🙂Amis du jour, bonjour.
Intéressé par le forum Asie S/E, je suis interpellé par les conseils et discussions donnés par les habitués du site : Abalone, Larsay, Venissian, Ottlpac …
Ils forment à eux seuls l'animation sur le site, les questions sont toujours les mêmes.
«Que faire ? que voir ? vite en peu de temps, profiter un maximum sans bourse déliée, tout bénéfice sinon je passe pour un touriste.»
En fait ces voyageurs n'ouvrent aucun livre, aucun guide ou documentation et préfèrent se fier aux autres (c'est aux autres de faire le travail).
Les débats animés entre le Nord, le Sud et le Centre sont amusants (à quand la Réunification ?) c'est à se demander s' ils ne travaillent pas tous pour la même organisation ou agence et qu'il s'agit d'une seule et même personne. Les réponses sont récurrentes et n'apportent pas grand intérêt. Mais c'est amusant et je reconnais que sans Abalone qui défend le Sud, Larsay le Nord, Venissian le Centre et Ottlpac le Delta, c'est le désert. A question bête, réponse bête.
A votre santé. 😉
Bonjour,
La constatation est pareil sur d'autres région, souvent les questions sont tellement vagues qu'elles ne métitent aucune réponse, a croir que les personnes posant ces questions prennent une mape monde, posent leurs doigt a un endroit et veulent tous savoir sur ce pays, alors que tout est suggestif et mérite un jugement personnel (surtout pour des vacances).
Ouvrir un guide et se documenter lorsque c'est un premier voyage s'avère utile ... et surtout cela permet de ne pas rater le truc à voir du lieu où l'on rend ... Par contre lorsqu'il s'agit de retourner dans une région, un quartier ... rien ne vaux l'expérience de ceux qui y sont déjà aller ... ou de ceux qui y vivent ... et c'est souvent comme cela que l'on découvre des perles (jamais mentionné dans les guides..)
Je souhaite visiter Bangkok autrement ... la partie pas touristique et même en cherchant sur le net, je ne trouve pas d'infos ... heureusement que les vfistes sont là ... !!!
Je souhaite visiter Bangkok autrement ... la partie pas touristique et même en cherchant sur le net, je ne trouve pas d'infos ... heureusement que les vfistes sont là ... !!!
Et justement ne trouvez-vous pas qu'ils ont un certain mérite (et plus encore) à renseigner, sans aucun intérêt financier ou de n'importe quel ordre, des gens qu'ils ne connaissent pas, dont l'éducation est quelquefois à revoir, tout ça pour leur faire profiter de leur expérience qui est unique puisqu'elle ne sort généralement pas d'un guide mais de la difficulté qu'ils ont eu eux-mêmes à "défricher" le terrain et à éviter à certains des mésaventures qui n'ont rien à voir avec du tourisme ?
Et vous le dites vous-mêmes, ces question sont répétitives et la liste des doublons n'est pas exhaustive !!!!!
Je pense naïvement qu'il vaudrait mieux leur dire merci😉😉😉
Sans rancune - Kimtwo -
Le vent et les turbulences sont l'oeuvre de Dieu, mais la voile et le gouvernail nous appartiennent..
Voyager c'est aller de soi à soi, en passant par les autres (proverbe touareg)
Oui, entièrement d'accord ... alors Merci.
Moi je suis toujours à la recherche d'info que je ne trouve nulle part d'ailleurs, ....
Bangkok autrement... l'autre côté du Choa Praya, les klongs ...
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
J'aurais bien voulu vous aider pour Bangkok autrement .. car je l'ai fait autrement ... en ambulance et sur une civière.....🙁🙁 mais je pense qu'en allant sur le forum plus précis de la Thaïlande, vous allez certainement trouver un curieux qui s'est aventuré hors des chemins battus - bonne chance et bon séjour -
Cordialement - Kimtwo
Le vent et les turbulences sont l'oeuvre de Dieu, mais la voile et le gouvernail nous appartiennent..
