We have the opportunity to get away for a little two-week trip at the very beginning of January, just the two of us, without our kids. Because of the kids, we haven’t traveled much in Asia, so we’d love to take advantage of their absence to explore Thailand. Even though I’m used to planning our trips, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed this time.
We’d like to visit Bangkok and head south by renting a car (we have an international driver’s license, and my husband has driven on the left before). I’ve managed to sketch out a rough itinerary that might work for us, and I’d love to hear your thoughts.
To set the scene: we haven’t booked anything yet, we don’t like spending hours on the beach (though a little time at the end of the day is fine), we love walking and sightseeing, and what we enjoy most is being independent (so if we can avoid group tours, that’s ideal).
After that intro, here’s the rough outline of our itinerary:
Day 0: Paris-Bangkok flight
Days 1, 2, and 3: Bangkok (Wat Pho, Grand Palace, Wat Arun, markets, boat ride through the khlongs, Jim Thompson House)
Day 4: Ayutthaya
Day 5: Pick up a rental car and head to Sam Roi Yot
Day 6: Sam Roi Yot and Prachuap Khiri Khan
Day 7: Drive south – overnight near Surat Thani
Day 8: Uthayan Tham Khao Na Nai, then drive to Ao Nang (staying near Tubkaek)
Days 9 and 10: Boat trips (Railay, Ko Hong, etc.)
Day 11: Drive to Phang Nga with a few stops along the way
Day 12: Boat tour (mangroves and Ko Tapu)
Day 13: Drive to Phuket Airport and return flight
A few questions and doubts:
- I’d considered Cheow Lan Lake but read some not-so-great reviews (crowds, just 3 viewpoints, and the rest was meh). What do you think?
- Can we start from Ao Thalane Pier for trips to Ko Hong and Ko Tapu?
- I’m not thrilled about driving through Bangkok, but I’m not sure where to rent a car west of the city (since we won’t return it to the same place, I assume it’s best to target rental companies at airports).
Thanks in advance for any tips or feedback you can share to help me (or not 😛) refine this plan before I start booking!
I’ll admit, I kinda copied you
I practically know your travel journal by heart 😉
Anyway, I wanted to comment on it, especially about renting a car. Which rental company did you book with in Hua Hin? I can’t find any
Do you have any idea what you're planning to do in Sam Roi Yot and Prachuap? Because you're spending one day there where I'm planning 3 or 4...
One thing to consider: for such a short trip, I wouldn't have planned a detour to Ayutthaya.
Cheow Larn Lake is amazing—check out my travel journal from 2015.
« 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
Do you have an idea of what you plan to do in Sam Roi Yot and Prachuap? Because you’re budgeting one day where I’d planned 3 or 4...
I haven’t found a ton of info on this area so far. In Sam Roi Yot, I was thinking of doing the short hike to Phraya Nakhon Cave and the boardwalk at Bueng Bua. The photos really make me want to explore this national park.
And in Prachuap, just the forest walk to see the monkeys.
Do you have any other suggestions for things to do in this area?
One thing to consider: for such a short trip, I wouldn’t have planned a detour to Ayutthaya.
It could be a variable to adjust, but I’m still really tempted by the old temples... we’ll see. Otherwise, if I skip the Jim Thompson House visit and the boat ride through the khlongs, I can save a day in Bangkok. Would it be a shame to skip those two activities to keep Ayutthaya?
Cheow Larn Lake is amazing—check out my travel journal from 2015.
Choices will have to be made... Between Cheow Lan Lake and the trip to Ko Tapu, which would you pick?
Initially, I’d considered taking a domestic flight between Bangkok and Surat Thani. That option would let me visit Phang Nga Bay AND Cheow Lan Lake, but it’d mean skipping Sam Roi Yot. I’m still on the fence.
Actually, Ayutthaya isn’t really a detour since we wanted to go there by train for the day—just a little side trip, really. 😎
If I were you, I’d take a flight from Bangkok to Surat Thani or Krabi, depending on whether you want to visit Cheow Lan Lake or not. We also hesitated about including the lake in our itinerary.
I came across the discussion you started while reading through the forum. Have you finalized your itinerary? When exactly are you leaving? You're definitely way ahead of me in planning!
Joël and Agnès’s feedback, along with yours, has convinced me to skip the central part of my route and take a flight to head south instead. I’ll give this some serious thought because I know as it stands, my plan is really tight.
I came across the discussion you started while reading. Have you finalized your itinerary?
When exactly are you leaving? You're way ahead of me, anyway!
There are 2 types of monkeys in Prachuap: macaques and langurs.
The langurs are on a hill located within a military base. The base is currently closed to foreigners due to the conflict with Cambodia.
