Original post
bonjour , je cherche un guide récent sur le Laos , merci de votre offre
Guide Le Routard ou Lonely Planet sur le Laos?
by Patfrancoise
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour,
Le Lonely est plus fiable que le Routard, malgré qu'il y est des infos souvent plus d'actualité. Le Routard n'est jamais à jour, et souvent avec des un peu farfelues.
Bon voyage !
Le Lonely est plus fiable que le Routard, malgré qu'il y est des infos souvent plus d'actualité. Le Routard n'est jamais à jour, et souvent avec des un peu farfelues.
Bon voyage !
LAND17
mieux que le LP ou le Routard :
Les infos de VF, copier/coller et se confectionner son propre guide. Les infos sont à jour, testées et vérifiées, et c'est plein d'astuce !
Mais s'il te manque le temps de chercher, alors le LP !
Les infos de VF, copier/coller et se confectionner son propre guide. Les infos sont à jour, testées et vérifiées, et c'est plein d'astuce !
Mais s'il te manque le temps de chercher, alors le LP !
Chez vous comme en voyage, respectez la nature, elle nous le rend bien.
Carnets de voyage : cliquez sur mon profil.
Carnets de voyage : cliquez sur mon profil.
Sachant ce qui se passe, je puis vous affirmer que c'est le contraire : le Routard est révisé TOUS LES ANS, avec visite d'un journaliste du Routard chaque année. Il Y a 15 jours, quelqu'un du Routard était à Hanoi avec un longue liste d'établissements à vérifier à Hanoi, Halong pour les jonques, Sapa et Bac Ha. Ils recoivent également énormèment de courrier de toruistes, qu'ils classent par régions et utilisent quand ils révisent le guide chaque année en avril. Si vous voulez, je peux vous faire la liste de tout ce qui a été ajouté dans les guides 2011 par rapport à 2010, et 2012 par rapport à 2011. Elle est longue !!!!!!
AUCUN guide n'est complet pour la bonne raison qu'il est absolument impossible de TOUT vérifier, surtout dans des pays où les communications sont très lentes et où tout bouge très rapidement ; dans le Vieux Hanoi, il s'ouvre depuis 2 ans 1 hôtel par mois ; comment voulez-vous visiter tout ça (sans compter revisiter les hôtels et restaux dont les touristes se sont plaints par courrier) ? Mettre un établissement n'est pas une décision à prendre à la légère, et l'enlever non plus ! En ce qui concerne les prix, ils augmentent continuellement au gré de l'inflation et de l'augmentation des produits pétroliers(au Vietnam, 15% en mai 2011, donc inflation de 23%, et + 10% la semaine dernière)
Je suis très familier avec les 2 guides, le Routard et le LP, car je prends les 2 lors de mes nombreux voyages (Cambodge, Laos et Vietnam où j'habite). Je peux vous dire que le LP est bourré d'erreurs et ne mentionnent pas des établissements exceptionnels. En fait, je sais qu'il ne le révise pas tous les ans.
AUCUN guide n'est complet pour la bonne raison qu'il est absolument impossible de TOUT vérifier, surtout dans des pays où les communications sont très lentes et où tout bouge très rapidement ; dans le Vieux Hanoi, il s'ouvre depuis 2 ans 1 hôtel par mois ; comment voulez-vous visiter tout ça (sans compter revisiter les hôtels et restaux dont les touristes se sont plaints par courrier) ? Mettre un établissement n'est pas une décision à prendre à la légère, et l'enlever non plus ! En ce qui concerne les prix, ils augmentent continuellement au gré de l'inflation et de l'augmentation des produits pétroliers(au Vietnam, 15% en mai 2011, donc inflation de 23%, et + 10% la semaine dernière)
Je suis très familier avec les 2 guides, le Routard et le LP, car je prends les 2 lors de mes nombreux voyages (Cambodge, Laos et Vietnam où j'habite). Je peux vous dire que le LP est bourré d'erreurs et ne mentionnent pas des établissements exceptionnels. En fait, je sais qu'il ne le révise pas tous les ans.
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
je suis d'accord , j'ai répondu à la personne qui m'avait répondu la première fois sachant que mon message était pas de connaitre ses deux guides que je connais mais je voulais juste savoir si quelqu'un avait soit le L.P soit le G.D.R à vendre .merci quand même P.B
Routard versus LP, c'est toujours le "To or not to be" de Hamlet ! Comme expliqué, ni l'un ni l'autre ne peuvent tout vérifié et corrigé tous les ans, ce qui explique que je me balade toujours avec les deux ! Ceci dit, pour toutes les descriptions culturelles, le Routard est beaucoup mieux que le LP ; pour le reste, ça dépend de quand et où le journalistes en charge d'un pays a fait sa dernière visite. Et je maintiens que le Routard est révisé tous les ans , j'ai le nouveau du Vietnam tous les ans, donc je vois très bien ce qui a été rajouté, enlevé et corrigé chaque année !
