Hi there,
what do you think of this itinerary, please? Do you think it’s doable?
We’re two adults—it’s our honeymoon trip! 🙂
Our main interests lean more toward nature and landscapes than cultural visits (though we won’t rule out one or two temple visits).
01/10/2025 W 10:30 AM – Departure from CDG (overnight flight)
02/10/2025 Th 11:25 AM – Arrival in Denpasar -> Ubud (south of the city) – overnight in Ubud
03/10/2025 F – Excursions around Ubud – overnight in Ubud
04/10/2025 Sa – Excursions around Ubud (Jatiluwih) – overnight in Ubud
05/10/2025 Su – Excursions around Ubud – overnight in Ubud
06/10/2025 M – Ubud -> Amed – overnight in Amed
07/10/2025 Tu – Amed – overnight in Amed
08/10/2025 W – Amed -> Padangbai – overnight in Padangbai
09/10/2025 Th – Padangbai -> Gili Air (first morning boat) – overnight on Gili Air
10/10/2025 F – Gili Air – overnight on Gili Air
11/10/2025 Sa – Gili Air – overnight on Gili Air
12/10/2025 Su – Gili Air -> Nusa Lembongan – overnight on Nusa Lembongan
13/10/2025 M – Nusa Lembongan – overnight on Nusa Lembongan
14/10/2025 Tu – Nusa Lembongan – overnight on Nusa Lembongan
15/10/2025 W – Nusa Lembongan – overnight on Nusa Lembongan (or return to Bali depending on sea conditions)
16/10/2025 Th – Jimbaran or Seminyak – overnight in Jimbaran or Seminyak
17/10/2025 F – Jimbaran -> Denpasar – departure at 6:45 PM (overnight flight)
18/10/2025 Sa 8:00 AM – Arrival at CDG – overnight at home
So:
Ubud 4 nights
Amed 2 nights
Padangbai 1 night
Gili Air 3 nights
Nusa Lembongan 4 nights
Jimbaran or Seminyak 1 night
That averages out to only 1.5 full days per stop—it’s not much, especially on an island that more than anywhere else really needs to be explored at a relaxed pace to be fully appreciated.
How do you plan to handle the non-maritime travel segments?
The detour to Gili Air forces a pretty big loop.
Our main interests lean toward nature and landscapes
I don’t see much of that in your itinerary.
Here’s what I’d do:
-I’d cut one stop, either Amed or Gili Air, which would also eliminate the transit night in Padangbai.
-I’d use the extra days gained to add a stop in Bali’s lush greenery to better match your interests. Plus, going from 6 to 5 stops bumps the average full days up to 2—things feel a bit more relaxed that way.
Hi Thierry, thanks for your feedback!
I’m actually waiting for more critiques on this itinerary draft to refine it, since I feel it’s too "heavy."
Don’t you think Ubud still lets you discover beautiful landscapes and be in the heart of nature, though?
We’ll probably drop the Amed stop. Would Munduk be a better choice than Ubud?
We’re thinking of booking a private driver for getting around.
Ubud is surrounded by beautiful landscapes but is definitely way too crowded. In October, it’ll be slightly better since Western tourists have left and the Oceanians haven’t arrived yet, but it’s busy year-round with a never-ending string of shops catering to tourism. Its main draw, in my opinion, is the frequent traditional evening performances (you can find them elsewhere, but usually by chance). That said, the overcrowding makes it far from a peaceful spot.
For travelers heading there in July-August, I’d strongly recommend avoiding it altogether ("draw a horizontal line just above Ubud and steer clear of everything below it down to the southern tip of the island"). In your case (October), it’s worth a quick visit for day trips with a private driver to the sites north of Ubud and for the performances, but I’d suggest staying one fewer night.
Or you could just skip it entirely.
As for adding a green stop, Munduk is indeed a great option.
If you change your mind and keep Amed instead of Gili Air, Tirtagangga—a small village nestled in the middle of rice terraces—would be a more geographically convenient choice since, unlike Munduk, it wouldn’t require a detour.
We’re thinking of booking a private driver for transportation
It won’t be essential everywhere since some of your stops are on the Perama shuttle routes. Their hub is in Ubud, and from there, they serve places like Munduk, Padangbai (arriving at 9:30 AM, which lets you catch the 10:30 AM fast boat to Gili Air), Tirtagangga, Amed, and the airport (only *to* the airport, though—Perama isn’t licensed to pick up passengers there). You can buy Perama tickets at agencies all over Ubud (destinations and prices are displayed in the windows) or at certain stops in the villages they serve. Here’s their website for reference, but booking in person the day before or even the morning of is usually fine: https://peramatour.com/b/en/shuttle-bus.
