I’m looking for a beach spot within 3 hours max of Bangkok for the end of my trip (January). I know full well I won’t find that postcard-perfect vibe of the more remote islands! But I don’t have a choice.
If you’ve got any ideas... no high-rises, obviously not Pattaya, somewhere quiet, swimming possible, a hotel right on the beach (and not too dirty, the beach itself!)
I’ve looked at hotels around Ko Samet or, across from it, on the mainland. I spotted the Bann Pae Cabana. But nothing really exciting on either side.
New ideas welcome! 🙂
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I’ve been looking all over this coast, as long as it’s not too far from Bangkok.
Okay, I’ll share a bit of my story. We just had to cancel part of our trip. It was supposed to be a Laos/Cambodia combo with a stop in Bangkok. Now we’re just doing Laos, and to replace our last few days on Koh Rong Samloem, we’re looking for a spot in Thailand for 3–4 days before flying back to France—without going too far from the airport.
So, we leave Pakse on January 25th and fly out of Bangkok on the 29th.
You can either (re)discover a piece of Thailand not too far from Bangkok (Erawan National Park, Khao Yai National Park...), or head down to Hua Hin and take the chance to visit Sam Roi Yot (the start of my latest travel journal). You can also stay there—it’s not all high-rises like in Hua Hin. (But the beach isn’t as nice...)
Pre-book a taxi. It’s the fastest way.
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A taxi from Bangkok to Erawan or Hua Hin (or elsewhere)? When you're still a bit well-off, there's an even faster option: a helicopter. Expect to pay $1,500 per hour (its empty return to base is also charged).
For these next 3 days, we don’t wanna do ANYTHING 😉
I’m still searching for my "ideal" beach in this context.
Gonna re-read that part of your travel journal...
Okay, if you don’t want to do anything at all, I’m not sure what to suggest...😉
It’s the combo of a beautiful beach but also an untouched one that’s the sticking point.
(What I was suggesting still fell into the "doing nothing" category for me. The three options don’t seem like a sightseeing marathon but more like chilling with a few activities. Three days spent only going from sun lounger to restaurant?)
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$93 for 9 seats to Hua Hin—that’s pricey (private van)?
Thailand still has the advantage of being super affordable for taxi transfers, especially with 6 people! (I think Kate’s group is that size.)
It’s only 11 € more total (so less than 2 € per person) than the bus from the airport. We might even end up spending less if you factor in the cost of getting from the bus to the hotel on arrival...
There’s a difference between being well-off and being stingy...
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Songsam doesn’t know that Kate travels at least 4 times a year and that taxis are nothing to her. Besides, if she doesn’t take the helicopter, it’s so people won’t make comments when reading her travel journals 😛
« 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
Still, I’ve never taken a helicopter! It must be something else! Gotta try it before I lose the flexibility to climb in! (Same for a Ferrari, but that tempts me way less...)
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For these last 3 days, we don’t wanna do ANYTHING ;)
I’m still looking for my "ideal" beach in this context.
And I’ll reread that part of your travel journal...
Hello, the beaches are way nicer on Ko Samet than around Cha Am or Hua Hin, which are now just an endless string of buildings and resorts—but it’s still pretty calm seaside, far from unbearable.
Hi, not too far from the awful Pattaya, there are still a few beaches like Kai Jet Beach where you’ll find hotels and no big buildings. Nearby, Nam Sai Beach often has very clear water, with a 20 THB entry fee into the military base area.
When we visited, there were few tourists.
Happy searching and, most importantly, have a great vacation
What I was suggesting fell into the "doing nothing" category for me. The 3 suggestions don’t seem like a marathon of sightseeing but rather some relaxation with a few activities. 3 days going only from sun lounger to restaurant?
You’re absolutely right! But the goal is first to find a beautiful beach, a nice hotel, and then, why not, some things to see. I don’t think we’re capable of just going from sun lounger to drinks and then to the restaurant 😉
Obviously, if the place is exceptional... and we’re shelling out 200 € a night... But it won’t be either of those 😕
Thailand still has the advantage of being very affordable when it comes to taxi transfers.
Especially for 6 people! (I think Kate’s group is that size.)
No, we’re not traveling with 6 people 🏴☠️
We’re 2 couples, united by real camaraderie and on the same wavelength. That’s rare when traveling.
You know, those ugly seaside buildings—I’m afraid of ending up in Maspalomas or, closer to home, Lloret de Mar.
@Jojo
Songsam doesn’t know that Kate travels at least 4 times a year and that taxis are nothing to her. Besides, if she doesn’t take a helicopter, it’s so people won’t make comments when reading her travel journals 😛
After reading this, Richard reacted by telling me I’m getting roasted by your VF buddies!