Voyager c'est aller de soi à soi, en passant par les autres (proverbe touareg)
C'est ton 1er message, tu te moques des voyageurs stupides qui posent toujours les mêmes questions, et tu te moques de ceux qui y répondent inlassablement.....😉
Tu commences fort mais tu as raison, d'un côté observateur le forum est parfois amusant, chacun défend un peu son territoire, son point de vue, mais c'est normal de parler de ce qu'on connait le mieux, non ?
Je pense que tu exagères consciemment, si tu as un peu observé le forum tu as dû voir qu'il y avait aussi de très bonnes infos....
Enfin bienvenue sur le forum, observer, participer, l'important est que chacun y trouve son compte, mais attention de ne pas poser une question stupide, on t'aura à l'oeil ! 😉
Je rentre tout juste du VN, le temps d'une connexion avant d'aller rejoindre le royaume de Morphée, cause jet-lag...
Ce n'est pas mon premier voyage au VN ni en Asie d'ailleurs et je vais peu sur les forums. Je ne me fie pas aux guides quels qu'ils soient, l'experience de ceux qui vivent sur place ou de ceux qui ont foulé ces terres lointaines sont la meilleure des documentations.
Pour ce voyage pourtant, je me suis adressée aux experts es Viet Nam de ce forum et ai pris un maximum d'informations sur les villes que j'allais parcourir.
Un grand merci à Abalone pour ces precieux conseils et aussi aux autres pour les hotels et gargottes. Mr Thuy est en effet à la hauteur de la réputation que ce forum lui donne. Un voyage magnifique à Hanoi, sur Halong et Sapa, des images encore plein la tête et une seule envie : vivement le prochain trip !
J'ignore que ce Barfly attend d'un forum de voyage mais si on ne peut y glaner quelques infos, à quoi servirait-il ? Le net pullule de forums insipides et sans intérêt; celui-ci est bourré de bons tuyaux. Comme partout, faut juste savoir selectionner ce que l'on recherche. De plus, l'Asie S/E ne se limite pas au VN: y a des discussions parfois hilarantes, quelquefois pathétiques aussi sur les us et coutumes de chaque pays et le point de vue que chacun pose sur le touriste et tourisme en géneral. Pas si inintéressant que ça car comprendre un pays, c'est apprendre à l'aimer.
Je pense naïvement qu'il vaudrait mieux leur dire merci😉
Bonjour kimtwo,
Je suis désolé et navré de ne pas t'avoir cité parmi les vfistes en question, j'ai vu que tu étais souvent présente à aider les personnes en peine, je ne sais pas si l'intérêt est le même pour les autres.
sans rancune.
Cher Abalone
Tu prends la mouche facilement, n'oublie pas que ce n'est qu'un forum, questions🙂, réponses🙂,
j'apprécie la bonne humeur et la susceptibilité des anciens.
Je me souviens d'un message où tu allais préparer un circuit avec un endroit top pour se baigner dans l'eau paradisiaque. Qu'en est-il de ce projet ?
Santé et sans rancune.😉
Les débats animés entre le Nord, le Sud et le Centre sont amusants (à quand la Réunification ?)
Elle n'est deja pas pratiquee sur le terrain, sauf dans les livres et a l'ecole... pas demain la veille, donc... de plus, nous preferons parler de ce que nous connaissons vraiment bien plutot que de dire des aneries au sujet de lieux ou ne nous sommes passes qu'une seule fois. Meme en MP, si on me demande des infos sur le Nord, j'envoie chez Larsay ou Kimtwo qui connaissent tres bien le terrain, des infos vraiment pratiques (bus, avions, hotels, etc.), chez Abalone qui a ses petits carnets de note et qui parcours le pays en long, en large et en travers, Venissian pour le Centre, puisqu'il y vit et parcours sa region a moto depuis tres longtemps. Autant se referer a ceux qui ont la connaissance. Si j'ai besoin d'un conseil en informatique, je n'irai pas le demander au pharmacien
c'est à se demander s' ils ne travaillent pas tous pour la même organisation ou agence et qu'il s'agit d'une seule et même personne.
