Bonjour je souhaite diviser mon séjour en 2 parties soit 15 jours à phuket et 15 jours sur krabi. Savez-vous si je peux louer une voiture et la rendre a krabi lors de mon retour en France
Merci de vos retours
Bon dimanche
Martine
Manifestations en Thaïlande: partir ou pas dans le pays?
by SuisseChris
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Reçu des conseilles d'un ami qui habite à Bangkok: "Venez sans trop vous préocupper. Personne ne peut savoir comment la crise va se développer dans les prochains jours mais l'expérience montre que les crises précédentes survenues en Thaïlande n'affectent pas particulièrement le tourisme. Il faut juste éviter les zones où ont lieu les manifestations. On conseille aux gens de se renseigner auprès de leur hôtel avant de sortir. Les revendications des manifestants n'ont rien à voir avec les étrangers."
l'expérience montre que les crises précédentes survenues en Thaïlande n'affectent pas particulièrement le tourisme.
Tapez sur un moteur de recherche : blocage aéroport Bangkok 2008 et vous verrez si les crises précédentes n'ont pas affecté le tourisme....
Tapez sur un moteur de recherche : blocage aéroport Bangkok 2008 et vous verrez si les crises précédentes n'ont pas affecté le tourisme....
"Le touriste apparait comme le principal agent de diffusion du mépris anti touristique. Plus le touriste se voit en miroir de l'autre, plus il le déteste".
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
Le 5 decembre, anniversaitre du roi, les thais vont se calmer ecris-tu. Peut-etre que oui, peut-etre que non. Une question : lis-tu dans l'avenir ? Dans ce cas, nettoie ta boule de cristal parce que le leader democrate Suthep a pose un ultimatum a la premiere ministre pour qu'elle demissionne. Et, comme c'est etrange, la date fixee pour cet ultimatum est justement celle du 5 decembre. Cela promet-il un beau feu d'artifice sur Sanam Luang ?
Desole que tu ne sois pas d'accord , mais depuis 12 ans que je suis a Bangkok, c'est toujours les meme revendications et je te redis que le 5 Decembre sera un jour calme jusqu'au week-end ou les manifs reprendront, et tu as raison pour les feux d'artifice mais se sera pour le Roi.
Desole que tu ne sois pas d'accord , mais depuis 12 ans que je suis a Bangkok, c'est toujours les meme revendications et je te redis que le 5 Decembre sera un jour calme jusqu'au week-end ou les manifs reprendront, et tu as raison pour les feux d'artifice mais se sera pour le Roi.
Il y a deux aeroport a Bkk et je ne pense pas qu'ils aient l'intention de bloquer comme en 2010, en Thailande on a pas de greve surprise comme en France.
Reçu des conseilles d'un ami qui habite à Bangkok: "Venez sans trop vous préocupper. Personne ne peut savoir comment la crise va se développer dans les prochains jours mais l'expérience montre que les crises précédentes survenues en Thaïlande n'affectent pas particulièrement le tourisme. Il faut juste éviter les zones où ont lieu les manifestations. On conseille aux gens de se renseigner auprès de leur hôtel avant de sortir. Les revendications des manifestants n'ont rien à voir avec les étrangers."
Bonjour, Pensez-vous qu'il est nécessaire en tant que ressortissants français de signaler notre arrivée à l'ambassade de France une fois arrivés à bangkok?
Bonjour, Pensez-vous qu'il est nécessaire en tant que ressortissants français de signaler notre arrivée à l'ambassade de France une fois arrivés à bangkok?
A voir aussi un document d'archive.
Le jeune Roi est interviewé en Suisse sur les dangers que représente le communisme Laotien.
Plutôt que de faire sa propagande de bas étage sur des sujets qu'il ne maitrise pas, il aurait mieux fait de parler des fortunes colossales qu'il pique au peuple thaï et qu'il vient planquer en Suisse justement.
Plutôt que de faire sa propagande de bas étage sur des sujets qu'il ne maitrise pas, il aurait mieux fait de parler des fortunes colossales qu'il pique au peuple thaï et qu'il vient planquer en Suisse justement.
Il y a deux aeroport a Bkk et je ne pense pas qu'ils aient l'intention de bloquer comme en 2010, en Thailande on a pas de greve surprise comme en France.
