bon voyage a tous
Retour de Malaisie: Kapas, Perhentian, Bako, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur
by Goldenboy267
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
je viens de rentrer de malaisie
voila un petit compte rnedu pour les futurs partants
10 jours incroyables, les malais sont d'une extrême gentillesse et serviabilité, jamais aucune agression (attention aux pickpockets dans le metro de KL et dans Kuching par contre), meteo pas mal du tout, quelques pluies violentes, au total un jour 1/2 sur 10 jours...sinon tres grosse chaleur
je suis parti comme d'hab avec le Routard et Lonely Planet mais ne vous fiez pas forcement aux avis, l'hotellerie evolue beaucoup et les guides ne font CERTAINEMENT pas toutes les mises a jours annuellement, on l'a bien remarqué
le probléme est que beaucoup de chalets sont construits pour acceuillir les touristes mais c'est ensuite vite délaissé et il y a vraiment des endroits qui périssent a grand pas
pour expliquer mon compte rendu ..je voyage beaucoup et j'aime avoir un minimum de confort et de proprete avec un budget moyen qui correspond a plutot du haut de gamme en Malaisie, c'est a dire un budget journalier hotel et 3 repas (sur une base de 2 pers) de 35-40 euros
1. pulau Kapas: trés sympa trés isolé, rien a part les plages, le snorkeling, pas mal mais franchement y a mieux, la traversée de la jungle, pas mal mais franchement y a mieux...sincérement c'est trés Guide du Routard moi je suis plutot Lonely Planet
hébérgement le Kapas Turtle Valley, trouvé sur intrenet pas encore référence sur les guides, ca a peine 2 ans, c'est le plus haut de gamme (toute proportion gardé) tenu par des hollandais trés sympas, bouffe excellente, tous les jolis bungalows ont vue sur la mer, c'est a peu prés propre(faut pas etre obsede par la poussiere et le sable) mais je le recommande vivement si vous allez la bas
2; pulau Perhentian: le REVE, c'est une merveille, on a eu pas mal de difficulte a trouver de la dispo avec une sea view sur besar donc on etait sur kecil mais pas sur long beach (sublime plage sans coraux mais trop touristique) nous etions sur coral beach beaucoup plus petite mais tres cool, on dormait dans un nouveau complexe pas encore repertorie non plus dans les guides le Shari La Resort, bon c'est toujours en travaux depuis 2 ans faut s'y faire y a des ouvriers un peu partout toute la journee mais sincerment pas de panique ils font pas grand chose et il n y a vraiment pas de bruit
je dirai que c'est une bonne option si vous avez les moyens de prendre la VIP suite a 300RM la nuit, le bonheur double terasse avec une vue sur la mer imprenable, les gens sont tres serviable aussi dans cet hotel...et c'est agreable de se faire griller des langoustes le soir au bord de la plage sur un des cotes de l'hotel pour meme pas 10 euros. Pour les effrayes des animaux il faut savoirqu'il y a pas mal d'enormes varans qui passent devant vous autour de l'hotel mais pas de frayeur... J'avais hesite avec le Senja Bay de l'autre coté de la plage, ambiance TV ecran plat dans le dining room au bord de l'eau .....(cherchez l'erreur)
on a fait le tour des 2 iles avec un petit bateau une journée, c'est inoubliable, nage avec les tortues geantes le petits requins et tous les autres petits poissons multicolores SUBLIME, j'ai failli bouleverser tout mon voyage pour ne plus bouger d'ici
on est passe devant le Perhentian island resort un hotel haut de gamme sur Besar qui est dote d'une plage exceptionelle je crois que je tenterai celui la la prochaine fois (il se fait descendre par le routard...mais bon les critiques du routard pour la Malaisie...j ai comme des doutes)
tout les bateaux taxis vous emmeneront a travers les iles si vous choisissez une excursion, evitez le stop a midi pour dej au village de pêcheur (?) de Kecil, franchement y a mieux...
