Our family trip (2 kids, boys aged 6 and 9) is coming up fast, and I have a few questions. I’ve seen that quite a few people on this forum are active about Thailand, so I hope you can help me out :-)
- I have a Free mobile plan with a good amount of data abroad (35GB). Do you know if the Bolt or Grab apps work well with a French SIM? I’ve read that the app might not work if the SIM isn’t Thai, but I’ve also seen French travelers using their SIMs in Thailand, so I’m not sure what to think.
- What tips do you have to avoid traveler’s diarrhea (especially for our 6- and 9-year-olds)? I’m already preparing them to wash their hands often and not put their hands in their mouths or brush their teeth with tap water (they’re still little and might not control the water well in their mouths). Are there certain dishes or food stands to avoid? Are ice cubes really off-limits too?
- We arrive in Bangkok at 9 AM, and we have a French-speaking guided tour scheduled for the next morning (all day). The itinerary isn’t finalized yet with the guide—I need to get back in touch soon. What do you recommend doing on that first day, which might be tiring after the long flight and jet lag? Our hotel has a nice pool, but I’d love for us to get out and explore a bit :-)
- Is the Grand Palace really best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds?
- I’d love to visit a night or floating market, but they’re all on weekends. Unfortunately, we’re in Bangkok from Wednesday to Saturday morning (then we take the train to Ayutthaya in the morning). Is there a market on Friday night? I saw Chatuchak, but Friday night doesn’t seem like the best time—is it still worth going?
I’ve looked for answers to these questions, but I’m either not finding a definitive answer or I’m overwhelmed by all the things to do/see in Bangkok. So, I’m hoping your advice or experiences can help me out!
To avoid traveler’s diarrhea:
- Good hand hygiene, obviously
- Brush your teeth with bottled water (including rinsing the brush afterward—start with hot tap water and finish with bottled water)
- Avoid all non-Thai restaurants (no pizza, no burgers, no big touristy spots...)
- Go easy on raw veggies/unwashed fruit—but don’t deprive yourself of exotic fruits either, right?
- Stick to local food / Thai street food stalls and markets! Plus, it’s delicious 😐
- I always skip ice cubes—supposedly they’re made from bottled water, but who knows...
- I’d avoid artisanal ice cream for the same reasons
Bangkok:
You arrive at 9 AM, but with customs and the trip to your hotel, you won’t get there before 11 AM or noon. I’d suggest a short nap and a relaxed stroll late afternoon nearby (or a tuk-tuk ride to a temple)
Grand Palace:
There are far fewer people early in the morning, it’s less hot, and it helps you adjust to the new time zone quickly—win-win 😉
Which water are you talking about? The kind you find everywhere in 1-liter unbranded bottles, with slightly soft plastic, for 8 to 15 baht, or the half-liter branded plastic bottles (like Minéré, for example) you see on the table at some street stalls or restaurants?
What tips can you give us to avoid getting traveler’s diarrhea (especially for our 6- and 9-year-olds)?
I’m not a doctor.
You need to give your body time to adjust to the change in meal times and cuisine. For the first 4–5 days of your trip, avoid overdoing fresh fruit and fruit juices (though fizzy drinks are fine) as well as spicy food. Unfortunately, spicy dishes make up about three-quarters of Thai cuisine, but not all of them are pre-prepared, so I’d recommend specifying when you order that you don’t want chili in your dish. Here’s how:
They won’t expect you to speak Thai at all, so starting by telling them you’re about to do so will make things easier than the gibberish they’ll hear coming out of your mouth—they’ll listen more carefully:
Speak Thai (poud thaï):
Then follow up with:
maï saï plik krap/kaa* (don’t add chili)
and continue with:
ahan pèd maï chaup krap/kaa* (I don’t like spicy food).
Be firm, because if they don’t understand you, their culture will prevent them from admitting it.
* Use "krap" if you’re a man speaking, "kaa" if you’re a woman (regardless of the listener’s age).
Should we really avoid ice as well?
No, that was at least 30–40 years ago. Nowadays, ice is made industrially with highly filtered water, so you can use it without worry.
We arrive in Bangkok at 9 a.m. (...) What do you recommend doing on this first day, which will likely be tiring after the long flight and jet lag?
