Je suis termine la préparation de nos vacances au Vietnam (merci pour la mine d'information qu'est voyage forum) et je rencontre un petit problème.
en fin de séjour, nous ne souhaitons pas nous attarder à HCMV d'où nous avons notre vol retour.
Nous pensons arriver tôt le matin et nous avons notre vol retour à 17h le soir.
Nous voulons quand même profiter de ces quelques heures à HCMV mais sans nos bagages !
D'où ma question, y a t il des consignes dans les gares?, sinon des agences ou des hôtels où les déposer (même si ns n'avons pas pris de chambre mais moyennant finances) ?
De plus que me conseilleriez vous pour ce quelques heures (5-6 h) de découverte ?
Difficile de voir quelque chose en 5 ou 6 heures avec le trajet A/R aéroport. Tout au plus, voir le centre ville côté Ben Thanh, la cathédrale, la poste, l'hôtel de ville...
Pour les bagages, je n'ai rien vu type "consigne" à l'aéroport.
Pour palier au problème de la consigne et de la contrainte de la visite, négociez avec un taxi que vous gaderez à disposition pour la visite du centre et le retour. Vos bagages resteront ainsi dans le coffre. (préférez un taxi officiel à un rabateur et relevez bien le nom de la compagnie et son numéro en cas de problème... (par expérience pour avoir oublié un paquet à l'intérieur "sans grande valeur mais utile"... c'est la réponse faite par la compagnie).
Pour info un aller ou un retour simple de l'aéroport au centre ville = entre 90000 VND et 150000 VND suivant trafic. Vous devriez vous en sortir pour 500000 VND à 700000 VND voir moins sachant qu'un voiture avec chauffeur et env. 300 km/jour se loue 1200000 VND.
Si une autre personne pouvait confirmer ou infirmer, ce serait sympa quand même.
Salutations
Voyager, c'est ne pas avoir peur de remettre en cause ses préjugés et accepter les règles locales sans conditions.
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oui il me semblait bien ne pas avoir vu de consignes a l'aeroport.
Sinon pour ton idee, pero, JE NE FERAIS JAMAIS CA !
AUCUNE CONFIANCE !
si jamais le type se barre avec les baggages, bonjour le joli souvenir du transit, ca va etre la cata !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Apres, ils feront quoi ????????????????
perso pour les baggages je ferais que deux choses ! :
soit je demanderais a une hotesse de l'aeroport, la, ce sont des gens "serieux', ce qui veut dire ici que il y a 70% qu'ils ne racontent pas n'importe quoi, et c'est deja beaucoup ! peu etre accepteront ils de prendre les baggages en depot.
sinon une vraie solution securisee ! prendre le taxi, aller en plein centre ville, dans la rue Bui Vien, la il n' y que des hotels, serieux toutefois et surtout pour etrangers !
vous y aller direct ! prenez le premier hotel qui vous parait convenable (dans la seconde portion, une fois traverser une rue perpendicalire de moyenne importance, c'est a dire a peu pres apres 50 m y etre rentrer, le taxi y rentrant certainement par la rue Tran Hung Dao)), demander une chambre pour une journee, expliquer que vous reparter le soir, vous voulez avoir un endroit tranquille pour vous decrasser, vous posez un peu, ca va vous coutez au pire 25 usd, mais les baggages seront en securite a 100% et la c'est bon !
deposez les baggages, immediatement, redecendez avec un grand sourire, dire que vous aller faire quelques courses, personne n'y verra que du feu !
