Kicking off the thread with an informative article about Phra Kreuang, protective amulets (according to local belief) that Thai people of all kinds wear around their necks:
🙂 One of the really fun moments from our last trip to Thailand was the celebrations for Tetsakan Kin Je, aka the Vegetarian Festival, in Bangkok’s Chinatown.
We experienced it at the Chao Zhou Shi Kong temple (or Wat Sun Changyi, photo1), tucked away in a "run-down" alley next to the famous Riverside GH, by the Chao Phraya River.
In an atmosphere thick with incense and vibrant decorations, throughout the day, devotees of all ages gather in a cheerful vibe, along with donation collectors, food prep volunteers (including the loud dough-pounding pastry makers, photo2), bird and turtle vendors for liberation rituals, temple merchants, and more...
At 7 PM, it’s Chinese opera time (photo4 backstage).
On the bustling Yaowarat Road, there’s also a lot of excitement: in the temples (photo3) and around the food stalls (photo5).
@Daisy: that's cool! Please be super patient with me—I post spontaneously, without "pre-writing," so I need to be in the "right energy of the moment." You understand me? @ everyone
@Pa ObeOne: excellent! As usual, I approve the footer under the rainbow lotus from the first link 😉
Amazing photos of monks—I love the wink of life: I "missed" a similar shot to your first one on Yaowarat Rd a few days ago... I have to say, I struggle to photograph people, especially their faces, and monks in particular... Khrap! Anyway, thanks for this interesting photo share.
Haven’t tried it, no—I ended up eating Peking duck on Yaowarat Rd that day . But as you know, the Thai Vegetarian Festival isn’t just about earthly food...
See you in this thread, may Buddha be with you! 😎
Just a little heads-up for my kind readers—this is our 15th trip (out of 25 years) to the Land of the Free, the first under the reign of H.M. Rama X (67 years old!!! He doesn’t look it!!!) and in September.
This mini Gulf of Siam tour of 7 "holes" over 30 days took us to: Mae Nam/Koh Samui, Songkhla & Koh Yo, Phattalung & Thale Noi, Pak Nam Lang Suan, Bangkrut, Maeklong-Amphawa, and Krung Thep.
It’s my whim to retrace it backward for you 😛:
Bangkok (2 nights/3 days) :
We reached it by minivan from Maeklong (1h30).
Stayed in Thonburi, by the Chao Phraya River.
Exploring the area around our hotel—which, let’s be honest, didn’t wow us as much as Sathorn, with more car traffic—we still stumbled upon cool stuff (photo1—a tiny Hindu temple with a warm welcome). Dinner was one of our favorite Thai dishes, *kamou* (photo2), at the trendy Indy (Night) Market.
I wanted to check out Icon Siam: as someone who’s not into shopping malls, I’ll admit I was blown away by this new mall with its eye-catching exterior, over-the-top and luxurious interior (a floating market recreation on the ground floor, escalators with "naja" railings, art exhibits, a mind-blowing roof cascade...). There’s an interesting Icon Crafts corner showcasing high-end Thai handicrafts. Also, on the top level, an exciting exhibition of paintings and sculptures. Note that a museum opened in 2020, making Bangkok’s art scene buzz.
I wanted to visit the Alliance Française behind Lumpini—its bookstore and cultural space: meh! Except for respecting the Bordeaux painter on exhibit, Bruno Coq.
We *did* love the exhibitions at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center (across from MBK). Sadly, it’s announced to close—ugh (photo5).
My favorite amulet market, near Loha Prasat (close to Khao San Road): my Aladdin’s cave of Buddha! I spend two hours there wide-eyed, filling my bag with wholesale-priced bracelets (for Couchsurfing and BeWelcome friends passing through), *kumlai*, wind chimes, and other items for our altars. Just the visual pleasure is worth it!!
And the taste buds’ delight: at the Balcony Lounge of the Intercontinental, an afternoon tea featuring raspberry at a great quality/price ratio. I like!
A top-notch massage experience (100 THB for one hour) by the Chao Phraya River, next to a reclining Buddha (photo4).
And then, a happy wander led us to the beautiful Wat Samphanthawongsaram Worawihan, if I recall correctly (photo3).
We started our afternoon and evening in Chinatown—see my previous post on the Vegetarian Festival (photo6 of urban hustle in the neighborhood).