It depends on where you’re staying... But after clearing Immigration, collecting your bags, traveling to your hotel, dropping off your things, and taking a shower, you won’t be ready to go out before 12–1 p.m.—the worst time of day for the scorching heat. Do what the Thais do: stay indoors until 3–4 p.m. Then take a stroll around your neighborhood, but don’t go too far. Don’t feel like you *have* to "see" something—the sights you’ll encounter just wandering the streets will probably be enough.
Is the Grand Palace really best visited early in the morning to avoid crowds?
Crowds or no crowds, like all sites, it’s best visited before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to avoid the worst heat and get the best light for photos that aren’t washed out.
Is there a market on Friday evenings?
There are no more "authentic" floating markets.
However, there are markets like the one in the photos below. You’ll find them all over the city every day, usually in the morning from 6–9 a.m. and/or in the afternoon from 4–8 p.m. The "problem" is that if you don’t know where to look, you’ll usually stumble upon them by chance. Alternatively, ask your hotel if there’s a morning or evening market nearby.
Having made around fifteen trips to Thailand over the past 30 years, I’d also advise you not to worry too much about traveler’s diarrhea. Just follow basic hygiene tips, use bottled water sold everywhere—even for brushing your teeth. It’s usually not mineral water but treated to be safe to drink. For hand hygiene, you should find cheap bottles of hand sanitizer in stores like Seven-Eleven.
Street food is generally fine, except for the amount of chili, as mentioned above. But I’d advise against trying to speak Thai—a word is often just one syllable, but the language is tonal, with five tones: the same syllable pronounced high, mid, low, rising, or falling can mean five different things. If your French-speaking guide is Thai, ask them to write down the phrases you’ll need to order non-spicy dishes.
That said, tourist favorites like Pad Thai or fried rice (kao pad) are usually mild. You can let your kids try those first—they’ll often eat them—and you can sample real Thai cuisine in the meantime.
The best food isn’t in tourist-heavy areas. Like anywhere, you’ll find the best spots where locals eat.
The fruit is often amazing—why skip it?
Traveler’s diarrhea is one of those unpredictable things: you can take all the precautions and still get it. I know people who aren’t careful at all and never have issues.
Check with your doctor and bring any necessary medications for kids and adults, just in case. Worst-case scenario, there are excellent international hospitals where, within a few hours, you’ll be seen with a translator, get all the tests and scans you could imagine, and leave with medication... (I tested this in Chiang Mai for a serious intestinal infection—after drinking water from a bottle meant for handwashing in the countryside).
Kids are usually fascinated by the Grand Palace, with its monster guardians at the entrances and all the glittering gold and bright colors—*if* you go early when the temperature is bearable... and there’s a hotel pool waiting for them afterward. Local life can interest them too: a boat tour on the canals, or taking the water bus to its terminus on the Chao Phraya with a walk and meal in a local market.
For cooling off, there are some incredible air-conditioned malls—check out the latest ones that might wow the kids.
The floating markets marketed to tourists are staged performances replacing old, now-defunct markets. Chatuchak is huge and packed—I wouldn’t go there with kids—but local markets are great, especially food markets. Some are held in the evening because most Thais don’t cook; they buy their meals. You’ll find tons of prepared dishes and local sweets and snacks for next to nothing.
- I wanted to visit a night/floating market, but they’re all on weekends. Unfortunately, we’re in Bangkok from Wednesday to Saturday morning (then we’re taking the train to Ayutthaya in the morning, I think). Is there a market on Friday night? I saw Chatuchak, but Friday night doesn’t seem like the best time… not sure if it’s worth going?
Thanks in advance and have a great evening! :-)
Hi, for Friday night you can go to Talat Rodfai (Train Night Market). It’s a big night market popular with young Thais, not many tourists, lots of diverse food stalls, musicians in the bars at the entrance, and antique dealers in old buildings—one of my favorites.
However, it’s not in the center, so you’ll need to take a taxi, and it’s located behind Seacon Square.
Another thing that can work well with kids is Changchui Creative Park, because there’s a real airplane right in the middle! Same as the other place, though—you’ll need to take a taxi to get there.
Or, for a daytime activity, the Bangkok Aquarium is great with kids! !