Ensuite, direction le marche ben Thanh, c'ets juste a cote a pied, c'est tres fun, tres depaysant, bref, un endroit genial ! en plus on peut achater des tas de tres beaux souvenirs !!!!! les prix, vous les couper en deux et vous aurez une idee de leurs vraies valeurs, si ils sont pas d'accord, vous vous casser avec un tres beau sourire comme si vous etiez parfaitement au courant des prix, ils vont vous courir apres et casser le prix de 40% ! apres, c'est open, et si ils coupent pas le prix, pas grave, de toute fgacon 5 m plus loin vous allez voir exactement son petit frere, et la vous direz euh...combien ? ah ? mais c'est bizarre, juste avant a 5 m on m'en a propose tant ! avec une sourire calme, tranquille, de celui qui a tout le temps de voir la personne se decomposer car vous achetez toujours pas ! et ainsi de suite.... perdez pas trop de temps de toute facon a marchander (sauf en cas de coup de foudre et mettez vous d'accord entre vous, jamais oh grand jamais dire que ca vous plait grave ou que c'ets beau avec le yeux qui s'illuminent ! sinon ca va etre meme pas le coup de bambou, ca sera le coup de massue comme vous pouvez meme pas imaginer, si quelqu'un veut absolument acheter, dire un mot code genre : une grosse mou blafarde avec un mouais. possible... lassif, sinon, c'est simplement : non avec sourire, la vous vous ferez pas trop arnaquer !), aller a l'arriere du marche car les prix sont plus bas (les stands etant moins chers a la location tout simplement) !!!!!!!!! faites un tour dans la partie alimentation, il y a des restaurants sur le pouce et on peut manger de trucs ultra bizarres et inoubliables, comme dans le marche closed de Tokyo ! genial ! apres, faites un tour autour du marche, pas mal de magasins, trainez devant le marche ben thanh, sur le parc de la grande place, vous pourrez voir la faune defiler en scooter, ca vaut le paysage ! acheter des valises ou des sacs de tous genres ultra funs (tres belles copies aviano et autres, un petit souvenir glisse au fin fond de vogre valise au cas de controles des marques), a bas prix sur la gauche du marche a 'exterieur, manger un phot ultra up a gauche exterieur du marche sur l'echoppe qui fait le coin (Juste avant l'allee des sacs et valise en tous genres, la faune hyper hype branchee vient la sur les heures hors pointes dont les top models et les callgirls de luxe de Saigon ainsi que les Ladyboys, aller derriere la marche a gauche a l'exterieur, une des plus belles boutiques de vraies et fausses fleurs, genial ! derriere le marche toujours exterieur, un des plus grands magasins de make up, tous les pros achetent la, et les particuliers, le magasin est pas tres grand mais c'est le plus top de saigon, si vous voulez acheter les faux cils avec strass qui n'existent meme pas en europe, c'est ici ! avec des gels qui viennent tout droit des shops hair cut de Hong Kong ! (sur la gauche du magasin des pamplemousses, on les voit a 300 m) les meilleurs pamplemousses jaunes peu etre de saigon ! un pamplemousse au vietnam ca fait 20 cm de rayon !
ensuite, aller sur la droite du marche toujours exterieur, la une petite ruelle ou vous trouverez toues les chaussures possibles et inimaginables ! c'est la petite rue des filles branchees qui ont pas bcp d'argent et des etudiantes ! ensuite, si vous avez encore un creux, aller sur la gauche du marche exterieur de nouveau en son milieu aller manger une Pho ultra clean des restaurants pour etrangers Pho24 ! apres, trainer dans les rues, oser vous assoir a une petite table en plein trottoir et demandez imperativement un Nuoc Mia (prononcer : nu-oc mir) ! (on reconnait si il y en a, si vous voyez un etrange etalage en alu, c'ets le pressoir des cannes a sucre)
Le nuoc mia, c'est un jus de canne a sucre, c'est carrement du delire ! vous n'avez jamais bu quelque chose de pareil ! c'est doux, fort, sucre et ca descend dans le gosier comme le petit jesus en culotte de velours !
apres, il sera largement le temps de retourner a l'hotel peu etre prendre une bonen douche, recuperer vos bagges, et payer la journee et reprendre le taxi. demader un taxi a l'accueil, ils se feront un plaisir de vous en appeler un !
En effet, pas de consignes à bagages, j'ai vérifié sur le site de l'aéroport....
La solution du taxi suggérée par Berpas serait une bonne idée, mais à condition de ne pas quitter le taxi. Ca serait valable pour une heure ou deux heures de balades, mais je pense qu'il est plus sympa de se balader un peu à pied si vous avez quand même jusqu'au milieu de l'après midi.
Moi j'essaierais d'aller au Sinh café, dans le quartier routard, ils ont l'habitude de garder les sacs des touristes qui partent en excursion 2 ou 3 jours dans le Delta.
Proposez de donner un peu d'argent pour le service rendu pour quelques heures.
(Et fermez vos sacs avec cadenas...)
De là, vous pouvez aller à pied au marché Ben Thanh, c'est à 5 ou 10 mn du quartier routard.
Vous pouvez ensuite aller en cyclo jusqu'au quartier chic du centre ville, ( rue Dong Khoi) jusqu'à la rivière.
Sinon, le mieux serait quand même de prendre une chambre bon marché dans la rue Bui Vien près de Pham Ngu Lao, vous serez tranquilles avec vos bagages, et cela vous permettra de prendre une bonne douche...A Saïgon il fait chaud et les visites avant de prendre l'avion ça risque d'être un peu dur !
Si tu prends un grande compagnie type Vinasun etc... tu as peu de risque que le type se barre avec tes bagages tant qu'il n'est pas payé. Faut pas oublier qu'il reverse 30% de sa course à la compagnie en contrepartie de la redirection des applels radio et de son salaire et qu'après une longue période, il peut racheter le taxi à la compagnie et là, c'est tout bénef pour lui... ce qui explique que pour une même compagnie on trouve des taxis neufs et des vieux ! Son intérêt est de gagner le maximum pour pouvoir racheter la voiture le plus vite possible. Donc s'il peut faire un extra "bien payé" en assurant un minimum pour la compagnie, il ne va pas se priver.
Perso, je n'ai jamais eu un problème avec un taxi à Saigon. C'est bien souvent que je vais faire mes courses en Taxi et qu'il m'attend devant chaque boutique, voir qu'il va faire un tour s'il n'a pas le droit de s'arrêter, et vu ce que j'ai acheté pour Noël ou pour le Têt, il avait largement de quoi payer sa course, voir plus, avec ce qu'il y avait dans le coffre.
Quand à laisser ses bagages dans un hôtel, dans une chambre vide, où le personnel sait que tu ne vas pas dornir, il y a autant de risque qu'a l'ouverture de ta valise tu constates qu'il manque des choses. Même quand l'hôtel fait un reçu pour les bagages entreprosés, pour qu'il soit contradictoire, il faut énumérer tout ce qu'il y dans la valise (idem quand tu déménages France/Vietnam/France avec la douane). Autrement ca se limite à la valise elle même. (idem pour le dépôt dans le coffre d'un hôtel).
Voyager, c'est ne pas avoir peur de remettre en cause ses préjugés et accepter les règles locales sans conditions.
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oui, ben c'est toi qui dit ca alors !
un viet, ca pense pas comme toi ! si il peut se ramasser plus d'argent que sa course, aucune hesit et aucun scrupule d'aucune sorte, la seule regle pour un viet, n'avoir en aucun cas affaire a la police, qui elle ne fera rien si elle ne tirera pas un certain profit et en cas de probleme, la police se chargera non pas de t'aider mais de te faire plus de probleme encore pour te soutirer de l'argent ! c'est ultra simple et c'ets pur ca qu'ici, il y a une regle d'or, faire en sorte de ne jamais faire inrtervenir la police, ce qui va signifier une perte d'argent pour tout le monde !
La seule hesit, c'est si il a affaire a quelqu'un qui peut eventuellement lui apporter des ennuis !
pourquoi crois tu qu'un taxi te pose toujours pleins de questions ? c'est pas innocent, vas. c'est aussi pour evaluer qui tu es, si t'es un familier d'ici, ou si t'es de passage, ou tu vis, et ton niveau de vie.
Pour la Police, tu as partiellement raison car elle n'agit pas de la même façon devant un Viet et devant moi.
Quand je gérais mon hôtel, j'ai même mis dehors la Police qui voulait manger gratis et je n'ai jamais eu de problème... il en est pas de même avec des amis Viet qui ont des restau !
Crois moi la réputation du pays passe avant toutes autres considérations devant un étranger et les hautes instances. De plus, si tu prends la peine d'apporter un peu de preuve (n° du taxi par exemple et description du chauffeur) il risque de passer un mauvais moment. Reste à avoir le temps de le faire quand on est en transit !
Quand à moi, je n'ai jamais eu a faire à un chauffeur indiscret qui pose autant de questions. A noter : jamais je ne parle Viet avec eux (car ca va être court !) et en Anglais, c'est eux qui sont court !
Pour le personnel et particulièrement dans l'hôtellerie, il faut être attentif et faire une enquête avant embauche. Ce que peu de Viet font à cause de la pénurie dans ce secteur.
Voyager, c'est ne pas avoir peur de remettre en cause ses préjugés et accepter les règles locales sans conditions.
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oui mais n'oublies pas que nous parlons la, de personnes qui vont etre en transit et qui donc sont totalement hors du contexte de l'endroit, qui ne parlent ni la langue ni ne connaissent le pays ni personne, pas de guide, et surtout n'auront pas de temps materiel puisque il ne s'agit que de quelques heures.
dans ce contexte, il est bien plsu rationnel pour eviter les ennuis de prendre la solution la moins risque. enfin perso, je prendrais jamais le risques de mes baggages dans un pays que je connais pas, et dans lequel j'y suis que pour quelques heures pour apres repartir vers ma destination de les confier a un taxi, surtout dans le sud est asiatique !
Maintenant, serieusement, connaissant ce qui se passe au Vietnam, entre le taxi qui garde mes valises et qui peut tres bien se tirer, et ensuite ??? tu vas faire quoi en quelques heures, ne connaissant personne sur place ni la langue, qui parle couramment anglais ici dans la rue, dis moi ???? et l'hotel qui est fixe, et qui a aussi d'autres etrangers surtout une rue officiellement pour etrangers comme Bui vien, ben tu vois, moi perso, aucune hesitation ! c'est l'hotel direct !
Apres, evidemment, chacun voit son voyage comme il l'entend...
;)
ou c'est sur.
ca me rappelle que je suis reste 10 heures a dormir dans l'aeroport de Kuala Lumpur en attente de mon vol pour saigon ! ah il beau l'aeroport de Kuala Lumpur avec sa navette aerienne !
😠
J'étais à l'aéroport de Saigon en Septembre dernier, et il y avait bien une consigne à bagages. Je parle ici de l'aéroport international.
Par contre je me rappelle plus du prix exact, mais toujours est il que j'avais trouvé cela assez cher et avais finalement décidé d'attendre dans l'aéroport.
Mais peut-être que cela a changé puisque d'autres membres disent qu'il n'y aurait pas de consigne ?
En tout cas quand j'y étais, il y en avait bien une qui était en plus assez clairement indiquée par des panneaux.
oui ca se peut.
perso j'ai pas mis les pieds a l'aeroport depuis juillet, en plus j'habite a l'extreme oppose de la ville donc...) mais bon, il a ete refait entierement avec une toute nouvelle zone (qui est pas nouvelle mais en pernament amenagement, bienvenue au Vietnam !) qui est l'aeroport international et qui est faut le dire ultra mal foutu ! (celui qui a fait l'implantation est un abruti total !), c'est dit !.
Apres, il se peut que des consignes ont pousse la nuit, car en realite souvent les travaux se font justement la nuit, c'est comme ca... si il y en a, esperons qu'elles soient come tu le dis bien indiquees ! mais bon, du coup ca m'interpelle, j'essaerai d'y faire un saut !
;)
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Merci pour toutes ces réponses. Je pense soit tenter le coup au sinh café (proposent ils des transferts pour l'aéroport?) ou trouver un hotel pour la journée.
Je profite de votre gentillesse pour vous demander si vous auriez quelques adresses d'hotel sûr où laisser ses bagages.
Pour ce qui est de la visite de la ville nous avons facilement 6h sur place (j'avais déjà retiré les temps de transfert) car on arrivera en bus ou train de nuit et nous avons notre vol à 17h.
Si vous avez, j'aimerai avoir une notion, vu que vous êtes sur place, des prix concernant les transports afin de mieux estimer le budget sur place.
Donc combien faut il à peu près compter pour 1- une location de voiture avec chauffeur pr 1j. 2- idem avec de des "riders" ou pour 1/2 jour. 3- une course en "tuk tuk".
euh t'es fou ???????????????????
je prends mon 150 @, c'est dix fois plus rapide !
sauf que moi je suis du cote de Bach Dang, donc tu vois, ca fait quand meme une petite trotte puisque c'ets carrement a l'oppose !
Bonjour, Je rentre tout juste du Vietnam. Tu peux laisser tes bagages à l'aéroport, y'a une consigne ! elle se trouve au bout du batiment à gauche vers l'aéroport domestique.
Le bus 152 pour le centre ville est très long ... je te conseille de prendre un taxi avec compteur, ca te coutera 80 000 dong.
Si je me rappelle bien, la consigne se trouve dans l'aéroport international mais dans la partie gauche (comme quelqu'un l'a déjà dit plus haut), c'est à dire dans la partie du bâtiment où il y a un restaurant/bar avec vue sur les tourniquets à bagages 😏
Mais ne t'attends pas à voir des casiers, c'est juste une pièce assez petite avec un ou plusieurs employés qui surveillent les bagages.
J'ai écrit "clairement indiquée" mais en fait je suis plutôt tombée dessus par hasard donc je peux pas dire si c'est bien indiqué dans le reste de l'aéroport.
En fait par "clairement indiquée" je voulais juste dire qu'il y avait bien un panneau au-dessus de la pièce en question pour indiquer qu'il s'agissait de la consigne à bagages. 😉
Peut-être que la personne qui a posté plus haut pourrait nous dire combien ça coûtait quand il/elle y était ?
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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! 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, 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.