(Note: Richard XI is my boyfriend—he’s the one writing our amazing travel journals on VF )
@Dennis2
Hello, the beaches are much nicer on Ko Samet than around Cha Am or Hua Hin... which are now just an endless stretch of buildings and resorts... but far from unbearable, it’s still pretty calm beach vibes....
The hotels we were interested in are fully booked on Ko Samet.
I’m looking at the coast across from there, in the areas mentioned in the discussion.
I agree with you—there are few places I find “unlivable” when I’m traveling, on the other side of the world, instead of freezing here in January, the month of the blues.
But I often read: beaches littered with trash, awful fuel or fish smells, jellyfish-infested waters, super noisy bars, beaches disappearing at high tide... etc.
Either those are spoiled kids writing that, or it’s true 😕
Hello, the beaches are more beautiful on Ko Samet than around Cha Am or Hua Hin... which are now just an uninterrupted string of buildings and resorts.... but far from unbearable, it’s still quite a calm seaside spot....
The hotels that caught our attention are fully booked on Ko Samet.
I’m currently looking at the coast across from it, in those areas mentioned during the discussion.
I agree with you—there are few places I find “unbearable” when I’m traveling, on the other side of the world, instead of freezing here in January, the month of the blues.
But I often read: beaches littered with trash, awful smells of gasoline or fish, the sea overrun with jellyfish, very noisy bars, beaches disappearing at high tide... etc.
Either these are spoiled kids writing that, or it’s true 😕
So, you should know that Rayong is an area with industries—okay, it’s not the Étang de Berre, but it does shape the landscape…
The beaches are cleaned, at least those in front of the resorts. Thailand is becoming cleaner and cleaner; the only dirty beaches I’ve seen are deserted ones… tides bring in waste anyway…
As for beaches disappearing at low tide, that mainly concerns Phang Nga Bay (I was there the other day—one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, in my humble opinion), the Phuket side, or the South China Sea. As long as it’s sand, you’ll have to walk far to get water, but it’s manageable…
I only saw a tiny jellyfish the other day, but not on the Andaman Sea side. It’s true there can be some on the South China Sea side, but I didn’t go there this time…
Hello, not too far from the awful Pattaya, there are still a few beaches like Kai Jet Beach where you’ll find hotels and no big buildings. Nearby, Nam Sai Beach has very clear water most of the time—entry is 20 THB within the military base grounds.
Hello,
I hadn’t seen your message. Thanks for these addresses; I’ll check them out.
There’s a military base?!
Hi, not too far from the awful Pattaya, there are still a few beaches like Kai Jet Beach where you’ll find hotels and no big buildings, and nearby Nam Sai Beach, where the water is often very clear. Entry is 20 THB within the military base grounds.
Hi,
I hadn’t seen your message. Thanks for these addresses—I’ll check them out.
There’s a military base?!
Yes, there’s a navy base. You have to go past the first barrier, head to the parking lot, and take the shuttle to get to the beach. There’s a restaurant on the sand too :)
Even with 4, a pre-booked taxi is still a great deal. 😉
The price mentioned was for a minivan. A more standard car will be slightly cheaper.
You know, those ugly seaside buildings
Yes, coastlines are disfigured pretty much everywhere in the world.
There are still a few preserved spots, but that’s usually because there’s no construction—so no accommodations.
Or they’re only accessible by boat, not by public transport. Also tough to reach with a regular car.
The most beautiful beach I know isn’t far from here.
In Corsica, at Saleccia. I haven’t seen anything like it in Thailand.
To be honest, my top 5 beaches aren’t in Thailand—they’re in Portugal, the Dominican Republic, Corsica, Indonesia, or Brazil.
I once had to pick a beach to end a Southeast Asia trip not too far from Bangkok.
I went to Hua Hin after crossing off the spot you’re probably thinking of for the reasons you mentioned: beaches littered with trash, awful smells of gasoline or fish, jellyfish-infested waters, noisy bars, and no beach at high tide... I’d especially ruled out Ko Samet.
Back then, the big buildings in Hua Hin weren’t there yet. It was a bit of a mess—a beach town in the making.
I ate really well, got sunburned, played backgammon on the beach.
It wasn’t paradise, but it wasn’t a nightmare either. Just a nice little break.
When I went back this year, I saw the town is now heavily built up. But it didn’t feel as tacky as the Balearics, Bodrum, or even Krabi...
The beach in the photo further away looked inviting for a dip, even if you had to ignore the buildings.
At Sam Roi Yot, the vibe is much more intimate, but the beach itself is nothing special. The surrounding landscapes are stunning, though, and it’s not too crowded. That’s what I was looking for.
