Bonjour,
D'abord merci à tous ceux qui ont écrit sur le forum, cela nous a été bien utile.
Quelques renseignements techniques sur nos 3 semaines au Laos en janvier 2011.
Si vous désirez d’autres infos, n’hésitez pas ce sera avec plaisir.
Frontières : entrée et sortie du Laos en bus ou à pied, 1$, 100 bath ou 10.000 k.
Guest Houses, restaurants
Champasak : Khamphoui GH, rue principale au sud de la place, 30.000 k bungalow-chambre double eau chaude, café et thé offert. Location de vélos 10.000k/jour.
Le restaurant en face du Khamphoui GH propose un excellent curry servi sur une terrasse surplombant le Mékong.
Tad Lo : Tim GH et restaurant, bungalow-chambre double eau chaude 40.000 k.
Savannakhet :Saisouk GH, Th Phetsalat chambre 2 lits, eau froide 40.000 k, vente de beignets de patates douces à la sortie des écoles juste en face de la GH.
Location de vélos 15.000 k/jour, th. Chaokeen, juste avant la Leena GH.
Tha Khaek : tha Khaek Travel Lodge, près de la gare routière du nouveau marché de jour 90.000 k pour une superbe chambre double avec eau chaude.
Dîner autour d’un feu de camp dans le jardin
Ban Khun Kham (Ban Na Hin) : les GH sont à touche-touche et à 30 ou 40.000k
Dîner au DK restaurant, bon mais attention au piment.
Vientiane : Nous avons changé 3 fois de GH pour cause de saleté avant d'arriver à la Youth Hostel 1 GH propre mais bruyante. La Youth Hostel 2 GH, même rue Th.François Nginn, est plus calme, 80.000k chambre double, eau chaude
Luang Prabang : Choumkhong GH, 100.000 k chambre double, eau chaude, petite rue en face du Vat Choumkhong.
Restaurants de rue près du marché de nuit, 10.000 k l’assiette.
Trajets :
train de nuit BKK –Ubon Ratchatani, 1012 bath pour 2 personnes
Ubon Ratchatani – Pakse : Thai International Bus 200 bath
Pakse – Champasak : sawngthaew 20.000 k/personne avec le bac
Pakse – Tad Lo : bus 25.000 k , 4h30
Tad Lo – Savannaket : bus 30.000 k, 7h30
Savannaket – Tha Khaek : bus 50.000 k, 7h
Tha Khaek – Ban Na Hin :bus50.000 k, 6h
Trajet pour Ban Kong Lo : sawngthaew 20.000 k/pers
Ban Na Hin – Vientiane : bus 60.000 k , 8h
Vientiane – Luang Prabang : bus VIP 115.000 k, 10h
Vientiane – BKK : 1550 bath/2 personnes, cela comprend la prise à la GH en minibus + le petit train jusqu’à Nong Khai et le train de nuit jusqu’à BKK.
Nous avons aussi fait une excursion en van avec un chauffeur-guide parlant bien anglais pour 2 jours. A 4 personnes; après discussion cela nous est revenu à 30.000 k par personne. Cela comprend le trajet jusqu'à Nong Khiaw à 150 km, avec arrêts à la demande pour photos, visite de villages, de grottes, de cascades, nuit chez l'habitant. nous avons payé 40.000 k la nuit pour 2 et acheté en plus du diner un canard à la dame chez qui nous logions.
Khuasi Minivan Travel and Tour Service, Sothkhoummane Road, Ban Choumkhong à Luang Prabang, boutique juste à coté de la Choumkhong GH.
Si vous avez le temps, nous vous le conseillons.
un grand merci pour toutes ces indications de trajets et de prix
Je vais pouvoir m'en servir car je pars le 9 pour le Laos...
Je n'avais pas le plan de retour par train de nuit jusqu'à Bangkok, alors, encore une fois, merci !!!