3.Kuching, tres sympas jolie ville pour faire du shopping, flaner un peu
hotel singahhsna: parfait, ultra propre, personnel genial, un super endroit pas cher, demander chambre avec fenetre
visite de la reserve de semengoh, genial aussi
depart bako: l'aventure inoubliable, la rencontre avec des centaines de singles entre autres, les traversees dan la jungle, des paysages a couper le souffle (le 2eme plus beau jour de mon voyage apres perhentian), je pense que ca s'adresse quand meme a un public qui a un min de condition physique
on a dormi la bas alors la c'est une autre histoire, c'est deguelasse, trou dans les murs, murs des salles de bains couverts de salpetres, bon une nuit ca va sinon il faut etre dans ce trip la et ne pas avoir peur des cafards et du reste mais cette nature en vaut largement la peine
je vous deconseille vivement de bouffer dans la cafet heureusement ils vendents des paquets de chips et de biscuits qui ont ete notre seule nourriture apres avoir vu l'etat de la cuisine et les rats qui nous sont passé a travers les jambes
mais Bon BAKO est une experience INOUBLIABLE
apres besoin d'un break de reve courrez a Damai mais pas la ou il ya tous les complexes hoteliers juste un peu avant dans un mini village avec 0 touristes et bienvenu au VIllage house tenu par un anglais ultra sympa et la on est a vos petits soins une deco sublime, une piscine au milieu un service excellent, courrez y la plus belle adresse en Malaisie que j'ai connu, vous etes coupe du monde dans un decor de reve, allez y allez y ca vaut sacrement le detour si vous appreciez ce genre d'ambiance
dernier jour Kuala au number eight vivement conseille dans tous les guides, moi j ai été super déçu, franchement je m'attendais a mieux, c'est propre mais globalement ça laisse un peu a desirer, kuala est une ville fascinante etouffante et pour la premiere fois j'ai regrette de ne pas avoir pris pour cette dernier nuit une chambre dans un compexe de luxe ou j aurai pu profiter d'une piscine
bon voyage a tous
bon voyage a tous
😉😉 Hello Goldenboy,
ton récit ravive si bien ce que j' y ai connu !!!
C' est sympa de nous raconter. Merci.
"""pulau Perhentian: le REVE, c'est une merveille, """ Yesss. Cela va conforter les prochains voyageurs prêts à partir. pour les Perhentians.
""" nage avec les tortues geantes le petits requins et tous les autres petits poissons multicolores SUBLIME, j'ai failli bouleverser tout mon voyage pour ne plus bouger d'ici """ j' avais aussi craqué pour les innombrables némos que je rencontrais, sans me lasser..........et du coup mon séjour à duré sur les Perhentians plus que prévu !!!!! mais j' étais partie sans plan pré établi.
"""pulau Perhentian: le REVE, c'est une merveille, """ Yesss. Cela va conforter les prochains voyageurs prêts à partir. pour les Perhentians.
""" nage avec les tortues geantes le petits requins et tous les autres petits poissons multicolores SUBLIME, j'ai failli bouleverser tout mon voyage pour ne plus bouger d'ici """ j' avais aussi craqué pour les innombrables némos que je rencontrais, sans me lasser..........et du coup mon séjour à duré sur les Perhentians plus que prévu !!!!! mais j' étais partie sans plan pré établi.
""Le voyage pour moi, ce n' est pas arriver, c' est partir. C' est l' imprévu de la prochaine escale, c' est le désir jamais comblé de connaître sans cesse autre chose, c' est demain, éternellement demain"" Roland Dorgelès.
A+++ Lisa
A+++ Lisa
Merci pour tous ces renseignements.
Par contre tu me fais un peu peur concernant l'hebergement à Bako. On y a loué un chalet type 5 pour 2 nuits cet été, rassure moi un peu
et dis moi que le tien n'était pas un type 5 ( le plus cher donc j'éspèrais un peu mieux que les autres).
