qu'en est il réellement ? en Thailande, Laos, Cambodge, Birmanie ... ?
Vietnam 22, 97 %
c'est pour cela que je suis un peu géné de voir certains s'exciter sur les parités Euro/Bath, Dong...... alors que l'inflation est plutot exceptionnelle et tres penible pour ceux et celles qui le vivent au quotidien
AFP25/12/2008
Le Vietnam, qui s'est débattu toute l'année pour maîtriser une économie en surchauffe, affiche en 2008 une inflation de 22, 97%, a indiqué jeudi le bureau des statistiques du gouvernement. Le pays communiste fait un peu mieux que ce que ses dirigeants espéraient -- ils tablaient sur une hausse des prix de 23 à 24% en moyenne sur 2008.
Pour tenter de maîtriser une inflation galopante, les autorités avaient resserré la vis monétaire en début d'année, restreignant l'accès au crédit et relevant à plusieurs reprises le taux de référence de la Banque centrale.
En terme de hausse des prix, les mesures ont commencé à porter leurs fruits à l'été: après le pic de 28, 3% enregistré en août, l'inflation n'a cessé de décélérer. Elle était de 19, 89% en décembre sur un an et, sur une base mensuelle, les prix ont reculé en octobre, novembre et décembre.
Mais les succès engrangés sur ce front ont été assombris par les difficultés des entreprises, petites et moyennes en tête, asphyxiées par l'assèchement du crédit et déjà confrontées à la crise mondiale. L'économie vietnamienne reste très dépendante des investissements étrangers et des exportations, notamment vers les Etats-Unis et l'Europe.
L'analyse proposée pour le Vietnam, est globalement la même que l'on pourrait faire sur le Cambodge...les chiffres sont très dépendant du cours de l'essence d'ou pas grand sens d'un mois sur l'autre, le prix du riz est à la baisse ...la crise viendra de la réduction des investissements..tous les secteurs porteurs au Cambodge sont en crise (+ ou - grave : constuction, textile, tourisme all included (qui est le gros du tourisme au Cambodge)
Des analyses qui reposent sur beaucoup d'un certain bon sens ...Certains analystes estiment que le Cambodge à moyen terme pourrait sortir gagnant de la crise, en boostant sa production rizicole et agricole ...En même temps, lorsque l'on voit les ha vendus à des fins agricoles (globalement) à des pays etrangers (koweit, chine etc), on peut souscrire sur le fond aux analyses produites sur le site ...
Ouest-France du 09/12/2008 :
[ - Surfaces achetées par :
* la Corée du Sud : 2, 3 millions d'hectares
* la Chine : 2 millions d'ha
* l'Arabie Saoudite : 1, 6 million d'ha
* les Emirats Arabes Unis : 1, 3 million d'ha
* le Japon : 0, 3 million d'ha
* la Lybie : 0, 25 million d'ha
* l'Inde : 10 000 ha
- Beaucoup de tractations en cours
* Les principales tractations en cours :
Le Koweit et le Qatar discutent avec le Cambodge pour la concession de 2, 4 millions d'hectares.
Le Qatar s'est entendu avec le Vietnam pour produire du riz destiné à l'Emirat.
Le fonds Al-Qudra (Emirats arabes unis) a annocé son intention d'acheter 400 000 ha en Australie, en Egypte, au Pakistan, aux Philippines et en Ukraine.
* L'ogre chinois :
La Chine pèse lourd : un quart de la population mondiale. Mais elle ne dispose que de 7% des surfaces agricoles et moins de 10% des ressources en eau.
Pour éviter des ruptures d'approvisionnement, l'ogre chinois se tourne vers ses voisins asiatiques (Birmanie, Laos)et l'Afrique.
* Le casse-tête démographique :
En passant de 5, 5 milliards d'habitants en 1995 à environ 9 milliards en 2050, la population va augmenter de 76%.
* L'érosion menace.
Les terres agricoles sont une ressource précieuse et menacée. Dans le monde 305 millions d'hectares sont fortement dégradés, soit six fois la superficie totale de la France. ]
consommateur d essence je vois qu en Thailande le G/O est en 2 mois passe de
(+/-) 44 a 19 baht le litre,
inflation ou deflation ?
LEXIQUE
INFLATION.