Claudine
Super les retour de voyage !!! A part les prix et les noms de hotel, rien d autre , aucune impression ? Pourtant a votre retour avec des amis a l apero vous avez du en raconter des choses !!! Faites partager, les prix des hotels 😕😕😕
bonjour,
je savais que certains partaient bientôt et j'ai voulu donner des idées de prix.
j'ai fait une grosse erreur à la fin de mon post, le prix du van c'est 300.000 k/pers et non 30;000 . en effet 3 euros pour 2 jours ca ne faisait pas beaucoup.
il y a aussi de grosses (voire très grosses) différences de prix entre les billets de bus achetés dans les gares routieres ou dans les GH en ville. pour le billet entre Vientiane et Luang Prabang, prix à la gare 115.000k, prix en ville 160.000 k.
une autre chose à savoir aussi, on paie généralement dans les grands bus le voyage total même si on n'en fait que la moitié, donc si par exemple vous devez changer de bus en cours de route vous paierez les 2 trajets complets. donc prenez le bus qui va au delà de l'endroit où vous devez descendre.
ex de Tha Khaek à Ban Na Hin, 50.000 k si vous prenez le bus qui va jusqu'à Lak Sao, si vous prenez un bus pour Vientiane, vous paierez 50.000k jusqu'à Thang Beng (carrefour routier entre routes 13 et 8) puis encore 50.000 k jusqu'à Ban Na Hin avec le bus qui va jusqu'à Lak Sao.
Il y a vraiment beaucoup de touristes à Vientiane et Luang Prabang et il faut vraiment négocier les prix des tuk tuk et des trecks, environ de la moitié.
Pour les impressions ca va venir mais déjà je peux dire que nous avons beaucoup aimé ce pays.
bonjour!
m'étant rendue au Laos(sud) l'année dernière, j'avais rectifié l'erreur..
par contre, les info pratiques concernant les trajets me seront utiles..
pour les impressions de voyage, il est vrai que l'on n'échappe pas aux touristes et aux circuits inévitables, mais je me suis souvent trouvée seule dans la campagne laotienne ainsi que dans différents sites
Il faudrait parler la langue du pays...c'est une barrière pour rencontrer les gens du pays mais bon...que je le veuille ou non, je suis une touriste au Laos, j'évite les groupes, mais je suis une touriste !!!!
J'espère que vous aurez apprécié comme moi la gentillesse des Laotiens, les enfants qui vous saluent avec de grands "sabaideeee"" et tous ces sourires ....
j'ai hâte d'y être..
encore merci
Claudine
bonsoir,
non "bigerone", pas super du tout le retour du voyage ! 30° à - 4°, le brouillard, la pluie glacée, les français qui font la gueule, et qui sont presque tous grippés; les impôts qui t'assomme encore plus que l'an passé. non, pas super !
par contre nous avons beaucoup aimé les lao et leur pays, cette gentillesse et ces rires de tous les instants sur les marchés, ces enfants et ces adultes qui toute la journée te lancent un petit bonjour, ces mamans sur le marché qui confient quelques instants leur étal à leur petite fille pour vendre des bananes, cette nonchalance , cette tranquillité, toutes ces bestioles séchées ou grillées en vente dans les marchés...
au dessus de Louang prabang et au sud de Ventiane le Laos nous a beaucoup plu, mais...
venant du sud , nous avons eu le bourdon en arrivant à la capitale dans ce quartier à touristes qui regroupe les guest houses et les restos . pire encore à luang prabang où 2 jours suffisent , on devine aisément que l'âme de cette ville était toute autre avant "l'invasion", et la transformation des maisons du centre en GH restos et agences. Les Lao auraient tort de ne pas en profiter.
A Ventiane il est difficile sauf pour les chanceux de trouver une guest house, quand on arrive tôt le matin ou tard le soir par bus. Les portes affichent full full full....Dans la 1ere (recommandée par le lonely !) où l'accueil était plutôt froid, impossible d'avoir des serviettes et que le lavabo soit débouché. une nuit suffit. A la 2eme, l'accueil a revendu la chambre le temps qu'on aille chercher nos sacs, la 3eme les 2 WC et la douche étaient bouchés et nous sommes repartis 3h après, la 4éme était très bruyante jusqu'à 2h du matin. par précaution, nous avions réservé et payé le train en couchettes et une chambre pour notre retour du nord une semaine après. arrivés après 11h de bus, le personnel nous annonce full full full , partez ! notre nom et la date sont bien inscrits en gros au tableau... la chambre était revendue...Youth 2 . on a attendu 3/4h qu'ils nous trouvent une chambre.... au dessus des bars.
