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Salut a tous,
Effectivement j'ai été retardé un peut à Bangkok, problème familiale rien de grave je vous rassure, je rentrerai surement plus tot que prévu, au mois de juin au lieu de fin Juillet donc voila voila 🙂
du coup un peu sur un coup de tete j'ai décidé de changer mes plans, au lieu de partir vers Chiang Mai pour atteindre la frontiere du Laos, je me décide de partir vers Nong Khai (la frontière proche de Vientiane)
J'ai fait un petit arret de 2 jours à Ayuthaya pour voir un peu l'endroit, première impression c'est pas franchement authentique comme endroit, je m'attendais à un petit Bagan (c'est le probleme quand on fait la birmanie avant tout le reste 😎), les ruines sont situées au Nord Ouest de la ville, j'ai loué un vélo pour me balader plus facilement. Très sympa au final pour 1 ou 2 jours grand max. Si vous voulez une Guesthouse propre avec sale de bain privative et wifi, je vous conseil Baan Are Gong (250B), elle est juste en face de la gare.
J'avais acheté mon billet de train couchette pour Ayuthaya/Nong Khai à Bangkok (couchette class 2, 512B), c'est pas le grand luxe mais c'est confortable.
Je suis arrivé à Nong Khai a 9h00, de la gare au centre de Nong Khai (60B 😠),
je me suis arreté a Sawasdee GH, et bien n'y aller pas, accueil vraiment deplorable, l'impression de déranger, la gérante fait la gueule, je reste juste une nuit donc ça va, les chambres ont l'air propre tout ça pour 160B. A vous de voir !!
Je vais visiter un peut la ville, je vous laisse, désolé de pas avoir donné de nouvelle.
A plus 🙂
Content de tes nouvelles, Romain.
Nong Khaï, on a aussi trouvé ça sympa, même si ça c'est pas mal développé (dans le mauvais sens) au niveau touristique. Mais ça reste joli.
Et donc le Pont de l'Amitié, tu l'as franchi, forcément. On attend la suite de l'aventure au Laos, alors.
😉
J'aime bien la ville, c'est tout petit, ça ressemble a une ville proche de la mer, comme on a en france, il n'y a pas grand chose a faire par contre mais, c'est une ville sympa.
J'aime bien la ville, c'est tout petit, ça ressemble a une ville proche de la mer, comme on a en france, il n'y a pas grand chose a faire par contre mais, c'est une ville sympa.
Et toi comment tu trouves la ville ? 🙂
Il m'a dit de te dire qu'il s'était endormi...et qu'il va te répondre demain....Mais non c't'une blague !!!
Tu compte être où pour Songkran ?, , ,
...l'important n'est pas la destination mais l'expérience de ce que le voyage nous apporte...
Nong Khaï, on a aussi trouvé ça sympa, même si ça c'est pas mal développé (dans le mauvais sens) au niveau touristique. Mais ça reste joli.
Ca va peut-être encore t'énerver 😛, mais ca veut dire quoi ca? Tu peux développer (dans le bon sens)? Tu affirmes quelque chose, alors étayes un petit peu, affirmer c'est bien mais expliquer c'est mieux, merci 😉
Nong Khaï, on a aussi trouvé ça sympa, même si ça c'est pas mal développé (dans le mauvais sens) au niveau touristique. Mais ça reste joli.
Ca va peut-être encore t'énerver 😛, mais ca veut dire quoi ca? Tu peux développer (dans le bon sens)? Merci 😉
Pourquoi je m'énerverais ? 😎
Si je dis un truc et qu'on me demande de préciser, je le fais bien volontiers.
Là, en effet, il s'agit de ressenti, donc d'une INFO subjective, forcément.
Nous y étions avec un ami qui habite l'Issan et a connu cette petite ville il y a quelques années. Et telle qu'il nous l'a décrite de l'époque, j'ai un peu regretté de voir ce que j'ai vu, même si ça reste joli dans l'ensemble.
Comment dire... Si tu connais, ça m'a un peu fait penser à Bophut sur Samui, du côté du pier, avec sa rue de restaus, de GH et de magasins de souvenirs bien alignés.
TOUT pour le touriste, pas grand chose de "vrai" comme on peut en voir en traversant le pays par des routes improbables qui te font tomber par hasard chez des artisans qui travaillent à la pièce, dans leur cuisine ou en plein air sous leur maison, à taper sur de la ferraille toute la journée pour fabriquer un gong.
Donc oui, coquet Nong Khaï, mais devenu "rupin" avec plein de GH toutes neuves, alignées dans cette rue principale qui longe le fleuve. Des restaus aux prix qui n'ont rien à voir avec d'autres à à peine 15-20 km de là vers "l'intérieur".
