Hi there,
I’m so glad the VoyageForum is back up. Reading 'Montagnard74’s' Laos trip report (which I read yesterday) made me want to share my own (which I already posted a year ago on another forum).
Here’s a little recap of our 3 weeks in northern Laos, plus a few days in Vientiane.
By the way, we could easily go back to the north—there’s so much to see and do; probably in a few years.
This was our 3rd trip to Laos after having already done:
1st trip in 2012 (3 weeks), a quick overview:
Vientiane
Vang Vieng
Luang Prabang
Plain of Jars
2nd trip in 2017 (1 month):
Vientiane all the way to the 4,000 Islands via
Thakhek, Kong Lor, the Bolaven Plateau, Savannakhet, Pakse...
Some general info (2023):
For those who’ve already been to Laos: everything has gone up a lot—I think prices have almost doubled for transport, accommodation, meals... everything. But Laos is still a budget-friendly country for us.
As a couple, we spent 1,100 € for a month, all included (and we definitely didn’t skimp on massages :)).
Don’t trust the transport signs posted everywhere—at travel agencies, bus terminals, hotels... THEY’RE ALL WRONG (especially the schedules). They haven’t been updated since before Covid.
There are hardly any bikes for rent anymore, but scooters are easy to find everywhere. We switched our mode of transport toward the end of our stay: from bikes to scooters, which let us go farther. In Vientiane, we only saw one bike rental place, near Ong Teu Pagoda.
BCEL bank doesn’t charge a commission on foreign currency exchanges.
Using ATMs is expensive due to fees.
Outside Laos, Lao kip are basically worthless.
There’s so much inflation that I couldn’t find a single bank or exchange office willing to swap the kip we had left. So, don’t exchange too much toward the end of your trip.
Some little tips from our experience (2023):
The Muang Koua to Muang Ngoi boat still runs daily. At the dam, you have to get off and take a bus, then get back on the boat.
The boat from Muang Ngoi to Nong Khiew only leaves at 9:30 AM (don’t miss it or you’ll pay a lot for a private boat). From Nong Khiew to Muang Ngoi, there are at least two boats a day.
From Luang Namtha to Muang Sing: 4 to 5 buses a day, the last one leaves around 3:30 PM.
From Luang Namtha or Muang Sing to Nateuy or Boten (to catch the new train): 3 to 5 buses a day.
The new train is really hard to book—it’s often fully booked 48 hours in advance, even the local train (5 hours from Boten to Vientiane instead of 3 hours on the high-speed train).
(That makes it tough to travel day by day, which we love... too bad.)
For baggage checks: don’t bring anything flammable (sprays...) or sharp. My mosquito repellent (flammable but in a small plastic bottle) got through. Water bottles and a tiny pocketknife are okay. But it seems to depend on the station.
Some guesthouses prefer to be paid in dollars, otherwise the price is much higher.
If you’re entering Laos from Vietnam via Dien Bien Phu, you have to get your visa at the embassy in Hanoi—otherwise, you’ll be refused at the border (no e-visa or visa on arrival).
Apart from Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Muang Ngoi/Nong Khiew, there are very few tourists.
Some bus prices (in addition to those mentioned in my trip report) (with pick-up) 2023:
Luang Prabang to Luang Namtha: 320,000 kip per person, 9h
LP to Phonesavan: 250,000 kip per person, 7h
LP to Phongsaly: 450,000 kip per person, 13h
LP to Huay Xai: 420,000 kip per person, 14h
Train Nateuy to Vientiane: 400,000 kip per person
LP to Chiang Rai: 780,000 kip per person, 18h
LP to Hanoi: 900,000 kip per person, 24h
LP to train station: 50,000 kip per person
LP to airport: 100,000 kip per person
Vientiane from train station: 180,000 kip by taxi
Boats:
LP to Pak Beng: 300,000 kip per person, 1 day
LP to Houay Xai: 500,000 kip per person, 2 days
LP to Pak Ou: 180,000 kip per person, 5h
Even though we had plenty of time, you’ll see that we would’ve loved to stay longer in some places.