A Luang prabang, je recommande le café lao sur le mékong non loin du temple, rendez vous des tuk tuk, la petite rue pour diner , 1ere à gauche en partant du carrefour avant le marché de nuit ( RV des back packers...!), et les villages de l'autre coté de la rivière (tisserands de soie).
nos coups de coeur entre autres :
- Champasak pour le site et aussi son calme hors du temps.
- Tat Lo, montez en haut de la 3è cascade Tat Suong, à 10 km à pied à travers la campagne et de petits villages.
- Savannaket, pour l'atmosphère et ses jolies maisons coloniales au bord du fleuve.
- La spectaculaire rivière souterraine de Tham Kong Lo près de Ban Na Hin sur laquelle on s'enfonce pendant 7 km pour découvrir des stalactites (et mites) et ressortir de l'autre côté dans un paysage de rêve.
- Tat Kuang Si près de Luang Prabang, encore des cascades et bassins qui se succèdent dans la forêt pour se baigner.
- tous les petits étals de poulets ou poissons grillés près des marchés et dans les rues.
et aussi tout ce qu'on ne peut définir par des mots et que vous découvrirez par vous-même.
Merci pour toutes ces infos utiles. A Vientiane c'est du n'importe quoi pour se loger. Au mois d'août on a payé 35$ pour une chambre propre climatisée mais pas de prestation supplémentaire par rapport à la Thailande (piscine, téléphone...).Quand je vois des "Hotels palace" à plus de 120$ la nuit cela m'intrigue.
On y retourne cet été au Laos pour découvrir le Sud. Vous me confirmez les 7h de route pour faire Thakhaek - Savannkhet ? C'est ce qu'on a mis pour faire Thakhek- Vientiane sur 360kms.
Bonjour,
oui Vientiane et Luang Prabang, c'est vraiment du n'importe quoi au point de vue logement car les GH ou hotels qu'on a quitté pour crasse n'étaient même pas moins chers. Les "grands hotels" sont en fait en périphérie des villes et assurent un transport par minivan jusqu'au centre mais tu es tenu par des horaires et tu n'as moins la possibilité de sortir quand tu veux.
De toutes façons, nous préferrons être dans de petites structures gérées par les familles elle-même plutôt que dans les grands hôtels, même si quelquefois les draps ne sont pas toujours changés, on a au moins de beaux sourires. 😉
Pour tout le sud, on n'a jamais payé plus de 40.000 K, (4 euros) par nuit pour chambre double, SDB privé et eau chaude et généralement très propre.
L'euro était en gros entre 10.200 à 10.450 k et le dollar dans les 8000 k. on a changé des euros partout sans problème.
Pour Savannaket - Tha Khaek, on est parti à 7h du matin et arrivé vers 13-14h. Il faut dire qu'au départ on a fait 3 fois le tour du marché pour charger de la tôle, du ciment, du riz et je ne sais plus quoi qu'il a fallu ensuite décharger bien sur en cours de route.
En plus dans le bus 2 hommes sont montés avec un coq de combat et on a fait un arrêt d'1/2h en pleine campagne, ils sont descendus et revenus sans le coq.... vendu, livré, ou mangé je ne saurais pas te dire, 😏 c'était un bus petite distance (rouge et blanc) qui va effectivement moins vite et s'arrête quand les gens veulent acheter à manger ou ont un besoin pressant....
Tha Khaek - Vientiane en 7h me semble pas mal, la moyenne des bus, VIP ou autres est en gros de 30km/h. mais bon ca fait parti du voyage, je trouve.
Ne ratez pas la rivière souterraine à Ban Na Hin, c'est vraiment génial comme endroit.
A bientôt si tu veux d'autres renseignements.
Je vais acheter Lonely Planet qui sort à la fin du mois. Cela va me permette d'avoir une idée sur les guest houses dans le sud, je n'aime pas l'idée de faire du porte à porte pour se trouver des chambres. Tes adresses sont dans LP ? A Vientiane, les restaurants ne prenait pas les euros ils préfèrent les bath.
Nous aussi on voyage local, on mettra le même temps que les Laotiens pour nos déplacements.
