Hi there,
Big travel year in Asia for me. I’m heading to Southeast Asia for a month in mid-July. The dates aren’t flexible since I’m going primarily for a wedding (Laos). So, I’ll start my trip in Laos for 4 days, then head off... where?
I’ve already done a trip exclusively in Laos a few years ago. I also visited Vietnam for the second time last year, so I’d love to explore something new.
I was thinking of Cambodia (but only for Angkor) and northern Thailand, which I haven’t seen yet (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Phrae, Phayao, Pa Hin Ngam National Park), and wrapping up with a few nights in Koh Samui.
My question is about the weather. From what I’ve seen, Koh Samui seems to be spared during this period. But for Angkor and northern Thailand, I’m not so sure—it feels like a gamble. And I’m really not in the mood for rainy vacations, since I already get enough gray skies where I live 😅.
So, I had another idea: after Laos, I could head to Bali (or another Indonesian island) where it’s supposedly the right season. The flight ticket price is exactly the same, including a one-way to Bali and the return from Bali (with a layover in Bangkok).
For those who’ve traveled in July, what do you think? Is there a big risk in trying northern Thailand and Angkor?
With 4 days for the wedding + 5 for Angkor, you’d only have 3 weeks left for the rest, which wouldn’t be nearly enough for the Thailand itinerary you’re considering—especially with the rain on top of everything...
I’d head to Indonesia instead, not necessarily Bali.
For those who’ve done this trip in July, what do you think? Big risk trying northern Thailand and Angkor?
I’ve been to Thailand every month of the year, including the North: yes, in July, rain is pretty common.
Pa Hin Ngam National Park
I don’t know it personally, but during the rainy season, national parks usually turn into mud pits, which can be a pain if you’re planning to hike. Some parks even close during this time, so check ahead.
Thanks for your replies. I'm off to Indonesia—I had that in mind and now I'm convinced (I hadn't even thought about the conditions for parks… I was only focused on the gray skies and rain).
Songsam:
I'd head to Indonesia, not necessarily Bali.
Isn’t Bali a must-visit when you go to Indonesia for the first time?
Otherwise, I’ve seen Lombok, which looks great
Isn’t Bali a must-visit when traveling to Indonesia for the first time?
Nope. Actually, there are so many interesting islands to visit in Indonesia that none can really be called more essential than the others—even for a first trip. It all depends on what attracts you most (and least) about a trip and how much time you’ll have (26 days?). Share more details if you’d like some suggestions!
I also saw Lombok—it looks nice
Not interesting enough in my opinion for a whole stay, but as an add-on to another island, why not?
If you love volcanoes, temples, and nature, Java is a great destination.
Well, I do, but I’m traveling with a child (10 years old), and she’s not super into all that, unfortunately, so I always have to find compromises (beach, fun activities, a few shops). Java does look absolutely stunning—I need to see if it can work with my daughter’s interests.
It all depends on what attracts you most (and least) about a trip and how much time you’ll have (26 days?). Let us know all the details if you want suggestions.
Thanks!!!
Actually, I’ll only have 23 full days there because I’m not counting travel days (departure day, arrival in Laos the next day, then 4 full days in Laos, and finally the departure to Indonesia and the return flight to Paris). I mostly have to work around my kid, who isn’t really into cultural visits or hiking… so it’s not easy, but if I include some beach time, a few shops, and especially accommodations with a pool, it works😛. I’m looking for a good compromise between cultural visits, nature (including beautiful rice terraces and/or volcanoes), easy hikes (no more than 3 hours of walking), ideally with swimming spots, nice beaches with great diving spots for me (that way I can combine business with pleasure—I have a Level 2 FFESSM, not PADI, but I usually dive everywhere with it without any issues), and a few shops for my daughter, who loves cute touristy places with shops full of useless stuff. Let’s just say that to "sell" temples to my daughter, I have to balance it with what she likes.
I’ve looked, and there are so many islands—I’m a bit lost. I have time, but not *that* much, so it’s not simple. I’ve seen good reviews about Lombok, but I get why you’d say it’s not enough for 23 days… I’ll have to see what I could combine it with.