Random tips:
To lighten our last afternoon in the capital, we left our luggage at MBK’s locker (Floor 6 - Zone B). Note: the first 4 hours are free. Perfect!
We needed a shower at Suvarnabhumi before our flight: no shower service in the airport (really??!!). We had to cough up 600 THB each at the Novotel’s fitness club—5-minute shuttle and towel included, lol. Those sneaky devils!!!!
The Ibis Riverside’s breakfast buffet is a great deal if you’re staying nearby: 170 THB per person.
That’s it for the City of Angels.
@ to be continued: Maeklong-Amphawa😎
A triumph of animism in the land of Buddha...
Thais are crazy about them and sometimes spend fortunes to get the amulet that will protect them.
Not so different from the religious trinkets of Lourdes and elsewhere.
We’re way too lazy to like all your epic adventures without clenching, please. 😎
And anyone who’s into amulets knows there’s a "mulet" (donkey) in "amulette" 😉
As for me, I’ve set my sights on Google Translate to follow you in ze nose, hamdulillah!
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
(Sorry, dear reader, I’d prefer to wrap up this little travel thread faster, but I’m pretty busy at the moment. Promise I’ll try to finish in the next few days—I only have time to share our feedback on:
Maeklong (2 nights):
Stayed in a super excellent Airbnb right by the river (photo1).
Transport (around 5h) from Bankrut to Maeklong by bus (Bang Saphan-BKK route), dropped off at the side of the road.
Really cool 3-hour private boat tour—1200 THB—(photo6) along the canals (photo4): the advertised itinerary included 5 temples, like the stunning Wat Chulamanee (photo2) & Wat Bang Kae Noi (photo3), plus the famous Amphawa floating market (open Mondays, the day after the weekend—phew!).
Nice stroll through Maeklong’s shopping center and its daily market (photo5), etcetera...
Transport from Lang Suan to Bankrut by express train (~3 hours, slight delay)
Third visit since 2014 and oh divine surprise: the seafront has never looked this good and the beach so clean (photo1).
This time we're staying "right on the sand," one of the few places on the main beach, in a comfy Airbnb with the sweetest hosts (18 bucks! per night).
We’re chilling out, tension level at 5—we’ve already "mastered" the local "tourist attractions," so the goal for this stop is just to unwind.
Our kind host drives us by scooter through the coconut grove (photo2) where Peng’s little massage parlor is "hidden." One of our best massages ever!
We feast on mantis shrimp (photo3) caught the day before, which only had to cross the little road to land on our plates: now *that’s* farm-to-table!! (200 THB per kilo cooked!!!)
I realize I haven’t heard any reggae music in the 3 weeks we’ve been in Thailand—I’m shocked and "investigate" with our host (46a): .🤪
Anyway, Bankrut: maybe our favorite beach spot in Thailand, based on all our personal criteria—setting, tranquility, comfort (hotel options, dining, accessibility), and activity possibilities (photo4).
Initially chosen on the map to split up the travel time on our way back up to BKK, it turns out that a friend of ours from Samui—who we’d met before she moved to the mainland—has been living there for 10 years. What a stroke of luck: she’s our enthusiastic guide-driver while we’re there.
Transport from Phattalung to Lang Suan by slow train at "peanuts" price (about 5 hours, a bit of a delay).
After checking out 4 or 5 resorts at Pak Nam Beach, we decide on the last one: www.99bayresort.com (600 THB, right on the beach).
(Another more casual option among others: www.chayhad.9nha.com)
The loooong crescent-shaped beach (photo1) isn’t spotlessly clean, but it’s honestly fine (for someone like me who’s a beach-cleaning obsessive). Just know that from December to March, there are 2 or 3 "waves" of debris that wash up—apparently, it’s monstrous! 🤪
The beach is mostly home to a few fishermen on foot and joggers or walkers.
Pak Nam Lang Suan is such a pleasure to visit: its charming morning market, its "Instagrammable" temples (photo2&3), its fleet of fishing boats (photo4)... (photo5&6).
There’s the joy of sightseeing, but also the vibe of the village—peaceful, smiling, kind, and laid-back.
We didn’t have time to visit Ko Phitak, which you can actually walk to at low tide. I’ve got a feeling it’s a cool spot, with a few homestays 😉
A morning in Lang Suan to explore its big day market and its urban architecture, which still preserves a lot of wooden houses (photo7).