Y avait il des bestioles la nuit dans ta chambres?
Caroline
alors franchement je savais meme pas qu'il y avait differents types de logement, pour notre part c'etait un chalet pour 2 pers au prix de 50RM.
dans mon chalet j'ai vu juste un enorme cafard et une multitude de moustiques collés au ventilo...mais bon pas de panique ca vaut quand meme le coup de passer une nuit la bas mais je vous deconseille vivement de manger a la cafet
des betes y en a partout la bas, je suis pas le plus courageux du monde mais avec un peu de bon sens il n'y aura pas de soucis
mais je suis franc j'ai croise autour du bungalow un serpent, des araignées, des macaques malins, et la rencontre avec les nasiques a quelque metres est inoubliable, il faut y aller
j avoue aussi que je me suis dit qu'on peut vraiment jute y aller pour une premiere approche une journée en partant trés tot, il y a pleins de marches de 2 ou 3 heures. Le max qu'on a fait dans la jounrée (et on est plutot sportif) c'est 4 heures dans la matinée et vu la chaleur et les chemins a travers la jungle c'est deja pas mal du tout.
Aie aie tu as dis le mot qui tue: araignée!!...
Comment étaient elles? Monstrueuses ou juste un peu "petites".
Et le serpent?
Bon c'est sur que rien de tout ça ne me dissuadera, mais comme je serai avec mon mari et mes 3 enfants, je ne voudrai pas qu'ils me destestent jusqu'à la fin de leur vie après ces 2 nuits passées au milieu des bebetes dans une chambre pourrie.
Appel à ceux qui ont testés le chalet type 5: sont ils à peu près correctes?
Merci encore
Caroline
Hello Goldenboy,
Nous partirons cet été avec nos deux petites de 2 et 4 ans. Perhentian me semblait bien mais tu acheves de me conforter dans cette idée . Peux-tu me dire si cela te semble jouable d'y rester 2 à 3 semaines car on n'aime trop bouger avec les enfants où si cela te semble trop petit et que le tour est vite fait. A titre d'exemple, je ne sais pas si tu connais mais l'année dernière nous étions à Ko Phan Gan en Thaîlande pendant 7 semaines. Et on a beaucoup aimé! J'hésite encore avec les Philippines. Merci beaucoup de ton aide.
Pascale
Nous partirons cet été avec nos deux petites de 2 et 4 ans. Perhentian me semblait bien mais tu acheves de me conforter dans cette idée . Peux-tu me dire si cela te semble jouable d'y rester 2 à 3 semaines car on n'aime trop bouger avec les enfants où si cela te semble trop petit et que le tour est vite fait. A titre d'exemple, je ne sais pas si tu connais mais l'année dernière nous étions à Ko Phan Gan en Thaîlande pendant 7 semaines. Et on a beaucoup aimé! J'hésite encore avec les Philippines. Merci beaucoup de ton aide.
Pascale
oui je connais Koh Pan Ghan que j'avais aime aussi mais je crois que je n'ai jamais rien vu d'aussi beau que Perhentian
pour la duree j ai du mal a m'en rendre compte car j'ai plutot la bougeotte mais je crois que je pourrais rester la bas 2 semaines aisement, on se deplace facilement de crique en crique avec les bateaux taxis qui se trouvent partout, les iles sont grandes surtout besar sauvage, couverte de jungle et les fonds sont incroyables
le seul point negatif mais c'est tellement rien copare au positif ..on a eu pas mal de petites meduses mais ca depend des endroits et au pire on s'enfile un tee shirt...
