je tiens a nettre en garde les forumistes sur les risques d agression a chiang mai une de mes amies s est fait agresser par eux hommes et depouiller de la chaine qu elle portait au cou elle a ete frappee assez violemment sd apres ce qu elle m a dit en tout cas je vous conseille d etre prudent et de ne pas se pronemer seul la nuit car ces voyous sevissent depuis quelque tenps il y a eu une vague de vol violent ca change par rapport a il y a 5 ans ou la ville etait sure a plus et pas de parano quand meme
As-tu des précisons. Dans quel quartier étais-ce, quelle heure était-il ? Si tu me dis qu'il était 10 heures du soir et c'était sur Taphae Road, c'est effectivement inquiétant. si tu me dis qu'il était 3 heures du mat et c'était en sortant du Spicy, je ne serais pas étonné.
Bjr
Pourquoi chaque fois et sur n'importel quel forum de discution de voyage qu'une presonne signale une agression ou un risque de vol il y a toujours un Woin Woin pour dire "oui mais à Paris ...." "oui mais en France"
Alors Kobe75 pouvez vous me dire QUEL EST LE RAPPORT SVP.
Teo.
eh oui, le principe du forum c'est de partager les expériences et avis
Seulement la socièté actuelle est tellement individualiste que personne ne s'intéresse à l'autre SAUF: quand il s'agit de quelques brins nostalgiques et donc forcément les mêmes avec les même opinions qaund il s'agit de se connecter pour grapiller les informations et pusi bye tout le monde !
and so! attends toi à recevoir les mêmes informations par les mêmes personnes et surtout faire profil bas
Effectivement, Kobe c'est toujours un langage à sens unique...
Si la personne relate un fait c'est tout simplement de mettre en garde les voyageurs.
ChiangMai est réputée comme ville paisible et sûre mais depuis quelques temps, des bandes organisées à moto s'attaquent particulièrement aux touristes et particulièrement aux femmes.
C'est un fait réel et inquiétant que les autorités de la ville ont décidé d'éradiquer ce problème qui ternit l'image, la réputation de la ville.
Un conseil: allez à Chiang Maï et surtout faîtes preuve de bon sens
Pourquoi chaque fois et sur n'importel quel forum de discution de voyage qu'une presonne signale une agression ou un risque de vol il y a toujours un Woin Woin pour dire "oui mais à Paris ...." "oui mais en France"
Peut-être parce que des agressions il en arrive tous les jours partout dans le monde et que ce genre d'informations n'est pas très pertinent. Bien sur c'est toujours désagréable d'être victime de ce genre de mésaventures mais le risque fait malheureusement également partie du voyage. Ce n'est pas parce qu'il y a eu cette agression, et quelques autres, que tout d'un coup cette ville est devenue dangereuse. Mais comme dans n'importe quelle grande ville de n'importe quel pays, le risque zéro n'existe pas. C'est pour cela qu'il faut prendre qques précautions de base comme ne pas porter de bijoux lorsqu'on se promène la nuit, en particulier si l'on est une femme et seule. Cela me rappelle ce Suisse qui s'était fait molesté alors qu'il se promenait avec une casquette "Crédit Suisse"! Genre: "Regardez j'ai du pognon, venez le prendre!"
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
La nationalité des agresseurs n'a aucune importance, ça aurait pu se passer n'importe où. C'est pour montrer qu'il faut prendre un minimum de précautions mais à ce niveau ce n'est plus des précautions mais du simple bon sens!
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Bjr
Pourquoi chaque fois et sur n'importel quel forum de discution de voyage qu'une presonne signale une agression ou un risque de vol il y a toujours un Woin Woin pour dire "oui mais à Paris ...." "oui mais en France"
Alors Kobe75 pouvez vous me dire QUEL EST LE RAPPORT SVP.
