
Attapeu
4000 Islands
Then crossing into Cambodia...
So that’s about a month and a half before Cambodia. At this pace, I can already forget about southern Thailand if I want to keep going like this.
I can head south in Cambodia along the Mekong (I know and like the vibe in that part of the country), down to Kep (quieter) since Kampot disappointed me a bit 2 years ago.
After that, depending on how many days I have left, I might go to Koh Chang / Koh Kood to finish in relax mode... (It’ll also depend on the border situation at the time—whether I have to go back through Phnom Penh to catch my flight...)
It’ll also depend on the state of the borders at that time: if you have to go back through Phnom Penh to catch your flight...
Hi there,
Are you planning ahead or waiting until the last minute for your flight ticket? I’m in the same boat and can’t decide whether to play it safe or not. Will there still be seats available? Won’t prices triple? 😕
-- That makes 39 nights so far --
LAOS 2 (still to be defined)
Paksé
Bolaven Plateau loop
Champasak
Attapeu
4000 Islands
then crossing into Cambodia...
That’s about 1.5 months before Cambodia,
So about 6 nights for this Laos 2 plan—doesn’t that seem a bit too fast to you?
I’d add 5 extra nights for Laos 2, bringing it to 50 days before entering Cambodia. For example, 7 nights (including travel) for the final "relax mode" on a Thai beach + 3 nights in Bangkok for Chatuchak, leaving you with 15 nights for the Cambodia part—say, 5 stops of 3 nights each. That seems doable since you don’t seem to be planning a detour through the west of the country.
Paksé
Bolaven Loop
Champasak
Attapeu
4000 Islands
then crossing into Cambodia...
Doing the Bolaven Plateau loop with stops all along the way (Tad Fan and Tad Lo, among others) and possibly some hikes is definitely worth it (personally, I really enjoyed it).
However, I don’t think it’s necessary to go all the way to Attapeu. I passed through there on my way from Vietnam—it’s really wild and lush, but the town itself isn’t interesting at all. I didn’t see any other foreign tourists there. Taxis are rare, and there are no buses in the area; we mostly got around on foot in that town. If I’d been younger when I passed through, though, I would’ve loved it for the adventure of exploring the villages. In my opinion, it’s the most isolated and wild region in all of Laos.
On the Bolaven Plateau, a great spot near Tad Lo (if you want to visit Katu villages without going too far off the beaten path) is to stop at Somphone homestay in Ban Lavang (between Tad Lo and Thateng).
Somphone is super friendly, also a hiking guide, and owns coffee and cocoa plantations...
Worth checking out!
I think the entire route needs revisiting because some options are making things unnecessarily complicated for you.
I don’t see anything that complicates things—it’s just a "backpacker" route, a type that’s sadly becoming rare. I’m not used to seeing this kind of travel style in the Southeast Asia section of this forum, where most travelers seem to prefer things "sanitized or it’s the end of the world."
Hi Djalma,
For a route across the Bolaven Plateau including the stops you recommend, what’s the ideal minimum number of days you’d suggest for the whole trip?
Hi,
I did it by bus from Pakse with a return to Pakse... with 3 stops including 2 nights at Tad Fan, one at Tad Lo, and another a few kilometers from Tad Lo at Somphone’s village (Ban Lavang). So, in total, 4 nights on the plateau, and I didn’t do the "Grand" tour. However, I did 3 hikes of 5 to 6 hours—2 at Tad Fan, 1 at Tad Lo, and another full-day hike with Somphone... (Hiking to ethnic villages, waterfalls, etc., is kind of my thing.)
You can do the grand tour in a single day if you rent a motorbike and just ride all day (many people do it), but in my opinion, the absolute minimum is 2 days.
I didn’t rent a motorbike after meeting 2 people who broke down on the route + lots of flat tires!
P.S.: There’s a pretty detailed map here of the small and large loops on the Bolaven Plateau (no motorbike needed!😉)—what’s described in the guide is super easy to do if you take your time.
https://kristof.club/plateau-bolovens-sans-moto/
For hiking enthusiasts in the area. The work is already well done!
I particularly recommend it because some trails are relatively easy and even marked—rare in Laos! I regret not staying longer… The 4000 Islands further south were a bit disappointing. There’s also the Vat Phou site near Champassak, which is okay, but the bike ride is still nice. There’s also an island opposite Champassak (I’ve forgotten the name). You cross by boat with your bikes, and it’s a gorgeous ride too! Not many people compared to the islands near the Cambodian border (not quite overtourism yet, but close).
https://kristof.club/tad-lo-boloven/
Hi Kate,
I’ve already booked my Paris-Bangkok tickets for early September... (https://www.skyscanner.fr/). Last trip, I’d planned way ahead, worried about prices going up, but in the end, they were the same just a few weeks before departure.
I don’t think there’s really a rule—unless there’s a big jump in oil prices...
For domestic flights, like Phnom Penh-BKK, I always book last minute. The price is still pretty low anyway.
Yes, thanks @Djalma for all this info and the really interesting links about the Bolaven Plateau.
I’ll take a close look at them. I enjoy hiking, but with age and a minor circulation issue in one leg, I have to take it easy: carrying my backpack all day is no longer an option. Without a bag, and if the elevation gain isn’t too steep, I can still manage... :-)
I’ll read through those links carefully...