Coucou Babylon5, 😉
Pour avoir passé 3 jours, deux nuits au parc Bako l'été dernier, dans un chalet avec 2 chambres, (de toute façon tous se ressemblent, seul la capacité change), nous en voici bien revenus, avec des souvenirs plein la tête et les yeux, Les logements sont vétustes mais qu'importe dans un lieu aussi nature, Nous avions mis des papiers sous les portes, le soir pour éviter l'intrusion d'insectes ou serpents, mais il y avait tant de trous au plafond et entre les fenêtres, que c'était plus qu'inutile, Par contre j'avais vaporisé de l'insecticide sur les oreillers, les draps et autour de nous une fois couchés, Dans la nuit, un rat est venu dans notre garde manger et cherchait dans les paquets de biscuits mais comment et pourquoi lui en vouloir !!! il a eu encore plus peur que nous, dans la cuisine, à 3 h du matin, c'est la nature, la vraie, pas encore aseptisée heureusement un serpent est resté pendant les 3 jours où nous sommes restés, sur l'arbre, le plus près de la maison, sans bouger d'un poil, les singes viennent tout chaparder, qu'ils sont "bêtes" ces touristes, doivent -ils se dire bref c'est génial, nous aurions pu rester bien plus longtemps si cela avait été possible, Le petit resto, le seul, on s'y fait, en tous les cas nous n'avons pas été malades par la suite, emportez quand même des biscuits et autres petites choses pour les rando et petits creux, Magnifiques rando à faire, longues et fatigantes pour certaines mais si enrichissantes !!! Un parc à ne pas rater sur Bornéo, je pense 😏😄😎
Pour avoir passé 3 jours, deux nuits au parc Bako l'été dernier, dans un chalet avec 2 chambres, (de toute façon tous se ressemblent, seul la capacité change), nous en voici bien revenus, avec des souvenirs plein la tête et les yeux, Les logements sont vétustes mais qu'importe dans un lieu aussi nature, Nous avions mis des papiers sous les portes, le soir pour éviter l'intrusion d'insectes ou serpents, mais il y avait tant de trous au plafond et entre les fenêtres, que c'était plus qu'inutile, Par contre j'avais vaporisé de l'insecticide sur les oreillers, les draps et autour de nous une fois couchés, Dans la nuit, un rat est venu dans notre garde manger et cherchait dans les paquets de biscuits mais comment et pourquoi lui en vouloir !!! il a eu encore plus peur que nous, dans la cuisine, à 3 h du matin, c'est la nature, la vraie, pas encore aseptisée heureusement un serpent est resté pendant les 3 jours où nous sommes restés, sur l'arbre, le plus près de la maison, sans bouger d'un poil, les singes viennent tout chaparder, qu'ils sont "bêtes" ces touristes, doivent -ils se dire bref c'est génial, nous aurions pu rester bien plus longtemps si cela avait été possible, Le petit resto, le seul, on s'y fait, en tous les cas nous n'avons pas été malades par la suite, emportez quand même des biscuits et autres petites choses pour les rando et petits creux, Magnifiques rando à faire, longues et fatigantes pour certaines mais si enrichissantes !!! Un parc à ne pas rater sur Bornéo, je pense 😏😄😎
annick fifille papou
Salut Fifillepapou
Merci pour ta réponse, mais ne t'en fais pas, rien ne me fera changer d'avis, on a reservé 2 nuits au parc.
Les rats ne me font pas peur, par contre les araignées.....s'il y en a une près de moi c'est l'insomnie garantie.