Teo.
parce qu'il ya des idiots partout et que le fait de parler comme ca rends la personne un peu plus en estime de soi-meme, Kobe qui parfois informe lui aussi fait parti de ces gens ..... lui connait bien tout et ne risque jamais rienm quelle chance !
bref comme disait pepin, pas la peine de paniquer je pense mais c'est pas la premier fois que ca arrive depuis Janvier et donc, nous les nanas devront faire un peu plus attention desormais...
bises
P>S pur repondre a Similan, c'est vrai que c'est partout, n'empeche que ca peut mettre en garde certains nouveaux/velles et c'est pas plus mal, tout le monde ironnise sauf le jour ou l'on se retrouve face a face avec ce genre d'individu....😕
Une chose est sûre, il faut faire quelque chose !!!!!!
La nationalité des agresseurs n'a aucune importance, ça aurait pu se passer n'importe où. C'est pour montrer qu'il faut prendre un minimum de précautions mais à ce niveau ce n'est plus des précautions mais du simple bon sens!
Bonjour
Il y a 3 semaines j'ai rencontré un Francais a Chiangmai qui s'est fait agresser en moto.
Ca c'est passe a 100 m de Taphae road (soi3) en fin d'aprés midi. Il été passager sur une moto et les agresseurs, en moto egalement, lui ont arraché sa sacoche avec papiers et argent. Ensuite ils se sont enfui en prenant Tapae road en sens interdit dans le traffic. Impossible de les poursuivre.
IL ne faut quand meme pas paniquer. J'ai passé 3 semaines a Chiangmai au moi de mai souvent seul a marcher la nuit et je n'ai jamais rien vu d'inquitant et je me sent plus en securité que dans certain quartiers de Toulouse . Ces agressions restent ponctuelles et il suffit de prendre un minimum de precautions.
Depuis, il semble que la police soit sur le point d'arreter le chef de ce gang qui sevit depuis quelque temps a chiangmai. Voir la: http://www.chiangmai-mail.com/219/news.shtml
Copie de l'article.
One suspect in custody as citywide search for gang leader continues Ms. Dempsey (center) points at her belongings that were stolen then recovered by the Chiang Mai police. The suspect Ms. Promchanta (seated right) covers her face. Pol Lt. Col. Kittipong Sukwattanaphan (second from left), Deputy Superintendent of Chiang Mai Muang Police station is determined to arrest the at large gang leader and put an end to these latest crimes.
Saksit Meesubkwang
The Chiang Mai police have set up road blocks around the city every evening in an attempt to find and arrest the leader of a motorcycle gang who has been robbing residents and tourists in the city.
The latest victim Ms. Gillinn Dempsey, a British national and resident of Chiang Mai, was robbed of her belongings as she drove home on her motorbike earlier this month.
A thief on a motorcycle grabbed her purse which contained two mobile phones, a digital camera, 12, 000 baht in cash and personal documents and then sped away.
Ms. Dempsey was unharmed during the attack and contacted the police who filed a report.
The police then received a tip-off that Ms. Dempsey’s belongings could be found at the Sairung mobile phone shop on Thewan Road.
On April 19th a police team led by Pol. Col. Prachuab Wongsook descended on the shop and discovered a loot of 54 mobile phones, 15 handbags, 8 digital cameras and 1 video camera, all apparently stolen.
The owner of the shop, Ms. Rapeephan Promchanta age 19, was promptly arrested and she and the alleged stolen loot were transported to the police station. The shop owner has been charged for possession of stolen goods and faces time behind bars if convicted.
During the usual police interrogation of the suspect, Ms. Rapeephan revealed that her boyfriend, Mr. Sarawut Oopkham age 33, and a native of Lamphun province is in fact the motorcycle gang leader who has been robbing the residents and tourists in Chiang Mai.
The police promptly issued an arrest warrant based on Ms. Rapeephan’s testimony and launched a citywide search for Oopkham. The police said that this gang of thieves has put a black eye on the good reputation of the city which is normally considered a safe place to live and visit.