Mais je le répète : bourg agréable où d'ailleurs on a pu manger quasiment sous le Pont de l'Amitié, tout au bord du fleuve, du poulet grillé, dans une gargote avec des tables basses et des nattes sur le sable pour s'asseoir (et pour faire la sieste...). Très sympa.
J'y ai même trouvé du Gewürzt ! Alors...
Content ?
😄
Ben comme je connais un peu le coin et que le marché chinois a toujours été touristique et un peu kitsch, comme le jardin aux statues (je ne sais pas si tu l'as vu mais c'est le classique de Nong Khai 😉), la promenade le long du Mekong a aussi été construite pour consolider ses abords qui s'affaissaient dans l'eau et que ce n'est donc pas juste pour un souci touristique même si c'est un souci aussi commercial en effet mais ca, est-ce que ton ami te l'a dit? 😛
le jardin aux statues
[...]
la promenade le long du Mekong a aussi été construite pour consolider ses abords qui s'affaissaient dans l'eau et que ce n'est donc pas juste pour un souci touristique
On n'a bien sûr pas raté le jardin aux statues, très surprenant.
La rive du Mékong consolidée ok, pas de souci.
Je parle des 2 côtés de cette rue et de son alignement de GH toutes neuves, de restaus et de magasins pour touristes. Ca fait très "attraction pour touristes" digne de Samui, ou d'ailleurs.
J'imagine, d'après ce que m'en disait l'ami en question, que ce fut un peu moins clinquant et blindé de touristes comme on l'a vu nous cette fois-ci.
Bon, je sais, nous aussi on était des touristes moyens et on grossissait la foule des autres, je sais.
Cela dit, c'est toujours bien pour le développement local, je pense qu'on est d'accord.
Bref, je ne vois plus trop où tu veux en venir.
Dis ce que tu as à dire, allez.
Ben je veux juste dire que Nong Khai est une ville sympa, on est d'accord, et que tu donnes un avis "avant-après" sans l'avoir connu avant alors je me pose des questions sur la validités de tes avis si tu n'as pas de points de comparaison réels a part les ont-dit, tu as vu que je parles peu de Samui car je ne connais pas, voila la différence 😇
le jardin aux statues
[...]
la promenade le long du Mekong a aussi été construite pour consolider ses abords qui s'affaissaient dans l'eau et que ce n'est donc pas juste pour un souci touristique
On n'a bien sûr pas raté le jardin aux statues, très surprenant.
La rive du Mékong consolidée ok, pas de souci.
Je parle des 2 côtés de cette rue et de son alignement de GH toutes neuves, de restaus et de magasins pour touristes. Ca fait très "attraction pour touristes" digne de Samui, ou d'ailleurs.
J'imagine, d'après ce que m'en disait l'ami en question, que ce fut un peu moins clinquant et blindé de touristes comme on l'a vu nous cette fois-ci.
Bon, je sais, nous aussi on était des touristes moyens et on grossissait la foule des autres, je sais.
Cela dit, c'est toujours bien pour le développement local, je pense qu'on est d'accord.
Bref, je ne vois plus trop où tu veux en venir.
Dis ce que tu as à dire, allez.
Connais tu seulement la signification de cette statue?
tu donnes un avis "avant-après" sans l'avoir connu avant alors je me pose des questions sur la validités de tes avis si tu n'as pas de points de comparaison réels a part les ont-dit
D'accord, je vois... ça doit faire un moment que tu cherches la faille...
Je me doutais qu'il y avait anguille sous roche.
Eh bien quand j'écris :
même si ça c'est pas mal développé (dans le mauvais sens) au niveau touristique
C'est en effet un avis personnel subjectif que je donne par rapport au ressenti que j'en ai eu au moment où je l'ai vue, cette ville.
J'aurais peut-être, sans doute, certainement, y a des chances, écrit exactement la même chose même si mon ami ne m'avait pas décrit les lieux tels qu'il les avait connus antérieurement, ok ?
Et on voudrait pas que je m'énerve ?
Y a du méchamment subtil intentionnel qui me laissera toujours coi.
Autre chose ?
Ah oui : non, très humblement, je ne connais pas la signification de cette statue.
Mais tu vas nous étaler ta confiture.
Non ?
Tant pis.