Which water are you talking about? The one found everywhere in 1-liter unbranded plastic bottles, a bit soft, for 8 to 15 Baht, or the half-liter branded plastic bottles (like Minéré, for example) on the table at some street stalls or restaurants?
Hello, Yes, I meant mineral water, but I was definitely thinking of those plastic water bottles for a few Baht that you find everywhere ;)
Yes, I said mineral water, but I was obviously thinking of the plastic water bottles for a few baht that you find everywhere 😉
Okay, but that water isn’t mineral at all—it’s filtered water (the same as what comes out of our taps at home, actually).
True mineral water does exist in Thailand, but I’ve never seen it anywhere except in supermarkets. It’s imported and costs around 80–90 baht for a 1.5-liter bottle.
Good evening,
I think you're overthinking things a bit too much.
Just go with the flow.
We’ve taken our kids all over the place, and they’ve never gotten sick—they ate just like we did. It all comes down to common sense.
Avoid drinking too much the first few days. Don’t eat too many raw veggies, and only eat peeled fruit.
One thing that always makes me smile:
Tap water won’t make you sick just from brushing your teeth—you’d have to swallow a certain amount. At 6 and 9 years old, can’t they handle that?!
Regarding the free package, I had the same one and didn’t change my SIM card—no issues using Grab, it’s super convenient. But the metro is easy to use, and don’t miss traveling by boat, especially to the Grand Palace or Wat Arun.
Don’t hesitate to use Google Maps to get around the city. Google Translate also works pretty well, and when it doesn’t, it’s kind of funny.
For traveler’s diarrhea, we’re doctors, so we’re pretty relaxed about it, but of course, that doesn’t make us immune. A simple trick: make a point of eating rice every day. Also, stick to well-cooked dishes. It’s best to avoid ice, but in the absence of hot coffee, we really enjoyed the iced coffees sold on the streets or at 7/11—where there’s more ice than coffee—and had no problems. For brushing teeth and filling water bottles in the morning, I usually boil water (there are kettles in all hotels) and let it cool. We had no issues, even eating at street stalls. But I’d still recommend getting a prescription and explanation for any meds you might need from your doctor, just in case.
For your first day, we also arrived early, and despite the fatigue, I’d suggest getting out and about rather than vegging at the hotel. You’ll sleep even better the next night with less jet lag impact. We visited Lumphini Park and then took a "touristy" klong tour.
For markets, we could’ve gone to the Saturday one, but it’s quite far out. After passing Wat Arun by boat so many times, we couldn’t resist stopping there. We loved the Silom night market—you can eat there, but there are also clothing stalls and more.
For the Grand Palace, don’t stress. Yes, it’s crowded, but the site is huge, so you don’t feel cramped. Don’t miss the dance performance times—it’ll be a hit with the kids.
Hope I’ve answered your questions. Happy to help with any others!
If your trip is coming up soon, relax—you’re going to love it. Thailand is an easy, very tourist-friendly destination. And remember, as long as you’ve got your passport and credit card, everything will work out. Kids often adapt much better than we do, too.
Two recommendations, though:
- The monkeys
- Prepare your kids to be photographed and sometimes held without much say in the matter. It’s not how we do things, and it can feel a bit odd, but it’s easier if you’re prepared.
Contrary to what’s been said, there’s no reason to avoid all non-Thai restaurants (no pizza, no burgers, no big touristy places...). At least not for food-safety reasons.
It’s actually odd to see the same person advising to "Prefer local food / Thai street-food stalls everywhere in the streets/markets!"
When you see the utensils and containers used for street or market cooking, you realize it can’t be any better than in restaurants. The oil, in particular, often looks well-used, and you can tell.
The cold chain is far from perfect. I’d recommend not eating just anything at markets. That said, I think few people actually get sick from food in Thailand.
Ice cubes are made industrially with clean water, so you’re absolutely safe. In this heat, it’d be pretty uncomfortable to skip them.
A tip for the Grand Palace in Bangkok: make sure adults wear clothes covering shoulders and knees, or you’ll have to queue again to rent some.
For sightseeing ideas in Bangkok, ask again here once you know the itinerary your guide has planned.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I used my French SIM card for getting around via ride-hailing apps. (Trip in March 2025)
Thailand isn’t a country where you need to worry too much about traveler’s diarrhea (classic trip, not a deep-jungle expedition!). I’ve been there several times, I’m pretty sensitive to that, and no issues. My partner didn’t get sick either.
