Retour d'un bénévolat en Thaïlande à Mae Sot
by Ondonne
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Après tous les messages que j’ai pu poster avant mon départ pour la Thaïlande, la moindre des choses est de donner quelques nouvelles..
Et tout d'abord, merci à tous ceux qui m’ont conseillés, et tout particulièrement a celui qui m’a aidé à transporter mes 20 kilos de bouquins pour enfants, il est d’ailleurs passé me voir à Mae Sot avec 10 kilos de médicaments pour mon école…c’était super..
Pour les grands voyageurs, ils vont être déçus !... je suis restée trois mois à Mae Sot, impossible de décoller ! Trop de choses à faire dans cette ville frontière avec la Birmanie. Entre mes cours de français dans une école pour enfants réfugiés birmans et les autres assos qui ont des besoins divers et variés, on n’arrête pas !
Et je ne suis pas la seule à avoir eu du mal a quitté Mae Sot, tous ceux et celles que j’ai pu rencontrer subissent le même sort… en plus on y revient…ou on espère y revenir ! …on ne sait pas pourquoi..la ville n’est pas belle, les rues sont encombrées, il y a des chiens partout surtout à la tombée de la nuit, vélo et pantalon conseillé pour éviter de traverser une bagarre canine, et pourtant c’est comme ça.. Immersion totale, ça doit être ça, plus de repères, obligée de m’adapter vite fait. Quand surgissent les grandes inondations de la ville, à la première je me demande se que je suis venue faire dans ce coin perdu et après, pour les autres..ça passe..et ça revient c’est tout. Quand apparaît un « cenpad » au milieu de la chambre avec son gros crochet je me dis trop, c’est trop..Et puis avec une corbeille en plastique j’apprends a capturer les bébêtes qui circulent la nuit sur le carrelage..Les kakos ça mangent les moustiques mais il y a toujours le risque qu’ils se laissent tomber sur le lit depuis le plafond..ils sont plutôt sympas néanmoins.
Les gamins de l’école…j’ai toujours envie de les revoir..C’est dur d’apprendre le français pour eux qui apprennent déjà le Birman (ils sont tous d’ethnies différentes et ne parlent pas la même langue), le Thaï, l’anglais…alors le Français..dur ..dur..Mais ils sont curieux, tout les intéressent même le non des stations de métro à Paris, le TGV à grande vitesse, quant à Louis XVI guillotiné ils ne s’en sont toujours pas remis !
Voilà, c’est bref, mais que dire de plus sans rentrer dans des réflexions politiques sur le pourquoi de tous ces Birmans qui vivent à Mae Sot…On en revient changé..la pensée « après coup » n’altère pas les souvenirs, bien au contraire, elle les prolonge, elle raffine, elle épure la réceptivité, elle permet de voir différemment et d’une manière plus constructive ce que parfois, une sensibilité journellement mise à rude épreuve grossissait et avivait .
Cordialement à tous
....ne pas que rêver ses rêves…les vivre c’est mieux.
http://www.menglaba.com/
ne voit pas de mauvaise intention dans ma question mais pourquoi leur enseigner le Francais, plutot que l'anglais ( et le thai évidemment )
y a t il a la clé un quelconque espoir de départ vers la France ( alors que je crois savoir que les authorités thaies ne le veulent surtout pas et que le gouv thai n'a jamais ratifié les conventions de l'ONU - UNHCR
y a t il a la clé un quelconque espoir de départ vers la France ( alors que je crois savoir que les authorités thaies ne le veulent surtout pas et que le gouv thai n'a jamais ratifié les conventions de l'ONU - UNHCR
Mais les enfants apprennent aussi le Thaï et l'anglais...quant au français, pourquoi pas! ..ce n'est pas pour l'immigration, c'est sure..le gouvernement Français n'accepte pas de birmans ni des camps de réfugiés en Thaïlande, pas plus que le UNHCR n'en envoie.. un jour un français ai passé par la..un challenge et ça marche. Ceci dit parmi plus de 50 écoles de réfugiés à Mae Sot c'est la seule ou on enseigne le français. Et puis "double effet" les cours de français se font aussi en anglais car les bénévoles ne parlent ni thaï, ni Birman..(les enfants..ou plutôt les jeunes ont entre 13 et 20 ans)
....ne pas que rêver ses rêves…les vivre c’est mieux.
http://www.menglaba.com/
Salut!
