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 Thierry,
We’ll be arriving in Kalimantan by plane from Jakarta... I was talking about local transportation and what we’re used to. But we might also take a flight on the island itself—transportation seems even longer than what we experienced in Sumatra or Sulawesi.
If you’ve got any info, I’ll take it!
Hi, what are the points of interest in Kalimantan?
It's obvious you'll spend time on boats—I don’t think that’s really interesting.
As far as I know, there aren’t any temples like in Bali.
You could possibly go to Nusantara, the new capital of Indonesia under construction.
For comparison, I spent one day traveling from Kuching in Sarawak to Sibu, then another day to reach Kapit by speedboat.
Otherwise, the main points of interest in Borneo are mostly on the Malaysian side.
Hi Mathews,
I’ve already pinpointed the Dayak culture, river excursions into the jungle from several spots for wildlife and flora, floating markets, and the Derawan Islands for snorkeling—that’s what we’re interested in. But I have very little info and no contacts there, which is why I’m posting!
At the end of the journey, after the islands, there are currently direct flights from Tanjung Redeb/Berau to:
- Samarinda 1 to 2 times/day on Wings Air
- Balikpapan 1 to 2 times/day on Sriwijaya Air, 2 times/day on Super Air Jet, 3 times/week (Tues, Thurs, Sat) on Wings Air
(nothing else within Kalimantan)
- Jakarta CGK once daily on Batik Air
And others to Surabaya and Makassar.
You might want to go there precisely because not many people do (except for Pangkalan Bun to see the orangutans) or to do the Trans-Borneo trek*, which can go from Pontianak to Samarinda—Samarinda being "not too far" from the islands where Gaiatika plans to end their trip.
* A grueling 15–20 days of hiking, scrambling, boat rides, and canoeing through ethnic groups and landscapes I assume are fascinating.
Hi! From what I know, the Dayaks are the majority ethnic group in Sarawak. There are also traders from the Chinese diaspora.
So it’s probably the same in Kalimantan.
However, don’t expect to visit hunter-gatherer tribes—they all live modern lifestyles now.
What’s really interesting is staying in a longhouse for a few days.
Hi there,
What seems problematic about your plan is that the road from Pontianak to East Kalimantan is very, very long and passes through landscapes that are uninteresting and environmentally degraded. In my opinion, it's better to stick to just one region.
Around Pontianak, you have two options: the coastline toward Sambas and beyond, with populations that are mostly Muslim (Melayu), "Chinese," and sometimes Dayak... This route is the easiest, and you can go all the way north to the border with Sarawak. The beaches are ordinary, even ugly, but anyway, that’s not why you’re going there, right? 😉 It’s easy to find transportation (buses, shared taxis, etc.) and hotels in all the coastal towns. The people are friendly but sometimes conservative. In short, modest dress is a must!!!
The other option is to head inland into predominantly Dayak territory. If I were to introduce someone to this region, this is the option I’d recommend, especially the area around Danau Sentarum, where you can still find longhouses and interesting natural areas.
I haven’t been back in a while, but I know this region offers great opportunities for treks and other encounters with locals.
Be careful, though: there’s nothing for tourists since almost no one goes there, no one speaks English, hotels are often run-down, and the food is basic (especially outside the cities)...
I’m less familiar with the other regions, but if you’re looking for adventure, you could also go up the Kahayan River from Palangkaraya. It’s an easy trip by road to Tumbang Miri. After that, it’s dirt roads or canoes. There are beautiful funeral monuments everywhere and endless possibilities for river trips and jungle hikes...
Either way, this is a completely different way to travel...
Sarawak is probably much more convenient since it’s used to receiving tourists...
Thanks for the feedback, Vikingman.
Just one question—are the rivers in Kalimantan big waterways?
I’m asking because I’m planning to paddle down one with my packraft.
You’ll find a bit of everything. Rivers, streams, creeks...
Lots of crocodiles too, especially near the estuaries.
Bottom line: you're gonna need a bigger boat!
Hi there,
Thanks so much for your reply—you’ve zeroed in on a region I’m really interested in!
What kind of trip did you take there?
I’m expecting run-down hotels and basic food, which would actually confirm how non-touristy it is.
When I mentioned Dayak culture, I was thinking of traveling up the Kapuas River to Putussibau, with the option of starting by bus to Sintang and then continuing by local boat, stopping along the way. That said, I don’t feel comfortable just showing up in a village to sleep without being announced or introduced—unless it’s a hotel, and I don’t see any between Sintang and Putussibau.
After that, the plan would be to explore on foot, ideally with a local guide.
To sum up my questions: Do boats run daily? How do you sleep along the way? Is it possible to find someone locally?
You mentioned Danau Sentarum, which is north of "my" route. It’s probably even more remote! How do you get there, and from where? Who can introduce me?
We could imagine flying back to Pontianak...
(Hello,
Thanks so much for your reply—you’re actually targeting a region I’m interested in.