Okay, given the requirements, I won’t suggest "trekking" to remote islands—so sticking with your initial idea: Bali. Normally, I’d recommend visiting with a go-with-the-flow attitude and leaving things to chance, but that might not suit your situation.
I’ve already thought of an itinerary that could match your (or your group’s) preferences (not too much culture/temples, no long hikes, but nature/rice terraces, beaches, diving, and touristy shops). Want to hear it?
Aha, oh yes, I’d love to know—didn’t expect that much, thanks! 😉
Anyway, I’m jotting down Bali, and I think I’ll rush to grab the ticket before prices go up (weirdly, the return flight is cheaper if I leave from Bali with a layover in Bangkok to catch the exact same flight I was planning to take from Bangkok if I ended my trip in Thailand… 😮)
Hi Michèle,
Like the others, I’d recommend Indonesia for this time of year—it’s one of the few Southeast Asia destinations that’s actually doable in summer. There are so many islands that there’s something for every taste.
Safe travels, and congratulations on your wedding in Laos!
Eric
In summary:
Sanur-Bedugul-Munduk-Lovina-Tulamben-Amed-Tirtagangga-Ubud
Apart from Sanur, where I’m planning 2 nights, all the other stops are 3 nights each.
Details:
Sanur.
A very touristy beach not too far from the airport, more for recovering from the flight than as a real destination. There are other options in the area, but it has the advantage of being more family-friendly than surfer or party-heavy. It’s also convenient for transport* to the next stop.
* Public transport, though available, isn’t Bali’s strong suit.
Bedugul.
Temple pura Ulun Danu Bratan*, walks, botanical garden.
Access from Sanur by Perama bus. Tickets sold at travel agencies. The bus will likely stop at their Ubud hub, but it’s better to stay in that city at the end of the trip.
* 2 km north on the main road—take a bemo.
Munduk.
Terraced rice fields (possible 4 km walking circuit), waterfalls, hikes.
Access from Bedugul by Perama shuttle or bemo.
Lovina.
Beach town. Dolphin watching (not great).
Access from Munduk by Perama shuttle or private car with driver (plenty across the island and affordable—bargain).
Tulamben.
Famous diving spot, especially the wreck.
Access from Lovina in 3 bemos via Singaraja or by private car.
Amed.
Beach, diving, fishing villages, short hikes on the volcano slopes.
Access from Tulamben in 2 short bemo rides.
Tirtagangga.
Small village amid terraced rice fields—short walks, historic bathing site.
Access from Amed in 2 short bemo rides through the rice fields.
Ubud.
Crowds, Monkey Forest*, tourist shops (lots of them), traditional dance performances in the evening, and day or half-day excursions by private car to nearby sites (sacred springs of Tirta Empul, Gunung Kawi temple, etc.).
From Tirtagangga, the only reasonable access is by private car. I’d done it by Perama bus before, but it seems no longer possible—check in Tirtagangga.
* These are aggressive animals that bite and steal—secure your belongings and don’t try to touch them. Don’t let your daughter run around.
That’s 23 nights. The next day, head to the airport by (depending on your flight time) Perama bus, private car, or taxi—allow plenty of time.
We visited the islands of Java and Bali with two 13-year-olds.
In Java, one fun thing to do with kids is exploring Meru Betiri National Park, with the ultimate goal of watching turtles lay their eggs on the beach and seeing the babies head to the sea in the morning. On top of the volcanoes, we also visited a factory that makes Batik fabric and another that makes Chinese shadow puppets. We also soaked in hot springs, etc.
In Bali, we went diving from the north to the south of the island, ending with a dive to see manta rays. The dives were amazing. We uploaded a few photos here under Photo Gallery - Underwater Photos - Bali 2012. We loved diving in Bali.
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your itinerary suggestion!
My sister just got back from Bali with a route you’d already recommended to me 🙂. We don’t travel exactly the same way—she doesn’t have a kid with her, for one—but she told me I’d really like your suggestion 😛. She especially loved Ubud and Munduk (totally different but for different reasons) and had wanted to go to Lovina but ran out of time... Also, overall, it wasn’t crowded, but it *is* the rainy season (3 days of rain out of 15), so that might explain it. Locals told them that July/August conditions are harsher because of *so many* people—traffic’s tough, etc. Though I’m not sure what "beaucoup beaucoup" really means in practice.