J'ai lu ton experience dans le camp de réfugiés Mae Sot. J'ai pour projet d'y aller pendant 2-3 semaine en octobre - novembre 2009. Je pars en Asie pendant 6 mois et commence mon trip par la. J'ai eu des contacts via un ami qui travaille pour Clown sans frontiere. Mais j'ai pas de réponse des responsables de la bas. Est ce que tu aurais des bons plans pour prendre contact avec eux? Quelles démarches dois-je faire exactement?
Voila, ce serait génial si tu pouvais me donner qq renseignements.
Merci beaucoup!!!
J'ai lu ton experience dans le camp de réfugiés Mae Sot. J'ai pour projet d'y aller pendant 2-3 semaine en octobre - novembre 2009. Je pars en Asie pendant 6 mois et commence mon trip par la. J'ai eu des contacts via un ami qui travaille pour Clown sans frontiere. Mais j'ai pas de réponse des responsables de la bas. Est ce que tu aurais des bons plans pour prendre contact avec eux? Quelles démarches dois-je faire exactement?
Voila, ce serait génial si tu pouvais me donner qq renseignements.
Merci beaucoup!!!
Bonjour,
je viens de lire ton message, actuellement la situation est très tendue à Mae Sot et dans les camps, suite a une offensive de l'armée Birmane dans le territoire karen à la frontière, beaucoup de réfugiés arrivent à Mae Sot. Pour les camps, je sais que clown sans frontière a du y passer vers novembre 2008, j'ai eu l'occasion de les rencontrer à <mae Sot au resto , une fois, j'avais les coordonnées de l'un d'eux, mais je ne sais pas ce que j'en ai fait, si c'est cela qui t'intéresse je peux chercher.
Sinon , passer 2 à 3 semaines dans un camp....je n'en vois pas trop l'utilité sauf si tu apportes un savoir particulier qui pourraient aider les gens ou leur offrir une distraction dont il ont bien besoin, il faut comprendre que les camps ce n'est pas un zoo, les gens y ont une vie très difficile , venir les visiter pour voir comme le font certains c'est inadmissible et honteux.
Je ne sais pas de qui tu parles quand tu dis qu'ils ne te répondent pas, mais si tu parles des "leaders camp" , il y a peu de chance qu'ils te répondent , d'abord parce qu'ils doivent obtenir une autorisation du responsable du camp thaïlandais et ensuite parce qu'eux aussi en ont parfois assez de voir des gens défiler...si je suis allée au camp, c'était pour visiter une amie birmane qui partait à l'immigration aux US et qui voulait avant son départ me présenter. Je n'en garde pas un très bon souvenir, même si ce n'était pas le but d'avoir "un souvenir", c'était très dur, très éprouvant d'être totalement impuissant, j'en suis revenue en colère contre la communauté internationale et je ne décolère pas qu'on puisse laisser vivre des gens comme ça, là-bas et ailleurs dans le monde aussi, je retourne à Mae Sot début octobre pour plusieurs mois.
comme je ne sais pas qui tu es ni ce que tu cherches je ne peux guère t'en dire plus, mais on peut rester en contact.
cordialement
....ne pas que rêver ses rêves…les vivre c’est mieux.
http://www.menglaba.com/
salut Ondonne , , ravi de te revoir et donner des nouvelles .. et je partage complètement ton avis sur le pourquoi on peut s'attacher a cette ville au style un peut western . de thailande
pour faire une analyse simple .. tout le monde vies a mae sont pour chercher un espoir de liberté .. es que on peut appeler cela la soif de la vie ?
quant le retour ? 😉
quant le retour ? 😉
« Le voyage apprend la tolérance. »
Benjamin Disraeli
-
Bonjour
Ayant vecu 7 ans en Thailande, visiter le pays en long en large et en travers, et connaissant tres bien le probleme des refugies birmans dans ce pays ou ils sont detestes, je t'admire d'avoir fait ce que tu as fait, et je comprends ta colere. Je n'ai pas decolore pendant 7 ans en vivant quotidiennement avec des birmans et en constatant l'immense j'm'enfoutisme des gouvernements etrangers quoiqu'il arrive la-bas (ils sont "desoles et inquiets"). J'ai d'ailleurs poste plusieurs discussions a ce sujet, dont une plutot celebre "Atrocites de l'armee birmane dans l'Etat Shan", a lire pour comprendre pourquoi il y a 1, 5 millions de refugies birmans en Thailande.