What kind of trip did you take there?)
Hi,
I’ve traveled there (especially the Sentarum area and the Sambas region), but since 2003, I’ve been going back for family reasons (last time was in 2025, for several months). We’re based inland, a few hours from Pontianak, where we go regularly (and where the food is *amazing*!!!). That said, I still sometimes grab my backpack and explore a bit (hikes, etc.).
When I mentioned Dayak culture, I was thinking of going up the Kapuas River to Putussibau, with the option of starting by bus to Sintang and then continuing by local boat with stops along the way.
That used to be very doable. Now that the road has been redone (before, it was just a dirt track—people got carsick, and the trip was exhausting), I don’t know if people still travel by river. But no worries: there were never passenger boats, just cargo boats that took people on the side. So from Sintang, I’m sure you can still work something out. I don’t see why it would be any different now.
If the water level is high enough, some boats stop at Lake Sentarum to fish and relax. Otherwise, they head straight to Putussibau.
But I don’t feel comfortable just showing up in a village to sleep without being announced or introduced—unless it’s a hotel, and I don’t see any between Sintang and Putussibau.
There are hotels in pretty much every small town. And family-run guesthouses. Don’t worry about that—no one will let you sleep outside. Just watch out for bedbugs; there are *a lot* of them, and they’re worse than mosquitoes.
For villages, it’s all about vibes. I’ve never just shown up unannounced, except when arriving at dusk after hours of walking. The welcome is always warm and amused. The best thing is to take your time, chat with people, and let invitations come naturally. In Putussibau, you’ll definitely get approached. Four people is a lot, though—you’ll also be approached by guides who can introduce you and suggest things. Just be aware that you might also be invited by Malays. They’re friendly too, but it’s not the same vibe as a Dayak Iban village.
A good trick is to have a reason for visiting: "I’m interested in the Dayak way of life," etc. They’ll be flattered and honored. It’ll also give you something to focus on. Avoid picking an aspect of their culture that’s fallen out of use.
You mentioned Danau Sentarum, north of "my" route. Probably even more remote! How do you access it, and who can introduce us?
You can get there by speedboat from Semitau or Selimbau—I always mix them up. Or by bus from Putussibau (toward Nangabadau), getting off at Lanjak. Check for lodging and activities once you’re there. It’s not *that* isolated since it’s close to Sarawak.
Anyway…
For snorkeling, there are the Lemukutan Islands. Really pretty. Off the coast of Singkawang.
First trip to Indonesia? If so, you haven’t picked the easiest destination, but it’s not impossible either…
Hi there,
What a great idea to visit Kalimantan! I first went to the Malaysian side of Borneo and came back a bit disappointed—even 10 years ago, it was already very structured and organized.
Not long ago, we went back, but this time only to Kalimantan as a pair. Our itinerary was shorter than yours—three and a half weeks—starting in Pangkalan Bun from Jakarta. The Kumai River trip is stunning; the nature reserve is on the right, and the left bank is wild. It’s much more natural than Borneo—we saw lots of different animals in just three days.
Then BANJARMASIN, a partly floating city with its drifting floating market. A great memory.
Loksado: floating market, waterfalls, hikes, bamboo rafting. Everything is improvised and amazing.
Back to BANJARMASIN for a flight to BALIKPAPAN, then we stayed in Loajanan on a covered fishing boat to navigate the Mahakam River. The stops were nice, but there was too much commercial boat traffic. The nights were noisy. However, with a canoe, the riverbanks were varied—small villages or more "organized" ones, the longhouses of the Dayak people. Several stops, including one for a funeral ceremony. Returning to Muara Kaman and Mijara Bengkal was a real eye-opener—people had never seen white visitors except on TV. We spent 3 to 4 days paddling from village to village in a canoe, with basic but clean accommodations. We discovered very different villages—sometimes the women had long ears. Then we headed up to WEHEA, the low point! The forest is devastated, it rained, and it’s best forgotten. We found the main road, then the port and a speedboat to Derawan. There’s a dive lodge right next to the livelier village, which you can reach on foot. We spent 3 days swimming.
You’re in for a treat—there’s still so much natural beauty and diversity in both wildlife and ethnic groups.
Safe travels!
Hi there,
So much to dig into—thanks a ton! I’ll take the time to go through everything in detail with my friends and get back to you later.
We’ve already been to Indonesia several times—first discovered it in Sumatra back in 2017, then Java, back to Sumatra in 2024 (we really love it!), and Sulawesi in 2025… to the point where I’ve been improving my Bahasa year after year, even though it’s still pretty basic!
This country is magical, and the people are so welcoming, no matter where we’ve been so far. A true discovery.
Hi Eric,
We keep crossing paths on this forum as our destinations overlap—thanks for your reply!
I’ll definitely get back to you after I’ve looked into your info. 🙂
staying in Loajanan on a covered fisherman's boat to sail the Mahakam River
Does the Mahakam also flow through Loa Janan? Maps show it passes about thirty km further north in Samarinda before its delta begins. Or is that not the case?