Private drivers with cars will "find you" everywhere—they’re affordable and can be hired for a full day, half-day, or just a single trip. You can also ask the front desk at your accommodation to arrange one for you.
After spending my weekend reading and re-reading Bali travel guides and blogs... I’ve revised my plan. I think Sidemen (which I hadn’t considered before) might let us experience similar natural elements (landscapes, greenery, waterfalls, etc.) to what we’d find in Munduk, while avoiding overly long trips and that detour toward the Ubud area, which doesn’t really appeal to me...
Here’s the new itinerary I’m considering—would love your thoughts! 😉
Day 1: Arrival at 11:30 AM in Denpasar → transfer to Sanur or Nusa Dua for a relaxing afternoon, overnight in Sanur or Nusa Dua
Day 2: Sanur → Nusa Lembongan
Days 3–4: Nusa Lembongan
Day 5: Transfer from Nusa L to Sidemen, overnight in Sidemen
Days 6–9: Sidemen and surrounding areas (including Sibetan, which looks really nice)
Day 10: Transfer from Sidemen to Gili Air
Days 11–13: Gili Air
Day 14: Transfer from Gili Air to Amed
Day 15: Amed
Day 16: Transfer from Amed to Jimbaran—overnight in Jimbaran
Day 17: Seminyak → Denpasar Airport
Day 1 Upon arrival at 11:30 AM in Denpasar -> transfer to Sanur or Nusa Dua for a relaxing afternoon, overnight in Sanur
I’d rather go straight to Sanur but not to bother spending a transit night there—just take the 5 PM D’Camel Fast Ferry to Lembongan (there’s also a 1:30 PM one, but timing’s tight).
https://dcamelfastferry.com/#carouselHero
And I’d stay in Amed for 3 nights instead of 2.
Oh right, I hadn’t thought about the option of arriving at night in Nusa L... but after the long trip, we might be happy to settle in a bit before hopping on the boat. Isn’t there a small town or village a little more typical, near Sanur? (I’ve read everywhere that Sanur isn’t anything special and looks like a Mediterranean seaside resort.)
Just a heads-up—my opinion might not be super valuable since I only spent a week in Bali back in 2017 (so not recent) and it was in the spring (everything was super green, which probably won’t be the case for your trip).
I kept a travel journal you can check out on my profile, but here’s the short version:
We didn’t like Ubud much (too crowded, noisy, and full of tourist shops, even though there were/are some nice spots in nature nearby).
We really loved the vibe in Amed and the Tirta Gangga water palace. We went there instead of Sidemen (our original pick) and didn’t regret it at all.
Up north, we preferred Sekumpul over Munduk—the waterfalls are gorgeous, and you’re *really* in the peaceful countryside. We wished we could’ve stayed longer. Can’t compare it to the Munduk area since we didn’t go there 😉
Beyond that, I don’t know much.
Happy planning! 😉
Si tu diffères de moi, mon frère, loin de me léser, tu m'enrichis (Saint Exupéry)
Honeymoon in Bali.... A generous one 😉. It was my first invitation to travel, back in 2007. We went back with the family in 2017, and things had changed a lot (especially Ubud).
Even though our honeymoon was a while ago, I thought it was well-balanced. We also had a driver.
Here’s what I’d recommend: Ubud is a great central spot—4 days is good, but avoid "Ubud City," which has become a traffic nightmare.
Jatiluwih or Ulun Danu aren’t exactly close to Ubud. A stop in Munduk is nice (we did it back then).
It’d be a shame to skip Amed for its black sand beaches.
There’s Tanah Lot (a must-see) and Uluwatu (skippable) in the South—plan more than one night in Jimbaran/Sanur
(why do you want to go to Gili Air?)
You could do a loop: Ubud (4 days) – Munduk (2 days) – Amed (2 days), then Nusa Lembongan (4 days), and finish around Jimbaran (3 days).
Wishing you all the best 😉
Il n'y a pas de problème sans solution... et si il n'y a pas de solution, il n'y a pas de problème !
Honeymoon in Bali.... A generous one 😉. It was my first invitation to travel, back in 2007. We went back as a family in 2017, and things had changed a lot (especially Ubud).
Even though our honeymoon was a while ago, I found it well-balanced. We also had a driver.