I’m not sure the perfect beach exists near Bangkok. You’ll have to compromise on something.
Either the beauty and cleanliness of the beach or the intimate, low-key vibe of the resort.
To tip the scales, maybe look at the extras: things to do besides lounging, food options, ease of transport, etc.
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After lots of searching (so many places fully booked), I’ve decided on a hotel-villas by the sea in Haad Chao Samran, Phetchaburi Province.
Inshallah!
Thanks to all! 🙂
(There’ll be a review 😛)\
« 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
Not sure if that was ironic, Jojo... I think it was! 🙂
I’m not a fan of resorts, but this one will do the trick with its villas.
https://www.booking.com/Share-1zXaWdY
No, I wasn’t being ironic. Sometimes you get pleasant surprises with second or third choices. It’s close to Phetchaburi. Have you been there?
« 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
No, I don’t know Phetchaburi. This hotel was a fluke—I found it by following tips and ideas for spots along the coast. I went to Thailand in 2010 and only saw Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands further south (Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi...).
For the record, when I got back, I made a sort of travel journal—it was my first time on VF. I didn’t understand why everyone jumped on me when I mentioned the “girls” in Phuket, whose age and profession had barely... shocked me.
A certain Boummastic (spelling? 😕) had defended me 😉
And finally the case is closed, and you’re back on your feet!
All that’s left is to find the chopper! 😄
I’d rather walk than take a 🏴☠️ chopper.
I’ve flown several times with my brother who pilots those little planes, and that’s when I started being afraid of flying. He’d have fun like a kid trying to impress me with his flying toy.
Yes, the case is closed, but it’s with a heavy heart that we gave up on Cambodia.
I was really looking forward to seeing Alan in Phnom Penh again! (Some of you here might remember him).
It was actually his last letter, quite alarming, that ultimately made up our minds.
Phetburi isn’t exactly thrilling, as the Thais say.
Still, there are 3 or 4 really interesting temples, the palace on the hill with monkeys, and also the cave with tons of Buddhas and monkeys at the entrance too.
Apparently, it’s one of the capitals of Thai gastronomy, but I wasn’t able to confirm that.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I had hesitated to include Phetchaburi in my last trip.
Pet'buri is a pleasant town with a peaceful and pretty downtown area by the river—don’t hesitate to stop there for a few nights, for example, between Bangkok and the southern beaches. All trains stop there, and it’s also served by frequent minivans from Bkk Mo Chit New Van Terminal and Bkk Sai Tai Mai. I’m not sure if it has a heliport.
It seems like it's one of the capitals of Thai gastronomy, but I couldn't verify it.
I did.
Photos taken in a charming restaurant in a wooden house whose entrance is on the bridge street and the dining room overlooks the river, here 13° 6'30.99"N 99°56'51.79"E
We go down 2/3 steps, walk past the restaurant before entering, there's the bar first and then the room? I think I know which one.
« 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
Pet'buri is a pleasant town with a peaceful and pretty downtown area by the river—definitely worth stopping for a few nights, for example, between Bangkok and the beaches in the South.
It really looks great in your photos—I love it! 🙂
It’s only 30 minutes from our hotel. We’ll have plenty of time to visit since we’re spending 4 nights in the area.
I’m wondering if we should rent a car… Do you need an international driver’s permit? I have one, but it’s at least 10 years old…
Hello, yes, you need a valid international license…
But you can try your luck with your European license at a local rental place. It’s way better to have a car—it’s freedom (vroom vroom)… and driving is pretty easy. You just need to get used to driving on the left, but with an automatic, it’s pretty chill.
Hello Denis
I agree with pouf pouf 😉
I guess there are buses, taxis... I haven’t thought about that. Roughly how much does a 30 km trip to Phetchaburi cost? (In case I give up on the helicopter...)
I’ve forgotten the fares—I was thinking of what’s common in India, meaning cheap.
It’s great seeing all these great tips!
Dennis, Agnès, I knew about GRAB when I planned my 4 days in Bangkok (thanks again Jojo for the hotels and everything), but I didn’t plan on using it for such a short time. So, in the end...
Yeah, Thierry, it’s small consolation compared to Angkor 😕
And then there’s the money we lost...
But I’m sure we’ll have fun in Thailand. Everyone’s photos are so inspiring! Plus, we’ve got 15 days in Laos—it’ll be a real adventure.
I’m a bit thrown off organizing this trip 10 days before departure. I realize how much I’ve changed by wanting to plan, control, and manage everything. It’s reassuring, but I know I’m missing out on pleasant surprises and unexpected moments...
So, I’m happily taking all the good tips for this slightly shaky trip, which will start with 4 days in Bangkok and end with 4 days near Phetchaburi 😉
So, what parts of the trip are you still missing info for?
