Original post
We’re planning a week-long trip to southern Tunisia in early September and we’d like to rent a car in Djerba. We don’t have a credit card, only a debit card.
Any good tips on rates and reliability?
Where to rent a car in Djerba?
by Melle83
Translated into English.
We’re planning a one-week trip to southern Tunisia in early September and would like to rent a car in Djerba. We don’t have a credit card, only a debit card.
Do you have any good tips on rates and reliability?
Hi! What I do in other countries where car rental agencies don’t accept debit cards is book through Booking.com—they also offer optional insurance that’s pretty cheap (and they reimburse you within 10 days if anything goes wrong). When you arrive at the rental agency, they’ll take an imprint of the card, but nothing gets charged. Just make sure if you take the insurance through Booking.com that you don’t accept the insurance the agency tries to push on you.
Debit cards are actually "disguised" credit cards since the rental agency’s deposit amount isn’t actually debited. The term "debit" is a bit misleading—it’s just a way for banks to upsell you on a paid credit card.
Hi! What I do in other countries where car rental agencies don’t accept debit cards is book through Booking.com—they also offer optional insurance that’s pretty cheap (and they reimburse you within 10 days if anything goes wrong). When you arrive at the rental agency, they’ll take an imprint of the card, but nothing gets charged. Just make sure if you take the insurance through Booking.com that you don’t accept the insurance the agency tries to push on you.
Debit cards are actually "disguised" credit cards since the rental agency’s deposit amount isn’t actually debited. The term "debit" is a bit misleading—it’s just a way for banks to upsell you on a paid credit card.
Christine
Hi Christine,
Thanks for your feedback. We’ll look into that! :-)
Also, make sure to get exactly the car you rented. Too many rental companies around the world try to palm off a smaller one than what we asked for and paid for. I’ll take this opportunity to say it’s the fault of people who let themselves be pushed around, and it’s become an unacceptable habit for me 😠
Christine
hi
useful info
Hey there! If only people would just relearn how to communicate normally—like calling or talking to a car rental place and saying, "I only have a debit card." It’s take it or leave it. If you don’t accept my card, I’ll go to a competitor who will, and you’ll lose that money (plus I’ll give you bad publicity). End of story!!!
Christine
You're right,
but it's true that with these darn debit cards it's complicated
you're right
but it's true that with these damn debit cards it's complicated
It's people who complicate their lives by doing the bare minimum All over the world, I only pay with cash and I manage to lower prices. Simply because merchants pay a percentage on card payments, a percentage on Booking and Airbnb, etc... (and cash transactions aren't taxed). Same goes for negotiating several nights instead of one.
It's people who complicate their lives by doing the bare minimum All over the world, I only pay with cash and I manage to lower prices. Simply because merchants pay a percentage on card payments, a percentage on Booking and Airbnb, etc... (and cash transactions aren't taxed). Same goes for negotiating several nights instead of one.
Christine
Yeah, from that angle I get it, but when you want to pre-book in advance—which is my case for April in Guadeloupe—I made some inquiries about debit cards and found
yes, seen from that side, I get it, but when you want to pre-book in advance, which is my case for April in Guadeloupe, I made inquiries about debit cards and I found
Well, keep booking in advance—personally, just the first two nights, no more. The rest is by feel, which adds a little adventure to the trip.
Well, keep booking in advance—personally, just the first two nights, no more. The rest is by feel, which adds a little adventure to the trip.
Christine
Yes, I only book the start of the trip, but it's true that it's more interesting and cheaper to do it on the spot.
yes, I only book the start of the trip, but it’s true that it’s more interesting and cheaper to do it on the spot
Pretty much everyone will tell you they prefer to plan everything in advance (even though the best travel memories are often the ones that weren’t planned) 😄
Pretty much everyone will tell you they prefer to plan everything in advance (even though the best travel memories are often the ones that weren’t planned) 😄
Christine
It’s a bit late to order a credit card now.
Just a reminder: a credit card is simply a deferred debit bank card. It can also be a card with an actual attached credit line, but deferred debit is enough to have "credit" written on the card (the bank extends you free credit until the end of the month...). All you need to do is switch from immediate debit to deferred debit. It’s usually the same price.
If the booking was made as non-refundable, the rental company will charge the agreed amount in case of cancellation, even if they don’t give you the car due to a card issue (debit on the card provided at booking).
In case of overbooking, this situation works in their favor...
Negotiating is possible if you don’t book in advance. Highly unpredictable if demand is strong. Possible scam on return to make up for unsold insurance...
For rental company reliability, just check reviews on Google Maps.
A very low rating still reflects a risk of future trouble. A perfect rating smells like fake reviews. A rating above 4 with many reviews is a sign of reliability. Still, make sure the most recent reviews aren’t all bad. A rental company can become less reliable over time! !
Just a reminder: a credit card is simply a deferred debit bank card. It can also be a card with an actual attached credit line, but deferred debit is enough to have "credit" written on the card (the bank extends you free credit until the end of the month...). All you need to do is switch from immediate debit to deferred debit. It’s usually the same price.
If the booking was made as non-refundable, the rental company will charge the agreed amount in case of cancellation, even if they don’t give you the car due to a card issue (debit on the card provided at booking).
In case of overbooking, this situation works in their favor...
Negotiating is possible if you don’t book in advance. Highly unpredictable if demand is strong. Possible scam on return to make up for unsold insurance...
For rental company reliability, just check reviews on Google Maps.
A very low rating still reflects a risk of future trouble. A perfect rating smells like fake reviews. A rating above 4 with many reviews is a sign of reliability. Still, make sure the most recent reviews aren’t all bad. A rental company can become less reliable over time! !
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
A debit or credit bank card is just a way for the bank to charge you for accessing your own money. 🤪
A "debit" card is really a "credit" card in disguise.
Proof: My car rental companies abroad take an imprint of my Visa Premier debit card (even though they only accept credit cards), yet the deposit isn’t actually charged.
Everything’s much simpler when traveling if you only use cash (except for car rentals).
Every year, I go to my bank’s counter to order 5,000, 10,000 euros, or more for all my expenses in France and abroad—completely free, with no fees. 😎
Once I’m abroad, I go to the bank with the best exchange rate and exchange everything at once for my entire stay, since fees are lower for larger amounts.
No one knows I’m carrying this well-hidden cash (it’s much safer than constantly going to ATMs, which in some countries are tampered with by scammers). Not to mention thieves who watch around cash machines—and the more often you withdraw, the higher the risk of being followed and robbed.
Plus, all those cards that promise zero fees on withdrawals usually only apply to small amounts per transaction or per month (if you exceed the limit, you’ll pay fees).
No bank—except maybe those for the very wealthy—will tell you that ATMs themselves charge fees set by the foreign banks that own them. So withdrawals are always costly, even with a "no-fee" card. 🤪
And let’s not forget that in France or abroad, people waste time (and money) searching for the cheapest ATM just to access a little of their own money—a ridiculous system everyone’s accepted. 😂😂😂
Christine
There are free cards available...
And no foreign transaction fees.
After that, it's up to you, but personally, the less cash I carry, the better I feel.
There’s even a whole discussion on VF about this topic.
Happy reading
After that, it's up to you, but personally, the less cash I carry, the better I feel.
There’s even a whole discussion on VF about this topic.
Happy reading
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
There are free cards...
And with no foreign transaction fees.
After that, you do as you please, but personally, the less cash I carry, the better I feel.
By the way, there’s a whole discussion on VF about this topic.
Happy reading
Hello. At no point did I mention free cards with no foreign transaction fees, and I don’t see how you can exchange money with a card that’s only used for paying or withdrawing. Regarding your link from 2019, apart from members arguing, there’s no recent info about cash or cards. And since you started that discussion in your link, I notice in your first post that you have some pretty ingrained clichés when you write this: "I understand the interest for those who earn income from undeclared activities". For your info, when I order large sums from my bank to live day-to-day or for my travels, this money doesn’t come from a hiding place in my house—it’s from my bank account, which is visible, traceable, and declared to taxes when I received it. Sorry, but your ideas are a bit outdated 🤪. However, since you mentioned a free card, could you please share the name of this card so the info can benefit the community and we can review its terms? As for carrying cash, everyone does as they please, but it’s well known that being overly cautious is counterproductive and often leads to doing the opposite of what’s safe. As mentioned earlier, you’ll pay to access your own money with withdrawals and face much more risk by regularly going to ATMs to take out cash than by carrying a larger sum that no one knows about 😉
After that, you do as you please, but personally, the less cash I carry, the better I feel.
By the way, there’s a whole discussion on VF about this topic.
Happy reading
Hello. At no point did I mention free cards with no foreign transaction fees, and I don’t see how you can exchange money with a card that’s only used for paying or withdrawing. Regarding your link from 2019, apart from members arguing, there’s no recent info about cash or cards. And since you started that discussion in your link, I notice in your first post that you have some pretty ingrained clichés when you write this: "I understand the interest for those who earn income from undeclared activities". For your info, when I order large sums from my bank to live day-to-day or for my travels, this money doesn’t come from a hiding place in my house—it’s from my bank account, which is visible, traceable, and declared to taxes when I received it. Sorry, but your ideas are a bit outdated 🤪. However, since you mentioned a free card, could you please share the name of this card so the info can benefit the community and we can review its terms? As for carrying cash, everyone does as they please, but it’s well known that being overly cautious is counterproductive and often leads to doing the opposite of what’s safe. As mentioned earlier, you’ll pay to access your own money with withdrawals and face much more risk by regularly going to ATMs to take out cash than by carrying a larger sum that no one knows about 😉
Christine
The question about your no-fee cards was asked back in 2019—I’ll quote: "Good evening, Attila,
Which bank do you use for zero fees?.
And in 2025, you still haven’t answered—except to say that other people mention Revolut, N26, etc...
