Nous sommes entrain d'organiser notre périple Sumatra-Java-Bali et Lombok fin août 2014. Mais le routard 2013-2014 ne couvre plus l'Indonésie dans sa totalité (uniquement Bali et Lombok) et je ne suis en possession de l'édition de 2004 ... Pourriez-vous donc me conseiller sur des bons plans d'hébergement à Sumatra, et plus précisément à Medan ?
Merci d'avance.
Bonjour,
Franchement, les hébergements à Medan ne sont pas supers.
Pas loin de la grande mosquée (Masjid Raya), il y a une rue avec plusieurs guest house: Jalan SM Raya. les prix sont raisonnables mais c'est pas super clean.
Vous pouvez essayer le Ponduk Wisata Angel, sur Jl SM Raja, c'est un peu le repère des backpakers de la ville.
Bon voyage
Marie
Nous ne resterons pas longtemps à Medan, c'est juste une étape.
J'en profite pour vous demander si vous avez été voir les orangs-outans à Bukit Lawang et si ça vaut le coup ?
Nous hésitons aussi sur l'île de Nias à cause de la traversée en mer ... avez-vous eu une expérience à ce sujet ?
Et enfin, d'une manière générale, des renseignements bon à prendre sur Sumatra.
Un grand merci pour votre réponse. J'ai l'impression que peu de gens vont maintenant sur cette île. D'ailleurs le routard l'a enlevée de son guide sur l'Indonésie ...
Bonne journée
Ah ! Bukit Lawang et les orang outan, ...
A l'origine, il y avait un centre de réhabilitation des animaux, et une plate forme où ils les nourrissaient dans les périodes où la nourriture est rare. Le centre n'existe plus, mais la plate forme est restée, et les animaux y sont nourris chaque jour car ça fait venir les touristes. Le problème c'est que ces animaux ne se donnent plus la peine d'aller chercher leur nourriture, et les petits n'apprennent pas à se nourrir, ils sont donc dépendants de l'homme. Rajoutez à cela que la moindre grippe peux les tuer, la proximité des touristes représente donc un danger mortel pour eux.
Il y a plusieurs autres endroit à Sumatra où on vous proposera d'aller observer les orangs outan, notamment lors de ballades dans la jungle. Attention, les guides vous diront qu'ils ne nourrissent pas les animaux pour les faire venir, c'est faux: ce sont d'autres personnes qui partent tous les matins déposer de la nourriture généralement dans les arbres. De cette manière, les touristes ne le voient pas et le guide leur dit: vous voyez, on ne les attire pas, ce sont de vrai animaux sauvages.
Donc, pour répondre à la question: non, je ne suis pas allée dans ce genre d'endroit.
Je ne suis pas allée à Nias, car la plage c'est pas mon truc.
Sumatra est une ile immense, les transports sont lents et parfois aléatoires, donc, prévoyez large pour les temps de trajets.
Ne pas oublier non plus que l'Indonésie est un pays musulman, donc prévoir des tenues décentes: pas de shorts ou de jupes courtes, pas de décolletés, épaules toujours couvertes, voire manches longues.... sauf dans les régions non musulmanes bien sur ou dans certains sites à touristes, comme Nias.
Voici quelques posts que j'ai écris sur Sumatra, http://mariecocovoyage.blogspot.fr/search/label/Indonesie-Sumatra
il y a aussi des photos, ça vous donnera une idée. Attention toutefois, j'ai voyagé au contact de la population, loin des destinations touristiques, et j'avais appris un peu de bahasa indonesia, leur langue.
Les gens sont gentils et accueillants si vous savez les respecter, vous allez vous régaler à Sumatra.
Bon voyage.
Marie
Merci beaucoup pour toutes ces explications. Effectivement et vu sous cet angle, nous n'irons certainement pas voir les orangs-outans bien que je soit très frustrée !
Nous avons lu votre post sur Sumatra. C'est génial comme expérience.
Je me permettrais peut être de vous redemander quelques renseignements au fil de notre préparation de circuit.
Bonne soirée
Micheline
Bonsoir Attila,
Oui, ça dépend du budget, c'est tout à fait vrai.........je voyage généralement à très petit budget, et j'en retire tellement de plaisir que j'omets parfois de le signaler dans mes réponses.
Toutefois, mon blog est en signature sur ce forum et tout le monde peut le consulter et comprendre quel type de voyage je pratique.