Non je dirai rien, je l'ai deja dit et c'est tellement évident que ca échappé a ta si grande intelligence 😛 Tu trouveras bien un jour, gogole est ton ami aussi...même si parfois il a du mal 😇
C'est bien on voit que tu visites sans comprendre ce que tu vois, achètes un guide si tes amis n'arrives pas t'expliquer ce que tu vois 😛
Pour quelqu'un qui cherche à coincer un membre parce qu'il aurait (aurait) eu le culot de poster un message contenant un ressenti, une soi-disant "info" subjective non étayée, basée sur des "onT-dit", pas vérifiée car pas vécue, et j'en passe que tu n'as pas voulu lister, je trouve que tu ne montres pas du tout le bon exemple en faisant une telle rétention d'info puisque toi, TU SAIS.
Tu es du genre "il faut savoir que", du haut de ta grandeur.
Eh bien garde ton info.
Placée comme ça, elle ne te rapportera rien.
J'aime bien ton humilité, ta sanook attitude, tu sais donc tout même quand tu sais pas
Là tu commences à faire prendre la semoule tellement tu pédales dedans.
Rien d'autre à dire, vraiment ?
C'est faiblard pour une conclusion.
Mais je sais (oui, je sais !), c'est pour le dernier mot.
Donc je te le laisse.
Allez, tu as de la place ci-dessous.
Allez je te laisses tu sais tout, t'as tout compris, t'es vraiment gentil comme on dit chez moi, un brave type, bien le bonjour chez vous 😉😄😏 Montes un club 😇
je trouve cette ville sympa un style différent de se que j'ai vu en Thaïlande ! je c'est pas si c'est moi j'ai remarquer beaucoup d'inscription en francais sur des commerces des entreprises ya t'il une communauter francophone dans le coin ?
je trouve cette ville sympa un style différent de se que j'ai vu en Thaïlande ! je c'est pas si c'est moi j'ai remarquer beaucoup d'inscription en francais sur des commerces des entreprises ya t'il une communauter francophone dans le coin ?
Le Laos est une ancienne colonie française , ceci expliquant cela .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Y'en a qui ne peuvent pas s'empecher de polluer le post de Romain!!! 🏴☠️
m'enfin vous joutez verbalement pour une question de ressenti?? Pauvres de nous! on n'a pas fini!😛
si on n'a plus le droit de s'exprimer ou va t on?
Plus ca va et moins j'ai envie de faire ici mon recit de voyage a mon retour, quand je vois l'intolerance et le "je sais tout je dis rien"!😎
Allez Romain les ecoute pas et surtout survole les ecrits des raleurs! et continue a profiter!
A bientot de te lire, toi, tes impressions, tes ressentis etc...
🙂
La vieillesse, c'est l'hiver pour les ignorants, et le temps des moissons pour les sages.
Si c'est le cas , sache juste que ce membre a renseigner des dizaines et des dizaines de personnes , et que un peu grâce a lui , beaucoup ont eu des vacances réussites
Il a d'ailleurs fait un post sur Bangkok qui a servit et sert encore a beaucoup de monde ...
Bonsoir,
Je ne parle de personne en particulier et de tous ceux ou celles qui prennent le post de Romain pour un defouloir.😉
Ceci etant dit, parce qu'on est encore un pays de liberte, ou il est permis de penser et de donner son opinion, je vous souhaite le bonsoir, car si je continue je vais gonfler a mon tour la cohorte des pollueurs de posts😏😏
🙂
La vieillesse, c'est l'hiver pour les ignorants, et le temps des moissons pour les sages.
Pour Vientiane, je n'ai pas grand chose à dire de plus, petite ville très pollué, mais très sympa pour un faire escale quelques jours, On trouve du Free Internet gratuit partout dans les cafés, beaucoup de touristes, pas grand chose à faire à part se reposer et se balader, il y a une librairie avec des livres français dans le centre, la plupart des livres intéressant sont sous cellophane, dommage !!
Je peux vous recommander ma guesthouse, SALA INPENG (25USD pour un petit bungalow, avec frigo, sdb privée, moustiquaire, wifi) le personnel est très sympa. Ils proposent des tickets de bus avec transit vers la gare routiere.
Je déconseille la guesthouse LAKEO GH dans le centre de vientiane, vraiment hyper sale, c'était mon premier choix, à mon arrivée les draps étaient jaune, il y avait des insectes morts un peu partout, très charmant, ..........ça fait pas grand baroudeur dit comme ça 😎, mais j'aime bien quand il y a de l'hygiène.
Je suis donc parti en BUS VIP (ça fait classe dit comme ça mais en faite........c'est un bus comme les autres).
Le trajet n'est pas très long (11h) la route est belle, les paysages sont magnifiques, on traverse les montagnes sur les routes sinueuses (il ne faut pas avoir le mal des transports).