I hope we won’t regret our choice of destination... 🙂
What I recommend: Ubud is a great central hub—4 days is good, but avoid "Ubud City," which has become a traffic nightmare.
I’m still debating Ubud or not Ubud... I’m increasingly thinking of replacing it with Sidemen and its surroundings, which seem more authentic and just as "green"...
Jataluwih or Ulun Danu aren’t exactly near Ubud. A stop in Munduk is nice (we did it back then).
Unfortunately, given our timing and the total number of days (16), I think we’ll have to skip Munduk—it seems too far from our other stops. I hope the Sidemen area will offer some of the same landscapes (jungle, rice terraces, waterfalls, Lake Batur...?).
It’d be a shame to skip Amed for its black sand beaches.
True, but aside from the beaches, are there really any beautiful spots nearby? Since we’ll already be snorkeling in Gili... I’m waiting for your feedback on Amed to change my mind 🙂
There’s Tanah Lot (a must-see) and Uluwatu (skippable) in the South—plan more than one night in Jimbaran/Sanur
Is Tanah Lot *really* a must-see?
(Why do you want to go to Gili Air?)
To do nothing, quite simply! 😉
I get the impression that the Gili Islands are a bit less crowded than Nusa Penida/Lembongan, right? Plus, no motorized vehicles... A few days of relaxation to break the routine—snorkeling, naps, beachside dinners... I think we’ll still do THE boat excursion to maybe find better snorkeling spots than near the shore, even if it’s super touristy. Your thoughts on that?
You could do a loop: Ubud (4 days) - Munduk (2 days) - Amed (2 days) - Nusa Lembongan (4 days), and finish around Jimbaran (3 days)
That was the initial plan, but after reading recent feedback, we’re thinking it’s better to visit the islands at the start or middle of the trip to avoid missing the boat due to rough seas... And again, we’re set on the Gili Islands—are we wrong?
All my best wishes 😉
Thank you so much, that’s really kind!
By the way, thanks to everyone who’s already been so helpful in answering my (many) questions (and I’m sure there’ll be more! )
Oh right, I hadn’t thought of the option of arriving at night in Nusa L... but I’m thinking that after the long trip, we might be happy to settle in a bit before
And the next morning, will you be happy to have to repack your bag already?
Of course, going straight to Lembongan after the flight might seem like a lot, but since the trip to Sanur is relatively short (if by taxi) and the boat only leaves at 5 PM for a 30-minute crossing, it could all be done without stress.
Isn’t there a small, somewhat typical town/village near Sanur?
Obviously, I don’t know everything, but the chances of finding a (even slightly) typical village in southern Bali are slim...
I see Muriel18 mentioned the Tirtagangga Water Palace to you: even though, for me, its appeal is secondary compared to the setting of the village amid rice fields, which allows for lovely walks, it’s still a good reason to stop there for a few nights.
From Tirtagangga, I also went to visit Besakih on foot, by hitchhiking, and by (rare) bemos along an isolated road crossing very pretty landscapes and traditional blacksmith villages a bit off the beaten path. For the return trip to T. Gangga in the evening, though, I had to hire a driver with a car due to lack of time. Besakih Temple is beautiful, but it’s the journey to get there that I remember most fondly.
I get the impression that the Gili Islands are still a bit less crowded than Nusa Penida/Lembongan, right?
No, even if they’re less busy than in July-August and December-January, they’re still crowded year-round.
Just to do nothing at all! 😉
(...) we’re set on the Gili Islands... are we wrong?
Yes.
Because:
- in terms of visitor numbers, they’re comparable to Ubud (supposedly a compelling argument 😎. It’s not an exaggeration).
- you’ll find better things to do in Bali (the nature stop suggestions are piling up...)
- in Bali, you’ll find plenty of places where it’s nice to do nothing among the ones suggested.
- your thread title doesn’t include Lombok...
Yes.
Because:
- in terms of visitor numbers, they can hold their own against Ubud (an argument that’s supposed to be compelling 😎. It’s not an exaggeration, though).
- you’ll find better things to do in Bali (the nature stop suggestions are starting to pile up...)
- in Bali, you’ll find plenty of places where it’s nice to do nothing among the spots suggested to you.
- the title of your post doesn’t include Lombok...
You’re going to convince me not to go to the Gilis after all! ...
So, in that case, where do you think we can find beautiful snorkeling spots? Because that’s one of the main goals of our trip too.
I was lucky enough to visit the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia) in 2017, and I found that place exceptional, even though it was already very touristy at the time (and undoubtedly even more so now). I’d love to find that kind of atmosphere again—both peaceful and paradise-like...