Merci encore
Caroline
Coucou, 😉
Vous verrez, ce parc est magnifique, vous pouvez faire certaines rando, vous baigner, puis vous faire ramener par les petits bateaux du coin, certains lieux ont des airs de paradis, Pour les araignées, l'insecticide dans la chambre, est, je pense, une solution : ces petites bêbêtes n'aiment pas trop, mon fils passionné d'insectes et de botanique, malgré nos ballades de nuits, seuls, à la lampe de poche, n'a pas pu voir d'araignée, malheureusement, ( le bonheur des uns fait le malheur des autres, ne dit-on pas ) Heureusement d'autres insectes très intéressants( pour lui bien-sûr ) mais pas d'araignées, alors tu vois !!! les nasiques à profusion, bien d'autres singes, le gros cochon vers le resto, lui est presque apprivoisé, Je crois bien que sur terre, certains hommes sont bien plus à craindre que tous les animaux, qui nous fuient sagement pour la plupart du temps, 😕 bons préparatifs, vous allez adorer !!!😏😄
Vous verrez, ce parc est magnifique, vous pouvez faire certaines rando, vous baigner, puis vous faire ramener par les petits bateaux du coin, certains lieux ont des airs de paradis, Pour les araignées, l'insecticide dans la chambre, est, je pense, une solution : ces petites bêbêtes n'aiment pas trop, mon fils passionné d'insectes et de botanique, malgré nos ballades de nuits, seuls, à la lampe de poche, n'a pas pu voir d'araignée, malheureusement, ( le bonheur des uns fait le malheur des autres, ne dit-on pas ) Heureusement d'autres insectes très intéressants( pour lui bien-sûr ) mais pas d'araignées, alors tu vois !!! les nasiques à profusion, bien d'autres singes, le gros cochon vers le resto, lui est presque apprivoisé, Je crois bien que sur terre, certains hommes sont bien plus à craindre que tous les animaux, qui nous fuient sagement pour la plupart du temps, 😕 bons préparatifs, vous allez adorer !!!😏😄
annick fifille papou
Alors là, tu peux être sure l'araignée va être pour moi.
Je vais bien profiter de tous tes conseils
merci encore
Caroline
🙂Moi de même souvenirs inoubliables revenue depuis un mois je ne voulais plus partir des perhentians, je ne me lassais pas des Nemos, dommage un peu d'instabilité météo en mars donc eau un peu trouble ceci dit moments géniaux, séjour au senja resort ke j'ai bcp aimé, les barbecus et cie 🤪😉
vraiment les perhentians à recommander à haute dose et d'ailleurs j'y retournerai ça c certain. je n'ai pas eu le temps d'aller à kutchin donc voici une bonne raison de retourner en malaisie.
j'ai mis de superbes photos sur mon blog😉
Comme tout ce qui compte dans la vie, un beau voyage est une oeuvre d'art.
André Suarè
Le fond du coeur est plus loin que le bout du monde. proverbe chinois
Ohlala ça fait envie tout ça, plus que... 97 jours ! 😎
J'avais peur que 7 nuits aux Perhentian ça fasse trop, mais finalement je crois que ça ira ! Surtout que je vais avoir 4-5 jours "bouffés" par mon passage de l'Open Water...
Après je file 5 nuits à Kapas, là par contre on risque de s'ennuyer un peu mais bon... je doute que ça soit désagréable !
J'avais peur que 7 nuits aux Perhentian ça fasse trop, mais finalement je crois que ça ira ! Surtout que je vais avoir 4-5 jours "bouffés" par mon passage de l'Open Water...
Après je file 5 nuits à Kapas, là par contre on risque de s'ennuyer un peu mais bon... je doute que ça soit désagréable !
Bonjour Goldenboy,
Je vois que votre séjour sur les perhentians s'est très très bien passé...et ça me rassure...nous partons dans 1 semaines pour 10 jours là bas...par contre pourriez vous me donner les noms des plus belles criques à découvrir là-bas...ou au moins le nom des endroits à dire aux conducteurs des taxi boat ...j'ai vraiement envie de profiter un max de ce voyage et je veux en avoir plein la vue!!! Y avait il beaucoup de touristes déjà ?
Merci de vos précisions!!! A+
Je vois que votre séjour sur les perhentians s'est très très bien passé...et ça me rassure...nous partons dans 1 semaines pour 10 jours là bas...par contre pourriez vous me donner les noms des plus belles criques à découvrir là-bas...ou au moins le nom des endroits à dire aux conducteurs des taxi boat ...j'ai vraiement envie de profiter un max de ce voyage et je veux en avoir plein la vue!!! Y avait il beaucoup de touristes déjà ?