Quand a enseigner le francais, j'ai toujours ete etonne de la francophonie des birmans. A la superbe Alliance Francaise de Rangoon, il y a 3 fois plus d'eleves que dans celle de Bangkok, qui compte pourtant beaucoup plus d'habitants beaucoup plus aises. Pourtant, si j'etais birman, vu que Total fait la pluie et le beau temps a Yangoon et engraisse la junte en toute illegalite (le reglement europeen a etabli un embargo, visiblement pas applicable a ces salopards de Total), je n'aimerais pas beaucoup la France! Mais le peuple birman est tellement adorable.
Quand a enseigner le francais, j'ai toujours ete etonne de la francophonie des birmans. A la superbe Alliance Francaise de Rangoon, il y a 3 fois plus d'eleves que dans celle de Bangkok, qui compte pourtant beaucoup plus d'habitants beaucoup plus aises. Pourtant, si j'etais birman, vu que Total fait la pluie et le beau temps a Yangoon et engraisse la junte en toute illegalite (le reglement europeen a etabli un embargo, visiblement pas applicable a ces salopards de Total), je n'aimerais pas beaucoup la France! Mais le peuple birman est tellement adorable.
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Je te réponds en mess privé
....ne pas que rêver ses rêves…les vivre c’est mieux.
http://www.menglaba.com/
Bonjour
en lisant ton message '' une question m'es venue '' pourquoi leur apprendre le français
je n'épiloguerai pas la dessus,
ton plaisir fut sans doute immense, et le leur éphémère .....
sans arrière pensée, et bravo pour ce que tu as fait, je n'ai aucunement l'envie de te blesser juste dire ce que je ressentai
bonne journée
Franca
en lisant ton message '' une question m'es venue '' pourquoi leur apprendre le français
je n'épiloguerai pas la dessus,
ton plaisir fut sans doute immense, et le leur éphémère .....
sans arrière pensée, et bravo pour ce que tu as fait, je n'ai aucunement l'envie de te blesser juste dire ce que je ressentai
bonne journée
Franca
<< .....notre soif de survie dans le futur nous rend incapables de vivre dans le présent .....>>. Chuang TZU
Bonjour,
comme je l'ai déjà dit suite a la même question, les Birmans sont intéressés par toutes les cultures, quelqu'un de Vf , qui fut prof à l'alliance Française de yangoon me disait qu'il y avait (à l'époque) 3 fois plus d'élèves en Français qu'a BKK , plus grande ville... j'ai eu l'occasion aussi de donner des cours de français à un adulte a Mae Sot qui avait passer trois ans à l'alliance de yangoon et il était vraiment excellent...les mystères de l'adversité poussent parfois les peuples opprimés a être plus curieux que d'autres..on n'apprend pas dans le confort et le luxe c'est bien connu, il y faut un brin de survie...
cordialement
....ne pas que rêver ses rêves…les vivre c’est mieux.
http://www.menglaba.com/
Hello!
Je suis à Mae Sot depuis un mois, je suis volontaire dans une ecole le matin et je recherche à donner des cours de français l'apres-midi mais il y a tres peu d'ecole interessees par le français, quelle était ton ecole?? En effet Mae Sot est une ville fascinante..Et les enfants tellement attachants..
Merci
Sarah
Je suis à Mae Sot depuis un mois, je suis volontaire dans une ecole le matin et je recherche à donner des cours de français l'apres-midi mais il y a tres peu d'ecole interessees par le français, quelle était ton ecole?? En effet Mae Sot est une ville fascinante..Et les enfants tellement attachants..
Merci
Sarah
May the wind always be at your back and the sun upon your face
Bonjour,
c'est super que tu sois à Mae Sot...