Si, cependant certains ou certaines autres ont d'autres opinions ....allez les opinions on s'en fout un peu, mais si certains ou certaines ont d'autres bonnes adresses à donner, qu'elles les donnent ! en toute simplicité...sans vouloir donner de leçons aux autres.
à bon entendeur,
Salut !
Disons que Sumatra n'est (n'était ?) pas une île très chère et que pour un budget qui te donne un formule 1 en France tu peux (pouvais ?) obtenir un vrai 5 étoiles là-bas.
Bref : Medan 50 euros pour un superbe hôtel avec un excellent petit déjeuner.
mais 80 000 R (5 euros) pour une chambre très simple (eau froide. WC à la turque) mais propre sans petit déjeuner.
Le meilleur rapport qualité prix fut une belle chambre au lac Toba à 280 000 roupies copieux petit déjeuner inclus .
Bonsoir Attila,
Oui, ça dépend du budget, c'est tout à fait vrai.........je voyage généralement à très petit budget, et j'en retire tellement de plaisir que j'omets parfois de le signaler dans mes réponses.
à bon entendeur,
Salut !
coucou la Mariecocotte !
J ai été voir ton blog , sympa cecarnet de voyage et bravo ...
Par contre concernant les nuits tu dois etre un peu maso à 49 ans , où complètement fauchée , pour retirer du plaisir des nuits que tu décris toi meme :
au milieu des caffards , avec les rats , bref je n ai pas beaucoup vu d'endroits où tu ai passé une nuit agréable ...
bon après chacun fait ce qu' il lui plait et s il m'es aussi arrivé de passer des nuits difficilles en voyage je chherche à les éviter le plus possible
Concernant l' Indonésie et plus particulièrement Sumatra on peut très facilement trouver des chambres potables et sympa sans casser la tirelire
Chère Attila,
Chacun son budget, certes, j'en ai déjà convenu dans ma réponse précédente, toutefois la question portait sur une adresse d'hébergement à Medan, j'ai fourni une adresse en stipulant bien que c'était un backpaker's.
Je ne vois dans vos interventions aucune adresse....juste des remarques stériles et des tarifs qui datent de 5 ans, cela n'est pas très constructif pour la personne qui a posé sa question à l'origine.
Cher Chris,
Merci pour le compliment concernant le blog.
Je me permets toutefois quelques corrections. Je suis partie en stop de France et suis arrivée au Timor après plus de deux ans sur la route, sans avoir jamais pris l'avion...à 49 ans, et oui !...cela représente donc beaucoup de nuits.
J'ai en fait très rarement dormi dans des conditions extrèmes mais, bien sur, ce sont celles qui méritaient d'être racontées. Je ne voit pas l'intérêt de raconter une nuit paisible dans une guest house correcte.
Les cafards c'était dans un bateau de la pelni, et les rats dans un endroit où, de toute façon, il n'y avait pas d'hôtel d'aucune sorte. Alors, fauchée, oui, mais pas maso du tout.
Voilà, j'ai juste voulu répondre à une question précise par une réponse précise, et je ne voudrait pas qu'on croit que je donne des adresses d'hébergement avec cafards.😉
outefois la question portait sur une adresse d'hébergement à Medan,
Question à laquelle vous avez répondu que les hébergements proposés à Medan n'étaient pas terribles.
Ce qui n'est pas vrai dans toutes les catégories d'hébergement.
C'est pourquoi j'ai rectifié le tir en indiquant qu'il existait de bons hôtels dont les tarifs sont sans rapport avec ce même genre d'hôtels en Europe.
.juste des remarques stériles
La stérilité, vaste débat !
des tarifs qui datent de 5 ans,
Ce que j'ai eu l'honnêteté de préciser...
Ce n'est pas souvent le cas dans les réponses données.
Tu peux essayer la guest house 'zaza zizi' dans le quartier indien derriere Sun Plaza. Chambres propres et climatisees pour 200 000 rp (175 000 avec unsite de reservation en ligne). C'est calme, neuf et relativement central.
JW Marriott Medan : 66 euros la double en BB (Soit 32 % d'augmentation en euros)
Tabo Cottages Lac Toba : 450 000 la villa batak en BB (Soit 40 % d'augmentation en euros )
Sam's Bungalows à Bukit Lawang : 100 000 la chambre de base (soit à peine 10 % d'augmentation en euros et un upgrade de la guesthouse au vue des photos actuelles)
La gamme moyenne semble avoir plus augmenté que les autres.