Merci de vos précisions!!! A+
impossible de trouver un bateau qui relie les 2 iles du coup je suis revenu sur kuala terenganu (marang) et j'ai pris un taxi pendant environ une heure pour une vingtaine d'euros et aller sur la ville d'embarcadére au sud de Kota Bharu pour les perhentians
Ouaouh, tout ce programme en 10 jours !
J'ai mis en parallèle les critiques du routard et les récits web (je n'ai pas le LP) en effet le routard m'est paru un peu pessimiste sur les perenthians.
mon choix s'est porté sur Kecil (coral bay aussi) Nous y restons 4 jours.
Tu expliques bien dans ton récit les hébergements et les lieux visités mais tu ne parles pas des transports, comment t'es tu déplacé, vols interieurs ? bus ? as-tu emprunté la Jungle line pour rejoindre Kota Bharu ?
Merci
Teriamandi
J'ai mis en parallèle les critiques du routard et les récits web (je n'ai pas le LP) en effet le routard m'est paru un peu pessimiste sur les perenthians.
mon choix s'est porté sur Kecil (coral bay aussi) Nous y restons 4 jours.
Tu expliques bien dans ton récit les hébergements et les lieux visités mais tu ne parles pas des transports, comment t'es tu déplacé, vols interieurs ? bus ? as-tu emprunté la Jungle line pour rejoindre Kota Bharu ?
Merci
Teriamandi
les transports c'est tres faciles la bas, j ai fait taxi pour les distances n'excedant pas une centaine de KM il faut compter dans les 20 euros pour une heure de route sinon vol interieur avec air asia c'est parfait et pas cher, je n'ai pas fait la jungle line ni les bus
franchement tout est tres facile la bas
Content que ça t'ait plu, ça me rappelle des souvenirs...
Mais effectivement, Bako est LE parc à voir, vraiment magnifique. Et 4/5 jours ne sont pas de trop si on a la condition.
Quant au Routard, faut vraiment oublier ce guide...
A+ 🙂
on est d'accord mais franchement dans le parc de Bako il pourrait faire un minimum d'effort sur l'hygiene des cuisines et l'etat des chambres, pour un lieu qui se veut Parc National je trouve que l'hebergement craint vraiment, l'endroit est tellement SUBLIME
Content que ça t'ait plu, ça me rappelle des souvenirs...
Mais effectivement, Bako est LE parc à voir, vraiment magnifique. Et 4/5 jours ne sont pas de trop si on a la condition.
Quant au Routard, faut vraiment oublier ce guide...
A+ 🙂
C'est vrai que j'ai abandonné le routard et les autres guides depuis que j'ai tourné 2 heures dans Kota Bharu en Malaisie pour trouver la GH que l'on avait choisit depuis ici...
Depuis 2005 nous n'avons pas mis un euro dans un seul guide...
Les Perhentians au Printemps, peut être..mais en été, sûrement pas...trop de monde. Vraiment trop. 😕
yann
C'est vrai que j'ai abandonné le routard et les autres guides depuis que j'ai tourné 2 heures dans Kota Bharu en Malaisie pour trouver la GH que l'on avait choisit depuis ici...
Depuis 2005 nous n'avons pas mis un euro dans un seul guide...
Les Perhentians au Printemps, peut être..mais en été, sûrement pas...trop de monde. Vraiment trop. 😕
yann
Thailande, Maldives, Malaisie péninsulaire et Sabah, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Moluques, Egypte, Sumatra. Archipel de Takabonerate l'été dernier.
www.voyagefamille.net
Voyagefamille.net
Les Perhentians au Printemps, peut être..mais en été, sûrement pas...trop de monde. Vraiment trop. 😕
On est d'accord... j'ai fait les 2, et y'a pas photo! 🤪
On est d'accord... j'ai fait les 2, et y'a pas photo! 🤪
hey !