When it comes to accommodations, you can find cheaper options, but our requirement is: a private bathroom :)
- Arrived on November 8, 2023, in Vientiane (coming from BKK) to check the exact date of the Boun That Luang festival. As always, we stayed near the Mekong in the city center ($20 a night).
- November 10: Van to Luang Prabang (8h, 400,000 kip/person), great road until Vang Vieng, then one pothole after another.
- November 10–13: Luang Prabang (if you’ve never been, I’d say you need at least 4 full days) with visits to Kuang Si Falls again, Mount Phousi, and the old town. In 2012, we also did Tad Sae Falls—really beautiful—and the Pak Ou Caves.
We stayed a 5-minute walk from the Night Market ($12 a night).
- November 13–17: Van to Nong Khiaw (3h30, 150,000 kip/p), good road, then straight to a boat for Muang Ngoi (1h, 50,000 kip/p).
We stayed 3 nights but would’ve happily stayed 2 more.
It’s a charming little town, and you can easily walk to 2 villages (Ban Na, a Khmu village, and another one) about 2–3 hours away (you can sleep there) while passing near a cave. You can get there via two routes: one following the road, the other crossing the rice fields.
This is where we stayed the cheapest with an amazing view of the Nam Ou River: 120,000 kip a night in a small bungalow (plenty of options), and where we ate the best curry of our trip.
Also, hike up to the viewpoint next to the pagoda in Muang Ngoi—it’s a climb, but the reward is worth it (small entrance fee).
We also took a boat trip (45 minutes each way) to two villages: Ban Hatsapel (very authentic), a Khamu village
then walked to the Thaidam village of Ban Sopchem (touristy).
Along the way, an extraordinary viewpoint. And a guesthouse by the pier with a paradise-like garden—it’s true, you could spend time there.
Returned the next morning by boat to Nong Khiaw (1 night, 250,000 kip, in the center near the bridge) and went for a bike ride in the countryside, visiting some lovely spots.
We could’ve stayed at least one more day—such a pleasant village with stunning landscapes.
- November 17: Van to Oudomxai (3h, 150,000 kip/person). Good road, a non-touristy but pleasant town to break up the long journey between Nong Khiaw and Luang Namtha. We got a VIP room, huge, for 250,000 kip.
- November 18–21: Van to Muang Sing (MS) via Luang Namtha (LN). (On the van to LN, we met some Lao people taking the connection to MS, so we tagged along. Total 6h30: 4h to LN, 1h wait, 1h30 to MS, 100,000 kip/person for LN, 50,000 kip/person for a taxi to switch terminals, 80,000 kip/person for MS.) From Oudomxai to Nateuy, good road, then it’s a disaster until LN, and again a good road to MS.
We stayed 3 nights in MS—few guesthouses are open (Phu Ji is, otherwise near the market are charm-free GHs). So we took Phu Ji (I mention it because few GHs are open; 250,000 kip per night with breakfast). We were even the only Europeans for 48 hours. The town is sleepy and waiting for tourists. We rented bikes from the GH to explore the surroundings for 2 days: Thaidam, Thai Hneu, Akha, and Lao Lu villages.
We would’ve happily added 2 more nights.
- November 21 to 23: Van to Luang Namtha (1h30, 80,000 kip/person), good road and beautiful landscapes.
We stayed 2 nights (200,000 kip per night) and would have liked to stay 2 more nights, but my husband wanted to see Boten too.
We always get around by bike and only managed to do part of the loop—there’s so much to see: lovely villages (Hmong, Lenten, Thaidam, Nam Dee with its waterfalls) and rice field farming.
- November 23 to 25: Van to Boten (1h30, 100,000 kip/person), terrible road.