Personnellement je n'ironise pas mais si une femme (ou un homme) se promène seule dans une grande ville, la nuit, avec des bijoux que tout le monde peut voir ou n'importe quel signe extérieur de richesse, c'est évidemment tenter le diable et une agression possible devient probable. Il me semble logique que ce comportement est potentiellement dangereux. Il l'est aujourd'hui et l'était hier. Il n'y a donc pas de raison de faire un peu plus attention mais seulement de faire preuve d'un peu de bon sens, ce qui n'est certes pas votre qualié principale, n'est-ce pas mesdames...😛 Mais peut-être que si vous étiez à Rio cela vous semblerait plus évident...!
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Personnellement je n'ironise pas mais si une femme (ou un homme) se promène seule dans une grande ville, la nuit, avec des bijoux que tout le monde peut voir ou n'importe quel signe extérieur de richesse, c'est évidemment tenter le diable et une agression possible devient probable. Il me semble logique que ce comportement est potentiellement dangereux. Il l'est aujourd'hui et l'était hier. Il n'y a donc pas de raison de faire un peu plus attention mais seulement de faire preuve d'un peu de bon sens, ce qui n'est certes pas votre qualié principale, n'est-ce pas mesdames...😛 Mais peut-être que si vous étiez à Rio cela vous semblerait plus évident...!
En effet, je suis d'accord avec le principe de prudence... Le tout est de se dire que "prudence" ne veut pas dire "parano". Je comprends que certains s'insurgent contre ce genre de post car cela va effrayer outre mesure le touriste lambda qui aime, comme beaucoup, dire "oh la la, tu as vu, c'est dangereux, il ne faut pas y aller". D'un autre côté, il est toujours bon de rappeler les principes de base et de prudence quand on voyage seul et qu'on se promène la nuit.
Pour ce qui est de "ce n'est pas votre qualité principale, mesdames"... C'est quoi ce sursaut de machisme ? Beaucoup de femmes font preuve de bon sens et de prudence, surtout celles qui ont l'habitude de se débrouiller seules ! Allons, Similan, c'est toi qui ne fais pas preuve de bon sens ou d'équité dans ce propos.😉 La terre n'est pas peuplée que de "bonnes femmes stupides".
La terre n'est pas peuplée que de "bonnes femmes stupides".
Non? T'es sur? T'as peut-être raison quand tu parles de la terre mais pour ce qui est de ce forum... 😉 Bien sur pas toi! Tu es l'exception qui confirme la règle! 😛 Et pourtant t'es blonde et Belge, t'avoueras que c'était pas gagné d'avance! 😛😏
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Merci pour le compliment 😉 Et aussi pour le fou-rire matinal.
Sur ce, je vais quitter et aller préparer ma valise, départ ce soir 20.00 h avec escale à Zurich, j'aurai une pensée pour toi.😏
ATTENTION! Si je trouve très sympa que tu aies une pensée pour moi, ZH est en Suisse allemande pas loin de la région qu'on appelle (véridique!) la Suisse primitive! Or je revendique fièrement mon appartenance à la Suisse romande (et pas francophone stp)!
Bon voyage.
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Ta détermination à voyager et ta sereinité me soulage et me réconforte, après ces malheureuses agressions, qui sévissent malheureusement partout dans le monde !🙂
Et où que tu sois dans le monde, sois vigilante de toute façon, sans tomber dans la paranoya bien sûr !😎
Essaye de nous ramener de jolies photos, prises sur le vif !😎😛
Bon voyage.
Erika.
PS :
Chan mai leum khun.🙂
Ce serait super de nous écrire de temps en temps sur le Forum, pour donner de tes nouvelles !🙂
Merci pour le compliment 😉 Et aussi pour le fou-rire matinal.
Sur ce, je vais quitter et aller préparer ma valise, départ ce soir 20.00 h avec escale à Zurich, j'aurai une pensée pour toi.😏
Le sage se conforme aux principes éternels :
de la modération, de la droiture, de l'humanité
et de la justice. (Philosophie chinoise).
Merci.
Je donnerai des nouvelles au fur et à mesure des connexions, tout dépendra de la possibilité évidemment.
Les photos, il faudra probablement attendre le retour, car je ne suis pas très douée pour les transferts 😊
J'espère trouver mon port d'attache et les moyens nécessaires pour que le prochain départ soit définitif..., je creuse, je creuse ... 😉😉😉😉
La sérénité, je crois qu'elle vient avec l'âge... malheureusement, car ça ne me rajeunit pas tout ça 😎😎😎
Et moi, j'suis blonde aussi, femme aussi, MAIS JAMAIS je porte de bijoux, ni aucun signe ostentatoire de richesse, Ceci n'est que du bon sens, dans n'importe quelle ville de n'importe quel pays.
Que l'on soit HOMME ou FEMME.
Ouais c'est vrai ça, la dernière fois que j'ai osé me promener là-bas j'ai croisé 2 types avec des M16 et un avec un AK47. Y en avait même un avec un bazooka et un autre avec un lance-roquettes! Si un jour j'y retourne ce sera au minimum avec un gilet parre-balle! Je reviens juste de Bagdad et c'est vrai que c'est une promenade de santé à côté de South Pattaya...
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Pour nombres d'entre vous, vous êtes des sacrés veinards car y'aura toujours du boulot pour vous : les médias vous attendent car, avec les temps qui courent, on va avoir besoin de plus en plus de stupides narrations-de-faits-divers-qui-font-peur.
Pour beaucoup d'entre vous, tout devient possible, vous ferez de bons pigistes...
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
A Phuket ça va, on s'est pris deux ou trois roquettes sur la gueule mais rien de bien méchant...
Sinon ça fait 2 jours qu'il fait beau mais on a eu pas mal de pluie les jours précédents.
Dis donc, tu dors jamais toi?
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Tu devrait monter un duo avec Abalone ou Similan, c'est parti d'un certain sujet c'est partout dans une discussion tout à fait comique à mes yeux, c'est bon de faire fonctionner les zygomatiques un peu !
"
Celui qui pose une question risque cinq minutes d'avoir l'air bête. Celui qui ne pose pas de question restera bête toute sa vie.
J'ai pris aussi la photo de son accolyte mais je pensais que ca ne plairait pas a thuan alors je l'avais pas mise, je ne voulais pas lancer de nouvelles polémiques 😉
Helo, juste une petite information, je ne sais pas si il y a deja eu des post a ce sujet. comme tout le monde le sais la thailande est une destination…
Une famille de touristes français s'est faite agresser la semaine dernière par un conducteur de tuk-tuk à Phuket, relançant le débat sur ce moyen de locomotion…
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
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...
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before:
- Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees.
Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands.
Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way).
Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan.
Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide).
Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre.
Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island.
Day 10 – Head to Semporna.
Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai.
Day 15 – Bohey Dulang.
Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous.
I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing.
I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture.
But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary.
If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai?
Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai.
My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok:
No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna:
From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄).
Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM.
Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau:
Found this via AI—is it legit?
No online booking, as far as I can tell.
Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly????
And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Hi there,
we’ll be in Mai Chau in June and we’re thinking of heading to Sapa, but first spending a few days in Bac Ha to do some hiking and explore the area.
Is this a good idea for those who’ve been there?
How do you get there?
Thanks for your feedback.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi everyone. As I’m planning my trip for next winter, I’m looking for hotel suggestions in Camotes, Bantayan, Malapascua, Bohol, and Siquijor. The ones I had in mind seem to be fully booked (unless it’s too early?). For those familiar with the area, is it easy to find accommodations on the spot in January/February? I’m specifically looking for hotels with a pool, beachfront, air conditioning, and easy scooter rental nearby. Thanks for your tips!
Hi there,
I’m planning an itinerary and would love some feedback on whether it’s doable and if the number of days per destination is enough—or too much. I was also debating whether to add an extra night on an island or spend an extra night in Kampot to visit Kep or Battambang.
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning
March 24: Phnom Penh
March 25: Phnom Penh
March 26: Depart for Kampot
March 27: Kampot
March 28: Depart for Battambang
March 29: Battambang
March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap
March 31: Siem Reap
April 1: Siem Reap
April 2: Siem Reap
April 3: Siem Reap
April 4: Siem Reap
April 5: Departure
Hi there,
Yesterday in the Thailand section, 100% of the new threads were just about beach destinations 😕...
So here’s the counterattack in the form of this photo thread, dedicated solely to the countryside: the locals, their livestock, fields, farms, rice paddies, small rivers, and agricultural machinery. If you’ve got any pictures that fit these categories, feel free to add them!
Comments welcome.
For each photo, I’ll (or you can) indicate the area where it was taken.
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta.
21/09: Borobudur
22/09: Prambanan
23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang)
24/09: Bromo
25/09: Kawa Ijen
26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran
27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran
28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk
29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk
30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk
01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud
02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud
03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud
04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo
05/10: Komodo cruise
06/10: Komodo cruise
07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo.
08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar
09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore
10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Hi everyone,
My girlfriend and I booked our tickets with Saudia Airlines for a trip to Thailand this summer, from July 5th to August 3rd. Given the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, we’re keeping a close eye on the news.
I was wondering if anyone here is in the same situation as us?
• Have you heard anything about possible mass cancellations or if the airline is still maintaining its routes to Asia?
• Are there any travelers who’ve recently returned who could tell us if air corridors have been changed (longer flight times)?
The idea is to know what to expect so we can prepare as best as possible. Thanks for your replies! !
Thanks for all your contributions on the forum—they’ve really helped me plan my trip. There are four of us friends heading to Sulawesi for 20 days. Based on all your advice, I’ve put together the following itinerary:
July 30: Makassar – sightseeing
July 31: Makassar – sightseeing + overnight bus to Rantepao
August 1–7: Tana Toraja with a guide
August 7: Tana Toraja to Tentena + visit Tentena
August 8: Early departure with a private driver to Ampana, then ferry to the Togian Islands
August 9–15: Togian Islands (2 different resorts)
August 15: Depart Togian Islands for Luwuk
August 16: Flight Luwuk to Makassar
August 17: Rammang Rammang
August 18: Stroll in Makassar, then return home
Overall, what do you think?
I also have a question about the connection between Tentena and the Togian Islands: Is it doable to leave early in the morning as planned and still be sure not to miss the ferry?
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
Ms. Dempsey (center) points at her belongings that were stolen then recovered by the Chiang Mai police. The suspect Ms. Promchanta (seated right) covers her face. Pol Lt. Col. Kittipong Sukwattanaphan (second from left), Deputy Superintendent of Chiang Mai Muang Police station is determined to arrest the at large gang leader and put an end to these latest crimes.
Saksit Meesubkwang
The Chiang Mai police have set up road blocks around the city every evening in an attempt to find and arrest the leader of a motorcycle gang who has been robbing residents and tourists in the city.
The latest victim Ms. Gillinn Dempsey, a British national and resident of Chiang Mai, was robbed of her belongings as she drove home on her motorbike earlier this month.
A thief on a motorcycle grabbed her purse which contained two mobile phones, a digital camera, 12, 000 baht in cash and personal documents and then sped away.
Ms. Dempsey was unharmed during the attack and contacted the police who filed a report.
The police then received a tip-off that Ms. Dempsey’s belongings could be found at the Sairung mobile phone shop on Thewan Road.
On April 19th a police team led by Pol. Col. Prachuab Wongsook descended on the shop and discovered a loot of 54 mobile phones, 15 handbags, 8 digital cameras and 1 video camera, all apparently stolen.
The owner of the shop, Ms. Rapeephan Promchanta age 19, was promptly arrested and she and the alleged stolen loot were transported to the police station. The shop owner has been charged for possession of stolen goods and faces time behind bars if convicted.
During the usual police interrogation of the suspect, Ms. Rapeephan revealed that her boyfriend, Mr. Sarawut Oopkham age 33, and a native of Lamphun province is in fact the motorcycle gang leader who has been robbing the residents and tourists in Chiang Mai.
The police promptly issued an arrest warrant based on Ms. Rapeephan’s testimony and launched a citywide search for Oopkham. The police said that this gang of thieves has put a black eye on the good reputation of the city which is normally considered a safe place to live and visit.