ptite contribution, je suis a malacca et on vient d etree reveilles par une procession indienne de purification de 800 personnes ds la rue, un truc de ouf !
on a fait kuala lumpur (ville etouffante et construite n importe comment, c etrange !), les cameron highlands, d une beaute extraordinaire ces plantations de the, l ile de Kapas effectivement ya pas grand chose mais c le calme assurem personne ne la connait et snorkelling pas mal pour un premier ! apres, le parc endau rompin sans voir trop d animaux mais on etait que 3 ds cette partie du parc avec le guide, c etait genial (canoe, rivieres...) on part a mersing ce soir pour tioman, mais le snorkelling est il aussi bien qu aux Perhentians ? toute facon mnt c decide... a plus !
ptite contribution, je suis a malacca et on vient d etree reveilles par une procession indienne de purification de 800 personnes ds la rue, un truc de ouf !
on a fait kuala lumpur (ville etouffante et construite n importe comment, c etrange !), les cameron highlands, d une beaute extraordinaire ces plantations de the, l ile de Kapas effectivement ya pas grand chose mais c le calme assurem personne ne la connait et snorkelling pas mal pour un premier ! apres, le parc endau rompin sans voir trop d animaux mais on etait que 3 ds cette partie du parc avec le guide, c etait genial (canoe, rivieres...) on part a mersing ce soir pour tioman, mais le snorkelling est il aussi bien qu aux Perhentians ? toute facon mnt c decide... a plus !
Mon blog de voyage Birmanie / Inde du sud de janvier à avril 2010:
toiaussitupeuxlefaire.blogspot.com
toiaussitupeuxlefaire.blogspot.com
Salut Nessie,
bon, j'allais me décider pour le Senja su r Kecil, mais j'ai eu plein de posts entre autre sur VF qui étaient très négatifs...personnel désagréable, chambres sales et plus que vétustes, matelas pourris, pas d'entretien, odeurs persistantes de fosse sceptique, bruit de générateur etc...Donc, vraiment, je m'interroge...Pourtant, sur le site, ça a l'air correct...
Avais tu vu Le Maya, à côté ?
merci nessie...
bonjour,
mais tout dépend de ce que recherche les gens, moi ça m'interpelle 😠🤪 j'y suis allée à l'ouverture après la saison soit mi mars avec un bungalow situé juste derrière la plongée spacieux propre, des supers lits, de l'eau chaude, des toilettes propres, tout en bois, le ventilo, enfin merde c pas le club med mais faut voir les prix aussi jai payé hors saison pour deux lits jumeaux dans le bungalow 40 ringgits soit 10 euros ?? par contre c sur ils sont plus chers et moches ce sont les tout petits bungalows qui ont carrément les pieds dans le sable ceux avec le toit en v mais sinon je ne pense pas que en deux mois de temps ça se soit dégradés de la sorte
bruit de générateur moi oui j'avais le bruit des compresseurs étant à coté de la plongée mais pas la nuit que je sache et l'on ne passe sa journée dans le bungalow non plus ......
odeurs pas en ce qui me concerne et puis quand tu es tout en haut franchement là faut le faire pour sentir qq chose, tu as uen vue démente sur coral beach ....!
c sur l'idéal est de se pointer sur l'ile et de chercher à se loger, c tjs le mieux le personnel pas désagréable du tout, j'ai des amis qui avait une fuite dans leur bungalow (l'on a eu trois jours de pluie torrentielles et qui ont été surclassés pour le meme prix avec une vue mer splendide .. bonne nourriture, café à volonté ou thé à partir du moment ou tu en payes un, internet le moins cher de l'ile ...