Pas d'agence en ce qui me concerne, des tours organises l'an dernier, mais j'ai arrete et change de centre d'interet.
Si tu nous connaissais un peu, tu comprendrais tres vite que nous sommes diametralement opposes (physique, origines, caractere, vie privee, etc.) On s'engu... parfois, on discute beaucoup, mais on s'apprecie les uns les autres et on se marre aussi parfois.
Les réponses sont récurrentes et n'apportent pas grand intérêt.
Ben oui, a question idiote, comme tu le dis plus bas... Il nous arrive aussi d'en avoir "plein les bottes" de lire les memes questions alors que le forum est pourvu d'une tres bonne fonction "Rechercher". Reflet de notre civilisation ? On prefere la nourriture premachee, ca fatigue moins...
Mais c'est amusant et je reconnais que sans Abalone qui défend le Sud, Larsay le Nord, Venissian le Centre et Ottlpac le Delta, c'est le désert. A question bête, réponse bête.
Il faut aussi reconnaitre que, vu la teneur des demandes, il nous est difficile d'inventer de nouveaux lieux (souvent difficilement accessibles sans une bonne connaissance du pays et demandant plus d'une journee sur place), de nouvelles discussions, de nouvelles coutumes. On brosse un portrait general et, dans certains cas, si on dit la verite telle que nous la vivons, on se fait fustiger par des gens qui croient tout connaitre du VN et des Vietnamiens pour l'avoir visite deux fois quinze jours. Donc, comme le dit le Dalai Lama : "Parfois le silence est la meilleure reponse".
Cordialement,
Pat
PS : Si nos propos ne t'interessent pas, je confirme comme Abalone : zappe !
PS2 : Desolee pour les fautes d'orthographe, je n'ai pas le courage de tout relire et je suis fatiguee, mais je constate que j'en ai fait pas mal... 😊😊😊
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
J'essaie d'aider tout le monde, ceux qui sont dans la peine.. et les autres - je ne discrimine personne , pas même ceux "dont l'éducation est à revoir"😕😕
Bonne soirée - Kimtwo -
Le vent et les turbulences sont l'oeuvre de Dieu, mais la voile et le gouvernail nous appartiennent..
Voyager c'est aller de soi à soi, en passant par les autres (proverbe touareg)
Je pense que tu exagères consciemment, si tu as un peu observé le forum tu as dû voir qu'il y avait aussi de très bonnes infos....
Salut Ming2, 🙂
Je reste de ton avis et c'est pourquoi je viens sur le forum sinon je zapperai comme il a été dit justement. Un territoire à défendre n'est pas nécessaire, il n'y a aucune animosité. L'entraide est certainement valable, les conseilleurs ne sont pas les payeurs et ainsi de suite. Tu as remarqué les avis sont partagés. J'aime apprendre à lire des expériences des autres aussi je trouve que le contact sur place est bien meilleur que tous les commentaires surfaits et exagérés par les vfistes cités. Le problème de la langue reste difficile mais pas insurmontable.
Pour ma part j'ai déjà fait une partie du sud et les hauts plateaux du centre, je prépare une nouvelle visite (Nord, Sud, Centre) avec tout ce que ça comprend de difficulté. Aussi je compte sur mes amis vfistes pour éclairer ma lanterne.
Je pense que ton petit message était à prendre au second degré, avec humour, et que ton observation des uns et des autres n'est pas si fausse....😉
Certains habitués se connaissent bien, du moins sur le forum, chacun finit par savoir un peu quelles vont être les réponses des uns et des autres...
Certains se chamaillent, c'est parfois amusant, parfois pénible, suivant l'humeur du jour les réponses sont parfois courtoises, parfois plus sèches. C'est vrai que lire et répondre tout le temps aux mêmes questions est souvent lassant. Que beaucoup ne font pas l'effort de faire des recherches, de lire un guide. C'est vrai qu'il y a des questions bêtes, des réponses pas très diplomates, des polémiques...
Il y a de tout sur un forum, du bon et du mauvais, à prendre et à laisser !
Certains n'ont pas besoin de conseils et se débrouilleront tous seuls, d'autres ont besoin d'être guidés, d'avoir des infos toutes fraiches, qu'ils ne trouvent pas ailleurs.
Il y a des jours où l'on se dit qu'on perd son temps, où l'on regrette de participer.
Mais on y revient, et il faut reconnaître que c'est quand même bien sympa d'observer tout ça, de partager une expérience, de parler avec des voyageurs qui ont la même passion...🙂
C'est souvent animé, c'est aussi un des charmes du forum !
En fait ces voyageurs n'ouvrent aucun livre, aucun guide ou documentation et préfèrent se fier aux autres (c'est aux autres de faire le travail).
Cette citation nous touche en quelques sortes. Sache que l'on prépare tout de notre coté grace à diverses bases (lonely, revues d'agences de voyages, internet..) et lorsque l'on hésite (car on ne connait pas le Vietnam), on demande l'avis aux personnes concernées pour nous aiguiller.
De plus, on prépare un tour de monde, ce qui engage beaucoup d'argent; ainsi, on veut vraiment visiter les endroits les plus intéréssants (touristiques ou pas): les personnes de ce site nous aide vraiment!
Aussi, pour nous, cela sera la seule et unique fois que l'on ira au Vietnam, alors il ne faut pas se tromper et faire les choses les plus sympas!
Merci aux personnes qui nous aide (elles se reconnaitront), et ce n'est pas fini! :-)
Tu cites le nom de 4 personnes , j ai eu l'occasion de rencontrer l'une d'elle sur place.
Je suis allé deux années de suite en vacances au Vietnam en tant que voyageur individuel et en me debrouillant par moi meme. Je n'ai jamais eu recours à l'Open Tours.
Avant mon premier depart j'ai pas mal consulté Abalone pour divers renseignements , lesquels se sont avérés forts utiles et il a toute ma reconnaissance . A nul moment il ne m'a incité à m'adresser à telle ou telle agence locale.
Oui , Larsay vante uniquement le Nord , c'est normal c'est la region qu'il connait le mieux , qu'il a sillonnée et il en est vraiment tombé amoureux . Il n'a jamais caché qu'il ne connaissait pas le sud , d'ailleurs il n'intervient quasiment pas quand on l'evoque .
Ottlnpac connait bien les environs de Nha trang et du delta .
Oui , il arrive qu'ils ne soient pas d'accord entre eux mais chacun a le droit de s'exprimer suivant ses idées.
Je pense retourner une 3 éme fois au Vietnam , encore en individuel . Nul doute que je m'adresserai à eux si j'ai besoin d'autres tuyaux. Je sais qu'ils seront valables.
Il m'est arrivé egalement de laisser quelques temoignages sur mon parcours mais je ne pretends pas connaitre le Vietnam autant qu'eux.
Est ce de la politique ou de la philosophie?
En tous cas vietmin est bien connu quant il vient du coté de la Thailande, bizarrement le vietkong est plus réservé et se contente de son territoire.
Salutations a tous,
Oui j'ai écris cela et je le revendique toujours et pourtant j'ai reçu pas mal de messages foudre en privé !!
Les questions de nos amis futurs voyageurs deviennent tellement vagues qu'elles n'apportent pas de réponse.
Mes "collègues" du forum ont pu constater mon silence depuis un certain temps, je préfère le passer avec quelques voyageurs intéressant et intéressés par la vrai découverte du Vietnam.