I usually like to plan an itinerary but leave some flexibility in case I really love a place or for other reasons (weather, etc.). But for Bali, if it’s peak season, it sounds like it’ll be tougher since I’ll probably need to book hotels in advance... And on that note, I’ve seen that accommodation prices are pretty high (up to double what my sister paid in February—it’s crazy). That’s a bit of a turn-off. At the same time, she said it was her best trip ever...
Otherwise, in Bali, we went diving from the north to the south of the island, ending with a dive to see the manta rays. The dives were amazing. We posted some photos under Photo Gallery - Underwater Photos - Bali 2012. We loved diving in Bali.
Thanks! Your diving photos are super cool—they make me want to go, and the visibility is incredible!!!
Hello Michèle,
Like the others, I’d recommend Indonesia at this time of year—it’s one of the few destinations in Southeast Asia that’s doable in the summer. There are so many islands that there’s something for everyone.
Have a great trip, and especially enjoy your wedding in Laos!
In the end, she told me she stayed longer in Ubud (a base for exploring) because the traffic was smooth, making it easy to get around.
She only regretted the Sidemen stop, which she didn’t find as nice as the rest, and next time, she’d swap it for Amed. She started at Tanah Lot, which she loved (though it’s packed in peak summer), then Ubud, Munduk (where she also added a night), and finished in Jimbaran before catching her flight.
So they took it pretty easy, staying in amazing hotels each time 😎 (though I checked, and prices in July/August are really double).
To the point of scrapping the Bali plan?
No, I figure July/August is packed everywhere (even Chiang Mai is probably swarming with tourists in July). I usually avoid overly touristy spots in summer, but since I have to go to Laos anyway, I’m not going to hunt for the place with the worst monsoon just to avoid people😛
I’m just wondering if this means I should book *everything* in advance...
I’m hoping for a slight price drop on the tickets—earlier this week, I was at 4,069 € for three tickets: Paris > Bangkok > Luang Prabang > Bangkok > Denpasar > Bangkok > Paris (which is already a lot). By Sunday, it had jumped to over 5,000 € 🏴☠️
In the end, she told me she stayed longer in Ubud (a base for exploring) because the traffic was smooth, making it easy to get around.
She only regrets the stop in Sidemen, which she didn’t find as nice as the rest, and next time she’d swap it for Amed. She started at Tanah Lot, which she loved (though it’s packed in the middle of summer), then Ubud, Munduk (where she added an extra night), and finished in Jimbaran before flying out.
In the end, she became much less ambitious about the number of stops—that’s a good thing.
in super hotels every time 😎 (but I checked, and prices in July/August are really double)
Aside from the beaches, you can sometimes find simple but charming and family-run accommodations in Bali. They usually aren’t listed on booking sites—you only discover them once you’re there, and their prices are much more reasonable than the "super hotels." Costs in Indonesia, including accommodation, are roughly the same as in Laos or Thailand.
I’m hoping for a small price drop for the tickets. At the start of last week, I was at 4069 € for three tickets: Paris > Bangkok > Luang Prabang > Bangkok > Denpasar > Bangkok > Paris (which is already a lot). By Sunday, it had gone up to over 5000 € 🏴☠️
How are you searching?
Don’t search on weekends because ticket comparison sites know that’s when demand is highest, so prices go up. That could explain the difference between the 4069 € at the start of the week and the 5000+ € on Sunday. For the same reason, prices offered at night are often lower than during the day.
Try again tonight after clearing your cookies* on your computer, and you might find better prices.
*otherwise, the price will stay at 5000+ €
Hey, I usually search on Google Flights. I set a price alert for the dates, but then I do my searches in private browsing. Often, I see the price go up, but generally, when it's a few months before the flight, the price drops at some point, and I jump on it...
I haven't tried the midnight alert yet 😛, but it's worth a shot... thanks!