Bonjour Yam421,
Nous achetons le LP plusieurs mois avant le départ, "consciencieusement" je lis tout le guide.... ce qui me donne une idée du pays, histoire, géographie, coutume et aussi les points forts du pays. C'est déja un premier bonheur avant celui de découvrir la réalité du pays.
Ensuite je choisis en fonction de ce qui nous intéresse ou des endroits où nous pourrons nous rendre suivant le temps du voyage.
je choisis les GH dans ce que je lis sur LP et aussi dans les comptes rendus sur VF. En général c'est correct, même si quelquefois les prix augmentent un peu, cela dépend de l'édition du guide et aussi de la notoriété apportée par le bouche à oreille 😏, mais ca n'est jamais démesuré et on peut toujours discuter.
Je ne retiens jamais rien à part les 2 billets avion aller et retour, si une GH ne nous plait pas, trop bruyante, moins centrale ou pas propre, je passe à la suivante. il n'y a jamais tant de touristes que ca pour qu'on soit obligé de coucher dehors... et on peut changer de programme sans problème suivant les opportunités.
En Asie, nous partons avec des euros qu'on change au fur et à mesure et on paie en monnaie locale, moins de risque de conversion défavorable.
A Pakse, nous avions changé chez un bijoutier sur la place du marché, euro négocié à 10.400k, ce qui n'était pas mal. ensuite à Vientiane le meilleur taux était près du marché Talat Sao, mieux qu'en centre ville. Idem pour Luang Prabang, meilleur taux loin des gros restaurants de la rue principale.
Le seul problème (si c'en est un) est que de plus en plus de gens ont le LP sous le bras et on a moins de chance de se trouver seuls dans un coin paumé 😏. Mais il y a de nombreux plans de villes et c'est bien utile.
Bonne préparation
Anne
Bonjour,
Je part bientôt au Laos et pourrai tu me dire ou se trouve exactement cette spectaculaire rivière souterraine de Tham Kong Lo près de Ban Na Hin. Je n'arrive pas à la situer sur google earth, et je n'ai pas trouvé cette indication sur le routard.
Merci d'avance,
jean pierre
Vous pouvez prendre un tour/circuit organisé depuis Vientiane incluant le transport en minibus. Green Discovery , parmi d’autres agences offrent ce service.
Sinon, vous pouvez prendre un bus pour Thakhek depuis la gare routière du sud (Il y en a pratiquement toutes les heures).
De Thakhek
- soit vous prenez un tour organisé depuis ici ;
- soit vous prenez un autre transport public pour Nam Thone, (100km au nord de Thakhek). Au carrefour avec la route principale n°13 (a Vieng Kham), vous prenez un songthaew qui vous emmène jusqu’à Konglor. Vous pouvez faire votre base à Ban Na Hin (sur la route n°8)
Évidemment, un circuit organisé sera plus aisé, car il y a seulement environ 3 songthaews par jour et donc prévoir de longue heures d’attente à la noodle shop.
Soit vous louez une moto et vous le faites par vous-même. Ca peut être sympa également.
Bonjour,
Merci pour ces renseignements précis, la solution en moto me tente beaucoup.
J'ai souvent vu vos réponses sur le forum, c'est très intéressant, résidez vous au Laos ? si oui j'aurai certainement d'autres infos à vous demander,
A bientôt de vous lire et merci encore,
Bonjour et merci pour votre message.
En consultant mon profil, vous auriez su qui je suis. Et effectivement je suis née et vie au Laos.
Vous êtes le bienvenu et c'est avec plaisir si je peux aider.
Bien à vous
bonjour,
excuse moi pour le retard à répondre mais je n'étais pas chez moi.
j'ai lu la réponse de Elegantlaos, nous avons fait différement et par nous meme.
nous étions à Tha Khaek et nous avons pris un bus vers le nord en direction de Lak Sao sur la route 8 et nous sommes descendus au village de Ban Khoun Kham aussi appelé Ban Na Hin. pas de problème de GH, elles sont à touche touche le long de la route car c'est celle qui mène au vietnam et beaucoup de monde passe par là.