En 2010, rien à voir, c'était le nuage islandais. Et 2008, ce n'était pas une gréve mais une occupation de 'aéroport par les jaunes de l'époque. Quant à leurs intentions, vous êtes comme moi, vous n'en savez rien.
En 2010, rien à voir, c'était le nuage islandais. Et 2008, ce n'était pas une gréve mais une occupation de 'aéroport par les jaunes de l'époque. Quant à leurs intentions, vous êtes comme moi, vous n'en savez rien.
"Le touriste apparait comme le principal agent de diffusion du mépris anti touristique. Plus le touriste se voit en miroir de l'autre, plus il le déteste".
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
Laisses tomber l'ambassade ils ont autres choses a faire que de s'occuper d'un des milliers de touristes qui viennent de france. Malgre tout nous les residants ils nous envoient des mails pour nous prevenir si ya des precaussions a prendre. bon voyage.
Merci!!! 🙂 Bon stop au stress et on fonce!
Merci!!! 🙂 Bon stop au stress et on fonce!
Il n'y a aucun stress a avoir , tu evites de te meler aux attrouppements des thais et le mieux ; ne reste pas trop a Bangkok ya plein de choses a voir ailleurs . franchement aucun risque a mes yeux , on en est pas au niveau de 2010 avec "la guerre civile".Viens faire un tour a chiang mai on est tranquille ou va au bord de mer.
Passer sa retraite à Bangkok quelle drôle d'idée. Mais chacun fait ce qu'il veut de sa vie. Perso je ne me suis pas sentie bien dans cette ville ni dans les alentours. Et la photo du roi à tout bout de champ ça me rappelle l'URSS dans les années 1970.
Don't feed the troll 😏
La France est le seul pays du monde où, si vous ajoutez dix citoyens à dix autres, vous ne faites pas une addition, mais vingt divisions.
Pierre Daninos
Les carnets du major Thompson
oui tu as raison , mais en toute logique , les chemises jaunes vont reprendre le pouvoir comme la dernière fois. Car il semble que l'armée et la police se trouvent du coté des chemises jaunes :)
Les membres des forces armé et de la police reçoivent leurs salaire de l'état. Forcément qu'ils sont du côté des jaunes.......
Ah bon! Parce que ce sont les jaunes qui sont au pouvoir en ce moment ?
Ah bon! Parce que ce sont les jaunes qui sont au pouvoir en ce moment ?
"Le touriste apparait comme le principal agent de diffusion du mépris anti touristique. Plus le touriste se voit en miroir de l'autre, plus il le déteste".
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
si tu parles du roi comme cela c'est que tu ne connais pas la thailande et les thais. le roi est divin. et il est vraiment vénéré.
on ne critique pas le Roi. le Roi est aimé et réellement aimé par les 3/4 des thais ainsi que la reine
tu réagis comme un ou une francaise :)
on ne critique pas le Roi. le Roi est aimé et réellement aimé par les 3/4 des thais ainsi que la reine
tu réagis comme un ou une francaise :)
Bonjour
il n'y a aucun problemes a bangkok... si tu evites de t'habiller en rouge ou en jaune et de prendre parti et tu evites surtout les universites ok le quartier historiques sont super tranquil et kao san n'est dangereux que pour le portefeuille des touristes ahahah ;) bon voyage... et si tu cherches a eviter des problemes je te conseille un site ou trouver des expats locaux qui t'aideront friendlylocaltrip (.)com
il n'y a aucun problemes a bangkok... si tu evites de t'habiller en rouge ou en jaune et de prendre parti et tu evites surtout les universites ok le quartier historiques sont super tranquil et kao san n'est dangereux que pour le portefeuille des touristes ahahah ;) bon voyage... et si tu cherches a eviter des problemes je te conseille un site ou trouver des expats locaux qui t'aideront friendlylocaltrip (.)com
stephane
Passer sa retraite à Bangkok quelle drôle d'idée.
Je t'assure que j'en connais pleins qui disent qu'ils ne refouteront plus les pieds en France...
Mais chacun fait ce qu'il veut de sa vie.
Exact! Et chacun pense comme il veut!