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
le Routard est révisé TOUS LES ANS
😄😄😄
Ah la bonne blague. Encore l annee dernier il recommandait un resto a Hanoi ferme depuis ...3ans !!! Et les exemples sont legions pour d autres destinations.
Le Routard c est le pire de tous. Et en plus il revet un caractere commercial que je n aime pas du tout. Il y a beaucoup de copinage etc...
Le Routard c est bien pour l Europe et le Maroc.
Quand je vois qu ils font un guide commun Laos/Cambodge alors que ces 2 pays meritent a eux seuls un guide propre a chacun, cela montre la limite du guide.
car je prends les 2 lors de mes nombreux voyages
Ca se voit. Pour le Laos seulement Luang Prabang et la Plaine des jarres. Et pour le Cambodge, Phnom Penh et Siem Reap. 😕
Faudrait sortir la tete du guide ou voyager plus 🙂
😄😄😄
Ah la bonne blague. Encore l annee dernier il recommandait un resto a Hanoi ferme depuis ...3ans !!! Et les exemples sont legions pour d autres destinations.
Le Routard c est le pire de tous. Et en plus il revet un caractere commercial que je n aime pas du tout. Il y a beaucoup de copinage etc...
Le Routard c est bien pour l Europe et le Maroc.
Quand je vois qu ils font un guide commun Laos/Cambodge alors que ces 2 pays meritent a eux seuls un guide propre a chacun, cela montre la limite du guide.
car je prends les 2 lors de mes nombreux voyages
Ca se voit. Pour le Laos seulement Luang Prabang et la Plaine des jarres. Et pour le Cambodge, Phnom Penh et Siem Reap. 😕
Faudrait sortir la tete du guide ou voyager plus 🙂
Bonjour ,
Le meilleur guide a mon avis c'est ici sur VF , des infos récents au jour le jour presque suffit de piocher dans le moteur Rechercher et bien sur demander des infos sur VF et poser les questions , ensuite tu imprimes 😉 Et quand tu seras sur place au Laos tu pourras toujours venir sur VF et poser des questions même urgente il y aura toujours un voyageur de VF qui te répondra , c'est ça VF . 😉 Mais rien ne t'empêche d'emmener un guide livre avec toi si cela peut te rassurer , mais tu te rendras compte très vite que beaucoup d'infos seront erronés comme dit sur le post précédent .
Le meilleur guide a mon avis c'est ici sur VF , des infos récents au jour le jour presque suffit de piocher dans le moteur Rechercher et bien sur demander des infos sur VF et poser les questions , ensuite tu imprimes 😉 Et quand tu seras sur place au Laos tu pourras toujours venir sur VF et poser des questions même urgente il y aura toujours un voyageur de VF qui te répondra , c'est ça VF . 😉 Mais rien ne t'empêche d'emmener un guide livre avec toi si cela peut te rassurer , mais tu te rendras compte très vite que beaucoup d'infos seront erronés comme dit sur le post précédent .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
J'ai bien écrit qu'AUCUN guide ne pouvait TOUT corrigé TOUS les ans. Donc, si un établissement ferme et que personne ne leur signale, ils ne peuvent le savoir que s'ils vont eux-mêmes à cet endroit. De quel restaurant parlez-vous, ça nous intéresse de savoir ? Si c'est l'ancien Cyclo, il a disparu du guide du Routard en 2011, après que je leur ai signalé sa fermeture (preuve qu'ils tiennent compte tous les ans des lettres qu'ils reçoivent. Dans le guide 2012, ils ont également rajouté quelques excellentes adresses (par exemple Chez Loan et le Duc Tuan à Tam Coc et la maison d'hôtes Duy Tho à Pac Ngoi (Babe) après que moi et d'autres leur ont signalé ces 2 établissements). Comme déjà écrit, je peux vs envoyer la liste des tous les changements, additions et corrections 2010, 2011, et 2012
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
A tous ceux qui utilisent les guides à titre d'infos et non comme une bible, je rajouterais celui-ci :
http://books.google.fr/books?id=YWZi9YaFyYUC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_atb#v=onepage&q&f=false A défaut d'être complet et/ou exact, il offre au moins l'avantage d'être consultable en ligne...
http://books.google.fr/books?id=YWZi9YaFyYUC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_atb#v=onepage&q&f=false A défaut d'être complet et/ou exact, il offre au moins l'avantage d'être consultable en ligne...