« 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
So, what parts of the trip are you still missing info for?
Not much now, we’ll figure it out as we go. Thanks!
I don’t have time to dive into guidebooks anymore (luckily there are four of us), and I only half-trust the GDR, so restaurant addresses, little things to see, or any other tips are much appreciated 😉
I think I used it for a duration as short as yours since I was driving the rest of the time.
I’ve never used this kind of app in France because I never take taxis there.
I discovered the trick in the USA, and I must say it’s super convenient!
No more negotiating, no need to watch the route because the taxi takes the longest way to bump up the fare, and it’s safer with certain apps (in terms of personal safety).
60 seconds to install, a few minutes to figure out how it works—perfect!
(For accommodations, I rarely book non-refundable since Covid. It still gives you some flexibility.)
(Why travel in high season when you have other options???)
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Why go during high season when you have other options???
Because the friend traveling with us can only take a month off in January or February.
For refunds, it's two flights (Luang Prabang / Siem Reap and Phnom Penh / Bangkok). Maybe I can at least negotiate the airport taxes.
+ A boat from Kampot to Koh Rong Samloem.
+ One short night but really cheap.
No excursions were paid for in advance, but we were about to book Angkor. Phew!
For accommodations, I rarely book non-refundable since Covid. It still gives you some flexibility
From now on, I’ll do the same! But flights... 😕
Our insurance doesn’t cover civil wars, armed conflicts, etc. Even if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against traveling to the country at the time of departure.
Yeah, it's a shame we can't all be free to choose our departure dates.
Maybe soon?😉
Normally, airport taxes are automatically refunded in case of cancellation.
Which airline is it?
For insurance, I don’t think any covers this kind of event. It’s really bad luck for you since this part of the world isn’t usually the most volatile—who could’ve predicted something like this???🤪
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So, what parts of the trip are you still missing info for?
Not much now, we'll figure it out as we go. Thanks!
I don’t have time to dive into guidebooks anymore (luckily there are four of us), and I only half-trust the GDR, which is why restaurant addresses, little things to see, or any other tips are welcome 😉
An idea for Bangkok: the rooftop garden at the new Central Park mall is a real success—a green pathway with an amazing view of Lumpini Park and the skyline… and it’s free!
Je pars en juin à Bangkok avec un amie, on aimerait faire 4 jours a Bangkok et 4 jours sur une plage. On a un budget reduit, j'aimerais donc savoir quelle…
Je serai à Bangkok pendant 2 jours ce week-end entre 2 avions, mais voudrais explorer les alentours et si possible rejoindre une plage sympa et pas trop…
Je fait mes premiers pas sur VF donc j'espère que je m'y prend bien Voilà, je pars en Thaîlande au mois de Mars, enfin!! (j'attend ça depuis longtemps) Nous…
Nous préparons notre deuxième voyage en Thaïlande (2 semaines sur place, fin avril/début mai) en famille avec nos enfants.
Lors de notre premier voyage, nous avons visité Bangkok, Ayutthaya, la rivière Kwaï, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi et Khao Lak. Nous avons particulièrement adoré Koh Phi Phi pour ses falaises calcaires et sa végétation luxuriante, ainsi que Koh Lipe pour ses eaux cristallines et son snorkeling.
Cette fois, nous aimerions un voyage davantage axé sur la nature. Nous ne souhaitons plus visiter de villes (éventuellement un marché flottant si cela vaut vraiment le détour).
Nous recherchons :
- une jungle spectaculaire ;
- des animaux dans leur milieu naturel ;
- de belles randonnées ou balades en bateau ;
- des plages paradisiaques ;
- une eau turquoise avec un excellent snorkeling, si possible directement depuis la plage (tortues, poissons tropicaux...).
Nous pensons intégrer Khao Sok, mais nous hésitons sur les îles à combiner avec ce parc. Nous hésitons aussi à intégrer Chiang mai.
Auriez-vous des suggestions d'itinéraires de 2 semaines avec des temps de transport raisonnables ? Nous privilégions avant tout les paysages, la nature et la mer.
Merci d'avance pour vos conseils et retours d'expérience !
Bonjour, je serai en vacances en malaisie en novembre, je vais rester 5 jours à penang. Je voudrais ensuite visiter quelques temples et lieux à butterworth ou autour et découvrir aussi la ville. En sachant que je me déplace souvent à pied, quel quartier serait le mieux pour moi, c'est à dire à moins de 30'minutes à pied des lieux d'attraction, de stands de street foodi, de lignes de bus etc... Merci d'avance pour votre aide
Francoise
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.
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!
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!
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
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
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.
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!