I really liked the Vat Phou site in Champasak, though—I went there in the morning and found a special atmosphere. I didn’t visit the island across from it, though, so that’ll be a great opportunity for a bike ride!
@Songsam: You’re right, I misjudged the number of days for "Laos 2"—your schedule seems more realistic. I’ll adjust based on the info Djalma shared.
And no, I don’t plan to go back to the western part of the country, partly because if the borders are closed, it’d force a U-turn. Plus, I’ve already been to Siem Reap/Angkor twice...
Here I am again after some long reflection and looking over the entire route for this trip:
Actually, I’m a bit stuck because I have to leave Cambodia by plane from Phnom Penh and end up in BKK, so I’ve revised my itinerary: I’m moving all of Ratchaburi & Uthai Thani to the return in Thailand (after Laos and Cambodia). I’ll leave BKK heading to Isan, and as a result, I’ll have time to go to Khong Chiam, which saves me from paying for the Cambodian visa twice—it was a bit silly. The Savannakhet-Paksé route is a 4-hour bus ride, which should be fine. I’ve also dropped the idea of Attapeu based on Djalma’s advice.
=> Question: Is it possible to go from Khong Chiam to Nakhon Phanom in one day?
Total TH1: 18 nights - Remaining: 55 nights
Laos
I’ve decided not to do the motorbike "loops" (Thakhek & Bolaven), but instead to take transport to specific spots (Konglor and Tad Lo, respectively) and spend a few days there. It’s more relaxed, especially since I’ve already seen Tad Fan, Tad Yuang, Tad Champi, and Tad Itou, the waterfalls closest to Paksé.
9 nights left:
- Spend a week around Ban Phe (across from Ko Samet). I met some French travelers who raved about this quiet, authentic little spot—and it’s not too far from Bangkok.
- Return to BKK for the last 2 or 3 days.
=> Question: Is it possible to go from Khong Chiam to Nakhon Phanom in one day?
From Phimai, you go up... then down... then up again. I think Phimai-Ubon R.-Khong Chiam-Roi Et-Nakhon Phanom would make more sense, reduce the number of kilometers, and your question wouldn’t even come up. The trip from K. Chiam to Roi Et via Ubon could be done in the same day if you leave early.
Cambodia
I’m heading pretty quickly to the south, since I already know that whole area (I’ll pass through again with pleasure, but won’t linger)
So, in short, you’re going to Cambodia just for Kep? Hmm...
Uthai Thani (3 nights) - Return to Bangkok (1 night?)
(...) - Spend a week around Ban Phe
Minivans on routes 10 and 903 will take you from Uthai Thani to Mo Chit Minivan Terminal B, and from Terminal C, the 915 to (Ban) Laem Mae Phim* makes a stop in Ban Phe. I don’t know the frequency of these minivans. Plan for 7-8 hours of travel total, plus transfer time. Avoiding an overnight in Bangkok seems doable.
* Small seaside resort (which I don’t know) about twenty kilometers east of Ban Phe.
Okay for the Phimai-Ubon R.-Khong Chiam-Roi Et-Nakhon Phanom route—if it’s more logical and shorter, that’s perfect!
About Cambodia, I know it seems short, but that’s because I’ve been there before (I did the Northeast loop two years ago, and Angkor twice already), and the closed land border complicates the original idea of doing a loop. I would’ve liked to go through the north of the country toward the west and Thailand (or along the Tonle Sap), but that’s off the table now...
Still, I can extend it a bit depending on how I feel, like stopping in Stung Treng. I’ll see if I’m ahead of schedule or not, especially since the last 9 days can be shortened by a few days too. And I really like the Cambodian vibe, even if it’s only for about ten days! ;-)
Kep is because last time, Kampot kind of annoyed me, and during a day in Kep, I chatted with a really nice French guy who goes there every winter and raved about how peaceful Kep is compared to Kampot’s liveliness. That’s why I thought I’d spend a few quiet days there.
Thanks for the info on doing the Uthai Thani-Ban Phe route in one day—it’ll be better than stopping in BKK. Actually, the French people I met in Ko Chang spend part of the winter between Ban Phe and Laem Mae Phim. They’re around Hua Lhaem Beach... The whole area seems nice, so it should be a great way to end the trip!
I’ll think about all this some more, but overall, it’s shaping up well, and I wouldn’t have gotten this far without all your advice. Thanks a million! :)
Just a post to share the itinerary in map form (I did this by hand, so the route lines are approximate).
In the end, I moved Kanchanaburi to the beginning—it doesn’t really change anything. Here’s what it looks like, roughly:
- one month in Thailand (31 days)
- 3 weeks in Laos (23 days)
- 2 short weeks in Cambodia (12 days)
- 5 days around Ban Phe
- 2 days in Bangkok
PS: You can see that the detour to Khong Chiam... is a real detour! 😎
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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.
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 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,
On September 1st, we're heading to Kalimantan for six weeks, probably from Pontianak to the Derawan Islands.
I've scoured this site, which is usually my go-to 😉, and others like VoyageForum, but recent info is pretty scarce.
I'd love any tips on places you've visited—our itinerary is still a work in progress.
We're two couples traveling with backpacks, using buses, boats, guesthouses, and homestays.
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
However, I’m not quite sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise
