J'enseigne la plongée sur l'île de Nusa Lembongan, située entre Bali et Lombok.
Depuis 3 mois, nous avons la chance d'avoir 2 spécialistes des raies Manta (ayant précédemment passé plusieurs mois au Mozambique avec Andrea Marshall, spécialiste mondialement reconnue et egalement connue sous le pseudonyme "Queen of Mantas") présents sur l'île qui étudient au quotidien les raies manta sur l'île voisine de Nusa Penida.
Bref, ça c'était pour la présentation.
Ces 2 spécialistes sont donc partis depuis quelques jours sur Lombok, les échos se multipliant quant à la pêche quasi-industrielle organisée autour des Manta et requins.
Je vous livre ci-dessous le résumé de leur deuxième journée dans un port à l'est de Lombok :
Attention, certaines de ces images sont difficilement supportables.
Vous pourrez en savoir plus en aimant leur page "Aquatic Alliance".
En attendant, plus ces informations seront partagées, plus il sera facile de faire pression sur le gouvernement indonésien afin de contrôler la pêche dans les environs de Lombok.
En France, il y a des espèces qui sont protégées et des tailles limites à respecter.
Les daurades et les sardines ne sont pas des espèces menacées. Les requins et les raies si, d'autant que leur population est beaucoup moins importante que celle des sardines.
Accessoirement on parle ici de l'équilibre de tout un éco-système.
Mais bon, tu as raison, ce n'est pas grave, ce n'est pas industriel. En même temps, vu le nombre de raies manta dans les océans - cf doc en lien - ce serait difficile d'en tuer plusieurs centaines pas jour. Je te laisse néanmoins consulter les photos & commentaires relatifs aux requins dans l'album Facebook de mon post initial. A moins que les 200 bébés requins pêchés chaque jour ne puissent être considérés comme un niveau industriel ?
Bref, je ne pensais vraiment pas qu'un occidental puisse encore être aussi mal informé de nos jours ...
Si vous vous informiez un minimum (cf doc en lien) plutôt que de meugler comme au café du commerce, vous comprendriez peut-être qu'il s'agit également de faire en sorte que les pêcheurs aient quelque chose à pêcher dans 10 ans plutôt qu'ils déstabilisent chaque jour un peu plus l'équilibre des océans pour un salaire qui reste dérisoire.
Mais vous avez raison, nous n'avons de leçons à donner à personne, après tout la situation environnementale globale n'est pas grave, laissons le temps aux pays en voie de développement de vider leurs océans. Ces pêcheurs ne se partagent que quelques dizaines de $ par prise alors qu'ils pourraient se reconvertir et transformer leurs océans en mine d'or tout en faisant un peu de bien à la Nature, mais ce n'est pas notre problème.
Dans un autre domaine, qu'ils continuent donc à utiliser sacs plastiques non bio-dégradables, polystyrène et autres matières sales bannies dans nos contrées et à se servir de l'Océan comme d'une poubelle. Nous savons que c'est le pire du mal mais laissons les tranquille.
L’occident (en général, apparemment certains manquent encore d'informations ...) a juste mis plusieurs dizaine d'années pour prendre conscience des problèmes environnementaux, si les pays en voie de développement mettent autant de temps, ce n'est pas notre problème, laissons les donc tranquille.
J'espère pour vous que vous n'avez pas d'enfants, ils risqueraient d'avoir un peu faim dans les prochaines décennies quand les espèces en voie d'extinction auront toute disparues.
Bref, vos réactions sont presque aussi déprimantes que ces photos ...
La disparition des espèce concerne le monde entier et pas seulement le pays où elle à lieu... Doit-on laisser un pays ou une etnhie assassiner la planete entière sous prétexte de respecter les traditions ?
Étant entendu qu'il ne s'agit pas d'une tradition, mais de la demande croissante de la médecine chinoise pour les branchies de manta.
La croissance de cette demande étant liée, entre autres, à la réduction des stocks de requins qui deviennent de plus en plus difficiles à pêcher en quantités suffisantes pour répondre à la demande de la médecine chinoise.