Pour le Français il n'y a qu'une école , elle est à Mae Pa mais les profs de français sont fournis à l'école via info@actionenfantsbirmans.org c'est le site et l'adresse pour écrire: infoactionenfantsbirmans@yahoo.fr , celui qui s'en occupe s'appelle Pierre, il est très sympa et tu peux lui écrire de la part d'Irène ( c'est moi) je ne sais pas s'il a besoin mais il te le dira ...
bonne chance
cordialement
....ne pas que rêver ses rêves…les vivre c’est mieux.
http://www.menglaba.com/
Salut Irene!
Oui j'adore Mae Sot, super expérience
Je passe également par cette asso, je travaille dans l'ecole One dream one world tu dois connaitre :) et il y a une personne qui enseigne le français à cette ecole a Mae Pa, je me demandais s'il y en avais d autres mais apparemment non
Ciaociao
Sarah
May the wind always be at your back and the sun upon your face
Bonjour, j'ai l'intention de passer quelques jours à Mae Sot que je ne connais pas du tout. de quoi as tu besoin pour ton école ? en fonction de la place disponible, je pourrais apporter des trucs pas trop lourd bien sûr (avion et beaucoup de balades bus etc). Je ne veux pas aller en Birmanie, juste connaître l'atmosphère toujours si particulière des villes frontières. Si tu peux me conseiller un point de chute sympa et pas trop spartiate, je suis preneuse. je n'irai que cet hiver donc nous pourrions reprendre contact à ce moment-là pour remise des objets.
Excellente idee, mais on trouve de tout en Thailande, a des prix defiant tte concurrence ds le bon sens, donc, a mon avis (mais Ondonne est mieux placee que moi pour suggerer), inutile de se charger au depart; seul point TRES critique: les livres, que ce soit de classe ou autres, consideres comme produits de luxe donc + de 200% de droits de douane; hors de prix -et peu nombreux
PS. Vs avez tort de ne pas vouloir aller en Birmanie; j'ai moi-meme hesite pendant longtemps vu ma haine inouie de la junte, mais j'ai fini par ceder a la curiosite, et je suis enchante de l'avoir fait: pays magnifique, population adorable, et quoiqu'on en dise, ce que vs achetez sur place entre aussi ds la poche de ces pauvres gens. En plus, les Birmans st extraordinairement francophones.
PS. Vs avez tort de ne pas vouloir aller en Birmanie; j'ai moi-meme hesite pendant longtemps vu ma haine inouie de la junte, mais j'ai fini par ceder a la curiosite, et je suis enchante de l'avoir fait: pays magnifique, population adorable, et quoiqu'on en dise, ce que vs achetez sur place entre aussi ds la poche de ces pauvres gens. En plus, les Birmans st extraordinairement francophones.
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Bonjour,
Dès la rentrée 2009 (juin), notre association a remplacée l'association Menglaba pour l'envoi de bénévoles à l'école BHSOH à Mae Pa. De plus, nous nous occupons d'une seconde école depuis 6 mois, le Centre One dream one world à Mae Sot. Nous envoyons des bénévoles enseignants de français au BHSOH et d'anglais au One dream one world.
Pour toute question ou envie de venir travailler sur place, vous pouvez me contacter :
Association Action Enfants Birmans info@actionenfantsbirmans.org
http://www.actionenfantsbirmans.org/
Dès la rentrée 2009 (juin), notre association a remplacée l'association Menglaba pour l'envoi de bénévoles à l'école BHSOH à Mae Pa. De plus, nous nous occupons d'une seconde école depuis 6 mois, le Centre One dream one world à Mae Sot. Nous envoyons des bénévoles enseignants de français au BHSOH et d'anglais au One dream one world.
Pour toute question ou envie de venir travailler sur place, vous pouvez me contacter :
Association Action Enfants Birmans info@actionenfantsbirmans.org
http://www.actionenfantsbirmans.org/
Log in first, then come back to this page.