Could you finally enlighten the members of this forum by telling us which no-fee card you use and which bank it’s from? Thanks!!!
Christine
You didn't read carefully.
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
You didn't read carefully.
Could you clearly state which of your current bank card(s) have no withdrawal or payment fees, so everyone can benefit? I'm on page 4 of 21 of your link and I'll read the rest when I have time. To keep it short, could you finally tell us the name of this (these) supposedly fee-free card(s)?
Could you clearly state which of your current bank card(s) have no withdrawal or payment fees, so everyone can benefit? I'm on page 4 of 21 of your link and I'll read the rest when I have time. To keep it short, could you finally tell us the name of this (these) supposedly fee-free card(s)?
Christine
It's all in the link provided.
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
Everything is in the link provided.
Seriously, what does it cost you to say it? It takes two words and saves me from reading the rest when I’m about to head to the gym. I’m not asking for a secret code, just the name of your no-fee card and which bank issued it (I’ve got 20 pages to read in your link and I’ll get to them later). Anyway, Attila or Atila, that’s really not cool.
Seriously, what does it cost you to say it? It takes two words and saves me from reading the rest when I’m about to head to the gym. I’m not asking for a secret code, just the name of your no-fee card and which bank issued it (I’ve got 20 pages to read in your link and I’ll get to them later). Anyway, Attila or Atila, that’s really not cool.
Christine
This link is really informative—it reveals that you're a woman who chose a guy’s username and later changed it. That your bank card is with Fortuneo without specifying which one (well, of course, that way no one knows your actual withdrawal and payment fees or the amounts you can use without extra charges).
It also shows that, for you, cash is automatically tied to fraud, that you still don’t understand why so many travelers prefer cash. That you don’t mention 200 € bills being easier to hide (preferring to talk about suitcases full of 20 € or 50 € notes). That despite your so-called fee-free card, you try to downplay its fees in some of your own threads 🤪.
What else? That you supposedly worked for Air France—or at least as a travel agent for them or somewhere else—and yet, despite that, you sometimes struggle to find tickets without getting ripped off (while also cheating with your IPs 🤪).
And most importantly: that you’ve been on this forum for over 10 years with just as much antipathy and condescension. No wonder you’ve been called out multiple times in your comments. Just mentioning my criminal record to remind other members, as usual.
The perfect profile that reminds me of the 4 or 5 pillars from the other forum 🤡
It also shows that, for you, cash is automatically tied to fraud, that you still don’t understand why so many travelers prefer cash. That you don’t mention 200 € bills being easier to hide (preferring to talk about suitcases full of 20 € or 50 € notes). That despite your so-called fee-free card, you try to downplay its fees in some of your own threads 🤪.
What else? That you supposedly worked for Air France—or at least as a travel agent for them or somewhere else—and yet, despite that, you sometimes struggle to find tickets without getting ripped off (while also cheating with your IPs 🤪).
And most importantly: that you’ve been on this forum for over 10 years with just as much antipathy and condescension. No wonder you’ve been called out multiple times in your comments. Just mentioning my criminal record to remind other members, as usual.
The perfect profile that reminds me of the 4 or 5 pillars from the other forum 🤡
Christine
Attila was the name of my cat who, by the way, was actually a female cat—I must be non-binary. 🙂
As for the rest, everyone has their own way of reading and understanding what others write.
As for the rest, everyone has their own way of reading and understanding what others write.
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
I’ve rented a car in Tunisia several times, and it’s a bit different from Europe. Most agencies don’t accept bank cards—you’ll need to bring a cash deposit. Prices fluctuate a lot depending on the season (summer, holidays, etc.). Personally, I often use Plany.tn to compare agencies and book—it’s saved me from quite a few unpleasant surprises.
We’re planning a one-week trip to southern Tunisia in early September and would like to rent a car in Djerba. We don’t have a credit card, only a debit card. Do you have any good tips for rates and reliability?
We’re planning a one-week trip to southern Tunisia in early September and would like to rent a car in Djerba. We don’t have a credit card, only a debit card. Do you have any good tips for rates and reliability?
I’ve rented a car several times in Tunisia, and it’s a bit different from Europe. Most agencies don’t accept bank cards—you need to provide a cash deposit. Prices vary a lot depending on the season (summer, holidays, etc.). Personally, I often use Plany.tn to compare agencies and book—it’s saved me from quite a few bad surprises.
We’re planning a one-week trip to southern Tunisia in early September and would like to rent a car in Djerba. We don’t have a credit card, only a debit card. Do you have any good tips for rates and reliability?
hi, if you book through Booking.com, you don’t need to leave cash with these rental companies—whether they’re scammers or not.
We’re planning a one-week trip to southern Tunisia in early September and would like to rent a car in Djerba. We don’t have a credit card, only a debit card. Do you have any good tips for rates and reliability?
hi, if you book through Booking.com, you don’t need to leave cash with these rental companies—whether they’re scammers or not.