Je suis moi meme marin pecheur, tous les ans "l'ifremer" etc.. veulent reduire nos quotats, sauf que depuis 2 ans on n'a jamais vus autant de peche au larges de nos cotes, pareil, nos salaires ont augmentes, pourtant le prix du poisson lui pas....
j'ai peut etre parler un peu trop vite, je ne sais pas qu'elle en est la situation en indonesie, mais tjour est t'il que vous n'etes pas a la place de ces pecheurs et croyez moi, les pecheur ont horreur qu'on leur impose se genre de restriction, eux sont sur le terrain, eux pechent et eux savent gerer, leur quotats
mais votre job consiste a emmener des touristes plonger voir des gros specimens il est sur que vous pensez a vous, car si la taille de ces raies diminue, cela affectera votre "buisness"......
Je préfère largement que les locaux puissent en vivre plutôt qu'entendre les lamentations d'un occidental qui s'inquiète pour la pérennité de son job de prof de plongée.
Et tu me fais bien rire avec tes leçons de morale sur la préservation de la planète : ton activité repose sur la participation de clients qui doivent effectuer des déplacements de plusieurs dizaines de milliers de kilomètres en avion pour y participer. Ce qui est plus grave et nuisible pour l'environnement que les activités que tu dénonces !!!
Si vous preniez au moins la peine de lire les documents que je mets à votre disposition, peut-être comprendriez-vous que ce sujet n'a rien d’intéressé. Mais il semble que cela soit déjà vraiment trop vous demander, alors je ne vous demanderais pas de lire mes réponses au précédent intervenant.
interessants articles.
J'ignorais que trois moustachus sur leur barquasse pouvaient etre responsables de la disparition des mantas, je suppose que leurs propulsions moteur sont également responsables du réchauffement climatiques et leurs sacs plastiques à la source du continent de plastique du pacifique nord.
Heureusement que des occidentaux éclairés sont là pour sauver le monde.
Et "faire pression sur le gouvernement Indonésien".....😄😄😄.
Il y a trois sortes d’hommes : les vivants,
les morts, et ceux qui vont sur la mer.
Aristote (parait il)
Merci, j'ai bien ri. Mais je peux vous comprendre. C'est tellement plus simple de fanfaronner plutôt que de prendre 2 minutes pour ouvrir un document et n'en lire ne serait-ce que la première page.
J'ai heureusement bon espoir que les lecteurs silencieux de ce post aient plus de jugeotte que la plupart de ses intervenants.
les indos gerer les quotas?? desole mais ils detruisent tout... pas par mechancete bien sur mais par manque d info, parfois parce qu il faut bien bouffer... vous les verriez pecher a l electricite dans les rivieres, shooter les 2 3 oiseaux qui restent, couper le moindre arbre qui a une valeur marchande... c est d une tristesse sans nom
les indos gerer les quotas?? desole mais ils detruisent tout... pas par mechancete bien sur mais par manque d info
Comme dans de nombreux pays en voie de développement (et notamment la Thaïlande où certains intervenants semblent vivre ... à moins que ceux-çi soient trop occupés dans leur villa de Bangkok, Phuket ou Koh Samui pour réaliser le problème).
Mais à en croire ces mêmes intervenants, offrir les moyens d'éducation à ces pays serait de l’ingérence. Foutons leur la paix, attendons simplement qu'ils crèvent de faim quand ils n'auront plus aucune ressource.
"et notamment la Thaïlande où certains intervenants semblent vivre ... à moins que ceux-çi soient trop occupés dans leur villa de Bangkok, Phuket ou Koh Samui pour réaliser le problème). "
non non t'inquiet je ne suis pas dans une villa, plutot sur les bord du mekong dans une bien triste maison sans air con(mais ca c'est pas votre probleme)
"offrir les moyens d'éducation à ces pays " t'inquiet, ils t'on pas attendu pour s'eduquer...
"
Sympathique cette facon de communiquer qui consiste à invectiver ses interlocuteurs des qu'ils n'abondent pas dans ton sens.
Dommage le sujet était intéressant mais à quoi bon discuter avec quelqu'un de tel
Si tu savais combien ils en ont vu passer des comme toi qui croient avoir la solution à leurs problèmes. La plupart repartent dégoûtés mais va savoir, tout ce que je te souhaite c'est de réussir là où les autres ont échoué , mais excuse moi de ne pas trop y croire
Il y a trois sortes d’hommes : les vivants,
les morts, et ceux qui vont sur la mer.
Aristote (parait il)
Sympathique cette facon de communiquer qui consiste à invectiver ses interlocuteurs des qu'ils n'abondent pas dans ton sens. Dommage le sujet était intéressant mais à quoi bon discuter avec quelqu'un de tel .
J'ai effectivement du mal à communiquer de façon sympathique & cordiale avec des interlocuteurs qui n'apportent que moqueries & mépris dans leurs seules interventions.
J'en suis bien désolé.
Quant au fait de trouver le sujet interéssant, d'après vos précédentes interventions ils semble que vous le trouviez simplement amusant.
Si tu savais combien ils en ont vu passer des comme toi qui croient avoir la solution à leurs problèmes. La plupart repartent dégoûtés mais va savoir, tout ce que je te souhaite c'est de réussir là où les autres ont échoué , mais excuse moi de ne pas trop y croire.
Si vous avez compris mon post comme l'arrivée d'un Zorro à la rescousse des pays en développement, je m'en excuse et je ne peux que vous inviter à vous documenter un peu sur le sujet, en lisant par exemple le document que j'ai mis à votre disposition.
Bref, si vous pouvez faire preuves d'idées constructives, je serais ravis de les entendre. Je n'attache pas grande importance aux railleries, j'en attache bien plus aux idées.
Quand au fait de ne pas trop y croire, c'est peut être le fond du problème tout ces gens qui sont juste au courant et attendent passivement que le temps passe, se moquant simplement des quelques initiatives mises en place (je parle pour Aquatic Alliance, et toutes les ONG locales - pas seulement étrangères, puisque apparemment que l'Occident puisse apporter son soutient et ses compétences semble vous bouleversifier - pas pour ma modeste contribution qui ne se résume qu'à mettre en lumière le problème).
Bref, je suis prêt à vous écouter si vous avez quelque chose d'autre à me dire qu'une suite de smiley ...
Non, c'est même très bien d'aider les pays en developpment d'eviter faire les même erreurs nous avons fait.
c'est le façon qui est souvent pas agréable. Le façon: nous les occidentaux on sais très bien comment de faire, alors nous avons raison!!! Le façon: le koloniste qui a l'argent alors notre façon est le mieux!!!!
Nous sommes tous responsable pour notre Terre!!!! L'Occidentaux ont seulement eu le temps d'apprendre et de se realiser. Maintenant la Terre est déjà bien abimer par les même pays developper(!!!) les pays non-developper doit de depecher car il y a plus de temps. Regarde encore bien dans votre entourage si tout le monde est aussi Eco que vous pensez.
l'utilisation de plastic est venue par qui dans ce pays non-developper?! Je me rappel pas quand j'avais 9 ans nous avons utiliser beaucoup de plastic dans notre village à Java. Et Bali était tranquille et propre, personne manqué de l'eau. pas tout le monde eu un matelas peut être dans sa chambre ou des meubles, mais ils ont pas obliger de acheter de l'eau dans le bouteille. Tout ce bouteille en plastic?! C'est venue pour qui dans tout les îles pensez vous?
L'année passé j'ai cherché les logement très simple, mais traditionelle Balinais mais propre et avec une kamar-mandi ouvert. à Ubud les logements simple et propre dans les famille il avait beaucoup, les plupart des logement etait comme ça, mais maintenant tu trouve plus, seulement les logement dans les norme des Europeans. Fermer, en brick, et tous avec les toilet et salle de bains Europeans. les logement comme les gîtes ici. Bien pratique!! en plus trois fois plus cher,
Trouve toi encore les repas vraiment traditionelle Balinais!!! Il y a une restaurant Français qui a les menu de 40€!!!
Il y a une hameau Français à Sanur. Vas voir les grandes maison ils ont. Les infrastructuur qui besoin pour tout les maison de cette taille. tu croix c' n'est pas une façon de abimer notre Terre?!!!!
A Bali les Balinais peut plus avoir de l'eau propre car les grandes hotels et grandes maison qui sont de, Americains, Europeans, Français, Australiens besoin de l'eau!!!!! Pourtant les touristes continue de construire leur grande maison et hotels. Et pourtant il y a encore beaucoup de Balinais qui vivent dans les endroit pauvre, comme les poubelles.