Worth noting: every October, the town hosts the boat races festival, the most famous in the Kingdom.
Transport from Songkhla to Phattalung by minivan (4h)
Stayed at the casual Merdelong Hotel (no reservation) just a 3-minute walk from the station.
The town is nice and quiet, nothing amazing to report for my part.
As soon as we dropped our stuff in the room, we asked the reception about renting a scooter to go to the floating market (it’s Sunday) 10 km away. We were handed one 15 minutes later for 300 THB (no credit card or passport required).
Fun scooter ride (stopped at the historic residence of the Phattalung governor—photo1), but the floating market was a letdown 🤪 in the landscaped amusement park...
Ate *kamou* both nights at the night market by the station. Also tested and approved the very popular restaurant across from the Merdelong H (Thai sign).
Before dawn, a big storm. We’d been told the day before to get to Thale Noi (@ 1h by scooter) by 6 am to see the lotuses in bloom. Pfff, we left at 8 am, and an hour and a half later, we hired a private boat for a 2-hour lake safari (450 THB for one hour / 800 THB for two). Well, we saw some open water lilies (oh, is it too late now??), a few water buffaloes, passed some fishermen (photos 1, 4, & 5), and spotted quite a few birds of all kinds. The "sold-out" fishing nets/fishing traps: zero or close to it...
Honestly, the excursion was really pleasant—we had a great time 😊—but not mind-blowing or memorable (unlike Lake Inle, for example). We think it’ll appeal more to bird lovers (apparently there are 180 "species"). Maybe it reminded us too much of the Camargue??
When we disembarked, we were taken through the small stilt-house neighborhood behind the row of shops: super nice and photogenic (photos 3 & 6—specialty sea fritters...).
We could’ve checked out Ekachai Bridge, which we’d crossed by minivan on the way from Songkhla, but no—especially since rain was threatening...
On the way back, we stopped for a drink at the famous Sripakpra Boutique Resort, which, while charming, still feels like a big complex...
The countryside around Phattalung is gorgeous, with lots of cattle farming and beautiful rural homes.
@++, we’ll head back to Songkhla, my first big crush...😎
Khrap! Thanks for the sound share—I hadn’t heard of it. If you say it’s the current number one, well, that’s interesting. (Still gotta admit it’s pretty cheesy, though—lol 😏).
Anyway, I just wanted to echo the point about reggae censorship in Thailand, nothing more!
@Natooooo: That’s cool, khrap!!! Nice track—more my thing, even if I barely listen to reggae (or any music, really). I’m more of a silence guy. Happy to see you back in the section—it’s been missing your lighthearted vibe these past few weeks...
Otherwise, I just wanted to echo the censorship of reggae in Thailand here, nothing more!
Got it like that
🙂
And speaking of censorship and its evolution, after his essential "Made in Thailand,"
Lek Carabao hits hard with his new track
about the legalization of weed that makes you see water buffaloes in pink
😎
to a reggae beat
Cannabis Commission
youtu.be/Z0P5ufGC12E
Lyrics in French (Automatic translation)
> HERE<
@ Thaiboss
Besides, Sek must be having a good laugh after his various setbacks related to the topic mentioned here.
In 2012, during his "rehabilitation" phase, he composed a great track:
Made at Night (2012)
I’ll answer you in Thai to give you the Thai mindset on this... Thais follow singers who constantly change their style, even their instruments like microphones or guitars, and switch up their topics.
The rhythms. That do-do-do thing always stays the same—let’s put it this way: he hasn’t been banned, but he’s LESS popular because he doesn’t change anything about his songs.
Loso in Thailand is a bit like Johnny Hallyday in France—he did it all with drugs and booze but found his way back, and all of it was live with the Thai public. Yes, even during his rough patches, his troubles were televised, as was his comeback, complete with his millions of baht. He changed his songs and guitar but kept his black sunglasses—he’s still the favorite star of Thais today, a bit like Johnny in France.
I spent quite a few evenings with Loso back in my day at Ratchada German Beer Hall—there wasn’t even internet or YouTube yet...
To stay on top in Thailand, you’ve got to constantly change your look or do something out of the ordinary—especially not do the same thing, because the Thai public gets bored *very* quickly😏. Thais change colors every day.