Arrivée à Luang Prabang, les chauffeurs de Tuk Tuk se jettent sur le bus, le trajet coute 50.000Kips et pas moyen de négocier (en kip), j'ai réussi à lui donner 3US en lui disant que c'était l'équivalent.
Première impression, il fait froid (5.30PM) dans le tuk tuk avec ma chemise a manche longue.
....Je me pose enfin, je décide d'aller me balader dans la rue principale SISAVANGVONG
Et je me retrouve face à une magnifique Citroen 15 et une encore plus belle Mercedes 180 de 1955 (là mesdemoiselles vous vous dites "on s'en balance des voitures" 😛)
...........
la rue est touristique, beaucoup de petit restaurant, il y a un marché au niveau du Musée du Palais Royale, en parlant de celui la, j'ai été le visiter today, prix de l'entrée 30.000 kips et 50.000 avec casque audio.
Le palais est pas trop mal, ça casse pas des briques, contruit durant la période coloniale française, le style architecturale est un mixe entre le style Lao et français classique (ça fait cultivé !! en faites c'est le lonely qui le dit, moi je ne savais pas 😎), exterieurement le palais est raté je trouve le mixe français/lao ne va pas bien.
J'ai discuté avec un "ancien" (pour pas dire vieux) laotien, il parlait français, c'est assez déroutant au début, il était très gentil, on a marché au bord du mékong, il me propose pour demain une balade en bateau (1h de trajet) vers un village plus "authentique", par contre c'est 200.000 Kips !! c'est cher quand meme, non ? qu'en dites vous ?
Voila pour aujourd'hui, c'est pas super palpitant 🙂, demain je loue un vélo !!
A plus
tu ne vas donc pas vivre Songkran en Thaïlande ???
le Songkran à Pattaya ...perdure une semaine...!!!
😏 ils doivent peut-être se puirifier plus longtemps ?!
Moi j'aurais aimé être un gamin dans un pays où le nouvel an ça se célèbre avec de l'eau ...
J'ai faite la gaffe de mettre mon passeport dans mes poches il y a deux ans!!!🤪
...l'important n'est pas la destination mais l'expérience de ce que le voyage nous apporte...
C'est dommage de ne pas aller en Chine, dans le Xishuangbana (Jinghong) pour Songkran. C'est la fête et les femmes se font belles. Mais tu préfères peut être les vieilles voitures 😎 Ou les deux 😉
"Nous ne sommes plus une communauté d'être humains qui se parlent mais un conglomérat de grappes de consommateurs en niches, séparés les uns des autres par des obsessions diverses et innombrables. Nous sommes de l'ère de la désintégration." Marc Moulin (1942-2008) in Humoeurs
Ben dans le sud non en effet, c'est la kata (si j'ose dire en référence a un post sur le sujet) mais a Chiang Mai ou en Issan il fait très chaud en ce moment et ce sont les meilleurs endroits ou le vivre je pense 😉 Au Laos ou en Birmanie ca ne doit pas être mal non plus, ce qui laisse encore le choix 🙂
Oui, célébrée au même moment dans les 3 pays, la fête y prend à chaque fois un nom différent : au Myanmar, on célèbre Maha Thyngyan, au Laos Pimaï et en Thaïlande, Songkran (voir ICI pour plus de détails)
"Nous ne sommes plus une communauté d'être humains qui se parlent mais un conglomérat de grappes de consommateurs en niches, séparés les uns des autres par des obsessions diverses et innombrables. Nous sommes de l'ère de la désintégration." Marc Moulin (1942-2008) in Humoeurs
L'extrême Sud de la Chine est bouddhiste et Songkran y est fêté comme dans les régions (et pas nécessairement les pays) voisines
Moinillons au monastère de Jingzhen (Avril 2009)
"Nous ne sommes plus une communauté d'être humains qui se parlent mais un conglomérat de grappes de consommateurs en niches, séparés les uns des autres par des obsessions diverses et innombrables. Nous sommes de l'ère de la désintégration." Marc Moulin (1942-2008) in Humoeurs
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L'hotel sahara est a 1300 bth par nuit (chambre deluxe room) soit un peu plus de 27 euros par nuit, l'hotel est situé dans le soi 5, c'est à dire le soi de la…
Hi! I’d like to split my trip into two parts: 15 days in Phuket and 15 days in Krabi. Do you know if I can rent a car and drop it off in Krabi when I fly back to France?
Thanks for your feedback!
Have a great Sunday!
Martine
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search.
I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
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
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,
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, 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 trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
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 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.
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.
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