On peut biensur dire : oui mais le tourisme donne aussi plus de confort à les Balinais! Et pourquoi nous devrons aider les Balinais alors et leur donner les filtres pour qu'ils peuvent aussi avoir de l'eau potable????
Bon je peut encore aller des heures et des heures, mais je crois je vais arreter et penser seulement ce que je peut faire pour amillioré mon entourage!!!!
Elles me font toujours rire les plaquettes publicitaires des écotartuffes du WWF, quand on voit à quel point cet organisme n'est devenu rien d'autre qu'une entreprise comme une autre : faire du fric à tout va, participer au green-washing (contre abondante rémunération) de toutes sortes de grandes entreprises et multinationales, etc.
Je suis pas un fan de wwf et de toutes ces énormes ONG mais je pense qu'elle a surtout voulu montrer par là les differents tableaux qui mettent en perspective les responsabilités et montrent à quel point on marche sur des oeufs, nous représentants des cultures les plus destructrices au monde(ceux de wwf inclus), à essayer de faire la lecon à des gens qui sont maintenus au stade de la survie. Celui qui veut sauver un animal aujourd'hui devra payer son chasseur pour que ça devienne plus interessant pour lui de le garder en vie. Est ce que les pécheurs voient beaucoup la couleur des billets lachés par les touristes pour voir les poissons? Du moins assez pour modifier leur activité? Je crois qu'on connais tous la réponse.
Il y a trois sortes d’hommes : les vivants,
les morts, et ceux qui vont sur la mer.
Aristote (parait il)
et penser seulement ce que je peut faire pour amillioré mon entourage!!!!
J'aime bien votre démarche.
Semangat!
Hier après avoir répondue le message, j'ai regardé bien ce que je pouvais améliorer dans mon entourage et j'ai
découvris il y a encore beaucoup à faire!!!!
En octobre cette année ma famille et moi nous allons partir à Sumatra - Indonésie pour faire les travaux humanitaire.
Nous avons construire un orphelinat. Chaque 7 à 8 mois nous partons pour aider sur l'orphelinat et monter les projets.
Comme il y a encore beaucoup choses à faire, nous allons vivre et travailler en Sumatra. C'est très difficile de le faire par ici en France. On devrait être près des gens pour leur aider faire les choses différemment. Parler, expliquer, communiquer et travailler ensemble. Pas donner les leçons, mais partager les expériences, ça marche mieux.
C’est ce que nous voulons aussi si nous étions dans la même situation, n’est pas ?
Nous allons changer nos vie, avoir les peur de changement, quitter nos amis et famille, beaucoup d’administration etc etc. Mais aux moins nous avons essayé d’aider et ne pas seulement parler ou donner les opinions, ou critiquer ou encore pire, faire les même erreurs et dire à les autres comment le faire.
Et non je ne suis pas riche en tout cas pas par l’argent, je suis riche par compassion et le fait que j’ai la chance de pouvoir vivre en Europe, d’avoir un toit, pouvoir boire de l’eau propre, donner mon enfant l’éducation. Oui, je suis riche, Oui nous sommes riches.
Et pourquoi ne pas partager ces richesses avec les autres qui a besoin aide. Par forcement par l’argent, mais aussi par donner le temps, gentillesse, compassion, l’amour, les petites gestes.
Pour qui ont le temps et veulent encore partager !!!! www.sitinoraiti.com
Lettre d'aquatic alliance dans le Lombok guide de cette semaine avec cette conclusion :Peut-être est il temps de redistribuer plus equitablement les revenus de l'ecotourisme parmis tous les éléments de la communauté ...
Quand même
Encore un petit effort les gars vous y êtes presque.
Le coeur sur la main la main à la poche 😛
Il y a trois sortes d’hommes : les vivants,
les morts, et ceux qui vont sur la mer.
Aristote (parait il)
Activités aquatiques en voyage › Indonésie · 25 replies
Je voudrais savoir si l'observation des raies manta est toujours possible dans l'archipel de Derawan? sinon ou est il possible de les observer en Indonésie…
Je voudrai savoir ou il est possible d'observer des raies manta et des dauphins en thailande et en indonésie, en captivité ou en liberté... merci d'avance pour…
Sur 6 millions de mètres carrés, ce sanctuaire a pour but de protéger l'animal victime de la surpêche et promouvoir l'éco-tourisme dans l'archipel indonésien.…
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 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 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.