No extra precautions beyond what you’d take in France.
Brushing teeth with tap water, drinks with ice, fresh fruit juices, fruit...
But no pre-prepared food sold at night markets and bottled water for drinking.
For the first day, pool time to relax, then a stroll along the Chao Phraya in the late afternoon (water bus) or sunset from the Golden Mountain. At night, Chinatown (Yaowarat Road).
The Grand Palace is definitely worth visiting early in the morning.
By ten, it’s already packed, and by noon, it’s a nightmare.
There are clean public restrooms in the underground passage on the sidewalk across from the entrance.
Perfect for getting dressed as required by the entry rules (it’s tough to keep long pants on all day in that heat!): for the top, a T-shirt or blouse that’s not too low-cut and has sleeves (short sleeves are fine), and for the bottom, long pants or a mid-calf skirt (women have it easier...😄).
No holes, no see-through fabric, no crop tops!
You might want to bring an umbrella as a parasol...
Contrary to what some websites say, sandals are fine. (Flip-flops are another story...)
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Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
Contrary to what was said, there’s no reason to avoid all non-Thai restaurants (no pizza, no burgers, no big touristy restaurants...). Not for health or safety reasons, anyway.
It’s actually strange to see the same person advise "Stick to local food / Thai street food stalls everywhere!"
When you see the utensils and containers used for street or market cooking, you realize it can’t be any better than in restaurants. The oil, in particular, often looks well-used, and you can tell.
The cold chain is far from perfect. I’d recommend not eating just anything from the markets. That said, I think very few people actually get sick from food in Thailand.
Ice cubes are made industrially with clean water, so you’re not taking any risks. In this heat, it’d be pretty uncomfortable to go without them.
A tip for the Grand Palace in Bangkok: make sure adults wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees, or you’ll have to queue again to rent some.
For ideas on what to visit in Bangkok, ask again here once you know the itinerary your guide has planned.
Hi,
I was just sharing my preference for local food and that I’ve never had stomach issues during trips to Asia so far. Maybe I’ve just been lucky, or maybe my stomach is tough 🙂.
I love pizza and burgers in Europe, but I don’t feel like eating them at all when traveling in Southeast Asia!
Hi,
It's just that I detail it in the link I shared. The monkeys are attracted to food, but not only that. In Lopburi, one of the monkeys climbed onto my bag and scratched me when I tried to shoo it away. So yes, kids and adults shouldn’t try to pet them, and you shouldn’t take out food in their presence—so be careful with picnics under the trees. I don’t have anything against monkeys, but I don’t think it’s worth the rabies shots.
Monkeys really love glasses, caps, and phones. Uh... actually, you can tell we’re descended from them because they just love to steal.
In Phetchaburi, we saw one that swiped a k-way a woman had hung on her bike.
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Yeah, my husband uses other more southern terms, but the idea’s the same. We’re heading to China in a few days, and my daughters told me, "Oh no, not the monkeys again!"
Definitely no hot water!!
Read up on Legionella... salmonellosis... words from a plumber/water treatment expert!
And street food stalls—no hygiene at all. How do they keep things cold for hours on a sidewalk, opening their coolers all the time?! ...
I’m skeptical about these answers.
Yes, my husband uses other more southern terms, but the idea is the same. We're leaving for China in a few days, and my daughters told me, "Oh no, not the monkeys again!"
And let's not forget: don't mix up drying the laundry with...?
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Hi there,
We're currently in Thailand with our 5- and 7-year-old daughters. Before the trip, I went to a specialized university hospital center for travelers to get recommendations.
Here (and elsewhere online), everyone shares their OPINION but forgets about objectivity! The risk might be low, but it exists—especially for young children whose bodies aren’t as resilient as ours. You should avoid tap water unless it’s bottled, as well as ice. Steer clear of fruits and raw veggies unless you prepare them yourself or get them from safe, tourist-friendly hotels where you can see the kitchens.
Sure, the risk might be minimal, but it’s not even certain—studies would be needed to confirm. Ultimately, it’s up to each person to decide if they want to take that risk. For my kids? No way! There are plenty of delicious cooked dishes in Thailand.