Nos albums/carnets et vidéos de voyages dans mon profil, ainsi que:
http://pagesperso-orange.fr/miguel.angulo/
Le meilleur guide a mon avis c'est ici sur VF
Bonjour Khun Barbot, le sage du Temple🙂
Vu que le Routard fait l'objet de copinage comme je viens de lire, en effet VF est meilleur quand il s'agit de confronter les réels avis de ceux qui ont réellement vécu, même si sur VF, on peut lire aussi "j'ai entendu dire que".....
Bonjour Khun Barbot, le sage du Temple🙂
Vu que le Routard fait l'objet de copinage comme je viens de lire, en effet VF est meilleur quand il s'agit de confronter les réels avis de ceux qui ont réellement vécu, même si sur VF, on peut lire aussi "j'ai entendu dire que".....
http://www.maison-chance.org/
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
même si sur VF, on peut lire aussi "j'ai entendu dire que".....
Bonjour Khun Abalone , 😉
Oui tu as raison , mais ceux là on les repère très vite .
Bonjour Khun Abalone , 😉
Oui tu as raison , mais ceux là on les repère très vite .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Vu que le Routard fait l'objet de copinage comme je viens de lire,
C'est à moi que ça s'adresse ? Vous ne changerez donc jamais ? Je ne connais PERSONNE au guide du Routard, qui n'a pas besoin de moi vu les sacs de lettres qu'ils reçoivent sans arrêt d'utilisateurs !!! Pour répondre à cette réflexion aussi désagréable qu'inutile, votre spécialité, je leur signale des trucs par gentillesse et ils en tiennent compte ou pas, et, quand ils en tiennent compte, c'est sûrement pas parce que je suis le seul à avoir écrit sur le sujet , il ont reçu aussi des lettres d'utilisateurs sur le même sujet
Je fais la même chose avec le LP français, qui m'a remercié en m'envoyant 2 guides gratuits. Des copains aussi sans doute ???????????????? 😠
C'est à moi que ça s'adresse ? Vous ne changerez donc jamais ? Je ne connais PERSONNE au guide du Routard, qui n'a pas besoin de moi vu les sacs de lettres qu'ils reçoivent sans arrêt d'utilisateurs !!! Pour répondre à cette réflexion aussi désagréable qu'inutile, votre spécialité, je leur signale des trucs par gentillesse et ils en tiennent compte ou pas, et, quand ils en tiennent compte, c'est sûrement pas parce que je suis le seul à avoir écrit sur le sujet , il ont reçu aussi des lettres d'utilisateurs sur le même sujet
Je fais la même chose avec le LP français, qui m'a remercié en m'envoyant 2 guides gratuits. Des copains aussi sans doute ???????????????? 😠
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Quoi qu'il en soit, un guide papier est toujours pratique, ne serait-ce que pour l'approche générale du pays, les plans, les centres d'intérêts ( ou pas, celà dépend des gouts de chacun ) et les horaires de bus et trains. Je trouve d'ailleurs le LP mieux construit que le Routard sur ces points.
Sinon pour les adresses de logements et resto, aucun intérêt; sinon celui de ne pas aller aux adresses signalées ...
ne serait-ce que pour l'approche générale du pays, les plans, les centres d'intérêts ( ou pas, celà dépend des gouts de chacun ) et les horaires de bus et trains. Je trouve d'ailleurs le LP mieux construit que le Routard sur ces points.
Sinon pour les adresses de logements et resto, aucun intérêt; sinon celui de ne pas aller aux adresses signalées ... 
Ok sur ces 2 points , mais pour le reste logements et resto ça change tellement vite qu'on ne peut pas si fier du tout .
Ok sur ces 2 points , mais pour le reste logements et resto ça change tellement vite qu'on ne peut pas si fier du tout .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Ok sur ces 2 points , mais pour le reste logements et resto ça change tellement vite qu'on ne peut pas si fier du tout
C'est ce que je dis aussi 😉
Sinon pour les adresses de logements et resto, aucun intérêt; sinon celui de ne pas aller aux adresses signalées ...
C'est ce que je dis aussi 😉
Sinon pour les adresses de logements et resto, aucun intérêt; sinon celui de ne pas aller aux adresses signalées ...
Sinon pour les adresses de logements et resto, aucun intérêt; sinon celui de ne pas aller aux adresses signalées ...
C'est pour ceux qui déclarent ne pas vouloir rencontrer d'autres touristes ...🙂
C'est pour ceux qui déclarent ne pas vouloir rencontrer d'autres touristes ...🙂
http://www.maison-chance.org/
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
Non, ce n'était pas mon propos; plutôt pour ceux qui ne veulent pas surpayer des prestations surrévaluées par la pub faites par ces guides ...