Right now, prices have all gone up, even with crappy layovers (but I don't do flights with layovers like Doha because that means two long flights in a row).
Hi,
Not a question about price—after hearing "don’t go in August" so much, I finally caved. I’m giving up on Bali. I’m keeping my itinerary but shortening it for a two-week trip outside of summer. I’m worried I’ll be disappointed. I’ll fall back on Cambodia (and its monsoon, lol)
Hi there, here’s my new itinerary: after the wedding, I’ll spend one week in Cambodia (just Siem Reap, yes, I know it’ll be packed like Bali, but apparently it’s like that all year round...) then I’ll head to Chiang Mai and the surrounding area for the rest of the trip (so two weeks for that part, though I might end up with 3 days in Koh Samui if domestic flights aren’t too expensive). Reading through different travel journals, Cambodia seems to be a unanimous favorite, but I’ve never been to Chiang Mai, and for what it’s worth, I noticed that the Cambodia journals in July had more gray days than Chiang Mai’s 😎.
I was just wondering if, at this time of year, it’s better to book domestic flights in advance or if I can wait and do it on the spot? For example, if we (well, the little one) get temple overload, it’d let me leave Siem Reap for Chiang Mai “on the fly.”
I’ve already booked the round-trip flights from Paris to Bangkok (3,600 € for the 3 tickets 🏴☠️) and my domestic flight to Laos from Bangkok (here, the price is really sweet with Air Asia, top top top). I’ll at least take the Laos > Siem Reap flight, but for the others, I’d love to book them on the spot depending on our mood...
Has anyone tried this before—is it risky or doable? (For hotels, it doesn’t seem to be a problem to show up without a reservation in Chiang Mai)
Chiang Mai and its surroundings (...) but I might end up spending 3 days in Koh Samui if domestic flights aren’t too expensive).
The only airline serving Koh Samui is Bangkok Airways, which is excellent but not a low-cost carrier at all. It flies directly to Samui 1–2 times a day from Chiang Mai, plus from Bangkok, and sometimes offers small promotions.
(Siem Reap (...) then I’ll spend the rest of the trip in Chiang Mai)
No direct flights.
I’ll at least take the flight from Laos to Siem Reap
Only from Luang Prabang, not daily (5 times a week).
I was just wondering if, at this time of year, it’s better to book domestic flights in advance or if I can wait and do it on the spot?
(...)
I’d really like to do it on the spot based on how we feel...
You don’t have to book right now, but waiting until the last minute would be risky. Or be ready with a Plan B using buses.
For hotels, it doesn’t seem like a problem to show up without a reservation in Chiang Mai
That’s right—given the density of accommodations in Chiang Mai, you won’t end up sleeping outside. The area inside the "square" is the nicest part of the city and the best place to stay.
You don’t have to plan everything right now, but waiting until the last minute would be risky. Or else, be ready with a bus Plan B.
Bummer! I’ll go for the 3-day pass with 5 days on-site, which already seems pretty good based on the reviews (though I’ll still look into the bus option since we’re not in a huge rush to get to Chiang Mai).
Yes. Since the 3 days don’t have to be consecutive, it’ll let you possibly slot in 1 or 2 "off" days from the ruins because you should know they’re a bit tiring to visit—even as an adult, when you get back to the hotel in the evening, you’re happy with your day but usually wiped out.
(I’ll still look into the bus since we won’t be in a rush to get to Chiang Mai)
Two main options:
- "Direct" bus Siem Reap-Bangkok (only one/day I think) or bus Siem Reap-Poipet + bus Aranya Prathet-Bangkok (the whole trip taking 8-9h), then daytime or overnight bus Bkk-Chiang Mai (10-12h) or a flight but no train since you have to book it in advance.
- Bus Siem Reap-Poipet (~3h) + bus Poipet-Khorat (common nickname for Nakhon Ratchasima) in 5h + daytime or overnight bus Khorat-Chiang Mai (10-12h). Khorat is really ugly.