In Boten, we spent ages looking for a hotel—nothing is written in English or Lao, just Chinese everywhere, even for payments. People prefer yuan. Finally, we found a hotel on the 19th floor, 410,000 kip per night! But the bedding still gives me sweet dreams today :)
This isn’t a pagoda but the border post for China :)
We wanted to leave the next day by train to Vientiane... BUT the train was fully booked until the afternoon of the 25th.
We paid for our tickets in kip at Boten station (4 km from the city).
Boten isn’t very interesting except for being on the Chinese border. There are only trucks, dust, and more trucks. Laos once wanted to turn it into the Las Vegas of Asia, and a few nice buildings remain, but now they’re planning to make it a super-modern megacity. It feels like China—everyone speaks and eats Chinese. The night market has great food, though.
- On November 25, we finally took the first available local train: 390,000 kip/person! The fast train would have cost 1,700,000 kip/person, which is expensive, but there were no seats anyway.
5 hours to Vientiane, a pleasant trip with beautiful landscapes along the way.
We arrived at Vientiane station, which is about 10 km from the city center, and headed back to our favorite guesthouse.
- November 26 and 27: We take part in the Boun That Luang festival. Laos’ most important religious festival, it lasts 2 days. Then a few more days in Vientiane.
- November 29: Van to Vang Vieng (2h, 160 000 kips per person), 2 nights in a hotel with a view of the pretty mountain (320 000 kips per night). The town has changed a lot since our last stay in 2012 when there was still plenty of partying...
This is our second visit, but if you’ve never been, it’s better to stay 4 nights to explore the lovely valley with its landscapes, small lakes, and caves.
In the valley, there are several pools with stunning water.
Up in the mountains, there are usually caves to visit.
You’ll need to bring your own flashlights, but it’s still a bit adventurous.
Then back to Vientiane, and after 4 weeks in Laos, we head to BKK and 2 weeks at the beach (Pattaya, 2 nights—we had no choice since there were no more seats on the bus to Koh Chang (the downside of traveling day by day without booking in advance)), then 5 nights on Koh Chang and 6 nights on Koh Kood).
At the end of our trip: 3 nights in BKK at our favorite hotel with a view of the Chao Phraya.
Hi Elisabeth,
I just came across your travel journal—it’s really interesting! I’m heading to Laos and northern Thailand to cross the land border. This year, I’d like to explore northern Laos all the way to Vientiane. I’ll be traveling from October 23 to November 25. I’m planning to spend 8 to 10 days in Thailand and the rest of the time in Laos.
I haven’t finalized my itinerary yet, but I’ll definitely draw inspiration from yours. I’ll have to make some tough choices 🤔 since it’s my first trip to Laos, and I’ve read that spending a week in Luang Prabang isn’t too much.
I’ll probably reach out again for some tips.
Do you have a paper guidebook you’d recommend?
Thanks, and have a great day!
Mariejo
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
hi there,
what a wonderful trip you’ll have!
Feel free to reach out again if you need anything.
Here’s a little suggestion (which is also one of my plans for my next visit to Laos):
descend the Mekong by boat from the Thai border all the way to Luang Prabang. It takes 2 days.
For a paper guidebook, I’d say any up-to-date one will do—just pick one that’s either practical or culturally focused, depending on what you’re looking for. Also, every guesthouse is well-organized to offer a whole range of minivans or buses.
Thanks for your reply.
I did read that you can travel down the Mekong to Luang Prabang, and it’s really tempting. I’ll get back to you once my plans are more solid. For now, I’ve got a travel journal to write about my last trip to India.
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
That’s it, but not just that! 🤗😊
Mostly off-the-beaten-path spots 😉😆
And I just got back from Nagaland—so unique and beautiful—Assam, which I loved, and Meghalaya, gorgeous but *super* rainy.
So many new discoveries! 🤩🤔😉
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
"We’re staying 3 nights in MS—few guesthouses are open (Phu Ji is, otherwise it’s guesthouses near the market with no charm). So we booked Phu Ji (mentioning it since so few are open; 250 000 ₭ per night with breakfast)."
Would you happen to have the contact details for your guesthouse, Phu Ji? I can’t find anything about it in Muang Sing.
Thanks.
Is it possible to do a day trip from Muang Sing → Luang Namtha → Houeisai and then take the bus to Chiang Rai? It’ll be a long day, but is it doable?
Thanks and have a good evening,
MarieJo
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
""Could you share the contact details for your guesthouse Phu Ji? I can’t find anything in Muang Sing.
Thanks.""
**I found it in an old Laos guidebook: Phou Ji or Phou Iu Guesthouse 2.
It’s on a small street to the left as you enter the village. But since late 2023, I think others may have reopened.
I Googled Phou Ji and found this guesthouse :)**
""Is it possible to do in one day:
Muang Sing - Luang Namtha - Houeisai - and then take the bus to Chiang Rai? It’ll be a long day, but is it doable?""
**We did the reverse route from Oudomxay, but Houeisai is even farther! Total time: 6h30: Oudomxay to LN is 4h, 1h wait, 1h30 to MS, 100,000 LAK per person for LN, 50,000 LAK taxi to switch terminals, 80,000 LAK per person for MS.
So, in LN, you’ll already need to switch bus terminals if coming from MS... unless it’s the same for Houeisai, but I doubt it since one is north and the other south.
Then in LN, you’d have to catch another bus to Houeisai, then another to Chiang Rai... and knowing Lao transportation, I’m not sure it’s 100% possible. (They tell you the bus leaves at a certain time, but you wait until it’s full...)
So, better to plan ahead: either through a local agency (though at the end of 2023, there weren’t many in LN and none in MS), or maybe an overnight in Houeisai.**
Okay, I think I’m being greedy on the way back 😋
I’ll plan a stop along the way and adjust my itinerary. It’s not always easy to predict how many days you’ll need once you’re there. 😅
I need to cut out one day somewhere. I still have time to think about it 😊😊
Thanks Elisabeth
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
Hi there,
During my 4th trip to Laos, I opted for the Mekong River descent from Houay Say (or Xai) to Luang Prabang. The starting city itself is interesting to me—the views of the Mekong’s banks are really beautiful. A night in Pakbeng was pleasant, and at the end of the day, the elephants from the reserve across the city come to drink and bathe in the river.
On the second day, there were two stops: a village with a distillery (a bit... touristy) and a visit to the Thousand Buddhas Cave, which is always a pleasure to explore.
A great experience overall.
Happy cruising to you two forum members who have this trip planned!
Eric
During my 4th trip to Laos, I chose the Mekong River descent from Houay Xay to Luang Prabang. The departure city itself is interesting to me—the views of the Mekong’s banks are stunning. A night in Pakbeng was pleasant, and at the end of the day, elephants from the reserve across the town come to drink and bathe in the river.
On the second day, two stops: a village with a distillery (a bit... touristy) and a visit to the Thousand Buddhas Cave, which is always enjoyable.
A great experience overall.
Hi Eric,
Sorry for the delay—I planned this itinerary on arrival.
I’ll adjust my return trip to two days... I’ll have to cut one day from the route. I’ll think about it in the coming days and share my plan with you.
Have a good evening.
Qui a l'habitude de voyager sait qu'il vient toujours un moment où il faut partir...
Paulo Coelho
Hi there,
My partner and I are leaving on January 12, 2026, for three weeks, and so far I’ve only booked the flight tickets. We’ll be traveling just the two of us with backpacks.
At the very bottom, I’ve listed the stops I’m imagining:
- Are the durations I’ve noted reasonable, or should we stay longer in some places and visit fewer towns/villages?
- Regarding reservations (train, bus, accommodation), is it doable to book as we go to keep things flexible, given the transport times?