The other popular guy in Thailand is me, MARIO, the double MARIO—you know him????
😏I’m the most popular farang dad in Thailand with my name MARIO (Jeff is my first name in the novel *Jeff molto*). Every day you hear Mario on TV; there’s even a commercial where a Thai woman calls me like all the girls: Maa-ri ooooo.
Accommodation in Airbnb (2 nights, 20 €/night) + Mantra Resort (1 night, 600 THB/night).
Transport: Nathon/Koh Samui to Songkhla by ferry to Donsak Pier + minivan (5h30 duration, 250 THB each, booked at the Nathon bus terminal)
Songkhla City:
I loooove how tourism is approached and developed in this city, where the rich Sino-European historical heritage is showcased (without sterilization) and its traditional activities (fishing, trade...) are maintained. Tourism (mainly Malaysian and Thai) is "digested"—it doesn’t put the city under a glass bell.
To start, a visit to the Tourism Authority to get a city map. Just a stone’s throw away, the Crafts House shop sells regional handicrafts (textiles, basketry...) with a smile and explanations—excellent quality. Further on, the historic birthplace of the 16th Prime Minister (photo 1) and the small but interesting National Museum of Songkhla (photo 2), the big day market, the fishing and deep-sea ports (photo 11).
The Old Town (very well signposted) is particularly pleasant to explore on foot. Its streets, "just as they are," are a feast for the eyes for those who love the patina of time, with a soft, artsy atmosphere: the house facades (photos 3 & 4), the Chinese City Pillar Shrine (photo 5), the Old Mosque Masjid Asasul Islam (photo 6), the Jetty Buddaraksa & Saksiphithak (photo 7), the artisanal ice cream vendors (photo 8—Ong Ice Cream Shop opposite the City Pillar), charming homestays (Baan Nai Nakhon Boutique Hotel...), artists' workshops (photo 9), trendy cafés (Blue Smile Café, Café Station 66...), the Songkhla Towards World Heritage Gate (old dock), the Songkhla Art Mill Center (temporary photo exhibition: *Venezia in Singora*), and of course, the cool urban murals (photo 10).
On the city’s outskirts, the vast fishing parks of Songkhla Lake (gorgeous in the morning and evening light), the beautiful Samila Beach with its popular seafood restaurants in a row (tried and approved—the Monthathip Seafood Restaurant), and the lively Chalathat Beach with its big bars.
Wow, another little gem! Facing Songkhla City.
We visited by rented scooter through our adorable Thai host (no computer or passport required).
First stop, at the entrance of the small peninsula (connected to Songkhla by the Tinsulanonda Bridge) with its mountainous landscape: Wat Laem Pho (photo1). We continued along the coastal road lined with charming old houses (photo2) and stopped at a bird singing competition (photo3). We saw stunning stilt-house displays (photo4), some of which advertised homestays (noted photo5). There was also a 200-year-old temple that was absolutely breathtaking (photos6&7), attractive cafés and restaurants (photo8), and a viewpoint (photo9)....
What a blast this tour was!! Everywhere we felt the warmth, simplicity, and the *sanuk* spirit of Thai families enjoying their time.
(Now other islands on the lake above are catching our eye, Mak & Nang Kham... 😎)
This temple had been stuck in the back of my mind for ages—I just had to find the right spot.
We made it by minivan from downtown Songkhla + tuk-tuk (1.5-hour trip), arriving around 5 PM to admire it perched on its remote hill, bathed in natural light and then lit up at night, sparkling like a thousand stars and chiming in the breeze with a thousand tiny bells: magical, dreamy, and one-of-a-kind!! (photos)
Back down to earth at Songkhla City’s Walking Street for food, shopping, and Thai-style fun (photo8)
We connected directly from our Lyon-BKK Suvarnabhumi flight with Bangkok Airways (domestic flight duration: 1 hour). Just 15 short minutes in line at Suvarnabhumi Immigration.
We spent our first nights in Moo1 ("old" Mae Nam), second line from the sea, where we’re welcomed and treated like loyal guests (for 25 years now), at 500 THB per night. For our last four nights in Mae Nam, we’ll move to the panoramic and recently renovated Seaview Restaurant & Hotel (listed at 890 THB per night).