Christine
You're right,
but it's true that with these darn debit cards, it's complicated
People make life harder for themselves by doing the bare minimum All over the world, I only pay with cash and manage to lower prices. Simply because merchants pay a percentage on card payments, a percentage on Booking and Airbnb, etc... (and cash transactions aren't taxed). Same goes for negotiating several nights instead of one.
Hi Christine. Same for me, no credit card payments abroad. I only use it to withdraw cash and then pay in cash. Fewer card traces, so fewer worries... Have a great trip.
People make life harder for themselves by doing the bare minimum All over the world, I only pay with cash and manage to lower prices. Simply because merchants pay a percentage on card payments, a percentage on Booking and Airbnb, etc... (and cash transactions aren't taxed). Same goes for negotiating several nights instead of one.
Hi Christine. Same for me, no credit card payments abroad. I only use it to withdraw cash and then pay in cash. Fewer card traces, so fewer worries... Have a great trip.
Ne rien posséder et voyager. La Liberté
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We’re looking for all the advice you can give to help us plan our stay:
* What are the must-see places to visit? * Which cities or villages are really worth the detour? * What natural sites, hikes, canyons, springs, or viewpoints do you recommend? * Do you know of any free, uncrowded, or particularly beautiful beaches? * Where can we responsibly observe or swim with sea turtles? * What are the most beautiful beaches on the Albanian Riviera that are accessible on a small budget? * What budget-friendly accommodations (hotels, hostels, homestays, campgrounds) do you recommend? * What are the best ways to get around between different regions at a low cost? * Do you know of any reliable and affordable agencies for renting a vehicle (car, scooter, or motorcycle)? What are the average rates at the end of June, and which rental companies do you recommend or advise against? * Is it better to rent a vehicle right when we arrive or stick to local buses and minibuses to keep costs down? * Which restaurants or local specialties offer the best value for money? * Are there any free or low-cost activities we shouldn’t miss? * Which places do you think are overrated or can be skipped when you’re short on time and money? * What practical tips would you have wished you knew before your first trip to Albania?
We’d also love any 10-day itineraries that you particularly enjoyed, along with your budget estimates for accommodation, meals, and transportation.
We’re open to off-the-beaten-path spots and local tips. If you have any secret addresses, hidden beaches, favorite accommodations, or mistakes to avoid, we’d love to hear about them! 😊
We’re a young couple planning our first trip to Albania from June 23, 2026, to July 2, 2026. We have a pretty tight budget and want to make the most of this amazing country without breaking the bank.
We’re looking for all the advice you can give to help us plan our stay:
* What are the must-see places to visit? * Which cities or villages are really worth the detour? * What natural sites, hikes, canyons, springs, or viewpoints do you recommend? * Do you know of any free, uncrowded, or particularly beautiful beaches? * Where can we responsibly observe or swim with sea turtles? * What are the most beautiful beaches on the Albanian Riviera that are accessible on a small budget? * What budget-friendly accommodations (hotels, hostels, homestays, campgrounds) do you recommend? * What are the best ways to get around between different regions at a low cost? * Do you know of any reliable and affordable agencies for renting a vehicle (car, scooter, or motorcycle)? What are the average rates at the end of June, and which rental companies do you recommend or advise against? * Is it better to rent a vehicle right when we arrive or stick to local buses and minibuses to keep costs down? * Which restaurants or local specialties offer the best value for money? * Are there any free or low-cost activities we shouldn’t miss? * Which places do you think are overrated or can be skipped when you’re short on time and money? * What practical tips would you have wished you knew before your first trip to Albania?
We’d also love any 10-day itineraries that you particularly enjoyed, along with your budget estimates for accommodation, meals, and transportation.
We’re open to off-the-beaten-path spots and local tips. If you have any secret addresses, hidden beaches, favorite accommodations, or mistakes to avoid, we’d love to hear about them! 😊
Hi there, we’re planning a road trip in northern Algeria at the end of January – early February.
Anyone have any tips for a car rental agency that’s both reliable and not too expensive? Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
I traveled through southern Peru in November 2024 and now I’d like to explore the north. We’re a group of 5 people for a 15-day trip.
Iquitos or Nauta for the Amazon rainforest—I saw that you have to fly there. Chiclayo Chachapoyas Kuelap Leimebamba Cajamarca Trujillo And if we have time, Huaraz for the Andes cordillera.
No problem taking overnight buses—they save a lot of time. Or renting a car and figuring it out as we go.
We’d also love to take the train from Lima to Huancayo, but it seems complicated—I don’t understand when it runs.
Thanks for your help! Best regards,
I traveled through southern Peru in November 2024 and now I’d like to explore the north. We’re a group of 5 people for a 15-day trip.
Iquitos or Nauta for the Amazon rainforest—I saw that you have to fly there. Chiclayo Chachapoyas Kuelap Leimebamba Cajamarca Trujillo And if we have time, Huaraz for the Andes cordillera.
No problem taking overnight buses—they save a lot of time. Or renting a car and figuring it out as we go.
We’d also love to take the train from Lima to Huancayo, but it seems complicated—I don’t understand when it runs.