On peut faire des rencontres très sympas en voyage, même avec d'autres touristes 🙂
Non, ce n'était pas mon propos; plutôt pour ceux qui ne veulent pas surpayer des prestations surrévaluées par la pub faites par ces guides ...
Ça c'est vrai, pour ceux qui le veulent.
On peut faire des rencontres très sympas en voyage, même avec d'autres touristes
On ne peut pas parler de rencontre si ça ressemble à une colonie de vacances🙂
Ça c'est vrai, pour ceux qui le veulent.
On peut faire des rencontres très sympas en voyage, même avec d'autres touristes
On ne peut pas parler de rencontre si ça ressemble à une colonie de vacances🙂
http://www.maison-chance.org/
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
On ne peut pas parler de rencontre si ça ressemble à une colonie de vacances🙂
Si tu le dis ...🙂
Si tu le dis ...🙂
On ne peut pas parler de rencontre si ça ressemble à une colonie de vacances
Refuser de rencontrer d'autres voyageurs sous prétexte qu'ils ne sont pas "locaux" ??😕😕 Choisir qui vaut la peine et qui ne la vaut pas... bel état d'esprit 🤪 Quel snobisme et manque d'ouverture aux autres... justement.
Refuser de rencontrer d'autres voyageurs sous prétexte qu'ils ne sont pas "locaux" ??😕😕 Choisir qui vaut la peine et qui ne la vaut pas... bel état d'esprit 🤪 Quel snobisme et manque d'ouverture aux autres... justement.
Quel snobisme et manque d'ouverture aux autres... justement.
Ce n'est pas moi qui se targue de raconter leur itinéraire de ne pas rencontrer d'autres touristes.
Choisir qui vaut la peine et qui ne la vaut pas... bel état d'esprit
La question est de savoir avant d'y mettre les pieds, si c'est une colonie de vacances ou pas🙂
Ce n'est pas moi qui se targue de raconter leur itinéraire de ne pas rencontrer d'autres touristes.
Choisir qui vaut la peine et qui ne la vaut pas... bel état d'esprit
La question est de savoir avant d'y mettre les pieds, si c'est une colonie de vacances ou pas🙂
http://www.maison-chance.org/
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
W've got home;
Bonjour,
Nous sommes rentrés du Laos, il y a 15 jours après un mois de voyage. J'ai le dernier Lonely Planet (couverture rose), avec quelques annotations et des croix à coté des bonnes adresses😏.
Nous sommes rentrés du Laos, il y a 15 jours après un mois de voyage. J'ai le dernier Lonely Planet (couverture rose), avec quelques annotations et des croix à coté des bonnes adresses😏.
Magfred
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Hello everyone! I’m heading off solo in February and wanted to share my rough itinerary with you. Does this sound doable?
PS: I’m not really into beaches.
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Has anyone traveled with the Laos travel agency ADV ?
I’m planning a trip to Laos and have received several quotes. Among them, this agency’s seem very reasonable, and so far, the interactions have been positive.
I’ve found a few positive reviews online, but I’d love to hear from travelers who’ve actually booked with them: how’s the organization, guide quality, accommodations, on-the-ground responsiveness, etc.
Thanks for sharing your experiences!
Hello everyone!
First stop on our discovery of the peninsula: Amphawa. It’s our first night in Thailand (we arrived at Suvarnabhumi at 8:50 AM). Our initial plan was to explore the area before heading further south. The Mae Klong Railway Market is tempting... but what else is there to do???? We’ll be there on a Wednesday, and from what I’ve read on the forum, some say there’s absolutely nothing to do during the week—no floating market, barely any shops open, no restaurants, etc. Others, though, say the place is actually more charming without the weekend crowds.
Could you share your thoughts? Missing the floating market is one thing, but if it’s really a ghost town on Wednesdays, I might just drop our bags somewhere else. Amphawa seemed like a good first stop, just 1.5 hours from the airport, but I’d still like to settle somewhere a bit lively for our first evening. We’ll be there at the end of October. Thanks!
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Could you share your thoughts? Missing the floating market is one thing, but if it’s really a ghost town on Wednesdays, I might just drop our bags somewhere else. Amphawa seemed like a good first stop, just 1.5 hours from the airport, but I’d still like to settle somewhere a bit lively for our first evening. We’ll be there at the end of October. Thanks!
Hi,
I wanted to visit the plantations in the morning with GetYourGuide or by just showing up.
How much time should I really plan for?
I’d like to catch either the 3 PM or 5 PM bus back to KL.
Thanks
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
Does the GRAB app make it easy to find vehicles for a group of 6 people in Vietnam?
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hi,
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Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
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Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search. I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search. I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
Hi everyone, I’m back on the forum.
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!
Thanks so much!
Marsyork
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!
Thanks so much!
Marsyork
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices? Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis? What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc. Thanks again
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.
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