Moi les questions aseptisées ou inutile ça me fatigue !
Il est vrai que certain voyageurs ont peur de s'engager seul en baroudeur à travers le pays et leurs craintes les infantilisent dans leur questions. Suffit de leur dire gentiment d'aller fouiller dans le forum ...
et pour ce qui est de "Les réponses sont récurrentes et n'apportent pas grand intérêt."
et bien il y a un proverbe qui dit
"A question idiotes , pas de réponses"
Donc pour ceux qui ont posé une question bébête et bien vous avez eu une réponse donc ne vous plaignez pas !
Voilà je vais encore me faire incendier mais je m'en moque !
Salut Jean,
Merci pour tes éclaircissements, ton commentaire est intéressant à double titre,
il permet de mieux connaître les personnes qui agissent sur le forum, Vietnam.
Et aussi pour les futurs voyageurs au Vietnam, ils savent sur qui ils peuvent s'adresser en toute confiance.
C'était au moins un des buts de la discussion, savoir en qui poser sa confiance. Il faut le préciser.
🙂 A bientôt sur le site.
Bonjour Pat, 🙂
Les réactions soulevées sont épidermiques.
Mais j'avoue qu'il en faut pour tous les goûts, simple constatation.
Quand les interrogations sont peu instructives, je passe,
d'autres zappent, pourquoi pas.
A ceux qui recherchent des tuyaux, comment s'éclater en faisant Hanoï un jour, Hué un jour, Saïgon un jour avec des super endroits branchés hôtels, restos et by night, juste avant d'aller rejoindre pour 10 jours les plages de Phu-Ket, Phi-Phi …etc en survolant au passage Angkor. Super.
Il y en a qui répondent. A expliquer l'inexpliquable, ils sont forts.
Allez Santé 🙂🙂
PS -Entre nous, j'apprécie beaucoup tes commentaires qui sont justes et sincères-
Ce n'est pas sûrement fait pour toi. Tu vas nous casser l'ambiance🙂
Cher Abalone,
C'est avec plaisir que je retrouve ton humour,
Je tenais à te remercier pour ton invitation chaleureuse et gratuite, je viendrai toujours avec plaisir (on sera deux) pour créer l'ambiance à ton futur projet.
pfftt, chapp, chapp, chapp,
allez, monte le son DJ, monsieur Jesaistout est en piste
pfftt, chapp, chapp, chapp,
😉😉😉
Pour moi je reprends la même chose,
Allez le dernier pour la route
Santé 😉😉😉
Bonjour,
je crois que vous vous etes un peu trompés
ces personnes que je ne connais pas personnellement et que vous avez citées, ne font qu exprimer leurs expériences des personnes qui vivent plus ou moins réguliérement au VN , avec scincerité
et s ils défendent le pays ce ne sont que des sentiments d amour et de passion pour ce pays
il n existe pas de nord , de centre ni de sud du pays depuis belle lurette que ce pays est unifié . Bien évidemment il y a des differences de mentalités et la diversité dans tous les domaine existe ( c est heureux d ailleurs)
et enfin ce ne sont pas des touristes , et surtout pas la meme personne , des débats parfois animés existent entre eux, mais c est le propre des forum , non ??