Perso je ne me suis pas sentie bien dans cette ville ni dans les alentours
Je pense que c'est normal... on appelle ça le "dépaysement"
. Et la photo du roi à tout bout de champ ça me rappelle l'URSS dans les années 1970
C''est pas faux, vu par les yeux d'une "fraçaise" comme le dirait le membre pacsman...
Je t'assure que j'en connais pleins qui disent qu'ils ne refouteront plus les pieds en France...
Mais chacun fait ce qu'il veut de sa vie.
Exact! Et chacun pense comme il veut!
Perso je ne me suis pas sentie bien dans cette ville ni dans les alentours
Je pense que c'est normal... on appelle ça le "dépaysement"
. Et la photo du roi à tout bout de champ ça me rappelle l'URSS dans les années 1970
C''est pas faux, vu par les yeux d'une "fraçaise" comme le dirait le membre pacsman...
Vous devez avoir des mirages, c'était PAUL Chaudet 🤪🤪🤪
Diogène
« "Les mathématiciens étudient le soleil et la lune et oublient ce qu'ils ont sous les pieds"»
« "Les mathématiciens étudient le soleil et la lune et oublient ce qu'ils ont sous les pieds"»
Promis, si jamais j'écris à nouveau un message, j'éviterai de renouveler le genre d’ allusion légèrement moqueuse que je me suis autorisé ( cf feu d'artifice à Sanam Luang ).
Ce 5 décembre, sera comme d’hab’, un jour dédié à la seule gloire du roi. Et les thaïlandais, que ce soit sincère ou sous la contrainte de la pression sociale, familiale ou du qu’en dira-t-on, lui présentera ses dévotions. Mais comment résister à cinquante ans de propagande à coups de messages, d’affichages publics et privés, de leçons à l’école ? D’autant que les rares qui s’aventureraient publiquement à dénoncer certains aspects du règne de sa majesté et de la famille royale savent que le crime de lèse-majesté n’est pas qu’une figure de rhétorique. Et si c’est une justification bien commode pour embastiller des opposants gênants, il semble que le motif ait été utilisé il y a quelques mois pour punir un auteur thaï (vivant aux USA). Son sacrilège ? Faire paraître un livre écrit en thaï, et critique à l’égard du roi.
Les différentes parties (dont évidemment le P.A.D.) ayant appelé à calmer le jeu et à montrer tout le respect porté au roi, c’est une journée qui devrait être calme. Evidemment. Ensuite ? L’ultimatum des « démocrates » court toujours. Pour sa part, le clan Thaksin joue l'ouverture, la négociation. Leur leader Sutheplui qui voudrait bien être calife à la place de l’autre, reprend une proposition déjà avancée par Abbhisit, me semble-t-il : nommer une personnalité, hors champ politique, qui ait l'agrément du roi ; ceci, afin de former un gouvernement provisoire en attendant de nouvelles élections. Sacrés « démocrates » de bleus, ça c'est de la démocratie, passer par la reconnaissance royale. Pour sa part, bien obligé et pour paraître être attentif au sort de la population et ne pas effaroucher les étrangers et les investisseurs, le clan Thaksin joue l'ouverture, la négociation. En attendant et tant mieux pour les thaïlandais, les évènements se calment. Parce qu’au fond qu’a-t-elle à gagner cette population d’une lutte entre leaders de partis dont l’ambition est de mettre le pays sous coupe réglée à leur seul profit personnel ? C’est du moins mon analyse. Allez, ce soir, histoire de, j'irai faire un tour à Sanam Luang.
Vous n'avez nul tort à vous exprimer, profitons de ce qui reste de notre démocratie pour le faire ici en Europe...
Je connais mal l'histoire politique de la Thaïlande, c'est un fait, mais votre regard sur le résultat nul que les Thaïlandais obtiendrait dans une révolte à long terme hélas probablement vouée à la stérilité éclate de pertinence.
Sawasdee!
Sawasdee!
Vivre au maximum
Je connais mal l'histoire politique de la Thaïlande
Bonjour ,
Tiens voici un tout petit aperçu . 😉 http://www.monde-diplomatique.fr/2010/07/CAMROUX/19365
Bonjour ,
Tiens voici un tout petit aperçu . 😉 http://www.monde-diplomatique.fr/2010/07/CAMROUX/19365
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Tiens voici un tout petit aperçu . 😉 http://www.monde-diplomatique.fr/2010/07/CAMROUX...
