I'm "finalizing" a trip with my adventurous family (wife + 3 kids aged 16, 14, and 8) for this Easter break in Thailand (we'll be there from 04/19 to 05/01).
I'm going through the site and wanted to thank you all for the tips and insights you share on the forum. They're really valuable. But boy, it's tough to sketch out an itinerary
Of course, my backpacking route might be debatable, but I'm trying to target this path to get a first taste of the country's different "facets" and keep everyone in the family happy 😛
For this first trip, we're sticking to the classics and planning to explore a different side of the Land of Smiles in the future:
- arrival in BKK at 4 PM on 04/19 ==> leaving the same day at 7 PM for Chiang Mai (I "hesitated" with the 5:30 PM flight but was worried we wouldn't have enough time to switch from British AW to Thai Airways + airport fees + baggage + customs, etc. )
- from 04/20 to 04/23 ==> Chiang Mai with the main highlights (we've picked: Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lat, elephant sanctuary, Doi Inthanon, the old city, Wat Chedi, Wat Phra Singh).
==> For the elephant sanctuary: any recommendations? Morning or afternoon visit?
==> It might seem ambitious, but we're considering a day trip to Chiang Rai—though it's not a must. Yes, we know it means ~6 hours of travel in one day.
- direct flight on the morning of 04/24 to Krabi ==> Railay - Phang Nga ==> this part isn't finalized yet (we won't stay in Krabi).
For those who've been there, which part of the south would be best weather-wise during this period?
We'd stay in the south until 04/28 and take a 8 PM flight to BKK.
- BKK on 04/29, 04/30, and part of 05/01 before our flight to London at 11 PM.
We'll hit the must-see/classic spots there.
If you have time to share some insights, I'd really appreciate it.
arrival in BKK at 4 PM on 04/19 ==> departure at 7 PM the same day for Chiang Mai (I "hesitated" with the 5:30 PM flight but I was afraid I wouldn’t have enough time to transfer from British AW to Thai Airways + APT, + baggage + customs, etc. 🤪)
The 5:30 PM flight (which I can’t find anywhere) would’ve been just barely possible if the British flight arrived on time, so you made the right call with the 7:15 PM one. What surprises me is that no airline offers flights between 5:50 PM (Bangkok Airways) and 7 PM (Hahn Air/Thai Vietjet), so there’s no choice. After the corridors and arrival formalities, you’ll have 2 hours and 45 minutes to wait.
for the elephant sanctuary
Which one?
I’ve never been to this kind of place in Chiang Mai, but a visit to the flyer counter at your accommodation will show you there are *many* elephant camps or sanctuaries in the Chiang Mai area. Several have the word "sanctuary" in their name, so be careful to choose wisely.
The mention "no riding" (no basket on the elephant’s back) has become a selling point in many ads—it shouldn’t be your *only* criterion.
While you’re at the flyer counter, check if there are any for activities you might enjoy but haven’t thought of yet.
Chang Mai (...) the old city
which, in addition to being interesting to visit, is also, in my opinion, the best area to stay.
it might seem ambitious, but we’re considering a day trip to Chiang Rai—but it’s not a must. 😮 Yes, we know it’ll mean ~6h of transport in the day.
7 hours. A bus driver who does the trip in 3 hours would be ignoring safety rules.
Most of Chiang Rai’s highlights are 20 to 90 minutes outside the city.
Your 4 full days in Chiang Mai could already be packed.
Lanna Architecture Center, at the corner of Ratchadamnoen Rd and Prapokklao Rd in Chiang Mai’s old city. The interior is worth a quick (and free) visit.
For the flight: it’s the Bangkok Airways one at 5:50 PM.
For Chiang Rai: if we go, we’ll opt for either the bus or a private driver, with one non-negotiable condition: safety!
For the elephant sanctuary, we’ve seen this one mentioned a lot on the forum and elsewhere: Book Now - Elephant Nature Park. But we’re torn between the morning and afternoon visits—if any travelers could share their thoughts ;)
Obviously, we won’t set foot in any pseudo-place/circus where the animals are treated like workhorses or clowns.
Thanks for the Lanna Architecture Center tip and the photos.
For the islands, I’ll plan the 4.5 days around Railay, Phi Phi, and Phang Nga—any recommendations?
Great call on Elephant Nature Park—it’s the best choice by far. The founder is world-renowned for her lifelong dedication to rescuing and caring for elephants.
Skip Chiang Rai given your limited time, and have your hotel arrange an outing for you—either to Queen Sirikit Park with its canopy walkway or Doi Inthanon National Park with its 10 stunning waterfalls, each more beautiful than the last.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Elephant Nature Park is the best possible choice; its founder is world-renowned for her life dedicated to the rescue and care of elephants.