Hi,
If needed, to avoid returning from the Mahakam via the same route, there are currently 1 to 2 daily flights from Melak* (on the river) to Balikpapan around midday. No air options from other villages further upstream.
If you feel like changing your plans to Bunaken instead of Derawan, the Balikpapan-Manado flight isn’t daily—currently departing on Mon, Wed, Fri, and Sat in the late afternoon.
Hi there,
It's not easy to summarize this itinerary in a few lines, but I might have made a mistake in my notes:
Yes, Loa Janan is indeed on the banks of the Mahakam River (about 30 km south of Samarinda), and that's where we boarded. It took us 3 hours from Balikpapan to Loa Janan while sightseeing.
I just found a map of the Mahakam River from the Delta to Tering in the west, with recommended stops—some of which I still remember.
Have a good evening!
Hello,
So much to digest—thanks a ton! I’ll take the time to go through everything with my friends and get back to you later.
We’ve been to Indonesia several times, starting with Sumatra in 2017, then Java, back to Sumatra in 2024 (we really love it!), and Sulawesi in 2025... to the point where I’ve been improving my Bahasa year after year, even if it’s still pretty basic!
This country is magical, and the people are wonderful, no matter where we’ve been so far. A true discovery.
Okay, I feel better now.
As a traveler, I definitely preferred Sumatra. In Aceh, I visited villages just as remote as in Borneo... where no foreigner had set foot in decades... But the vibe is more relaxed among the Dayaks, less rigid. Especially with the Ibans.
Palm oil has really reduced Kalimantan’s appeal. Many places are now completely uninteresting, and on a human timescale, it’s unfortunately permanent. Illegal gold mining is also a huge problem... very widespread. And they use mercury too.
I only go back out of necessity (this fall, if all goes well)... The upside of the region is that it’s still very untouristed and authentic. Dayak culture is experiencing a resurgence of interest, which can sometimes feel artificial and contradictory, but the communal way of life remains warm and welcoming for respectful visitors... The Melayu and Madurese, who are very present, are also lesser-known ethnic groups. But their often very orthodox religious practices make them less accessible to Westerners.
That said, if you’re staying for 6 weeks, you’ll have plenty of options, including combining several regions...
For practical info, it’s like the rest of Indonesia: easy to find on the spot. You’ll also see lots of photos on Facebook. Some places barely visited by foreign tourists are popular with Indonesians, who love social media. I’m thinking especially of Lake Sentarum.
Other ideas: I’ve never had the time, but I’d love to explore the Natuna and Karimata Islands, off West Kalimantan. Natuna, I think there’s a PELNI ferry. Karimata, I have no idea, but it looks amazing! Lemukutan is closer and more accessible.
Hello and thanks for this timely update. The Mahakam River is also affected, but upstream near the Malaysian border. Fuel shortages for the canoes, and a 25 kg bag of rice now costs over 1 million Indonesian rupiahs.
The dry season is expected to end by late September, right? Our traveler will keep an eye on things depending on her itinerary.
Eric.
Hi Hervé, thanks for the info,
Oh no, so this really isn’t the time to visit that region. We’d inevitably be consuming water at the expense of their already limited supplies. We’ll have to rethink our plans after gathering more information.
Thanks to you too, Eric—this helps us expand our research.
Well, travel is full of surprises, even in the planning stage. Long live flexibility!
Yes, right now Pontianak is also surrounded by "forest" fires (which may be over by the time you arrive) and the air is unbearable: all the schools in the city are closed...
For water, it's mostly a comfort issue: there’s still enough to wash (pumped from wells or directly from riverbeds), but the water quality is very poor and the risks to your skin are significant...
In short, conditions are even harsher than usual.
We’ll still be there at the end of September barring any unforeseen circumstances...
Hi there,
Drought in Kalimantan, earthquakes in Sumatra and Flores, and not far away,
floods and landslides in northern Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, etc...
you're right: let's keep our spirits up and hit the road.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Hi there,
Did you end up going after all?
I hope not... The situation is disastrous. Two months without rain, insane pollution... Pontianak airport is closed, as are all the schools... Not the time to go sightseeing there.
What a nightmare!!!
Hi there,
We’re off to a good start but beginning in Pangkalan Bun, arrived yesterday.
Hope your trip at the end of the month sees better weather—for you and for the locals.
Hi,
I sent you a private message at the end of August—maybe you didn’t see it?
We did end up going, but we’re starting in Pangkalan Bun, arrived yesterday. We actually skipped Pontianak.
Hope the weather improves for your trip later this month, for you and for the locals.
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Bonjour,
Je voulais visiter le matin les plantations avec getyourguide ou en étant sur place
Combien de temps prévoir réellement ?
Je voulais reprendre un bus soit celui de 15h ou celui de 17h pour KL
Merci
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 fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search.
I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices?
Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis?
What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc.
Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi 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!