Merci Marco... 😉
Merci Marco... 😉
Vous savez, les Thaïes ont une longue ligné de civilisation, mais pas exclusive. Les Birmans, Hakas, Khmers et prés Moka-Qmers, les Mok-Kmers occupaient déjà le territoire avant les colombiens. Avec Aung San Suu Kyi (Maa Su) libre, ils finiront vraisemblablement par arrivés à faire reconnaître leurs réalité. Les autochtones finiront par se réalisés je pense, ce, sur tout les continents.
Et, en voici un autre.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIzs_8O6Dj8
Evitez de vous trouver le mardi 10 décembre ( Constitution Day _ jour férié ) à Ayutthaya :
Les chemises rouges y ont prévu une manifestation de masse pour soutenir le gouvernement.
Aucune perturbation a l aéroport. International de BKK ni au domestique
De toute façon les émeutes concernent les chemise rouges et jaunes les touristes ne sont pas concernes s ils évitent ces endroits
Je rassure les parents pas de pb
Pour les personnes qui ont une correspondance avec air asia après avoir passe la douane a l'aéroport international aller a la porte 3 (au fond) et prendre le shirt le gratuit en présentant son billet il vous amènera directement a l aéroport domestique pour prendre votre correspondance cela vous évitera les discussions avec les taxis et de plus c'est gratuit
Compter entre 30 et 45 mn de bus si circulation fluide ce qui était mon cas
Il fait très chaud ne vous surchargez pas en lainage
En ce moment je suis au Cambodge il fait aussi très chaud demain je vais a Angkor visiter les temples
Bon voyage et partez l esprit tranquille
Tu vois, comme la boule de cristal l'avait dit, tout le monde s'est calmé pour la fête du Roi. 😎
Ce que je pense de ce pays s'est donc avéré vrai. Critiquer le roi ou lui faire offense est inimaginable.
Souverain en activité dont le règne est le plus loin aujourd'hui (depuis 1946), il s'inscrit comme un père pour tous, un grand-père, un ainé. Donc quelqu'un qui par nature, est forcément respectable.
Il a fait grandir ce pays, lui permettant de devenir une puissance économique d'Asie du sud-est, adhérente et créatrice de l'ASEAN en 1967 (date anniversaire dans quelques jours) dont le siège est à Bangkok, un pays connu à travers le monde.
Il a fait émergé une classe moyenne, et apporter à beaucoup, même parmi les rouges, bien plus qu'ils n'avaient auparavant. Ces actions bénéfiques pour le pays, inscrites dans le temps, font de lui un être presque divin.
Qui ne respecterait pas quelqu'un avec un tel bilan, que grand-parents et arrière-grands parents ont connu...?
Alors oui tout n'est pas parfait, mais dans quel pays approche-t-on la perfection ?
La société thai se paye même le luxe de conserver encore intactes, beaucoup de traditions et de pratiques. A défaut parfois, de corriger certaines pratiques que je n'approuve pas.
Le jeu politique va bientôt reprendre son cours. Mais, les propos du roi sont un rappel à l'ordre pour la première ministre, ses soutiens et les opposants. Le roi demande clairement à ce que les choses se fassent en harmonie. Si la ministre revenaient en arrière, faisaient des concessions aux rouge (notamment dans le domaine médical), je pense que l'opposition perdrait en soutien. Reste à voir comment se dérouleront les choses. En tout cas je pense que les propos du Roi ont rassurés, car dans mes contacts plusieurs personnes étaient vraiment inquiètes - de la peur pour le pays. Pourtant, il y a eu moins de débordements qu'en 2010..
Chalut ! 🙂
Le jeu politique va bientôt reprendre son cours. Mais, les propos du roi sont un rappel à l'ordre pour la première ministre, ses soutiens et les opposants. Le roi demande clairement à ce que les choses se fassent en harmonie. Si la ministre revenaient en arrière, faisaient des concessions aux rouge (notamment dans le domaine médical), je pense que l'opposition perdrait en soutien. Reste à voir comment se dérouleront les choses. En tout cas je pense que les propos du Roi ont rassurés, car dans mes contacts plusieurs personnes étaient vraiment inquiètes - de la peur pour le pays. Pourtant, il y a eu moins de débordements qu'en 2010..