When I was younger, I came back from Tunisia with a gut bug. It was really tough to treat, and I’m not sure a little body would’ve handled it as well as I did.
Happy travels! !
Avoid fruits and raw vegetables unless they’re prepared by you or sourced from safe, tourist-friendly hotels with a view of the kitchens.
Hi,
I’ve taken my kids all over the world without ever being particularly careful about food or water. Never had any issues with street food in Thailand, the Philippines, India, etc. They’ve never gotten sick—except once, and that was at a high-end hotel during an "all-inclusive" stay in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where everything seemed spotless...
Not just a case of traveler’s diarrhea, but a full-on food poisoning! !
The risk may be low, but it exists, especially for young children whose bodies aren’t as resilient as ours
No body becomes resilient if it’s never faced with challenges.
The more sterile a child’s environment is, the less they’ll develop their defenses and will grow up to be an adult who’s prone to traveler’s diarrhea anywhere outside their home...
Plus, all kids do gross stuff (like eating bugs, putting everything and anything in their mouths, etc.) on the sly, and that’s way worse than drinking freshly squeezed fruit juice in Thailand...
(I’m not suggesting letting them eat just anything, either.)
Édifices religieux : concours de photos amical d'août 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de poster vos meilleurs clichés !
You're right because tap water isn't drinkable in Thailand or the surrounding countries.
For fruits and vegetables, I'm not convinced it's worth avoiding them, nor whether you can trust tourist hotels or those with a view of the kitchen. Some issues come more from a lack of respect for the cold chain or a slight exceedance of the use-by date, or even using a freezer that's not exactly... fresh, if I may say so.
Food-related problems are really the exception in this country, where you should mainly worry about motorized vehicles and be careful not to step on a snake..
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
I showed it to my wife and she had a nice startle + goosebumps. She says thanks! 🙂
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Because of the farang being hairier than the critter? 😛
« Tout le monde s'interroge sur comment laisser une meilleure planète à nos enfants, mais on devrait plutôt penser à laisser de meilleurs enfants pour notre planète. » Clint Eastwood
Oh, this reply reassures me because I was starting to think we’d been really lucky—we’ve always brushed our teeth with tap water. I was wondering if we should switch to bottled water this year...
The only place I do that is when we take the train up to Chiang Mai; I really don’t risk using tap water there.
Don’t worry, that was a joke—the tarantula isn’t a jumper.
Plus, the photo was actually taken in Cambodia.
And you wouldn’t think it, but contrary to what you might expect, it’s really soft when it walks on you...
Don’t worry, it was a joke—the tarantula isn’t a jumper.
Plus, the photo was actually taken in Cambodia.
And you wouldn’t think it, but contrary to what you might expect, it’s super soft when it walks on you...
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Bonjour ,
Nou souhaitons nous rendre de Chiang Rai a Luang Prabang en novembre prochain .
Pour cela nous aimerions prendre un slow boat a partir de Chiang Khong ou plutôt de Houeisay au Laos avec un stop pour la nuit a Pakbeng .
Pourriez vous nous indiquer si ce bateau se prend toujours en fin de matinée a Houeisay , si oui a quelle heure environ et quel est le prix du trajet
Merci pour votre aide
Alod
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.
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.
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.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise
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,
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!
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight)
· Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok)
· Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x")
· Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there, we’re landing at Hanoi Airport and would like to head straight to Cao Bang without going into Hanoi. Does anyone know if there are buses that go directly from the airport to Cao Bang (especially in the early afternoon)? Thanks in advance!
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!
hi everyone,
I want to travel in the north for 3 weeks in September-October 2026 to meet ethnic minorities, photograph mountain rice terraces and their harvest, and revisit Halong Bay—but maybe Lan Ha Bay instead. Can you recommend one or more local agencies?
Thanks, and happy holidays!
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling.
For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees?
We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo.
Thanks for your tips and help!
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! I’m planning a 15-day trip to Malaysia. The idea is to visit KL for 2 or 3 days, then Borneo, and I’m wondering what to do with the rest of the time. I’d like to finish with the Perhentian Islands... What do you think? Any tips or advice would be great—I’d really appreciate it!
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.
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!