Last night, we talked about your suggestion to go straight to Nusa Lembongan from the airport, and I think you’re right. It seems like we’d "gain" a night in our itinerary—Sanur would’ve just been a sleepover stop anyway, and we weren’t particularly keen on lingering there. Plus, this way, we’d wake up directly in Nusa Lembongan on the first real day of our little adventure... so that’s pretty nice 😉 I saw on 12go that other companies offer trips too (around 4 PM, I think). Do you specifically recommend this company, or are they all about the same for this "short" distance (compared to the Padangbai-Gili route, I mean)?
Which place(s) in this case, in your opinion, have beautiful snorkeling spots? Because that's one of the main goals of our trip too.
I was lucky enough to visit the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia) in 2017 and found the place exceptional, even though it was already very touristy at the time (and undoubtedly even more so now...). I’d love to find that same kind of peaceful, paradise-like atmosphere again...
I don’t know the Perhentians, but I’ve seen a few photos, and Gili Air is the one that resembles them the most. Amed (which I suggest since it’s already on your route without needing to go out of your way) has everything you need for great snorkeling, including a Japanese wreck just a few meters from the beach, about 3-4 km east* on the same road. However, the sand isn’t white there because the area is at the foot of a volcano.
I think it was Djalma who once mentioned here that there are stingray observation spots in Lembongan, but I can’t remember if it’s for snorkeling or diving.
* Another snorkeling spot with a U.S. wreck a few kilometers west of Amed, in Tulamben.
I saw on 12Go that other companies also offer routes (around 4 PM, I think). Are you specifically recommending this company, or are they all about the same for this "short" distance?
I never use 12Go or similar sites because they’re full of nonsense or incomplete info.
I’m not specifically recommending this company—it just happens to be the only one I found that offers a late-enough connection from South Bali to Lembongan for your case.
I didn’t see anything leaving around 4 PM—do you have a direct link to a company?
I use this site: https://www.gilibookings.com/bali-to-gili-fast-boat, which lists all (or at least I think so) the fast boat companies operating between Bali, the Gilis, Lombok, and intermediate stops like Lembongan. I enter the departure, arrival, and date, and it shows all the options. Then I check the official websites of the relevant companies to double-check.
I was lucky enough to visit the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia) in 2017 and found the place exceptional, even though it was already very touristy at the time (and undoubtedly even more so now). I’d love to find that kind of atmosphere again—both peaceful and paradise-like...
Having been to the Perhentians too, you won’t really find that vibe in Bali itself (where you don’t go for the beach scene anyway—the beaches aren’t amazing). So, Gili Islands, why not? 😉
Il n'y a pas de problème sans solution... et si il n'y a pas de solution, il n'y a pas de problème !
For a 15-day trip, you’ll need to make some choices.
And combining Gili + Nusa doesn’t seem practical to me, especially since cancellations aren’t uncommon.
On July 29th and then again on August 6th, speedboats were canceled due to strong swells (for 2 and 3 consecutive days). The result? If you’re leaving Gili, instead of a 2.5-hour speedboat ride, you’ll need to dedicate a whole day (Gili → Lombok → 2-hour taxi → 6-hour ferry)...
We loved Gili Meno: no cars, no crowds, stunning beaches, no noise, and turtles just a towel’s throw away... Far from Nusa, with its crowds and Instagrammers!
For the Bali part:
- Ubud is central but a nightmare to get around (at the end of the day, it took us 3 hours to cover 4.5 km coming back from Goa Gajah)... But you’ve got plenty of interesting activities (dance, e-bike, temples, museums, rice terraces you can explore on foot...)
- Sidemen is great but it’s pretty remote (and this year, the subak decided to use the terraces for vegetables), and it’s a bit out of the way compared to Ubud. The upside? It opens up access to the Abang rice terraces and the climb up Mount Batur (plus, you’ve got Warung Puriasih, which was our best culinary experience in Bali).
- Munduk is a whole different vibe (mountains, waterfalls, 14°C at night) and lets you visit Jatiluwih or Lake Bratan along the way.
Nos escapades : Le Maroc, l'Egypte, la Mauritanie, la Tunisie, l'Afrique du Sud, Lanzarote, les Etats-Unis (3 ans), le Canada, le Mexique, la Colombie, le Pérou, la Guadeloupe, la Martinique, l'Indonésie, la Thaïlande, Israël, Dubaï, la Jordanie, la Turquie, et Tahiti... pour l'instant !
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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.
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?
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!