Chalut ! 🙂
S'il ne te reste que quelques secondes à vivre, prend simplement le temps d'ouvrir les yeux...
Silvestik
T
Il a fait grandir ce pays, lui permettant de devenir une puissance économique d'Asie du sud-est, adhérente et créatrice de l'ASEAN en 1967 (date anniversaire dans quelques jours) dont le siège est à Bangkok, un pays connu à travers le monde.
Il a fait émergé une classe moyenne, et apporter à beaucoup, même parmi les rouges, bien plus qu'ils n'avaient auparavant. Ces actions bénéfiques pour le pays, inscrites dans le temps, font de lui un être presque divin.
Il n'y a pas de roi à Singapour ni en Indonésie ou en Malaisie, et ces pays là ont aussi grandi. Le roi ne revendique pas de rôle "politique" actif. C'est une monarchie constitutionelle, qui a connu aussi des périodes de dictatures militaires.
Il n'y a pas de roi à Singapour ni en Indonésie ou en Malaisie, et ces pays là ont aussi grandi. Le roi ne revendique pas de rôle "politique" actif. C'est une monarchie constitutionelle, qui a connu aussi des périodes de dictatures militaires.
"Le touriste apparait comme le principal agent de diffusion du mépris anti touristique. Plus le touriste se voit en miroir de l'autre, plus il le déteste".
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
JEAN DIDIER URBAIN "L'idiot du voyage"
d'accord ! je suis d'accord avec cela, mais là c'est la société qui fonctionne avec ce modèle.
c'est pour cette raison qu'il est devenu une icone.
modèle qu'on peut critiquer d'ailleurs.
🙂
S'il ne te reste que quelques secondes à vivre, prend simplement le temps d'ouvrir les yeux...
Silvestik
Il n'y a pas de roi à Singapour ni en Indonésie ou en Malaisie,
Bonjour Henri , 😉
Si si il y a bien un Roi en Malaisie , voir là >> http://fr.wikipedia.org/...des_rois_de_Malaisie
Bonjour Henri , 😉
Si si il y a bien un Roi en Malaisie , voir là >> http://fr.wikipedia.org/...des_rois_de_Malaisie
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Un Roi élu parmi l'élite et qui le reste 5 ans...
Exact .
Exact .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Nouvelle recommandation de l'Ambassade de France pour demain lundi:
L’Ambassade souhaite attirer votre attention sur l’évolution des manifestations à Bangkok. Le mouvement anti-gouvernemental a de nouveau lancé de nombreux appels à manifester à Bangkok, le lundi 9 décembre. Le rassemblement le plus important doit avoir lieu autour des Bureaux du Premier ministre ("Government House"), à partir de 9 heures 30. Des marches sont également prévues depuis les principaux points de rassemblement (cette liste n'est pas exhaustive), notamment de la place du monument de la Démocratie, du complexe administratif de Chaeng Wattana, des alentours du ministère des Finances, des principales universités et probablement de certains quartiers d'affaires (avenues Silom et Sathorn).
Il est formellement recommandé d'éviter tout rassemblement ou manifestation, notamment les sites suivants :
- les alentours des bureaux du Premier ministre (les ponts Makkawan, Chamai Maruchet, Orathai), - l'avenue Ratchadamnoen, - le quartier-général de la police métropolitaine métropolitaine (sur l'avenue Sri Ayutthaya, proche de l'avenue Rama V), - Le quartier-général de la police nationale (sur l'avenue Rama I à proximité des centres commerciaux Siam Paragon et Central World).
Ambassade de France
L’Ambassade souhaite attirer votre attention sur l’évolution des manifestations à Bangkok. Le mouvement anti-gouvernemental a de nouveau lancé de nombreux appels à manifester à Bangkok, le lundi 9 décembre. Le rassemblement le plus important doit avoir lieu autour des Bureaux du Premier ministre ("Government House"), à partir de 9 heures 30. Des marches sont également prévues depuis les principaux points de rassemblement (cette liste n'est pas exhaustive), notamment de la place du monument de la Démocratie, du complexe administratif de Chaeng Wattana, des alentours du ministère des Finances, des principales universités et probablement de certains quartiers d'affaires (avenues Silom et Sathorn).