L'inflation désigne l'augmentation des prix des biens et des services. Le taux d'inflation est généralement mesuré à partir de l'indice des prix à la consommation. Celui-ci prend mal en compte les prix des actifs, comme les actions ou l'immobilier.
DÉSINFLATION.
On parle de désinflation quand le rythme de progression des prix à la consommation ralentit.
DÉFLATION.
La situation de déflation caractérise une économie où les prix, mais aussi les revenus, baissent.
STAGFLATION.
Une économie est en stagflation lorsqu'elle connaît à la fois une inflation forte et un recul de l'activité.
EFFETS DE SECOND TOUR.
Ce terme est utilisé quand la hausse des prix à la consommation se propage aux salaires.
Choisir le terme !!! Bon courage et surtout bonnes fêtes!
sinon
AFP26/12/2008
Les promesses d'investissements directs étrangers (IDE) ont tripplé en 2008 au Vietnam, à 64 milliards de dollars (45, 7 mds EUR) contre 20, 3 mds USD (14, 5 mds EUR) en 2007, a annoncé vendredi le gouvernement. Le flot d'IDE au Vietnam, membre de l'Organisation mondiale du Commerce (OMC) depuis 2007, n'a cessé de croître ces dernières années.
En 2008, les montants effectivement déboursés étaient aussi en hausse de 43, 2%, à 11, 5 mds USD (8, 2 mds EUR), selon un rapport de l'Agence de l'investissement étranger (FIA). L'économie du pays communiste repose énormément sur les investissements étrangers. Le secteur des entreprises à capitaux étrangers a généré plus de 200.000 embauches en 2008 et emploie un total de 1, 4 million de personnes, selon la FIA.
Mais le Vietnam commence déjà à être touché par la crise économique qui secoue le monde et les experts mettent en garde contre une décélération du flot d'investissements en 2009.
ECO - Les dirigeants francophones veulent rester optimistes pour 2009 mercredi 24 décembre 2008
L’année 2008 aura été marquée par une série de déboires économiques à échelle mondiale. En Thaïlande, la crise politique s’est surajoutée laissant craindre le pire pour 2009. Néanmoins, plusieurs dirigeants français de divers secteurs interrogés par Lepetitjournal.com ne veulent pas céder au pessimisme. Certains sont même optimistes
Quel est votre sentiment par rapport à la situation économique actuelle et à venir en Thailande ? Comment votre société réagit-elle ?
Grande distribution, import, biens de consommation : la consommation locale se porte bien
Segsarn Trai-Ukos, directeur Directeur du développement commercial, CenCar (Carrefour Thaïlande)
Nous affichons une croissance de 12.5% par rapport à l’an dernier et nous prévoyons une croissance de 12 à 15% pour 2009. Nous envisageons l’ouverture d’au moins 8 magasins de tailles diverses dans l’année qui vient. En ce qui concerne la situation politique, on ne peut que suivre . Les gens sont concernés par la perte de leur emploi, et de leurs revenus. En tout cas, on ne peut que féliciter la Thaïlande pour avoir ramené l’affrontement politique au sein du Parlement et non plus dans la rue, malgré les annonces catastrophistes des médias étrangers .
Pour répondre à la tendance économique, nous allons pousser sur nos marges propres pour propose la même qualité 20% moins cher. Le textile et certains biens de consommation devraient baisser, mais tout ce qui est alimentaire, les produits de première nécessité, ne devraient pas souffrir. Les gens vont modifier leur mode de consommation, les paniers seront plus petits, mais plus fréquents.
Nous ne sommes pas loin d’avoir touché le fond en Thaïlande, on ne peut donc que remonter. La crise globale s’est arrêtée à la frontière. En Asie, ce sont les grandes places financières qui ont été touchées. Les Thaïlandais ont de l'argent et ils consomment. Le secteur bancaire thaïlandais est très sain, les banques thaïlandaises embauchent alors que les banques européennes débauchent.