It’s worth noting that regulars like us are shocked by the prices now being asked for a seaside room—minimum 1,200–1,500 THB, even when negotiated. With almost constant construction of luxury resorts or villas next door—unpredictable completion times—we’re out! 😛
The beach is pretty spotless at this time of year; the polluted rivers are naturally "closed off" by sand carried in by the sea.
For beach cleaners who want to join forces: Trash Heroes of Koh Samui (see FB).
A must-visit Thai restaurant on the walking street: Mayom Garden Food and Drinks.
The walking street is slowly losing its farang food tables: goodbye to the Japanese Kobori, the Korean Gaon, the French Chez François, and Chicken Farm Rôtisserie...
It’s no surprise that tourist traffic in Mae Nam is really struggling outside of February—just 4–6 weeks to make a living for the year. The "tourism players" are looking pretty glum...
We tried and weren’t super impressed by the afternoon tea at the Four Seasons near Nathon (poor value for money, despite pleasant service and a "chic" setting).
If it weren’t for our expat friend living in Mae Nam, we’d have ditched Koh Samui a long time ago. What’s more, with new expat rules that clearly aim to "sanitize" the Kingdom’s , our buddy—like many of his peers (not just French)—is seriously considering leaving the country...
To wrap up this trip report, a few personal experiences:
-Transport:
* Minivans: We used them 4 times, including 3 medium-distance trips. Steady max speed of 80 km/h, smooth driving—I approve this travel option.
* Scooter rental: Twice, and they didn’t ask for a driver’s license or passport either time.
* Train: Two trips, almost on time.
-Cigarettes: No problem!
-Sleep budget: On average, under 20 € for a double room with hot water, AC, kettle & fridge, and a good location (view, etc.). Half the places we chose on the spot.
-Food: While the recipes delight tourists’ taste buds, what about the quality of the ingredients?!! (Not to mention MSG, added sugar...) 🤪
-September rain test: Our previous 30 days in Thailand in Feb–March 2018 "cured" us of ever going back during peak tourist season. Back then, we asked our friends there the fatal question: to enjoy the Gulf of Siam (the Samui Archipelago and the mainland coast up to BKK)? Unanimous answer: September! Well, after this September 2019 trip, we barely approve 😎: air and water temperatures are perfect (not too hot), tourist crowds are very manageable, locals are more relaxed and available, cultural agenda...
To wrap up the topic of amulets, just one more,
not very big but one that, for 30 years, has been making the youth (and the not-so-young) vibe
Phongsit Khampi
"Music for Life" (Phleng phuea chiwit)
Khrap for sharing! I didn’t quite get it all... the music LoL but the lyrics sound sooo romantic. A story about a ladyboy in a red shirt from Khao Lak who falls for a lady in a yellow shirt from Chantaburi, but there’s a tuk-tuk driver strike and they can’t meet up. They’re all melancholic, but in the end, the Wi-Fi comes back, and they can Skype and send each other tons of love stickers while the tuk-tuk drivers win their fight against the new taxi meter law. Did I get the lyrics right?🤪
An encounter at "Siammet", between His Holiness Pope Francis and the Supreme Patriarch of Thai Buddhism, in Bangkok on the bright day of November 21, 2019:
Khrap, Daisyone, thanks for your concern for chkdâne, but don’t worry about him—negative and insignificant things go in one ear and out the other, jaja 😛
(Looks like Daisytwo isn’t exactly a genius either—she’ll slip up and give herself away eventually, lol)
Apologies to my followers for this schizo off-topic 😉 that overshadows Daisyone’s Amuse Pass.
A triumph of animism in the land of Buddha....
Thais are crazy about them and sometimes spend fortunes to get the amulet that will save them.
Not so different from the religious trinkets of Lourdes and elsewhere, really.
Yes, Thais do spend a lot to protect themselves from ghosts; those who cash in are quite different, though. For them, ghosts aren’t that intrusive because they just don’t care and keep their business running.
Sur l'arbre qui donne des pommes il n'y a pas de citrons. Si tu t'attends à ce que le monde soit juste avec toi parce que tu es juste avec eux, tu te trompes. C'est comme s'attendre à ce que le lion ne te mange pas parce que tu ne l'as pas mangé.
For those of you in BKK during the Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year) celebrations, here are some ideas for outings (straight and/or gay-friendly parties, food, etc.) from Time Out:
If you'd like, Daisy-One, my little thread is open for your feedback from your FEB2020 trips to Khanom, Lang Suan & Bankrut.