Il est formellement recommandé d'éviter tout rassemblement ou manifestation, notamment les sites suivants :
- les alentours des bureaux du Premier ministre (les ponts Makkawan, Chamai Maruchet, Orathai), - l'avenue Ratchadamnoen, - le quartier-général de la police métropolitaine métropolitaine (sur l'avenue Sri Ayutthaya, proche de l'avenue Rama V), - Le quartier-général de la police nationale (sur l'avenue Rama I à proximité des centres commerciaux Siam Paragon et Central World).
Ambassade de France
La France est le seul pays du monde où, si vous ajoutez dix citoyens à dix autres, vous ne faites pas une addition, mais vingt divisions.
Pierre Daninos
Les carnets du major Thompson
Ne vous inquiétez surtout pas pour partir en Thailande !
En france il y a les bonnets rouges, ici il y a les chemises jaunes et rouges, c est pareil ...
A part certains quartiers de Bangkok où il y a un peu d agitation, ailleurs tout va bien . C est comme si les touristes qui viennent en France , avaient peur d aller en Bretagne.🤪
Mathieu à Koh Samui
Un Roi élu parmi l'élite et qui le reste 5 ans...
En France c'est pareil aussi !! 😉
En France c'est pareil aussi !! 😉
"Dans vos phrases, n'utilisez qu'un sujet, un verbe, un complément d"objet direct ; Quand vous aurez besoin d'un adjectif, venez me trouver." (Georges Clemenceau)
Un Roi élu parmi l'élite et qui le reste 5 ans...
En France c'est pareil aussi !! 😉
+111111111111
En France c'est pareil aussi !! 😉
+111111111111
La France est le seul pays du monde où, si vous ajoutez dix citoyens à dix autres, vous ne faites pas une addition, mais vingt divisions.
Pierre Daninos
Les carnets du major Thompson
desolé je ne suis pas dans le politiquement correcte du forum :).
je reconnais absolument le droit à tout le monde de dire son opinion, ses critiques, etc..... Nous avons cette liberté de dire ce que l'on pense et il faut qu'on l'utilise et si necessaire que l'on débatte.
mais il est aussi interessant de remarquer comment les gens juge les autres ceux qui ont une tradition differente de la notre. Comme bon francais je te rejoins dans l'analyse. On ne peut pas comprendre cette vénération. Pourtant sommes nous si différent d'eux ????
Nos traditions , nos coutumes, notre facon de fonctionner , d'aimer sont differents et pourtant nous sommes aussi dans un systeme dans lequel tu es et que tu défends et cela existe depuis des lustres.
tu as profondement un regard de francaise. Avant de porter un jugement tres occidentale , regarde comment toi tu vis .
Crois tu etre aussi differente ???? Oui dans la forme surement pas dans le fond pas dans le fond. Tu es differente tout simplement. Ne regarde pas les autres avec tes yeux mais accepte la difference. Cela fait 10 ans que je vais en thailande et au cambodge. J'étais comme toi et j'ai été vivre dans des villages, partager le quotidien des habitants. Franchement je ne vois pas de difference . On est different sur plein de point de la vie , de l'amour, du sexe, des traditions, des valeurs. Mais je crois que c'est une richesse. Crois tu qu'un pays qui vénère un Roi est plus malheureux qu'un systeme communiste ? Dictature de droite ? une soit disant démocratie. Crois tu etre vraiment plus libre qu'eux ?????? Je ne sais pas ton parcours de vie , mais pour avoir ce regard il me semble que tu ne t'es pas fondu dans la population. Nous , on a le droit de critiquer nos dirigeants. Oui uniquement critiquer. C'EST TOUT !!!!!! Nous n'avons pas plus de droit de decision qu'eux. ON EST PAREIL SANUF LE SYSTEME EST DIFFERENT :) On a bien un president roi. OUi c'est vrai on a la possibilité de mettre un bulletin pour le garder ou le faire partir. Cela change quelque chose ????? RIEN ABSOLUMENT RIEN.Il y a une oligarchie qui gère tout :)
Voila ce que je voulais dire . Cela me semble important . Ne pas juger les autres car on n'est pas mieux et je pourrais te donner plein d'exemple
je reconnais absolument le droit à tout le monde de dire son opinion, ses critiques, etc..... Nous avons cette liberté de dire ce que l'on pense et il faut qu'on l'utilise et si necessaire que l'on débatte.
mais il est aussi interessant de remarquer comment les gens juge les autres ceux qui ont une tradition differente de la notre. Comme bon francais je te rejoins dans l'analyse. On ne peut pas comprendre cette vénération. Pourtant sommes nous si différent d'eux ????