Erik Cornetet, Directeur de Harvest, société d’importation et de distribution de vins ouverte il y a quatre mois
Je reste optimiste. Je suis en Thaïlande depuis 17 ans, c’est un pays toujours mouvementé et malgré tout qui continue d’avancer. C’est un pays résistant. Il y a un contrecoup, c’est clair, avec un fort ralentissement du tourisme. Nous avions d’ailleurs axé notre stratégie de développement sur l’hôtellerie, et nous sommes affectés sur le court terme vu que la saison à venir est . Mais on s’aperçoit que la clientèle locale est bonne, on peut donc s’appuyer sur le local plutôt que le tourisme. Cela ne veut pas dire que je laisse tomber le marché du tourisme, j’entends bien entretenir mes relations avec mes clients et prospects dans ce secteur pour être prêt lors de la reprise. Je pense que le retour à un rythme normal devrait intervenir d’ici à 6 mois. Je me souviens après le tsunami, on disait que Phuket était morte et 2 ans seulement après, l’ile battait des records d’affluence. Il est vrai que la Thaïlande est immature politiquement et que son développement se fait par à-coups, mais c’est un pays qui avance.
Stéphane Lambert, Directeur de Taf Studio, société de Trading autour du bien être
Je suis optimiste pour 2009 et 2010, (…) la situation en Thaïlande sera moins grave qu’ailleurs. Si les exportations vont effectivement souffrir, les Thaïlandais vivent sur le marché intérieur, et tant qu’ils peuvent consommer ils consomment. En ce qui concerne la consommation des ménages, les Thaïlandais ont toujours accès au crédit. Le système bancaire, assaini après la crise de 1997, est plutôt propre ce qui fait qu’ils ont toujours accès aux cartes de crédit.
Par contre, il est vrai que la crise globale qui se met en place risque d’être catastrophique. Cela dit, il y a ici une certaine élasticité au chômage. Aussi, les gens les plus touchés par le chômage ne sont pas ceux qui consomment le plus.
Il est vrai aussi que l’investissement étranger est très bas et la Thaïlande a montré ces derniers temps que c’est un pays qui ne sait pas ou il va.
Pour ce qui est des touristes, je ne m’inquiète pas sur le long terme car comme dit un ami "les touristes et les investisseurs sont comme une volée de moineaux : ils décampent tous au moindre coup de fusil, mais une fois l’orage passé, ils reviennent aussitôt se poser sur la même branche".
En revanche, cela risque d’être très dur pour les expatriés car les grands groupes vont faire des économies.
Thomas Huaut, Directeur Financier de L’Oréal Thaïlande
On reste confiant. Nous sentons un léger ralentissement du marché mais ce n’est pas catastrophique. La croissance de nos ventes reste importante. On sait que 2009 va être une année difficile, nous avons pris des mesure de prudence mais on continue à investir.
Immobilier, finance et assurance : des inquiétudes sur le volume, la demande change
Fabrice Loré, Directeur de l’agence immobilière Five Stars
Je suis pessimiste car je pense que ce n’est que le début. Les attitudes ont changé depuis le début de la crise mondiale. Le business n’est pas mort, mais il faut s’adapter si on veut s’en sortir. On ne peut pas vivre que des ventes même si nous avons toujours des contacts. Au niveau de la location, le besoin est toujours là. Ce que l’on fait, c’est développer de nouveaux services.
On voit de riches investisseurs qui attendent les bonnes opportunités – parmi les petits investisseurs, certains peuvent être forcés de vendre leur bien à n’importe quel prix, parfois à perte. Mais l’immobilier en Thaïlande ne baisse pas beaucoup comme en Europe car les prix sont déjà très bas.
J’ai quatre employés que je compte bien garder. On n’est pas à zéro et je ne fais pas le dos rond, on continue de travailler, même si on n’a pas beaucoup de visibilité.
Cyrille, directeur de l’agence immobilière Compagnie Vauban
Je suis inquiet, car je considère la situation mondiale financière dont on n’a pas encore touché le fond. En Thaïlande, l’instabilité freine la confiance des investisseurs et à cela s’ajoute la situation du secteur touristique. Dans l’immobilier, la moitié des acteurs devraient disparaitre. Cela dit, si le marché thaïlandais souffre, je ne pense pas qu’il va s’effondrer car il y a ici de nombreux investisseurs qui achètent sans forcément attendre un retour sur investissement, comme par exemple les retraités qui acquièrent des biens pour jouir de la vie en Thaïlande. Ce que nous allons faire c’est développer le marketing, affûter notre stratégie.
Eymeran Lefebvre, consultant pour Lifestyle Thailand, courtier en prêt immobilier
Pour nous les affaires vont bien. Nous allons même agrandir notre équipe en 2009. La situation est bien bloquée au niveau global, mais ce qui a fait le plus de mal ici, est le contexte politique.