While the founder being world-renowned might be a point in its favor, when I visit their website, something bothers me about the half-day programs: first, out of the 6-hour door-to-door excursion, only 2.5 hours are actually spent with the elephants, and second, the description of this short time is very lacking. Could you or anyone else share more about the concrete details of those 2.5 hours?
If it's already described in a travel journal, could you also let me know the post number, please?
For all these elephant activities, you spend a lot for a limited and quite short time, that's true. It's even worse for those who want to see mountain gorillas in Central Africa. Gorilla treks cost between 900 € and 1500 €, a few hours hiking in the mountains, and just 1, max 2 hours observing them.
With elephants, you often have to buy them, transport them by truck from the other side of the country, and acquire a huge plot of land. And then, what do these beasts eat? If you had that much of an appetite, we’d all have had to chip in to feed you for a long time! 😛
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
For all these elephant activities, you spend a lot for a limited and quite short time, it's true. It's even worse for those who want to see mountain gorillas in Central Africa. Gorilla treks cost from 900 to 1500 €, a few hours hiking in the mountains, and one, max 2 x 1 hour observing them.
On one hand, you have domesticated animals kept permanently in the same place (enclosed?) and on the other, rare wild animals in a territory spanning thousands of square kilometers—it doesn’t seem comparable to me.
Elephants often have to be bought, transported by truck from the other end of the country, and you need to acquire a huge plot of land. And then, what do these beasts eat?
Yes, but that’s the same for all elephant camps, ethical or not.
Since the Elephant Nature Park website is vague in its descriptions and the argument "the owner is world-renowned" doesn’t seem sufficient to me, I’m waiting for your concrete feedback (or links to your travel journals + message numbers) that shows it stands out compared to other ethical camps in the Chiang Mai area.
For Chiang Rai: we’d go either by bus or with a private driver if we were heading there
Visiting Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai generally requires a minimum of 7 nights to be reasonable. Instead of spending thousands of baht on a rushed, almost ridiculous day trip to Chiang Rai, save that money for activities you haven’t even thought of yet (or why not a full day with elephants...) in Chiang Mai, which alone could easily keep you busy for 10-12 days without feeling like you’re dragging.
Chiang Rai and its surroundings also deserve a proper stay, but in your case, you might want to save it for "a future trip to experience a different side of Siam:". Or—brace yourself for some harsh words—skip the beach and spend your entire trip in the north and Bangkok. You wouldn’t be the first to do it.
I also think it's pointless to go to Chiang Mai for just a day. You'll be traveling during the most exhausting time: it's currently 40 to 42 degrees during the day in the region, with a blanket of pollution. Make sure to book accommodation with a pool, preferably in the old city where there's plenty to see without walking too much.
As for your beach stay, the Gulf of Thailand is recommended this season, so not on the Krabi side. I hope you find some info if you stay on the Andaman Sea... a hotel with a pool to retreat to if the sea is rough?
I've been to Thailand often, but only once in May during our first trip. We took a seaside getaway from Bangkok—there were beautiful beaches, but that was 30 years ago 😉.
Have a great holiday! I hope the monsoon will bring temperatures down before you arrive.
No need to dramatize, but you should definitely consider two things: first, the air quality in the north is really poor right now due to a mix of agricultural burning and the heat, and second, the soaring temperatures we're experiencing at the moment make getting around pretty tough. It feels like over 40°C (104°F) almost everywhere, and it's already over 30°C (86°F) in the morning...
Without wanting to dramatize, you should take into account the air quality, which is very poor in the north due to the combination of crop burning and the heat
They’re only spending 5 short days in the north—it’s not like they’re planning to stay long.
@Hédi, unless your group includes elderly people and/or those with sensitive lungs, you’ll be fine for just 5 or even 10 days up there. Just avoid activities that require physical effort, like the bike climb up Mount Suthep that some agencies offer.
The south will be spared from the burning but not from the stench of durian—strong enough to make them wish they’d stayed in the north after all... 😉😎[;]
For Chiang Rai: if we go, we’ll either take the bus or a private driver
Visiting Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai generally requires a minimum of 7 nights to be reasonable. .... Or, brace yourself for some strong language, skip the beach and spend your whole trip in the north and Bangkok—you wouldn’t be the first to do it.
Haha... I think we’ll play it safe and just do CM.
I also think it's pointless to go to Chiang Rai for just a day. You'll be traveling during the most exhausting time: it's currently 40 to 42 degrees during the day...
As for your beach stay, the Gulf of Thailand is recommended this season, so not the Krabi side. I hope you find some info if you stick with the Andaman Sea....
Thanks for these tips about Chiang Rai.