Nos traditions , nos coutumes, notre facon de fonctionner , d'aimer sont differents et pourtant nous sommes aussi dans un systeme dans lequel tu es et que tu défends et cela existe depuis des lustres.
tu as profondement un regard de francaise. Avant de porter un jugement tres occidentale , regarde comment toi tu vis .
Crois tu etre aussi differente ???? Oui dans la forme surement pas dans le fond pas dans le fond. Tu es differente tout simplement. Ne regarde pas les autres avec tes yeux mais accepte la difference. Cela fait 10 ans que je vais en thailande et au cambodge. J'étais comme toi et j'ai été vivre dans des villages, partager le quotidien des habitants. Franchement je ne vois pas de difference . On est different sur plein de point de la vie , de l'amour, du sexe, des traditions, des valeurs. Mais je crois que c'est une richesse. Crois tu qu'un pays qui vénère un Roi est plus malheureux qu'un systeme communiste ? Dictature de droite ? une soit disant démocratie. Crois tu etre vraiment plus libre qu'eux ?????? Je ne sais pas ton parcours de vie , mais pour avoir ce regard il me semble que tu ne t'es pas fondu dans la population. Nous , on a le droit de critiquer nos dirigeants. Oui uniquement critiquer. C'EST TOUT !!!!!! Nous n'avons pas plus de droit de decision qu'eux. ON EST PAREIL SANUF LE SYSTEME EST DIFFERENT :) On a bien un president roi. OUi c'est vrai on a la possibilité de mettre un bulletin pour le garder ou le faire partir. Cela change quelque chose ????? RIEN ABSOLUMENT RIEN.Il y a une oligarchie qui gère tout :)
Voila ce que je voulais dire . Cela me semble important . Ne pas juger les autres car on n'est pas mieux et je pourrais te donner plein d'exemple
Evitez de vous trouver le mardi 10 décembre ( Constitution Day _ jour férié ) à Ayutthaya :
Les chemises rouges y ont prévu une manifestation de masse pour soutenir le gouvernement.
Ben justement j'y serai. Je vous raconterai.
Ben justement j'y serai. Je vous raconterai.
Oui, c'est vrai, sauf qu'en France on ne les choisit pas vraiment parmi l'élite sinon... en fait je m'en moque je suis Belge!
M-C V N-R
Aucune perturbation a l aéroport. International de BKK ni au domestique
demain bangkok sera bloqué .. il y aura du monde +++++500.000 de personnes.... expérience aujourdhui cha am beach pas un chat .....+++100.000 pour long week end de prévue .......tous sont resté a bangkok pour la mani de demain ..... il semble bien que le million de personnes dans les rues sera atteind .... alors évitez bangkok demain et si vous partez a l aéroport et bien faudra partir a temps au moins 4 heures avant .....
😇 attention les deux airports ne sont pas protégé .. alors ils peuvent faire le coup de la dernière fois ..... bloquer l acces aux aéroport ..... les leaders se sont déja excusés pour le traffic jam demain ....le chaos sera ivévitable qu ils disent ce soir DIMANCHE......
demain bangkok sera bloqué .. il y aura du monde +++++500.000 de personnes.... expérience aujourdhui cha am beach pas un chat .....+++100.000 pour long week end de prévue .......tous sont resté a bangkok pour la mani de demain ..... il semble bien que le million de personnes dans les rues sera atteind .... alors évitez bangkok demain et si vous partez a l aéroport et bien faudra partir a temps au moins 4 heures avant .....
😇 attention les deux airports ne sont pas protégé .. alors ils peuvent faire le coup de la dernière fois ..... bloquer l acces aux aéroport ..... les leaders se sont déja excusés pour le traffic jam demain ....le chaos sera ivévitable qu ils disent ce soir DIMANCHE......