J ai aussi dormi au TABO cottage à TOBA Lake ( Tuk Tuk ) en juin 2013 😉
350 000 Rp la Twin ( superbe hébergement ) soit 28 euros la twin petit déj inclus
A MEDAN nuits au grand SAKURA 290 000 la TWIn petit déj inclus soit 23 euros la twin ( en reservant sur internet )
Au retour sur MEDAN on a pris au pied levé sur place un peu plus cher 360 000 soit 29 euros
En tapant dans les 30 euros à 2 on pouvait trouver en 2013 se superbes hébergements ... sans cafards ni rats ...😊
Merci pour les adresses d'hébergement qui restent dans notre budget. Et super la photo du Tabo Cottage !
Nous allons voir sur internet si nous pouvons réserver au Grand Sakura à Medan.
Nous revenons de Birmanie où les prix ont flambé aussi mais on arrive toujours à trouver des petites choses sympas pour pas trop cher.
Habites-tu dans le 06 ? Nous, nous sommes à Mouans Sartoux.
Bon dimanche et peut être à bientôt
Hi everyone,
I’ll be in western Malaysia for 20 days in January and February.
I’m coming from southern Thailand to Ipoh for the Thaipusam festivities.
Then it’s off to Pangkor Island.
I’ll finish up in Malacca for the Chinese New Year celebrations before heading to Singapore.
I’ve got a 6-day gap.
I was thinking of going to K.Lipis for the jungle train and heading to Dabong, but the caves might not be open.
Any suggestions around K.L.?
Day treks?
A stopover between K.L. and Malacca?
Thanks
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.
D1 Departure on February 17, 2027
D2 Arrival in Kuala Lumpur – stroll through Chinatown and visit the Petronas Towers
D3: Kuala Lumpur – Chow Kit Market, Batu Caves, Little India, Bukit Bintang downtown area
D4: Early morning bus to Malacca. Explore Malacca in the afternoon and evening
D5: Another 2–3 hours in Malacca in the morning, then bus back to Kuala Lumpur. Merdeka Square area. Stay in Chinatown
D6: Bus trip to Kuala Tahan. Night tour
D7: Morning – canopy walk and Bukit Terisek hike. Afternoon – off to Lata Berkoh
D8 & D9: 2-day jungle trek in Taman Negara National Park
D10: Head to Cameron Highlands
D11: Morning hike through the plantations. Afternoon still to be decided
D12: Morning – excursion to Mossy Forest and Sungei Plantation. Afternoon bus to Ipoh
D13: Morning – Mirror Lake / Sam Poh Temple area. Afternoon – explore downtown Ipoh
D14: Morning train to Penang. Afternoon – wander around Georgetown
D15: Morning – Penang Hill and Keh Loh Temple. Afternoon – Georgetown
D16: Bus to Butterfly Garden and Spice Garden. Late afternoon – Burmese and Thai temples
D17: Morning flight to Singapore. Afternoon – Chinatown and Marina Bay tour
D18: Morning – Gardens by the Bay area. Afternoon – Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Kampong Glam
D19: Morning – The Ridges area and Botanical Garden. Afternoon – Little India, then back to Chinatown before 11:15 PM return flight
D20: Morning arrival
Hi, I’ve read that these two volcanoes are super popular and that there are *tons* of people for sunrise, especially in July. I’m looking for firsthand accounts from anyone who’s done it later, around 9–10 a.m.
Thanks for your help!
Laëtitia
I’m heading to Cambodia at the end of December 2026 – January 2027 for 3-4 weeks. Since I’ve already visited Cambodia twice, my itinerary is a bit different this time—I’d love to explore Botum Sakor Park, Chi Pat, the Tatai region, and the Cardamom Mountains. I’m traveling solo. If you have any tips on transportation, excursions, treks, sights, or accommodations in the area, I’d really appreciate it. Thanks for your feedback!
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!
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!
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
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...
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 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! I’d like to split my trip into two parts: 15 days in Phuket and 15 days in Krabi. Do you know if I can rent a car and drop it off in Krabi when I fly back to France?
Thanks for your feedback!
Have a great Sunday!
Martine
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?
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices?
Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis?
What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc.
Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a 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.
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi 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.
Off on an adventure to Java (and a bit of Bali)
The Moluccas: Splendors (and Struggles) of an Archipelago Unknown to Tourists
Cruise around the islands of Komodo
Sumatra: Off the Beaten Path in Asia
A little piece of Sulawesi with the family: Rantepao and Selayar
3 weeks in Bali in 2025
The Pearl of Africa - July-August 2026
Tanzania Classics (Safari & Zanzibar)