je ne suis pas ni leur representant , ni habilité a parler à leur place mais leurs infos ( gratuites) sur le pays arrangent bcp de monde !! il est vrai parfois exceptionnellement , certes , il y a des erreurs qui entrainent des mises au point (débats animés selon vous)
merci de me lire
VZ
Il est vrai que je privilege le Nord, car c'est la region que je connais le mieux pour la sillonner continuellement depuis 4 ans. On dit enormement de bien du Centre, mais je n'y suis jamais alle, donc je m'abstiens. Quand au Sud, j'y suis alle, mais ce n'est pas mon "truc"; les plages m'emm..., j'ai visite les iles du monde entier et, en ce qui me concerne, elles finissent toutes par se ressembler, et des rizieres sur des milliers de km2, ca finit par me fatiguer ! Donc, je ne dis jamais qu'il ne faut pas y aller, mais je conseille de ne pas s'y eterniser. Ceux qui m'en font le reproche, parfois sur un ton inutilement hargneux, oublie que le Forum est un lieu d'echange de gouts personnels, que, en ce qui me concerne en tout cas, je n'IMPOSE pas aux lecteurs, qui ont bien entendu la prerogative pleine et entiere de decider d'eux-memes
En ce qui concerne les "bagarres", si vous lisez regulieremnt mes postes, vous aurez constate j'espere que je reste toujours courtois et poli, meme pour repondre a des reflexions particulierement desagreables -trop systematiques chez certains- et qui n'ont pas de place sur ce Forum
Il est vrai que nos reponses se ressemblent souvent, et pour une bonne raison: les questions sont toujours les memes, avec, en repetition jusqu'a la nausee, "itineraire de 15j au Vietnam" (je comprends fort bien que tout le monde n'a pas le temps de "trainasser" en route) ou "voyager avec une agence". Il y bien des fois ou je n'ai meme plus envie d'y repondre, d'autant plus que si les lecteurs se donnaient la peine de chercher un peu, ce genre de questions a ete repondues maintes fois, mais, que voulez-vous, je suis un altruiste !
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Le sujet lancé sur le forum commence à dater, intéressé par le Vietnam pour m'y projeter bientôt et V-F depuis peu ; je trouvais que les questions étaient récurrentes et que ceux qui répondaient aux demandes étaient toujours les mêmes personnes. Avec Abalone, tu tenais la tête des mieux informés, sans oublier la participation agréable et appréciée de Ottlnpac. De là à imaginer qu'une agence de TO gérait cette publicité il n'y avait qu'un pas.
Eh bien je me suis trompé, vos interventions ont éclairci l'amalgame faite, cela a servi à ponctuer la popularité que vous aviez à faire vivre le forum.
La deuxième discussion engagée (Singe blanc) portait sur le jeu des 7 familles (bien connu), au deuxième degré, tendance à traiter les touristes de cochons de payeur ou de vaches à traire, (pour rester dans le contexte animal). Elle n'a pas été bien saisi dans le sens voulu. Un caillou dans l'eau. Là aussi je t'ai cité, avec Abalone, popularité oblige, et en référence à vos posts intéressants, souvent justes et avec humour parfois. Et après toutes ces questions, finir par lire que la personne intéressée allait choisir la destination de la Thaïlande, ça fout les boules.
J'ai apprécié ton aparté avec la visite des montagnes du nord et le parallèle fait avec le passé relié à Dien Bien Phu. Un travail super documenté, dommage qu'il n'est pas eu le succès escompté sur le forum car il mérite une plus grande attention et intérêt.
Peut-être un jour il reviendra sur le devant de l'actualité.
Je pars dans une dizaine de jours au vietnam pour visiter le Nord (Hanoi, SAPA, Ninh BInh, Cat ba) Pour changer un peu des destinations bien touristiques et…
Aide humanitaire et bénévolat à l'étranger › Vietnam · 1 reply
Je sois partir dans cette région dans le cadre d'une mission ONG et je souhaiterais avoir des infos, conseils, de personnes qui ont séjourné dans cette région…
Bonjoue, J'aimerais aller a la ville Dong Hoi (proovince de Quang Binh) et je pense a prendre un train. Est ce quelqu'un qui connait bien l'endroit? l'hotel…
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...
Hi,
I wanted to visit the plantations in the morning with GetYourGuide or by just showing up.
How much time should I really plan for?
I’d like to catch either the 3 PM or 5 PM bus back to KL.
Thanks
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 fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hi! 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
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, 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.
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 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.
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.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