Thanks in advance for sharing!
Until then (maybe), have a great, beautiful, and safe trip!
From glamping, our VIPs can switch to gambling on the other side: they’ll have the choice between the Burmese casino (apparently more fun, according to what the Thai locals tell me) and the King Roman Sino-Lao one (99.9% Chinese). If they stay several days, they can watch the buildings shoot up—China’s investors have been granted the Lao bank opposite Sop Ruak, and a casino-hotel complex called King Roman has sprung up in recent years. Construction has really picked up speed lately. When you arrive from Mae Sai, after a bend in the road, you suddenly see high-rise blocks just like the ones you see all over China. The Anantara Golden ad ironically boasts a view of the misty Lao hills.
Nous sommes en train de préparer notre voyage en thailande. Pour la visite de Bangkok, est ce que quelqu'un saurait nous renseigner svp sur les transports en…
Je sais qu'il ne faut pas mettre un short ou bermuda quand on visite Wat Phra Koew mais je sais pas si on a le droit de mettre une paire de basket ou est-ce…
Quels sont vos expériences d'implants dentaires positives et négatives pour plusieurs pays dans le mondes. Style 4-5 implants dentaires, bonne qualité prix.…
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before:
- Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees.
Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands.
Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way).
Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan.
Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide).
Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre.
Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island.
Day 10 – Head to Semporna.
Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai.
Day 15 – Bohey Dulang.
Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous.
I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing.
I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture.
But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary.
If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai?
Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai.
My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok:
No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna:
From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄).
Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM.
Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau:
Found this via AI—is it legit?
No online booking, as far as I can tell.
Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly????
And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Hi there,
we’ll be in Mai Chau in June and we’re thinking of heading to Sapa, but first spending a few days in Bac Ha to do some hiking and explore the area.
Is this a good idea for those who’ve been there?
How do you get there?
Thanks for your feedback.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi everyone. As I’m planning my trip for next winter, I’m looking for hotel suggestions in Camotes, Bantayan, Malapascua, Bohol, and Siquijor. The ones I had in mind seem to be fully booked (unless it’s too early?). For those familiar with the area, is it easy to find accommodations on the spot in January/February? I’m specifically looking for hotels with a pool, beachfront, air conditioning, and easy scooter rental nearby. Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
I’m planning an itinerary and would love some feedback on whether it’s doable and if the number of days per destination is enough—or too much. I was also debating whether to add an extra night on an island or spend an extra night in Kampot to visit Kep or Battambang.
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning
March 24: Phnom Penh
March 25: Phnom Penh
March 26: Depart for Kampot
March 27: Kampot
March 28: Depart for Battambang
March 29: Battambang
March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap
March 31: Siem Reap
April 1: Siem Reap
April 2: Siem Reap
April 3: Siem Reap
April 4: Siem Reap
April 5: Departure
Hi there,
Yesterday in the Thailand section, 100% of the new threads were just about beach destinations 😕...
So here’s the counterattack in the form of this photo thread, dedicated solely to the countryside: the locals, their livestock, fields, farms, rice paddies, small rivers, and agricultural machinery. If you’ve got any pictures that fit these categories, feel free to add them!
Comments welcome.
For each photo, I’ll (or you can) indicate the area where it was taken.
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta.
21/09: Borobudur
22/09: Prambanan
23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang)
24/09: Bromo
25/09: Kawa Ijen
26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran
27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran
28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk
29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk
30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk
01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud
02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud
03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud
04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo
05/10: Komodo cruise
06/10: Komodo cruise
07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo.
08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar
09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore
10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Hi everyone,
My girlfriend and I booked our tickets with Saudia Airlines for a trip to Thailand this summer, from July 5th to August 3rd. Given the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, we’re keeping a close eye on the news.
I was wondering if anyone here is in the same situation as us?
• Have you heard anything about possible mass cancellations or if the airline is still maintaining its routes to Asia?
• Are there any travelers who’ve recently returned who could tell us if air corridors have been changed (longer flight times)?
The idea is to know what to expect so we can prepare as best as possible. Thanks for your replies! !
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing
July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao
August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide
August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena
August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands
August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts)
August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk
August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar
August 17: Rammang Rammang
August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