Thanks so much if you can share your experience with us!
And most of all, have a wonderful holiday season!
arrival days transport visits Vientiane Mon 1/13 at 10:45 AM 1 sightseeing + find bus Phou Khao Khouay Tue 1/14 2 bus Phou Khao Khouay National Park + Tad Xay and Tad Leuk Waterfalls + hikes =Phou Pha Phae + Ban Hat Khai Loop Vang Vieng Fri 1/16 2 train or bus Kaeng Nyui Waterfall + Nam Xay viewpoint + Blue Lagoon + kayaking + Tham Chang Cave
COPE Visitor Center + Wat Si Phouthabath Phonsavan Sun 1/18 2 minivan taxi MAG Visitor Center + survivor info center + Plain of Jars (Sites 1, 2, and 3) Luang Prabang Tue 1/20 2 minivan taxi info center + Pak Ou Caves + Kuang Si Waterfall (rent a scooter)
Phu Si Stupa + Nong Khiaw Thu 1/22 2 minivan taxi Phadeng Peak Viewpoint + Som Nang View Point + Sleeping Lady Peak + Phao Kao viewpoint + 100 Waterfalls Circuit, stream walk + massages
Muang Ngoi Neua Sat 1/24 2 boat hike to Phanoy + Phaboom Oudomxai = Muang Xai to Nateuy Mon 1/26 1 minivan taxi overnight break Van to Luang Namtha Tue 1/27 2 minivan taxi pretty villages (Hmong, Lenten, Thaidam, Nam Dee with waterfalls) and rice field work. Muang Sing Thu 1/29 2 minivan taxi We’ll rent a bike at the guesthouse to explore the area for 2 days. Villages: Thaidam, Thai Hneu, Akha, and Lao Lu. Vientiane Sat 1/31 2 train back to Vientiane COPE Visitor Center + Patuxai (Lao Arc de Triomphe) + Wat Si Muang Temple
Wat Si Saket + Wat Haw Pha Kaeo + That Dam + Pha That Luang (Great Stupa)
French Quarter & Samsenthai Street + Talat Sao Morning Market + Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) = Rent a bike or tuk-tuk (25 km from Vientiane).
arrival nb days transport visits Vientiane Tue13/1 at 10:45 AM 1 visits + look for bus to Phou Khao Khouay Wed14 2 bus Phou Khao Khouay National Park + Tad Xay and Tad Leuk Waterfalls + hikes =Phou Pha Phae + Ban Hat Khai Loop Vang Vieng Fri16 2 departure by train or bus Kaeng Nyui Waterfall + Nam Xay viewpoint + Blue Lagoon + Kayaking + Tham Chang Cave
COPE Visitor Center + Wat Si Phouthabath Phonsavan Sun18 2 minivan taxi MAG Visitor Centre + survivors info center + The Plain of Jars (Site 1, 2, and 3) Luang Prabang Tue20 2 minivan taxi info center + Pak Ou Caves Tat Kuang Si Waterfall (rent a scooter)
Phu Si Stupa + Nong Khiaw Thu22 2 minivan taxi Phadeng Peak Viewpoint + Som Nang View Point + Sleeping Lady Peak + Phao Kao viewpoint + 100 Waterfalls circuit, stream walk + massages+
Muang Ngoi Neua Sat24 2 boat hike to Phanoy + Phaboom Oudomxai= Muang Xai to Nateuy Mon26 1 minivan taxi break for the night Van to Luang Namtha Tue27 2 minivan taxi pretty villages (Hmong, Lenten, Thaidam, Nam Dee with waterfalls) and rice field work Muang Sing Thu29 2 minivan taxi We take a bike at the GuestHouse to explore the area for 2 days. Thaidam, Thai Hneu, Akha, and Lao Lu villages... Vientiane Sat31 2 return by train to Vientiane COPE Visitor Center + Patuxai (Lao Arc de Triomphe) + Wat Si Muang Temple
Wat Si Saket + Wat Haw Pha Kaeo + That Dam + Pha That Luang (Great Stupa)
French Quarter & Samsenthai Street + Talat Sao Morning Market + Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)= Rent a bike or tuk-tuk (25 km from Vientiane).