Thanks for your help! Best regards,
I’d like to drive to Morocco from Paris via Spain. I was really surprised to see the ferry crossing prices—around 500 €—but especially the crossing time (about 1 hour). Normally, I pay 3000 € to go to Tunisia from Genoa, but that’s for a 24-hour crossing.
My question: is it cheaper to buy the ticket on the spot, as some Moroccans have advised me? Though I’ve also heard the opposite.
What do you think, considering I need to get to Tétouan around July 17th and return from Tangier around August 4th?
Thanks in advance
Is there a bus between Djema el Fna square and Guéliz? Where do you catch it?
Change: at Djema el Fna square or go to Bld Mohamed V?
Thanks!
Hi there,
I’m planning a 10-day trip to Slovenia in May (9–19 May) and starting to look at accommodations. Unfortunately, I’m only seeing relatively expensive options—nothing under 50 €, and usually around 100–150 €. Traveling solo, that could quickly blow my budget. And 30 € for a bed in a 10-person dorm at a youth hostel feels like a rip-off...
Are there other booking sources besides the usual Booking.com, Airbnb, and Google? Or can anyone confirm if I’ll find more reasonable rates on the ground around Bled, Bohinj, Triglav, or in mountain huts? I’ll be renting a car to optimize my travel, so I won’t be limited geographically.
Thanks so much! !
I’m planning a 10-day trip to Slovenia in May (9–19 May) and starting to look at accommodations. Unfortunately, I’m only seeing relatively expensive options—nothing under 50 €, and usually around 100–150 €. Traveling solo, that could quickly blow my budget. And 30 € for a bed in a 10-person dorm at a youth hostel feels like a rip-off...
Are there other booking sources besides the usual Booking.com, Airbnb, and Google? Or can anyone confirm if I’ll find more reasonable rates on the ground around Bled, Bohinj, Triglav, or in mountain huts? I’ll be renting a car to optimize my travel, so I won’t be limited geographically.
Thanks so much! !
Hi there,
Could you recommend some nice and affordable neighborhoods to book a hotel in for visiting Nice and exploring its surroundings and nearby villages?
I’d like to know if it’s better to book the entire stay in Nice and take day trips to the villages, or if there are villages worth spending at least one night in to really explore them properly?
Since all the villages are stunning and we have to make a choice, which ones are absolutely must-visit?
My 16-year-old daughter and I will be spending a week there at the end of April. We’ll arrive by TGV from Paris and plan to use public transport during our stay. Do you know if there’s a weekly transport pass available and how much it costs?
Thanks in advance for your help!
I’d like to know if it’s better to book the entire stay in Nice and take day trips to the villages, or if there are villages worth spending at least one night in to really explore them properly?
Since all the villages are stunning and we have to make a choice, which ones are absolutely must-visit?
My 16-year-old daughter and I will be spending a week there at the end of April. We’ll arrive by TGV from Paris and plan to use public transport during our stay. Do you know if there’s a weekly transport pass available and how much it costs?
Thanks in advance for your help!
hi there
I’m planning to spend about twenty days in Réunion in November. I’d like to get around using the *car jaune* (2 € per ticket), but from what I’ve heard, it doesn’t cover the whole island. I’m not looking to head toward the ocean and the beautiful beaches—more toward the mountainous landscapes, even if I’ll just be admiring them from below. 😉 Maybe other buses go where I want to go. By the way, are there any relatively easy mountain hikes, and where?
But here’s the most important part: I don’t want to book anything in advance because I don’t know what my itinerary will look like—it’ll change depending on my mood. 3 days here, 5 days there, etc. On top of that, I’d like to arrange half-board stays with locals—not professionals—by approaching them and asking if they’d be willing to host me (overnight stay, breakfast, and dinner) for 30 € to 40 € per day.
What do you think? Does the price seem reasonable? And is it okay to take the initiative and ask Réunionnais directly?
The tourist office in Réunion told me that since November is peak tourist season, I should book without delay. 🤪
For four years in a row, I traveled across Canada for a month and a half each time, relying only on hitchhiking and half-board stays with Canadians who welcomed me (and refused to let me pay them).
If I’d listened to my family and friends, I never would’ve taken the leap—and that adventure remains one of the best experiences of my life.
Thanks for your input!
I’m planning to spend about twenty days in Réunion in November. I’d like to get around using the *car jaune* (2 € per ticket), but from what I’ve heard, it doesn’t cover the whole island. I’m not looking to head toward the ocean and the beautiful beaches—more toward the mountainous landscapes, even if I’ll just be admiring them from below. 😉 Maybe other buses go where I want to go. By the way, are there any relatively easy mountain hikes, and where?
But here’s the most important part: I don’t want to book anything in advance because I don’t know what my itinerary will look like—it’ll change depending on my mood. 3 days here, 5 days there, etc. On top of that, I’d like to arrange half-board stays with locals—not professionals—by approaching them and asking if they’d be willing to host me (overnight stay, breakfast, and dinner) for 30 € to 40 € per day.