You might also like
Récit d’un voyage en Birmanie et ThaïlandeFR
La gastronomie thaïlandaiseFR
Faut-il éviter de voyager en autocar en Thaïlande?FR
Votre endroit préféré à Bangkok?FR
Skyscrapers, Markets, Ice Cubes, Tourism, and Waterfalls... Thailand's Excesses
Que voir à Bangkok?FR
Walks in the Kingdom of Siam
From Bangkok to Krabi, Thailand by Car!
More discussions
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
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.
Hey everyone,
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi. Is it possible to take the train from Malacca to Ipoh? Thanks for your feedback.
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
Hello,
We’re a couple looking for a driver for 10 days to explore Northern Vietnam in April.
Best regards,
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
hi
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
Hi there,
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Hi there,
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
Hi there
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
Hi there,
we’ll be in Mai Chau in June and we’re thinking of heading to Sapa, but first spending a few days in Bac Ha to do some hiking and explore the area.
Is this a good idea for those who’ve been there?
How do you get there?
Thanks for your feedback.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi everyone. As I’m planning my trip for next winter, I’m looking for hotel suggestions in Camotes, Bantayan, Malapascua, Bohol, and Siquijor. The ones I had in mind seem to be fully booked (unless it’s too early?). For those familiar with the area, is it easy to find accommodations on the spot in January/February? I’m specifically looking for hotels with a pool, beachfront, air conditioning, and easy scooter rental nearby. Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
I’m planning an itinerary and would love some feedback on whether it’s doable and if the number of days per destination is enough—or too much. I was also debating whether to add an extra night on an island or spend an extra night in Kampot to visit Kep or Battambang.
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning March 24: Phnom Penh March 25: Phnom Penh March 26: Depart for Kampot March 27: Kampot March 28: Depart for Battambang March 29: Battambang March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap March 31: Siem Reap April 1: Siem Reap April 2: Siem Reap April 3: Siem Reap April 4: Siem Reap April 5: Departure
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning March 24: Phnom Penh March 25: Phnom Penh March 26: Depart for Kampot March 27: Kampot March 28: Depart for Battambang March 29: Battambang March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap March 31: Siem Reap April 1: Siem Reap April 2: Siem Reap April 3: Siem Reap April 4: Siem Reap April 5: Departure
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
Hi there,
Yesterday in the Thailand section, 100% of the new threads were just about beach destinations 😕...
So here’s the counterattack in the form of this photo thread, dedicated solely to the countryside: the locals, their livestock, fields, farms, rice paddies, small rivers, and agricultural machinery. If you’ve got any pictures that fit these categories, feel free to add them!
Comments welcome.
For each photo, I’ll (or you can) indicate the area where it was taken.
Kanchanaburi:
Kanchanaburi:
Sri Chiangmai:
Soppong:
Tha Wang Pha:
Kanchanaburi:

Kanchanaburi:

Sri Chiangmai:

Soppong:

Tha Wang Pha:

🙂 Hi everyone!
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hi there,
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta. 21/09: Borobudur 22/09: Prambanan 23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang) 24/09: Bromo 25/09: Kawa Ijen 26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran 27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran 28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk 29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud 02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo 05/10: Komodo cruise 06/10: Komodo cruise 07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo. 08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar 09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore 10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta. 21/09: Borobudur 22/09: Prambanan 23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang) 24/09: Bromo 25/09: Kawa Ijen 26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran 27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran 28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk 29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud 02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo 05/10: Komodo cruise 06/10: Komodo cruise 07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo. 08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar 09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore 10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
Hi everyone,
My girlfriend and I booked our tickets with Saudia Airlines for a trip to Thailand this summer, from July 5th to August 3rd. Given the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, we’re keeping a close eye on the news.
I was wondering if anyone here is in the same situation as us?
• Have you heard anything about possible mass cancellations or if the airline is still maintaining its routes to Asia?
• Are there any travelers who’ve recently returned who could tell us if air corridors have been changed (longer flight times)?
The idea is to know what to expect so we can prepare as best as possible. Thanks for your replies! !
Hi everyone,
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts) August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar August 17: Rammang Rammang August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Thanks in advance for your feedback! :)
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts) August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar August 17: Rammang Rammang August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Thanks in advance for your feedback! :)
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!