There are other options leaving Cambodia through its northern border, but they’re not any simpler. More details in this discussion starting 15/03/2025: https://voyageforum.com/v.f?post=10701219;search_string=anlong%20veng
Hi Michèle,
You wrote "(Siem Reap only, yes, I know, it’ll be packed)"—I went back in 2022 and was surprised to find the site much less crowded. The Chinese tourists haven’t returned yet. I just read a post by worldwildbrice who went back to Angkor at the end of 2023!! He had the same observation. He writes:
"Angkor Wat
The only temple where there were really crowds, but here no groups of Chinese tourists shouting—just dozens of Khmers instead." However, there are a lot of very aggressive monkeys—don’t eat or drink in front of them!!! To deal with this problem, there was talk of removing them.
Little tip: try entering through the back of the temples where there’s no one and walk toward the entrance for photos of the gates with almost no people, since everyone will be in the middle of the temples.
With a child, on temple-free days, there are walks on the lake, stilt villages or floating villages, and pleasant countryside.
Have a great trip, Eric
Your knowledge of Southeast Asia is impressive😉
Thanks!!
Okay, but I’m ditching the bus trip 🏴☠️, I’ll stick with the 5 days and book the flight in the meantime
Hi Eric,
Thanks for this info. That would be a (very) nice surprise, then. I did read an article about the return of Chinese tourists, which is still slow in Thailand, with forecasts even lower for 2025 (-30% compared to pre-COVID), so it makes sense that Angkor would be affected. By the way, last year, most of the Asian tourists I ran into in Vietnam were Taiwanese or Korean...
...
And I’m actually reading "worldwildbrice"’s articles right now 😛... haven’t gotten to the one you mentioned yet.
Little tip: try entering through the back of the temples where there’s no one, and walk back toward the entrance for that photo of the entrance gate(s) with almost no people, since they’ll be in the middle of the temples.
I’ll stick with the 5 days and secure the flight by then
I think that’s the best thing you can do.
The flight will go via Bangkok. Be careful—there are two airports there that aren’t close to each other:
- Suvarnabhumi (BKK), where Bangkok Airways lands (one of the airlines that serves Siem Reap).
- Don Muang (DMK), used by low-cost carriers.
I ran a simulation for July 28th for the shortest possible flights that don’t arrive in Chiang Mai after 4 PM. I found two options:
AirAsia flight FD 611 at 11:55 AM, 1h40 transfer at DMK*, then AirAsia flight FD 3439 at 2:40 PM, arriving at 3:55 PM for a total cost of $203 per person (checked baggage not included).
* Baggage transfer is handled by the airline—a service that seems new for a low-cost carrier.
("Connection protected by the airline.
Your airline will cover the connection for this leg of your flight. This means they'll:
-Transfer your bags to the next flight
-Provide the necessary assistance if you miss your connection
You may contact your airline for more information.")
Bangkok Airways flight PG 932 at 9:40 AM, 1h25 transfer at BKK, then flight PG 217 at 12:25 PM, arriving at 1:45 PM for a total cost of $211.30 per person if you manage to snag the "web promotion" fare (checked baggage included).
Hey, I’m back on the forum after a long break. Feels good to talk travel again!
Thanks a lot. I checked out the flights you mentioned. It’s a tad more expensive with checked baggage, but not by much—still a really good deal.
I’ve just made a small change: since Koh Samui is pretty pricey and I have to go through Bangkok anyway to get to Chiang Mai, I’m making a quick stop in Pattaya to take my little one to the big water park. It adds a trip from DMK to Pattaya and then Pattaya to BKK, but I’d rather do that than have her overdosing on temples. Plus, it’ll keep her in a good mood so we can enjoy Chiang Mai and the surrounding area afterward😛
Hi there,
I was planning to go to Pattaya before heading to Chiang Mai to take my daughter to an amusement park (Ramayana Water Park) so she doesn’t get overwhelmed with temples (we’ll be coming back from Angkor, and in the north, I’ll be visiting quite a few more temples). But I just read this discussion: https://voyageforum.com/forum/arnaques-violence-en-thailande-d10709988/
I knew Pattaya wasn’t a highly recommended destination, but since I was going for a very specific reason, I thought it might be possible to stay away from all that (I’d read several heated discussions on this forum suggesting there’s a "dark" side to Pattaya and a family-friendly Pattaya where families from Bangkok go on weekends).