Nous n’avons pas vraiment souffert de la crise globale. Ceux qui ont le plus souffert sont les grandes nations occidentales. Les pays asiatiques ont été touchés, mais la perte du pouvoir d’achat est bien moindre.
Dans l’immobilier, le grand luxe a perdu la cote, on se reporte davantage vers de l’investissement à 3-6 millions de bahts. Les gens veulent toujours acheter, mais ils sont plus regardants, c’est tout. On sent venir une tendance qui est que celui qui achetait hier un gros bien, opterait aujourd’hui pour trois petits. Le mètre carré en Thaïlande reste bon marché et il est de meilleure qualité qu’ailleurs dans la région.
Les marchés de Phuket et Pattaya ne souffrent pas véritablement. On espère un retour à la normale des prix pas avant le 3e trimestre 2009. On y verra plus clair à la fin du premier trimestre lorsque les efforts des grandes puissances pour stabiliser leur monnaie et ramener la confiance dans l’économie auront porté leurs fruits. On n’espère pas, en revanche, le retour à la croissance avant fin 2009.
Patrick Lorentz, directeur d’AG Service Consulting Co Ltd, courtier en assurance et conseil en placement
Je suis inquiet comme tout le monde, je n’ai pas de visibilité, je ne comprends pas grand-chose. Il y a des risques que ça aille mal. Il y a déjà des faillites annoncées ici et là. Cela dit, nous sommes dans des cycles qui deviennent de plus en plus aigus, mais les périodes de restabilisation sont aussi plus courtes, les choses reviennent à la normale plus vite. En tout cas, s’il n’y a pas une régulation qui est faite on va continuer dans des cycles de ce type. Après, je reste prudent sur les effets de mode : l’an dernier on parlait d’une terrible crise à venir avec la flambée des prix du pétrole, et puis ça a été oublié. Plus localement, cela fait des années que l’on entend dire que l’immobilier à Bangkok va s’effondrer, et l’on voit que le marché reste solide.
Nathalie Yang, Directrice SFS Thailand, société de conseil en placement et courtier en assurance
Dans notre secteur, nous ne ressentons pas encore de baisse sur l’assurance. Mais si les postes d’expatriés ne sont pas renouvelés, cela va bien entendu provoquer une diminution de la demande. Nous avons des craintes pour la prochaine rentrée scolaire, en septembre. On devrait être fixés en mai ou juin prochain.
Sur la finance, les gens sont très frileux vis-à-vis des placements, ils se tournent tous vers l’immobilier. Mais le problème pour investir dans l’immobilier en France est que les banques là-bas prêtent beaucoup moins facilement qu’il y a douze mois.
Tourisme : la saison 2009 est foutue pour beaucoup, mais pas pour tous
Thierry Rodet, General Manager d’East West Siam, agence de voyage spécialiste de l’Asie
Nous sommes évidemment très touchés par la crise. Nous imputons essentiellement notre baisse d’activité à la crise économique globale. Le vrai problème vient de la crise économique : les gens ont de l’argent, mais ne veulent pas le dépenser. Nous n’avons pas eu beaucoup d’annulation , mais de nombreux reports de la part de Tour Opérateurs. Il n’y a que l’individuel qui continue de voyager, même s’il pose beaucoup de questions. Les gens qui viennent en Thaïlande évitent de rester à Bangkok : la crise de confiance concerne Bangkok avant tout. Je pense qu’à Samui, la saison (qui débute en d’avril) sera bonne. A Phuket, ils ont du monde, les vols charters n’ont pas rencontré de problèmes. Le plus difficile est Bangkok, mais cela devrait durer sur une très courte période, les gens vont revenir assez vite.
Pour nous, l’année 2009 est foutue, on est en train de voir s’il faut réduire notre personnel ou le temps de travail des uns et des autres. En tout cas, nous avons changé notre stratégie il y a plusieurs mois déjà en prévision de cette situation : nous travaillons davantage sur des marchés de niche (tourisme responsable et à la carte). Nous remettons en cause tout le fonctionnement de l’entreprise, nous comptons nous reporter sur l’internet pour gagner sur les charges fixes (télétravail, télémarketing, etc.). On veut continuer à se développer, il ne s’agit pas d’attendre.
