J'aimerai passer une journée dans le fameux poumon vert de Bangkok, pas de conversation récente sur ce lieu sur VF. Mes infos sont que l'on peut s'y rendre en prenant le bus no 4 ou 47 et au terminus de ces 2 bus des petits bateaux proposent la traversée pour 10baths. A l'arrivée il y a des locations de vélos. Est ce que ces infos son toujours bonnes? Y a t'il d'autres façons de s'y rendre, je logerai vers KSR. Y a t'il des marchés tous les jours ou seulement les week end? Merci pour vos réponses.
Renseignements exacts selon mes sources. Pour t'y rendre de KSR tu devrais pouvoir te rapprocher par le fleuve. Location de vélo 100b/jour. Marché du weekend et ferme tôt dans l'après-midi. Dans le même genre et plus proche de KSR, tu as Koh Kret mais que tu connais peut-être déjà.
VOICI L'INFO . Attention je m'y suis rendu avant les grosses inondations qu'à connu Bangkok.
Et si tu parles anglais , voici un document dont je m'etais servi avant de m'y rendre.
Bonne lecture
Le poumon vert de Bangkok et marché flottant
21 mai 2011 à 5:10
Bonjour a tous ,
L an dernier lors de mon passage a Bangkok avant que les evenements n empirent j avais decouvert l ile de Ko Ket sur
la Chao Phraya , ile verte , au calme , a parcourir a pied ou en velo de locvation et qui m avait seduit .
De retour en France et en consultant une carte de Bangkok je m etais demande s il ne pouvait pas y avoir de lieux aussi
seduisants et bingo , j etais tombe sur un site en anglais qui parlait du poumon vert de Bangkok et en disait fort bien .
Alors recemment je suis alle voir de plus pres cet endroit.
Il se situe dans un meandre du fleuve Chao Praya , formant une large boucle et quasiment une ile .
Location : au sud de l avenue Sukhumvit , quartier de Klong toey et rive opposee de la Chao Phraya
Vous n etes plus cote Bangkok mais dans la province de Samut Prakan .
Le weekend se tient jusqu a 14 heures un marche le long de petits canaux = Marche flottant de Bang Nam Pheung .
Parti de bonne heure j ai gagne la station de metro Victory monument ou j ai pris le bus 140 .
En fait le site anglophone manquant de precision , je pensais que le bus m amenait au coeur du marche .
Erreur de ma part . L assistante du bus et le chauffeur m ont fait descendre une fois passe le pont amenant sur l autre rive a un arret ou des taxis-meter etaient presents.
Un chauffeur connaissant l endroit m y a amene.
On passe sous un second pont a haubans , le Megabridge impressionnant avec ses immenses piliers
L entree de cette quasi presqu ile constitue le quartier populaire de Phra Pradaeng , avec marche et commerces typiquement locaux , et presence de samlors = pousse-pousse conduits par des thais ages.
Deja l impression d etre en province se fait sentir.
En fait les bus 82 depuis sanam Luang et le 6 ont leur terminus dans ce quartier .
Le marche flottant est bien plus loin et la vous empruntez des routes/rues en pleine vegetation et au milieu de vergers
difficile de se reperer sans carte .
Un grand parking accueille les vehicules des visiteurs , des assistants sont presents pour orienter les gens ou vous trouvez des transports taxis ou taxis motos , les gars sont en liaison par talky walky.
Comme marche considere comme flottant on peut etre decu car les canaux sont limites ainsi que le nombre de barques.
En fait plusieurs cuisinieres y preparent leurs plats et les gens sont assis sur des tables et sieges tres tres bas installes sur la rive.
Le marche est surtout constitue de ces petites echoppes restaurants ainsi que d autres vendant des produits locaux comme bonbons, confiseries, gateaux paraissant delicieux, plats cuisines et aussi amulettes, parfums , savonnettes etc...