What do you think? Does the price seem reasonable? And is it okay to take the initiative and ask Réunionnais directly?
The tourist office in Réunion told me that since November is peak tourist season, I should book without delay. 🤪
For four years in a row, I traveled across Canada for a month and a half each time, relying only on hitchhiking and half-board stays with Canadians who welcomed me (and refused to let me pay them).
If I’d listened to my family and friends, I never would’ve taken the leap—and that adventure remains one of the best experiences of my life.
Thanks for your input!
Hi everyone,
It’s been ages since I last dropped by here... maybe simply because, apart from Nepal, I haven’t really had the chance to hit the road lately. 😉
This year, I’d love to spend a few days in Lisbon, probably in late May or early June. But with my budget being what it is, I’m looking for great tips to avoid wasting time once I’m there and risk missing out on hidden gems or unusual culinary specialties and/or quirky activities! I’m hoping to find a room in a local’s home where I can stay in a quiet neighborhood near the center, so I can get around without relying too much on public transport—my walking shoes are my best travel buddies. I’d love all your recommendations, especially for parks, small neighborhood markets, casual eateries for a quick bite, your favorite viewpoints to soak in the scenery (I’m bringing my travel journal to sketch my getaway in watercolors), events around traditional art and crafts, and so on. All your advice will definitely help me travel peacefully and come back with my head full of vibrant memories! Thanks in advance, everyone! Isabelle
It’s been ages since I last dropped by here... maybe simply because, apart from Nepal, I haven’t really had the chance to hit the road lately. 😉
This year, I’d love to spend a few days in Lisbon, probably in late May or early June. But with my budget being what it is, I’m looking for great tips to avoid wasting time once I’m there and risk missing out on hidden gems or unusual culinary specialties and/or quirky activities! I’m hoping to find a room in a local’s home where I can stay in a quiet neighborhood near the center, so I can get around without relying too much on public transport—my walking shoes are my best travel buddies. I’d love all your recommendations, especially for parks, small neighborhood markets, casual eateries for a quick bite, your favorite viewpoints to soak in the scenery (I’m bringing my travel journal to sketch my getaway in watercolors), events around traditional art and crafts, and so on. All your advice will definitely help me travel peacefully and come back with my head full of vibrant memories! Thanks in advance, everyone! Isabelle
Hey everyone!
I’m diving into planning a trip I’ve dreamed of for a long time: crossing Africa from North to South solo, with a departure planned for October 2025 for about 8-9 months. I’m leaving from Paris with a starting budget of around 7,000 €, aiming to supplement it with work along the way.
My planned route: Senegal → Gambia → Sierra Leone/Liberia (if logistics work out) → Côte d'Ivoire → Ghana → Togo → Benin → Cameroon → Gabon → Kenya (Masai Mara) → Uganda (Bwindi gorillas) → Rwanda → Tanzania (Kili + Serengeti + Zanzibar) → Mozambique → Malawi → Zambia (Victoria Falls) → Botswana → Namibia → South Africa (Cape Town). Madagascar as a bonus if timing/budget allows from Mozambique.
I’m not a backpacking newbie—I’ve done several trips in Europe and I’m familiar with the lifestyle, hostels, local transport, etc. But Africa is my first big adventure on this continent, and I’ve got some very concrete questions I’d love feedback on from people who’ve been there.
🎭 My big dilemma: flexibility vs. pre-organized work
What matters most to me is NOT rushing through. If I feel good somewhere, I’ll stay longer. If a region doesn’t click, I’ll cut it short. That seems totally incompatible with having pre-booked work or volunteer gigs, yet I need that income to stretch my budget.
I’m torn between two approaches:
Option A: The mixed rhythm: 3-4 weeks of volunteering in a country (free accommodation, full immersion), then 1-2 countries in classic backpacker "vacation" mode, then another mission somewhere, etc. This gives a breathing rhythm and avoids burnout from non-stop volunteering.
Option B: The continuous flow: finding gigs as I go, from the previous country, contacting hosts 2-3 weeks in advance with a flexible date range. Keeping maximum spontaneity but never arriving anywhere without a safety net.
Have you tried either? What actually works on the ground in Africa?
🌍 What I’m really looking for in this trip
Not just the classic tourist spots. I want to see the country as it is—eating at local joints, taking local transport (bush taxis, minibuses, sept-places), staying with locals when possible. The big reserves and safaris are part of the plan (Masai Mara, Serengeti, Okavango), but just as much as hanging out in a residential neighborhood in Dakar, understanding how people really live.
Volunteering or work interests me for that reason too (not just for free lodging, but because it’s the deepest way to dive into a country). Working at a school in Ghana, a lodge in Kenya, a permaculture farm in Mozambique—I see it as an immersion that classic tourism can’t offer.
🎒 My concrete questions
About Workaway and Worldpackers: I’ve read a lot but would love on-the-ground feedback, especially for West and East Africa. Are hosts really flexible with dates for long-term travelers? Do the advertised gigs match reality? Are there alternative platforms you’d recommend for Africa specifically (I’ve heard of Help Exchange, WWOOF Africa, local networks…)?