Michel Calvet, directeur d’Asia Jet, voyagiste sur l’Asie du sud-est
Notre activité a baissé et il y a eu des annulations en décembre, mais le problème est que cela ne remonte pas. La crise de l’aéroport s’est combinée à la crise globale. Ca va durer six mois, ça reprendra l’hiver prochain, j’espère voir le retour à la normale d’ici à fin 2009, début 2010.
Didier vacher, Directeur du relax Bay Resort à Koh Lanta, dans la province de Krabi
Nous sommes complets pour les fêtes. Nous avons eu quelques annulations, mais nous avons rempli aussitôt (clientèle principalement européenne). Nous avons plus de monde que l’an dernier. Par contre, Koh Lanta est vide, c’est la "cata", plusieurs "resorts" appliquent les tarifs de basses saison et tournent à 30 ou 40 % de capacité. Je pense que janvier et février seront bon, pour mars avril, inch’allah.
Je suis actuellement en Asie pour encore 4 semaines je suis actuellement a Siem Rep pour encore 2 jours.
L inflation au Cambodge en 2008 est environ 30%. Lannee derniere pour ceux ki aller a PP dans le quatier routard on pouvait encore manger pour 1.5$ maintenant les premier prix sont a 2.5$ et a siem rep c pareil.
Au vietnam ou gt ya 2 semaine dans le quartier routard on peux manger pr 1$ dans le quartier routard les prix ont pas trop bouger mais en ville un bo bun coute 25 000 dong alors ke lannee derniere dans le meme il ete a 20 000d.
Je me posais cette question car en cherchant une voiture pour juin sur BALI les prix annonçés sont de 50 euros /jour. En juin 2008 nous avions trouvé ces…
Hélas hélas, voilà les dernieères nouvelles, publiées dans le Courrier du Vietnam d'il y a 3 jours suite à une grosse augmentation de l'essence ici (je me…
Les chiffres officiels viennent de tomber. on en est a 23% d'inflation au VietNam cette annee. seul bemol: je viens de rentrer de Danang, ville magnifique, ou…
Ayant suivi régulièrement l'activité économique au Vietnam, je me permets de livrer quelques observations concernant les taux de change USD-VND et Euro-VND.…
Il m'a été rapporter par des voyageurs que certains hôteliers, durant la fête du Têt et évennements officiels, augmentaient les tarifs des chambres. Celà,…
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.
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!
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
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight)
· Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok)
· Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x")
· Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
mercredi 24 décembre 2008
L’année 2008 aura été marquée par une série de déboires économiques à échelle mondiale. En Thaïlande, la crise politique s’est surajoutée laissant craindre le pire pour 2009. Néanmoins, plusieurs dirigeants français de divers secteurs interrogés par Lepetitjournal.com ne veulent pas céder au pessimisme. Certains sont même optimistes
Quel est votre sentiment par rapport à la situation économique actuelle et à venir en Thailande ? Comment votre société réagit-elle ?
Grande distribution, import, biens de consommation : la consommation locale se porte bien
Segsarn Trai-Ukos, directeur Directeur du développement commercial, CenCar (Carrefour Thaïlande)
Nous affichons une croissance de 12.5% par rapport à l’an dernier et nous prévoyons une croissance de 12 à 15% pour 2009. Nous envisageons l’ouverture d’au moins 8 magasins de tailles diverses dans l’année qui vient. En ce qui concerne la situation politique, on ne peut que suivre . Les gens sont concernés par la perte de leur emploi, et de leurs revenus. En tout cas, on ne peut que féliciter la Thaïlande pour avoir ramené l’affrontement politique au sein du Parlement et non plus dans la rue, malgré les annonces catastrophistes des médias étrangers .
Pour répondre à la tendance économique, nous allons pousser sur nos marges propres pour propose la même qualité 20% moins cher. Le textile et certains biens de consommation devraient baisser, mais tout ce qui est alimentaire, les produits de première nécessité, ne devraient pas souffrir. Les gens vont modifier leur mode de consommation, les paniers seront plus petits, mais plus fréquents.
Nous ne sommes pas loin d’avoir touché le fond en Thaïlande, on ne peut donc que remonter. La crise globale s’est arrêtée à la frontière. En Asie, ce sont les grandes places financières qui ont été touchées. Les Thaïlandais ont de l'argent et ils consomment. Le secteur bancaire thaïlandais est très sain, les banques thaïlandaises embauchent alors que les banques européennes débauchent.