We had read/seen that travelers prefer the Andaman Sea over the Gulf of Thailand. I'll take a closer look at what's best for late April.
Without wanting to dramatize, you really need to consider two things: first, the air quality, which is very poor in the north due to a combination of agricultural burning and the heat, and second, the extremely high temperatures we're experiencing right now, which make getting around difficult. It feels like over 40°C almost everywhere, and it's already over 30°C in the morning...
Thanks, Philippe...
Unfortunately, we didn’t have a choice for the timing... and we’re only staying for a full 4 days. Even though we’re big hiking fans, we’ll take it easy on the walks. 😕
I saw an article about a ban on "burning" this year: Chiang Mai Imposes Five-Month Ban on Open Burning as PM 2.5 Levels Exceed Standards
Burn-offs are banned every year but aren’t respected. On top of that, northern Thailand is affected by burn-offs from Laos and Myanmar, which use the same methods...
It’s still something to take seriously...
"
You’re currently in the middle of the most critical period. In April 2026, the burning season hits northern Thailand hard.
The situation is particularly tough this year, with record pollution levels. Here are the key points to keep in mind for this month:
The air contains fine particle (PM2.5) concentrations over 30 times higher than WHO recommendations.
Health: Risk of irritation (eyes, throat), headaches, and serious respiratory issues.
Protection: Wearing an N95 mask (regular surgical masks are ineffective against PM2.5) is essential when outdoors.
Activities: Avoid intense physical exertion outside.
"
Maybe I’m exaggerating a little, especially since I’ve never experienced this phenomenon in the north myself, but I’m relying on friends who live on the outskirts of Chiang Mai and leave the region for two months to head to the land of durian (😏).
If the rain arrives before your trip, the air quality will improve—I hope it does for you!
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Nous sommes 4, 2 adultes et 2 enfants (10 et 7) et ce sera notre 2ème voyage en Thailande et cette fois-ci nous avons décidé de visiter le côté Andaman.…
Je viens vers vous car nous souhaitons partir en Thailande l'année prochaine (vers Mars/Avril) et nous aimerions faire Chiang Mai et... Krabi puis quelques…
Je suis un inconditionnel de l'Inde mais il est temps que je découvre aussi la Thaïlande pour élargir mon horizon asiatique. J'y pars le 19 janvier 2025 pour…
Nous allons partir fin février début mars pour 15 jours en Thaïlande. Les billets ne sont pas réservés ou incessamment sous peu... nous avons épluchés pas mal…
Voyager avec des enfants › Thaïlande / Malaisie / Singapour · 12 replies
Aimerions en faire le tour), la Malaisie et finir par Singapour d'où nous repartons pour la France. Nous partons tous le mois de juin, je prend toutes vos…
Je prépare un circuit au Cambodge et j'étais décidée à visiter la région du Ratanakiri qui semblait correspondre en terme de paysages à ce que nous aimons le plus : la forêt, la jungle, la verdure...
Toutefois en commençant à étudier la région, j'ai lu que la déforestation y était massive et les infos sur ce sujet datent parfois de plusieurs années et la situation n'a malheureusement pas dû s'arranger depuis.
Ma question est donc de savoir si le Ratanakiri est encore intéressant à visiter et justifie encore l'éloignement et les temps de trajet pour y accéder?
J'ai vu que des treks étaient possibles dans la jungle mais, d'expérience, je sais que les guides rechignent parfois à s'enfoncer dans la forêt et se limitent à des marches assez courtes en bordure des parcs.
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
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there, we’re landing at Hanoi Airport and would like to head straight to Cao Bang without going into Hanoi. Does anyone know if there are buses that go directly from the airport to Cao Bang (especially in the early afternoon)? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
hi everyone,
I want to travel in the north for 3 weeks in September-October 2026 to meet ethnic minorities, photograph mountain rice terraces and their harvest, and revisit Halong Bay—but maybe Lan Ha Bay instead. Can you recommend one or more local agencies?
Thanks, and happy holidays!
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling.
For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees?
We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo.
Thanks for your tips and help!
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.
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Hi! I’m planning a 15-day trip to Malaysia. The idea is to visit KL for 2 or 3 days, then Borneo, and I’m wondering what to do with the rest of the time. I’d like to finish with the Perhentian Islands... What do you think? Any tips or advice would be great—I’d really appreciate it!
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
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.
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...
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before:
- Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees.
Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands.
Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way).
Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan.
Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide).
Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre.
Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island.
Day 10 – Head to Semporna.
Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai.
Day 15 – Bohey Dulang.
Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous.
I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing.
I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture.
But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary.
If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai?
Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai.
My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok:
No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna:
From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄).
Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM.
Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau:
Found this via AI—is it legit?
No online booking, as far as I can tell.
Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly????
And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