About "off-platform" jobs: Is it really doable to find informal work on the spot (bars, restaurants, lodges) without prior contacts? In which countries/cities is this most accessible for a French speaker without a local work permit?
About logistics between countries: For those who’ve done the West Coast (Senegal → Ghana → Benin), how did you cross borders? Direct buses or local shared taxis at each border? And for the jump from Central Africa → Kenya, is a flight mandatory, or are there feasible overland routes?
About Madagascar: I’m considering adding it from Mozambique (flight Maputo or Beira → Tana). Those who’ve done it backpacker-style on a tight budget—is 3-4 weeks doable, or is it too short to be worth it?
I’m open to all tips, experiences, warnings, and pleasant surprises. And if you’ve got trusted local contacts (Workaway hosts, associations, community lodges), I’m all ears!
I’ve got tons of questions and I’m eager for any advice or experiences you can share!!
I’m diving into planning a trip I’ve dreamed of for a long time: crossing Africa from North to South solo, with a departure planned for October 2025 for about 8-9 months. I’m leaving from Paris with a starting budget of around 7,000 €, aiming to supplement it with work along the way.
My planned route: Senegal → Gambia → Sierra Leone/Liberia (if logistics work out) → Côte d'Ivoire → Ghana → Togo → Benin → Cameroon → Gabon → Kenya (Masai Mara) → Uganda (Bwindi gorillas) → Rwanda → Tanzania (Kili + Serengeti + Zanzibar) → Mozambique → Malawi → Zambia (Victoria Falls) → Botswana → Namibia → South Africa (Cape Town). Madagascar as a bonus if timing/budget allows from Mozambique.
I’m not a backpacking newbie—I’ve done several trips in Europe and I’m familiar with the lifestyle, hostels, local transport, etc. But Africa is my first big adventure on this continent, and I’ve got some very concrete questions I’d love feedback on from people who’ve been there.
🎭 My big dilemma: flexibility vs. pre-organized work
What matters most to me is NOT rushing through. If I feel good somewhere, I’ll stay longer. If a region doesn’t click, I’ll cut it short. That seems totally incompatible with having pre-booked work or volunteer gigs, yet I need that income to stretch my budget.
I’m torn between two approaches:
Option A: The mixed rhythm: 3-4 weeks of volunteering in a country (free accommodation, full immersion), then 1-2 countries in classic backpacker "vacation" mode, then another mission somewhere, etc. This gives a breathing rhythm and avoids burnout from non-stop volunteering.
Option B: The continuous flow: finding gigs as I go, from the previous country, contacting hosts 2-3 weeks in advance with a flexible date range. Keeping maximum spontaneity but never arriving anywhere without a safety net.
Have you tried either? What actually works on the ground in Africa?
🌍 What I’m really looking for in this trip
Not just the classic tourist spots. I want to see the country as it is—eating at local joints, taking local transport (bush taxis, minibuses, sept-places), staying with locals when possible. The big reserves and safaris are part of the plan (Masai Mara, Serengeti, Okavango), but just as much as hanging out in a residential neighborhood in Dakar, understanding how people really live.
Volunteering or work interests me for that reason too (not just for free lodging, but because it’s the deepest way to dive into a country). Working at a school in Ghana, a lodge in Kenya, a permaculture farm in Mozambique—I see it as an immersion that classic tourism can’t offer.
🎒 My concrete questions
About Workaway and Worldpackers: I’ve read a lot but would love on-the-ground feedback, especially for West and East Africa. Are hosts really flexible with dates for long-term travelers? Do the advertised gigs match reality? Are there alternative platforms you’d recommend for Africa specifically (I’ve heard of Help Exchange, WWOOF Africa, local networks…)?
About "off-platform" jobs: Is it really doable to find informal work on the spot (bars, restaurants, lodges) without prior contacts? In which countries/cities is this most accessible for a French speaker without a local work permit?
About logistics between countries: For those who’ve done the West Coast (Senegal → Ghana → Benin), how did you cross borders? Direct buses or local shared taxis at each border? And for the jump from Central Africa → Kenya, is a flight mandatory, or are there feasible overland routes?
About Madagascar: I’m considering adding it from Mozambique (flight Maputo or Beira → Tana). Those who’ve done it backpacker-style on a tight budget—is 3-4 weeks doable, or is it too short to be worth it?
I’m open to all tips, experiences, warnings, and pleasant surprises. And if you’ve got trusted local contacts (Workaway hosts, associations, community lodges), I’m all ears!
I’ve got tons of questions and I’m eager for any advice or experiences you can share!!
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip for 2 adults and 2 kids to Tanzania and Zanzibar. I’ve had a quick look, and the prices are starting to get pretty wild.
We’ve got a budget of 8,000 €, and I was thinking of doing three or four days of safari and three or four days in Zanzibar, but even that seems like it might be over budget. Have you got any thoughts? I was also considering heading straight to Zanzibar and doing a one- or two-day excursion by plane instead—maybe that’d be cheaper than staying in a lodge.