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Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
Bonjour précieuse communauté,
J'envisage de me rendre au Cambodge cet hiver, juste après Noël, pour un premier voyage seule, et mon premier voyage en Asie. Pour deux semaines (oui, je sais, c'est peu, mais je ne peux vraiment pas plus...). J'ai deux grandes envies: Siem Reap, et la campagne, les villages, le Mekong...
Que pensez-vous de cet itinéraire? Arrivée à Siem Reap, départ de Phnom Penh
SR: 5 jours (1 jour pour l'arrivée, 3 pour les temples, 1 pour le lac et ses villages)
Kratie (étape sur la route du Mondolkiri): 3 jours (1 jour de trajet, 2 jours sur place)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 jours (1 jour de trajet, 1 jour sur place, 2 jours de treks)
PP: 3 jours (1 jour de trajet, 2 jours de visite)
Je pense qu'il faut que j'enlève un jour quelque part, si je pars du samedi au samedi, ou du dimanche au dimanche. A Kratie, peut-être? à PP? et je rate le trajet en bateau que tout le monde conseille (SR-Battambang), mais je ne vois pas où le caser. Sauf à faire un PP-PP en commençant par l'est, laisser tomber Kratie ou vraiment juste une nuit, puis SR, puis PP).
Dans mon timing, j'ai l'impression que le Mondolkiri est plus proche que le Ratanakiri, qui me tentait aussi beaucoup! Est-ce que cela restera pas trop compliqué toute seule? Je pense faire appel à des guides locaux, ou une petite agence locale, pour faire une escapade dans la nature et les villages.
Je lis qu'il y a beaucoup de monde à SR entre Noël et Nouvel An, je peux aussi faire le circuit dans l'autre sens. Mais je trouvais plus facile de me familiariser avec le pays en arrivant en territoire touristique, je me trompe peut-être...
Merci pour vos conseils et avis!
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.
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices? Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis? What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc. Thanks again
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices? Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis? What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc. Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it? Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like? We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it? Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like? We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
Hi there,
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hey everyone,
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hi everyone,
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
Thanks
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
Thanks
Hi,
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days. I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome! I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Thanks
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days. I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome! I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Thanks
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi,
On September 1st, we're heading to Kalimantan for six weeks, probably from Pontianak to the Derawan Islands.
I've scoured this site, which is usually my go-to 😉, and others like VoyageForum, but recent info is pretty scarce.
I'd love any tips on places you've visited—our itinerary is still a work in progress.
We're two couples traveling with backpacks, using buses, boats, guesthouses, and homestays.
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral. Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo). Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok: * Orangutan Center * Malayan Sun Bear Center * Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan. Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari. Jungle walk. Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari. Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port. Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar 5 full days. * Snorkeling * Hiking * Turtle watching * Wild beaches * Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland. Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Time to hit the road again!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali. And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people! So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops): - 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud 2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa) 1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...) - 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces) - 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai - 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed) - 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island) - 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan) - 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels. Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?) Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?) Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali. And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people! So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops): - 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud 2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa) 1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...) - 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces) - 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai - 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed) - 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island) - 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan) - 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels. Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?) Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?) Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
Hello,
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027: - Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham - Kratie - Siem Reap - Battambang - Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights. Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above. Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027: - Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham - Kratie - Siem Reap - Battambang - Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights. Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above. Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
Hi there,
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
However, I’m not quite sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
However, I’m not quite sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
Hello everyone,
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations: We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights: The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1: We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2: This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3: With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4: Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings. We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops. In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5: Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6: This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8: Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10: On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12: We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines. Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment. We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15: From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP). We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning. We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise. Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16: We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town. It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view. We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise. In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911. On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city. We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17: Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning. Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in. The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances: In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary: Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional. Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations: We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights: The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1: We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2: This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3: With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4: Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings. We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops. In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5: Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6: This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8: Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10: On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12: We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines. Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment. We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15: From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP). We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning. We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise. Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16: We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town. It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view. We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise. In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911. On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city. We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17: Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning. Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in. The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances: In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary: Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional. Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips: Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred. PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront). Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
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 everyone,
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!