Now, though, people are talking about outright scams and targeted tourist aggression...
I think I’ll skip this stop unless there’s really a family-friendly area *around* Pattaya?
Why not stay in Bangkok and take your daughter to the Samut Prakarn Crocodile Farm* or Safari World & Marine Park**?
* Accessible by several city buses but it’s a long and not straightforward trip. Otherwise, take a taxi or go through an agency. I’ve been there twice (in 40 years), it’s become pricey for foreigners, it’s crowded but it’s interesting and impressive.
** Located in Bangkok itself, in the northeast (Klong Sam Wa district). No buses, so check with an agency or take a taxi. I’ve passed by hundreds of times but never gone in. At certain times of the year, lots of storks nest in the trees along the road by the entrance.
If going through an agency, booking the day before for the next day is enough.
Awesome, thanks a ton—this’ll work perfectly (I think I’ll go to "Safari World & Marine Park"). I’d actually searched on Tripadvisor but typed "amusement park"… way easier to handle, too! ;)
My trip starts in Laos, but I’m transiting through Bangkok and staying one night before catching my flight to Luang Prabang the next day. Since it’s not just a layover, I’ll have to apply for the digital card. But afterward, I’m returning to Thailand for a longer stay. I’ve searched online for the validity period but can’t find the info.
I’m wondering if I’ll need to reapply when I come back to Thailand or if the digital card will still be valid.
Hi, thanks so much!
I see the info isn’t super clear on the sites since I’m not the only one asking this question😛...
Anyway, too bad—it would’ve been better if it were valid for 30 days...
Hey, don’t lose sight of the fact that Indonesia is huge, and it can get expensive with flight tickets after a while, even with low-cost airlines like Air Asia or Lion Air.
Also, what are your main interests?
Hi, thanks so much!
I see the info isn’t that clear on the sites since I’m not the only one asking the question😛...
Too bad, it would’ve been better if it were valid for 30 days...
Hello,
I’m jumping in a bit late to the discussion... to answer your question about the weather, I’ve traveled to Southeast Asia many times, always in July/August, and the monsoon has never really been an issue—except once in Phnom Penh.
Of course, you have to expect heavy rain in the late afternoon, but it rarely lasts more than 2 hours and doesn’t happen every day.
Hello,
Finally leaving today—promised, I’ll post a trip report when I’m back ;).
As usual, I’m last-minute about this, but does anyone know if there’s an eSIM that works in both Laos and Cambodia? I’m checking Holafly, but it’s not clear...
Thanks if anyone has the info 😛
Hello, just replying to myself in case anyone was wondering—Holafly works great in Laos and Cambodia (and in a bunch of other Asian countries).
Personally, I find it super handy when visiting multiple countries—you switch from one network to another without even thinking about it
In this thread https://voyageforum.com/forum/que-choisir-premier-voyage-en-asie-en-ete-indonesie-thailande-d10774923-1/ DomBegga is hesitating between Thailand and Indonesia for summer 2026 and his first trip to Asia. He’ll also be traveling with a young child.
The rainy season in Thailand seems to be making him hesitate. Since you’ve just returned from there a few days ago, could you please go and tell him how it actually was weather-wise? Was it manageable? A real hassle? Several of us have already told him "no worries," but maybe he’d pay more attention to your "fresh" feedback...
Hello, yes, with pleasure! :) This weekend, I’ll actually be working on my travel journal...
And I owe you (and everyone else) a huge THANK YOU because your tips really helped me out during this incredible one-month trip!
Asie du Sud-Est › Indonésie / Philippines · 28 replies
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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.
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search.
I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
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! I’d like to split my trip into two parts: 15 days in Phuket and 15 days in Krabi. Do you know if I can rent a car and drop it off in Krabi when I fly back to France?
Thanks for your feedback!
Have a great Sunday!
Martine
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 dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
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
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.
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.
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?
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?
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...
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.
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.
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 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.
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!
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...
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:
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.
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
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.