après c sur tout dépend de ce que chacun veut ... et la meilleure opinion on se la fait soi même
mais tout dépend de ce que recherche les gens, moi ça m'interpelle 😠🤪 j'y suis allée à l'ouverture après la saison soit mi mars avec un bungalow situé juste derrière la plongée spacieux propre, des supers lits, de l'eau chaude, des toilettes propres, tout en bois, le ventilo, enfin merde c pas le club med mais faut voir les prix aussi jai payé hors saison pour deux lits jumeaux dans le bungalow 40 ringgits soit 10 euros ?? par contre c sur ils sont plus chers et moches ce sont les tout petits bungalows qui ont carrément les pieds dans le sable ceux avec le toit en v mais sinon je ne pense pas que en deux mois de temps ça se soit dégradés de la sorte
bruit de générateur moi oui j'avais le bruit des compresseurs étant à coté de la plongée mais pas la nuit que je sache et l'on ne passe sa journée dans le bungalow non plus ......
odeurs pas en ce qui me concerne et puis quand tu es tout en haut franchement là faut le faire pour sentir qq chose, tu as uen vue démente sur coral beach ....!
c sur l'idéal est de se pointer sur l'ile et de chercher à se loger, c tjs le mieux le personnel pas désagréable du tout, j'ai des amis qui avait une fuite dans leur bungalow (l'on a eu trois jours de pluie torrentielles et qui ont été surclassés pour le meme prix avec une vue mer splendide .. bonne nourriture, café à volonté ou thé à partir du moment ou tu en payes un, internet le moins cher de l'ile ...
après c sur tout dépend de ce que chacun veut ... et la meilleure opinion on se la fait soi même
Comme tout ce qui compte dans la vie, un beau voyage est une oeuvre d'art.
André Suarè
Le fond du coeur est plus loin que le bout du monde. proverbe chinois
Hello Goldenboy,
Merci pour ton excellent témoignage, heureux que tu aies apprécié la Malaisie, c'est effectivement un pays fantastique ou j'ai la chance de vivre les gens sont effectivement d'une extrême gentillesse sans jamais agressé, même les touristes blasés. Je vous encourrage tous à venir faire un séjour ici vous ne le regretterez pas.
oui je connais Koh Pan Ghan que j'avais aime aussi mais je crois que je n'ai jamais rien vu d'aussi beau que Perhentian
Si tu as aimé les Perhentians et que tu es plongeur alors je ne peux que te conseiller Sipadan pour ton prochain voyage, c'est du Perhentian à la puissance 10.(côté plongée, aquatiquement parlant) Je rentres juste d'un séjour époustouflant, voici le liens de mon résumé avec en + quelques photos pour mettre l'eau à la bouche...😉
http://voyageforum.com/...arch_page=1;#2638794
Bien Cordialement. Madog.
Merci pour ton excellent témoignage, heureux que tu aies apprécié la Malaisie, c'est effectivement un pays fantastique ou j'ai la chance de vivre les gens sont effectivement d'une extrême gentillesse sans jamais agressé, même les touristes blasés. Je vous encourrage tous à venir faire un séjour ici vous ne le regretterez pas.
oui je connais Koh Pan Ghan que j'avais aime aussi mais je crois que je n'ai jamais rien vu d'aussi beau que Perhentian
Si tu as aimé les Perhentians et que tu es plongeur alors je ne peux que te conseiller Sipadan pour ton prochain voyage, c'est du Perhentian à la puissance 10.(côté plongée, aquatiquement parlant) Je rentres juste d'un séjour époustouflant, voici le liens de mon résumé avec en + quelques photos pour mettre l'eau à la bouche...😉
http://voyageforum.com/...arch_page=1;#2638794
Bien Cordialement. Madog.
Don't be famous....be useful...
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Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search. I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search. I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
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
Hi everyone, I’m back on the forum.
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!
Thanks so much!
Marsyork
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!
Thanks so much!
Marsyork
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!
Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
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
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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
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.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
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?
Hi there,
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?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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.
Hi everyone,
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.
Thanks
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.
Thanks
Hi,
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.
Thanks
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.
Thanks
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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
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!
Time to hit the road again!
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...
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...
Hello,
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:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
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.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
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:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
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.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
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
Hello everyone,
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.
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.