Anyway, thanks for sharing your experiences and any price tips, departing from Nice!
Good evening,
As two senior French couples who are used to traveling independently all over the world, we’d like to visit Kenya next November.
Now, after seeing and reading a bit everywhere, and with the first quotes for a 6/7-day safari, I’m shocked by the prices (like $2,250) for places like Maasai Mara, where entry alone costs $200 per person per day, plus fees for the driver and vehicle.
So if you have any recent great tips or contacts to share to help me out, I’d really appreciate it—because despite the costs, we’d still love to go, while keeping things reasonable.
The most plausible solution is probably renting a vehicle with a driver-guide.
Thanks in advance for all your replies.
Jacques
We’ll be in Srinagar for 4 days in mid-May 2026 during our backpacking trip as a couple. Do you have any nice places to recommend, and what about the houseboats on Dal Lake? Should we spend all our nights there, or just one night for practicality when getting around?
Thanks,
Rozenn
Hi there,
This is my first time traveling to Italy, and I’m planning to go by car.
From what I’ve read, parking is tough in cities like Florence.
I’m looking for a small town not too far from Florence where I can stay and park my car, then take the train to visit Florence.
Any ideas or suggestions?
Thanks in advance
Hi there, it’s been a long time since I last went to London. I’d love to spend a week there in July with my daughter and my niece (both young adults).
Of course, I’m looking for great tips on accommodation, and I’m wondering about renting an apartment. It seems like a better deal to save on restaurants (with the option of having a few meals at home... but is that really the case? I’m not sure about the cost of a meal in a modest restaurant, the pound exchange rate, or grocery prices...). Otherwise, I’d like to stay in accommodation (hotel or apartment) near a tube station and in Zone 1.
If you have any great tips, I’d love to hear them!
Thanks,
Marsyork
Of course, I’m looking for great tips on accommodation, and I’m wondering about renting an apartment. It seems like a better deal to save on restaurants (with the option of having a few meals at home... but is that really the case? I’m not sure about the cost of a meal in a modest restaurant, the pound exchange rate, or grocery prices...). Otherwise, I’d like to stay in accommodation (hotel or apartment) near a tube station and in Zone 1.
If you have any great tips, I’d love to hear them!
Thanks,
Marsyork
Hi everyone!
I’m heading to Morocco for a trip in the south, starting with 3 days in Marrakech (from January 8th to 11th, 2026).
If you’ve got any tips, cool spots to recommend, I’m all ears! 🎊
And, fellow traveler, if you’d like to share this Marrakech adventure together, I’d love that!
Have a great evening
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Peru and have estimated how many days I’ll spend in each place.
Any advice on must-see sights and tourist traps to avoid?
September–October
5 days in Lima
Bus: 07:00→13:30 or 06:00 to 09:30 (express) (3 hr 30 min journey) 3 days in Paracas (beach)
3 days in Nazca
3 days in Arequipa
3 days in Puno (Lake Titicaca)
5 days in Cusco
Thanks in advance
5 days in Lima
Bus: 07:00→13:30 or 06:00 to 09:30 (express) (3 hr 30 min journey) 3 days in Paracas (beach)
3 days in Nazca
3 days in Arequipa
3 days in Puno (Lake Titicaca)
5 days in Cusco
Thanks in advance
I'd love some destination suggestions for a road trip from Nice to Livorno by car, including the routes, tolls to cross, distance, and estimated travel time. We're planning a 5-day trip, with 2 nights near Nice, 1 night along the way, and finally 2 nights in Livorno. There are 4 of us in a rental car, and we'd like to stay in either an apartment, a mobile home near the sea, or a campsite. Our budget isn't too extravagant!!!! We want to visit the Promenade des Anglais, and I've heard Menton is really interesting. Once we reach Livorno, we'll take the ferry to Corsica for 12 days with the same rental car. We're planning to leave the last week of May and the first two weeks of June 2026, so around 17-18 days total.
Thanks
Hello everyone,
We’re planning our next trip for this winter and need some advice to put it together. We’d love to avoid renting a car for the whole time. We visited southern Morocco back in 2011—our first trip as retirees! We loved the country so much, and now we’re heading back. Still focusing on the south, mainly for the weather. The plan is to travel down the coast from Essaouira to the Tighmert oasis at a relaxed pace. First question: is this doable without too much hassle using local transport? The idea of driving for the entire 6-week trip doesn’t really appeal to us. After that, we’d head to Ouarzazate, Skoura, the Todgha Gorge, Tinejdad, Erfoud, and then Marrakesh. I’d also like to visit the Fès region, which we can reach by train from Marrakesh. It’s a bit all over the place, and I’m realizing that as I write!
Thanks in advance for your valuable input! We haven’t booked flights yet or even decided on a starting point. The trip is planned from mid-January to the end of February. We know the end of the trip will fall during Ramadan.