Pour rejoindre Tham Kong Lo, c'est facile, la route est goudronnée sur les 3/4 de la distance puis devient une piste mais en bon état.
sur la place centrale de ban na hin, il y a des sawngthaew, environ 3-4 $/ personne qui partent le matin vers 9h30, chargent les gens et les machandises pour les 2 villages avant la grotte. ensuite ils te déposent devant l'entrée du site et viennent te rechercher dans l'après midi à l'heure que vous aurez fixé ensemble.
la grotte fait 7 km de long, l'aller en pirogue (gilet de sauvetage fourni) dure 1h30 et le retour se fait en 40 mn. au milieu de la grotte, les concrétions sont illuminées et un chemin serpente pour visiter. les bateliers te reprennent à l'autre bout. prix de la pirogue suivant le nombre environ 10$ si pirogue à deux. si tu es seul, ca passe à 11 $.
à la sortie de l'autre coté de la grotte, il y a des ballades à faire vers des villages situés à 1 et 2 km. les pirogues attendent, c'est compris dans le forfait.
nous y avons été en remontant, mais c'est pareil en descendant de Vientianne.
voila, il y a aussi à Ban Na Hin, de l'autre coté de la route une ballade à faire vers 2 cascades dans la foret. comptez 2-3h de marche sur un sentier balisé le long de la rivière.
voila, si tu veux d'autres infos, n'hésite pas ce sera avec plaisir.
anne
Bonjour Anne,
Merci pour ces précieux renseignements, j'ai visualisé sur la carte, et je mémorise tout ça sur mon pc. Maintenant si tu as des points forts à me soumettre je suis preneur. Je pars le 8/11 et arrive sur Vientiane le 10 ou 11. Je pense faire le nord en premier et finir par le sud.
Merci encore,
Jean pierre,
Je suis présentememt à vientiane. je voulais allé à ban na, crois tu qu'il est facile d'y trouver de l, hébergement. Est- là aussi qu'il ya cette fameuse rivière souterraine? Petit problème je me suis fais une bonne entorse à la cheville hier, donc transporter mon sac est un peu pénible crois tu que c faissable en béquille? Que me recommende tu pour la ville je cherche des spectacle traditionnel à voir , mais l'info est difficile à trouver. Merci à l'avance de ta réponse! Si tu veux prendre un café c cool aussi!
Un retour rapide, surtout sur nos hébergements, qui peut servir à d'autres. - Ayutthaya: un peu déçus, par la ville et par l'hébergement (Baan Lotus) -Nang…
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Bonjour à tous.
je prépare mon voyage et d'après tous les post lus, ce pays est incroyable.
Evidemment j'ai une tonne de questions à vous poser.
voici l'itinéraire possible - Vientiane - Vang Vien - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luanh Namtha et région - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang et retour sur Vientiane
qu'en pensez-vous ?
nous allons privilégié les transports locaux, est-il possible d'effectuer cette boucle ?
Nous aimerions également faire du kayak mais je ne sais pas si la saison s'y prête et quel est le meilleur endroit pour le faire.
Concernant le trekking - j'ai lu de Phongsali était le spot le plus authentique pour visiter les villages et la faune ? - connaissez-vous une agence sérieuse et une guesthouse qui pratiquent des prix raisonnables ?
cela vaut-il le coup de prendre un bateau lent pour un trajet sur le Mékong et si oui quel trajet ?
Concernant les hébergements, est il préférable de passer par booking et Agoda ou chercher en arrivant ?
est ce que les moustiques sont voraces au Laos et faut-il un traitement contre le paludisme ?
quel est le budget moyen par jour environ (hébergement - nourriture- visite)
est-ce une bonne option de louer des scooters pour visiter les villes et si oui lesquelles ?
d'après ce que je lis, il est préférable d'avoir des espèces sur soi - euros ou dollars ? ce n'est pas trop dangereux de se promener avec autant de billets ?
j'ai encore des tas de questions . Merci à ceux qui peuvent m'aider et preneuse de tout conseils, infos etc...
encore merci
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.
Bonjour, qui serait sur place en ce moment à Flores? d apres des sites internet, tout serait fermé, la situation serait difficile ; notre guide dirait que ça va ; qui croire? nous sommes censés partir le 2 septembre ; merci à celles et ceux qui sont à Flores en ce moment
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi,
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 everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
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.
However, I’m not quite 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 some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight)
· Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok)
· Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x")
· Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