On ne voit quasiment pas de stands de vetements,
Les allees sont parcourues par des familles thaies en balade , toutes sereines , souriantes , surprises de vous croiser ici.
Les vendeuses sont souriantes et amicales , on n est pas a KSR !
A proximite se trouve un Wat d ou s elevent les incantations des bonzes et ou se recueillent les fideles .
Tout autour du marche quelques maisons d habitation sont noyees dans la vegetation , d ici de la partent des pistes etroites et cimentees dominant le terrain marecageux et s enfoncant au milieu de cocotiers, bananiers, et autres essences. Un vrai dedale a se perdre mais quelle oasis de tranquillite .
J ai pris un taxi moto pour faire un tour jusqu au lieu dit Ban Krachao ou se trouvait un autre Wat >
A proximite se trouve un embarcadere ou stationnaient deux autres mototaxis en attente de passagers en provenance de l autre rive du fleuve qu on traverse en pirogue longue queue.
Ici aussi la vegetation est reine , par contre la rive opposee est peu ragoutante donnant vue sur des installations industrielles.
Et puis le ciel s est serieusememt assombri et j ai regagne le marche.
Il parait qu on peut louer des velos , en effet on croise des cyclotouristes du dimanche ou des habitants pedalant a leur rythme.
Queques panneaux fleches avec un symbole de velo sont visibles sur les routes , donc il y a un circuit organise mais je n ai pas trouve d informations plus precises , les panneaux sont ecritsi a 99 pour cent en thai
Autant dire que je n ai croise que 3 farangs dans le secteur
J ai repris un taximeter qui m a ramene a sukhumvit Asoke sous un deluge tropical pour meme pas 150 baths tant la circulation etait fluide .
j en termine , un peu las des touches du clavier thai et ses spaghettis affiches , pardon pour les fautes .
cdlt
Jean
2009-02-11
Bangkok's hidden oasis
Still untouched by developers, the Mon community of Bang Krachao makes for an ideal weekend escape
Mon pagoda at Wat Songtham in Phra Pradaeng.
My cycling weekend starts when I board the ferry at Wat Bangna Nok's community pier. The sky is so dark and cloudy that I wonder if Bangkok's governor has forgotten to pay the sunshine bill. But no matter: I quickly join the other commuters on the ferry - a huge, flat metal sheet with an engine - and watch with delight as we gradually leave behind the soulless saw mills, smoky chimney and rundown factories behind. Ahead of us is Bang Krachao, with its fertile mangrove, ton jak (palm) forest and glittering temple.
A Mon settlement since the early 19th Century, Bang Krachao is shaped like a giant kidney bean and has survived the march of time largely thanks to the Chao Phya. The river has acted as a natural fence and, up to now, has done much to keep the property developers away, so the mangroves and forestland have remained intact, offering an ideal escape from Bangkok without even leaving the capital.
Getting off the ferry, I hesitate between stopping at nearby Wat Bang Namphueng Nok or going straight for the concrete path that winds its way southwards over the wetlands and through the secluded woodland. Many weekenders saddle up here to start their laidback weekend rides. I decide the adventure can wait a little longer and head for the temple.
Built in 1911, Wat Bang Namphueng Nok boasts some fine mural paintings. There are two chapels - old and new - but the timeworn temple with its peeling walls and old Buddha images is where I find myself lingering the longest.
From the temple, I cycle off down a small soi and along the back road until I reach the floating market.
This bustling market takes place every Saturday and Sunday, and draws many weekenders. Some come to escape the city heat, others to charter small sampans along the canal. But most come for food. Hundreds of stalls, offering everything from noodles cooked the old way to roast duck, dominate the 500metrelong strip along the canal.
Fuelled by noodles and fish cakes, I manage to get back on track and head west on the back road to Phetchahueng Street. While I'm sure about where I want to go, I'm less certain how to get there. In this situation, some local expertise is needed.