?? What a wall of text!...
Your post is anything but clear—it’s really hard to read. Plus, listing the days of the week and every single detail of your visits at each stop isn’t all that helpful. How about rewriting it like this:
Vientiane 3 nights
Vang Vieng 4 nights
Luang Prabang 5 nights
etc.
?
Your itinerary looks great... but it’s not really suited for a 3-week trip.
In Laos, you should plan about one day for each journey since the roads aren’t like in France, so things move pretty slowly.
From what I’m reading, you’ll only have one full day at each stop for sightseeing, which is a shame after traveling so many kilometers—especially since the landscapes and places to visit are stunning, and I’m sure you’ll want to stay at least two full days at each stop!
So, either skip the Plain of Jars side or drop the Luang Namtha and Muang Sing part.
Wishing you a fantastic trip—you’ll see, Laos is amazing.
- Regarding bookings (train, bus, accommodation), is it feasible to do them on the spot as we go to keep some flexibility, given the length of the transports?:
**You can book transport and accommodation as you go, depending on your plans and progress. However, for trains, it's better to book a few days in advance, otherwise you might get stuck or have to take the bus, which is much longer.**
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Bonjour
Apres 1 nuit à Khao Sok je souhaite trouver un package 2 Jours 1 nuit sur le lac.
Après avoir beaucoup lu, je décide de "casser la tirelire" et nous offrir un tour Privé surtout pour éviter les bains de foule.
Mais en contactant plusieurs opérators, on me propose des "private tours" très chers (env 700 €) mais dans les détails les bateaux ne peuvent que partir de l'embarcadère à 10h du mat comme tous les autres. (Moi j'espérais partir très tôt). Le programme du matin est le même pour tt le monde aussi (privé ou non). On nous dépose à Midi à notre hotel flottant (j'avais choisi le Phupha waree). Après midi libre (baignade ou kayak devant l'hotel. On resort en bateau pour le coucher de soleil 1h. Et le matin on quitte l'hotel à 8h pour être à l'embarcadere à 9h30 max FIN du voyage
Donc en fait on paye cher un Private tour pour faire la mm chose que tt le monde et en mm temps.
Ou alors je suis mal tombé dans mes recherches.
J'ai contacté Panida Ladi très populaire sur les forums . On s'était mis d'accord sur un circuit privé qui collait a ma demande (départ de l'embarcadere à 8h00....., circuit très personalisé). On s'est mis d'accord sur le circuit et le prix, m'a demandé un virement par wise pour un acompte de 30%, a confirmé la réception de l'acompte . Puis 30mn plus tard m'a envoyé un message pour me dire qu'elle annulait tout car il lui était impossible de faire le tour demandé, et m'a promis le remboursement rapide de mon acompte.
J'en viens donc à ma demande : Qui a fait un vrai tour privé sur ce lac ? Qui peut me conseiller une agence sérieuse ? Est il vraiment possible de faire un tour privé en fait sur ce lac....
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.
Also, hike up to the viewpoint next to the pagoda in Muang Ngoi—it’s a climb, but the reward is worth it (small entrance fee).
We wanted to leave the next day by train to Vientiane... BUT the train was fully booked until the afternoon of the 25th.
We paid for our tickets in kip at Boten station (4 km from the city).
Boten isn’t very interesting except for being on the Chinese border. There are only trucks, dust, and more trucks. Laos once wanted to turn it into the Las Vegas of Asia, and a few nice buildings remain, but now they’re planning to make it a super-modern megacity. It feels like China—everyone speaks and eats Chinese. The night market has great food, though.