« 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
It’s the langur monkeys I wanted to see. So that’s the final piece of info that’s convinced me the long drive between Bangkok and Surat Thani isn’t a great idea.
Taking a flight to get to the south will save me at least 2 days. So I’ll keep Ayutthaya and rethink the second part of my itinerary starting from Surat Thani. Maybe I can squeeze in a day at Cheow Lan Lake.
Can you spot langurs anywhere else? Around Khao Sok, for example?
It’s a shame to skip Sam Roi Yot.
There were monkeys on top of everything else.
I preferred that spot to the lake.
Are there langurs in Sam Roi Yot?
I totally agree with you—it really bothers me to cut Sam Roi Yot, but it’s pretty far from all the other stops on my itinerary, and I don’t see how to fit it in with the little time I have. Right now, I’m torn between:
Option 1
Day 5: Bangkok > Surat Thani by plane
Day 6: Visit Cheow Lan Lake
Day 7: Khao Sok
Day 8: Head to Krabi
Option 2
Day 5: Bangkok > Sam Roi Yot by car (stop by Bueng Bua marshes in the afternoon)
Day 6: Explore Sam Roi Yot (Phraya Nakhon Cave)
Day 7: Drive to Surat Thani with stops at Khan Kradi Cave and Wat Tham Khao Kriap
Day 8: Head to Krabi
That’s a lot of driving on Day 7, but from what I’ve read, the road is easy. Plus, you can easily find temples or other spots for nice breaks.
There are langurs at Sam Roi Yot, but they’re completely wild in the hills, and there’s no guarantee you’ll see them up close.
« 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
Day 0: Flight Paris-Bangkok
Days 1, 2, and 3: Bangkok (Wat Pho, Grand Palace, Wat Arun, markets, boat ride through the khlongs, Jim Thompson House)
Train or taxi to Ayutthaya in the late afternoon
Day 4: Visit Ayutthaya, then transfer in the late afternoon to Hua Hin (private taxi)
- Night in Hua Hin (it’s not the nicest town on the coast, but for an evening and one night, it has everything you need)
Day 5: Pick up vehicle - Visit Sam Roi Yot, night in Sam Roi Yot
Day 6: Drive to Chumphon with stops to be determined along the way
Day 7: Drive to Surat Thani (or even the lake...) with stops to be determined along the way
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de voter !
Yes, we rented directly from the website.
No issues when picking up the car.
On the way back, we had a bit of trouble finding the agency guy, but it was a secondary airport.
In Phuket, flights come and go all the time, so there must be a permanent office like in Hua Hin.
The vehicle was old but not a wreck.
The drop-off was free since we rented for several days.
Nothing extra was charged upon return.
Ponts du monde : concours de photos amical de juillet 2026
Rubrique Jeux Voyages
C'est le moment de voter !
😎 😎 😎
We just got confirmation that our vacation time is approved... Time to book!
In Bangkok, is there a neighborhood to prioritize or, on the contrary, avoid for accommodation?
For its proximity to the main sights and the wide range of lodging options, I’ve zeroed in on the northern part of the temple district. Several guesthouses near Democracy Monument caught my eye. Is that area okay? Not too close to the Khao San Road partiers?
Back from Thailand for a good week now, I wanted to thank you all for your advice, which helped us make sense of things and plan a trip that suited us perfectly.
A special thanks to you, Agnès, because your experience gave us the confidence to rent a car.
That was our main question: should we rent a car and visit the sites along the Gulf of Thailand, like Sam Roi Yot, or take a flight from Bangkok to Surat Thani and spend more time in the south? Sam Roi Yot National Park tempted me so much that renting a car became the obvious choice. This park is a wonder!
We loved this trip—it was a magical break before returning to the hectic pace of work. I’ll share more details if I get the energy, but Thailand ticks so many boxes: the warmth and kindness of the Thai people, the countless stunning temples and cultural sites, the abundance of fruit, the food in general, the turquoise sea and sunshine, the affordable prices, and the breathtaking landscapes (though deforestation for rubber and palm trees is taking a toll).
Overtourism is an issue, but not everywhere. There’s also some sleaze, but it’s very localized. Some people like that—we don’t. You just have to know how to avoid it to truly enjoy the country. One evening in Ao Nang was enough (even too much), while two evenings around Klong Muang and Tubkaek weren’t nearly enough. Despite the tourist pressure, we managed to find quiet spots, caves, and temples where we were the only ones, peaceful hotels, and markets where we were the only tourists (so much so that the Thais took photos of *us*!). Our last hotel near Phang Nga, tucked away in the countryside, was a little gem—so peaceful, with wonderful staff.
All this to say, this first trip to Thailand might not be our last.
That’s really kind of you, and this first feedback sounds very realistic to me.
« 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
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Francoise
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai?
Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai.
My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