"Auntie, how far is Wat Bang Krasorb?" I ask the elderly food vendor by the side the road.
"Follow this strip to the Tjunction and turn right. Then, turn left two more times and you will find the temple by the river."
Her advice is kind but proves of little help.
Ten minutes later, I'm on Phetchahueng - the main street that cuts through Bang Krachao from north to south. Travelling southwards, I finally reach the 700yearold Wat Bang Krasorb. Legend has it that husbandandwife team Duang and Sab built this temple with a huge jar of golden coins they found buried in the area. I look around the old chapel but don't find a jar, although I do manage to wake the monks and temple dogs from their afternoon naps.
Many parts of Bang Krachao are car free, which makes it ideal for a cycling weekend. Less easy is going through the riverside communities, which are perched over the wetlands, and linked to each other through a web of concrete pathways. Misjudge a turn or lose your balance and you'll end up in the ditch.
A couple of hours later, I cross Klong Ladpho, the canal that takes a short cut through Bang Krachao, and enter Phra Pradaeng, where 300 Mons established the outpost almost 200 years ago. They also built the elegant Wat Songtham, a Buddhist temple that's well worth visiting for its shining pagoda, swan pole and centipede flag.
After a hard day in the saddle, I find a bollard against which to lean my bike and a table for myself in the new public park and sip a beer while watching the lively scene around me.
On one side, a bride and groom in ivoryhued suits are posing in front of the beautiful Mon Museum for their prewedding album while on the other, beneath the imposing arches of the Industrial Ring Road bridge, a group of young men are playing football. Far away, on the banks of the Chao Phya, anglers sit patiently waiting for the fish to take the bait.
Amphawa in Samut Songkhram, with its canal network and leafy gardens, may still be the most recommended destination for a cycling weekend, but Bang Krachao is certainly a strong contender.
Back at my table, I look at the halfempty bottle and then at my bike. Perhaps I should try to dismantle it and take a cab home.
WAY TO GO
Saturday and Sunday are the best days to pitch and punch around Bang Krachao. You can cross the Chao Phya from three small piers: Bang Na, Klong Toei Nok and Chong Nonsee.
The homestay in Bang Namphueng has decent bicycles for rent at Bt30 per day. Call (089) 807 2501 to arrange your ride..
Merci pour vos réponses. Je connais Ko Ket que de nom, je n'y suis jamais allée non plus. Des "2 poumons verts" ... a choisir lequel me conseillez vous?
A Ko Kret je me suis déplacé à pied , c'etait en semaine donc tres tranquille.
Une piste cimentée en fait le tour et comporte plusieurs embranchements qui mènent
à des pontons au bord du fleuve.
L'autre balade c'etait un weekend avec pas mal de familles thaies autour des étals du marché.
Je ne suis resté que dans ce secteur . J' y suis resté moins longtemps vu que le ciel menaçait .
Il m'a paru moins facile de s' y reperer et s'y deplacer.
Les deux endroits se valent et permettent d'echapper aux quartiers bétonnés pour quelques heures.
Je ne connais pas Phra Pradaeng. Il me semble que le marché est sympa (à Koh Kret c'est plutôt des stands "touristiques") et selon les photos que j'ai vues, la végétation de Phra Pradaeng est nettement plus développée. Sur Koh Kret pour l'essentiel ce sont des parcelles cutlivées. Par contre sur cette dernière tu as un potier qui exerce devant les visiteurs. Certains objets sont magnifiques. C'est une des seules boutiques ouvertes en semaine. PP attire du monde le weekend, le marché est célèbre.
Si tu as déjà circulé dans le pays, ces 2 sites me semblent d'un intérêt mineur. Mais pour couper un séjour à BKK, c'est sympa. Le grand Bouddha en face de Koh Kret est dans l'enceinte d'un temple assez kitsch. Barques de traversée 10b.
Entre les 2, je pencherais plutôt pour PP mais je ne pourrai vérifier qu'au prochain séjour.🙂
il est imperatif de louer un velo a la journee sur ces deux lieux
dans le cas contraire ce n'est vraiment pas la peine de s'y rendre tellement vous louperez d'endroits interessants
Comme plus de vendre des terres agricoles à Bang Krachao, groupes promouvoir l'éco-tourisme
L'image AGRICOLE de la zone Bang Krachao de Samut Prakan est réglé pour un changement radical en plus de terres sont vendus à des promoteurs immobiliers, obligeant les groupes d'activistes pour encourager le développement de la région comme un endroit éco-tourisme de manière à protéger le poumon vert de Bangkok.
Bang Krachao, l'espace vert préservé au sud de Bangkok en Phra Pradaeng le quartier de Samut Prakan, est menacée par l'urbanisation rapide en raison de son emplacement idéal, juste à travers le fleuve de quartiers d'affaires animés de la capitale de Yan Nava, Klong Toei et Bang Na. En conséquence, les investisseurs perçoivent de grandes perspectives pour le développement immobilier.
Phongsak Taewtuean, un agriculteur de noix de coco et le dernier producteur de sucre de noix de coco dans la région, a révélé que sa ferme de noix de coco loué avait été vendu à un promoteur immobilier par son propriétaire pour construire un village urbanisé.
"Je vais avoir à sortir de cette terre bientôt, car mon propriétaire a déjà vendu cette ferme de noix de coco à un prix élevé. Je ne peux pas pousser plus d'arbres de noix de coco et la plupart des exploitations de noix de coco dans la région ont déjà disparu", a déclaré Phongsak.
Comme le prix des terrains dans la zone Bang Krachao a augmenté rapidement ces dernières années et le changement dans le plan de la ville permet la construction de logements dans les anciennes zones agricoles verts, de nombreux vergers ont été négligés. Dans certains endroits, le terrain était classé pour se préparer à la construction.
Phongsak a révélé que le prix de la terre sur la route principale était un minimum de Bt50,000 par quatre mètres carrés et le coût du terrain de la rivière était aussi élevé que Bt1 millions par rai, un saut abrupte de la Bt5,000 à Bt8,000 par quatre mètres carrés ya une décennie. Comme son terrain loué avait été vendu, lui et sa famille ont à se déplacer vers un terrain à proximité. Il a insisté qu'il allait poursuivre la production de sucre de noix de coco, mais il se rend compte que ce sera beaucoup plus difficile pour lui de trouver la source de nectar de coco
Jakkaphan Thruadmarakha, Big Tree militant du projet et aussi un Bang Krachao locale, a attribué le changement de mode de vie des gens et la pression de l'extérieur et à l'intérieur pour plus de développement de logement comme facteurs derrière les développements.
"Beaucoup de gens ne voient pas la valeur de leur identité agricole et l'environnement verdoyant plus, donc ils vendent la terre et de vivre la vie urbaine à Bangkok. Cela a combiné avec la croissance de la population dans la région et la nécessité à l'extérieur pour des projets de logement à proximité Bangkok. Par conséquent, nous avons vu la diminution progressive de l'espace vert dans Bang Krachao ", a déclaré Jakkaphan.
Afin de protéger le poumon vert de Bangkok, Le Centre pour les gens et les forêts, Big Trees Project, et le groupe Rak Kung Bang Krachao ont introduit menée par la communauté éco-tourisme pour encourager les gens à protéger l'identité locale et de pousser Bang Krachao comme un éco-lieu de tourisme.
"Le projet est destiné à laisser les populations locales apprennent à utiliser leurs ressources pour promouvoir l'éco-tourisme, qui permettra non seulement de générer plus de revenus pour les personnes, mais aussi de sensibiliser les habitants à aimer et à protéger leur ville natale, leur patrimoine et le vert l'espace ", at-il dit.
Hello everyone! I’m heading off solo in February and wanted to share my rough itinerary with you. Does this sound doable?
PS: I’m not really into beaches.
D1 Departure on February 17, 2027
D2 Arrival in Kuala Lumpur – stroll through Chinatown and visit the Petronas Towers
D3: Kuala Lumpur – Chow Kit Market, Batu Caves, Little India, Bukit Bintang downtown area
D4: Early morning bus to Malacca. Explore Malacca in the afternoon and evening
D5: Another 2–3 hours in Malacca in the morning, then bus back to Kuala Lumpur. Merdeka Square area. Stay in Chinatown
D6: Bus trip to Kuala Tahan. Night tour
D7: Morning – canopy walk and Bukit Terisek hike. Afternoon – off to Lata Berkoh
D8 & D9: 2-day jungle trek in Taman Negara National Park
D10: Head to Cameron Highlands
D11: Morning hike through the plantations. Afternoon still to be decided
D12: Morning – excursion to Mossy Forest and Sungei Plantation. Afternoon bus to Ipoh
D13: Morning – Mirror Lake / Sam Poh Temple area. Afternoon – explore downtown Ipoh
D14: Morning train to Penang. Afternoon – wander around Georgetown
D15: Morning – Penang Hill and Keh Loh Temple. Afternoon – Georgetown
D16: Bus to Butterfly Garden and Spice Garden. Late afternoon – Burmese and Thai temples
D17: Morning flight to Singapore. Afternoon – Chinatown and Marina Bay tour
D18: Morning – Gardens by the Bay area. Afternoon – Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Kampong Glam
D19: Morning – The Ridges area and Botanical Garden. Afternoon – Little India, then back to Chinatown before 11:15 PM return flight
D20: Morning arrival
Hi, I’ve read that these two volcanoes are super popular and that there are *tons* of people for sunrise, especially in July. I’m looking for firsthand accounts from anyone who’s done it later, around 9–10 a.m.
Thanks for your help!
Laëtitia
I’m heading to Cambodia at the end of December 2026 – January 2027 for 3-4 weeks. Since I’ve already visited Cambodia twice, my itinerary is a bit different this time—I’d love to explore Botum Sakor Park, Chi Pat, the Tatai region, and the Cardamom Mountains. I’m traveling solo. If you have any tips on transportation, excursions, treks, sights, or accommodations in the area, I’d really appreciate it. Thanks for your feedback!
Has anyone traveled with the Laos travel agency ADV ?
I’m planning a trip to Laos and have received several quotes. Among them, this agency’s seem very reasonable, and so far, the interactions have been positive.
I’ve found a few positive reviews online, but I’d love to hear from travelers who’ve actually booked with them: how’s the organization, guide quality, accommodations, on-the-ground responsiveness, etc.
Thanks for sharing your experiences!
First stop on our discovery of the peninsula: Amphawa. It’s our first night in Thailand (we arrived at Suvarnabhumi at 8:50 AM).
Our initial plan was to explore the area before heading further south. The Mae Klong Railway Market is tempting... but what else is there to do????
We’ll be there on a Wednesday, and from what I’ve read on the forum, some say there’s absolutely nothing to do during the week—no floating market, barely any shops open, no restaurants, etc.
Others, though, say the place is actually more charming without the weekend crowds.
Could you share your thoughts? Missing the floating market is one thing, but if it’s really a ghost town on Wednesdays, I might just drop our bags somewhere else.
Amphawa seemed like a good first stop, just 1.5 hours from the airport, but I’d still like to settle somewhere a bit lively for our first evening.
We’ll be there at the end of October.
Thanks!
Hi,
I wanted to visit the plantations in the morning with GetYourGuide or by just showing up.
How much time should I really plan for?
I’d like to catch either the 3 PM or 5 PM bus back to KL.
Thanks
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 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...
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 fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hi! 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
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?
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices?
Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis?
What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc.
Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
