Hi everyone,
I’m a 67-year-old woman who loves to travel, and for my third solo trip, I’ve decided to explore Indonesia.
I’ll be there from September 1st to October 5th, and I’m really struggling to plan my itinerary.
I’d love any advice you can share—I’ll read it all carefully.
So far, I’ve booked my first two nights with a local host in Jakarta, and then I’m heading to Borobudur. That’s all I’ve got planned for now.
Do you think I should book accommodations and transport tickets in advance? It seems really complicated, or could I just decide day by day based on how I feel?
Thanks in advance for your replies!
Idées pour itinéraire de trois semaines seule au Vietnam?
by JulieA1985
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Je vais finalement prendre un aller retour Paris-Hanoi (j'en ai vu un à moins de 800€ 🙂). Du coup, je compte passer mes 3 semaines dans le Nord puis un petit peu dans le centre. Je vais commencer par visiter Hanoi qui sera en quelque sorte le point de chute. 2 jours à Mai Chau avec pourquoi pas un trekking dans les villages alentours. 2 jours sur la baie d'Halong. Balade vers Ba Trang 2 jours/1nuit. Train pour Lao Cai avec visites des villages Lao Chai, Ta Van... Giang Ta Chai, Sapa. Retour sur Hanoi où je vais passer la journée. Ensuite je pense aller vers Hoa Lu et visiter les grottes de Tam Coc. Et après je vais sûrement rejoindre Huê pour 2 ou 3 jours puis Hoi An où je vais rester 2 jours et me balader aux alentours. Enfin retour sur Hanoi par le train de Da Nang.
Ca fait pas beaucoup... moi qui voulais faire tout le pays en 3 semaines, je comprends maintenant le cynisme d'Abalone!
Bon même si j'évite pas les coins touristiques, je pense que ça peut être sympa. Surtout que mon budget est de 650€!
Bon de toute façon, j'ai encore 2 mois pour boucler ça! J'ai le temps de changer d'avis encore 3 fois :-D
Comme Hanoi c'est un peu mon point de repére et que j'ai prévu d'y rester 4 jours (en gros dès le lendemain de mon arrivée je visite le quartier de Ba Dinh: palais du gouverneur, mausolée d'Ho Chi Minh, pagode du pilier unique, temple de la littérature, temple de Quan Thanh, pagode de Tran Quoc puis dans l'après midi visite du musée d'ethnographie et balade dans le vieux quartier des 36 rues et corporations puis ensuite je vais sûrement avoir des fin d'aprem de libre, notamment après l'excursion sur a baie d'Halong, donc je pourrais encore flâner dans Hanoi autour du lac etc.), je comptais en profiter pour faire un ptit tour dans "les villages de métier" (j'ai déjà prévu d'aller à Ba Trang) mais je ne connais pas trop les distances et surtout les moyens de transport pour m'y rendre. J'aimerais bien aller voir le village de Kieu Ky (pour voir le martelage des pépites d'or), Dong Ho (spécialisé dans les objets votifs) et Van Phuc (pour la soie). Quelqu'un pourrait-il me conseiller? Combien coûte l'aller retour en taxi? Ou quel bus faut-il prendre?
Ah oui encore une question: arrivée à l'aéroport, je crois que je peux prendre le bus Vietnam airlines pour me rendre dans le centre ville d'Hanoi. Où se situe t'il? Et où s'arrête il exactement?
Autre question : du quartier Hoan Kiem au faubourgs sud d'Hanoi (par exemple au musée de l'Armée de l'air), je mets combien de temps à pied?
Bonjour
Je suis vietnamien je vie em france et je travaille à Hà noi, si vous Avez be soin de moi pour faire un tours à ha noi ou autre écrire moi simon.pham@yahoo.fr
Ca fait beaucoup de questions pour un seul homme!
Bon programme sauf qu'une nuit a Mai Chau suffit car il y a en effet du trekking ds la region, mais ca ne vaut pas celui des environs de Sapa; mieux vaut rester 2j a Tam Coc. Pour ce dernier, vs pouvez prendre le train Hanoi-Hue et vs arreter 1 ou 2 nts a Tam Coc (gare de Ninh Binh), puis reprendre le train a Ninh Binh pour aller a Hue.
Tout cela s'organise sur place. Vs m'appelez qd vs arrivez a Hanoi (je vs donnerez mon no. de tel par MP) et on verra tt ca.
Je ne conseille pas les villages artisanaux ou l'on voit surtout des boutiques pour touristes, avec des prix pas moins chers que ds Hoan Kiem.
En ce qui concerne le transfert aeroport, il y a bien des bus, mais je ne sais pas ou il faut les prendre (Plus, on se perd tres facilement ds les rues du Vieux Hanoi, d'autant plus qu'il y a souvent plusieurs hotels avec le meme nom dans des rues differentes). La plupart des touristes se font envoyer un taxi ($15) par l'hotel ou ils ont fait une resa (leur donner jour, No vol, et heure arrivee)
Le Vietnam n'est pas cher. On trouve ds le Vieux Hanoi des ptes GH tres sympas pour $10 (SdB privee) ou $8 (SdB commune). A Tam Coc, je viens de decouvrir une pt htl tout neuf super pour $10 la nuit; a Mai Chau, la maison thaie est a $4. Pour les repas, compter entre $3 et $8. Pour Halong, il y en a a ts les prix; moins c'est cher ($35 le plus bas), plus le grpe est gros et moins la bouffe est bonne. A $45 tt compris, on a qq chose de correct.
Bon programme sauf qu'une nuit a Mai Chau suffit car il y a en effet du trekking ds la region, mais ca ne vaut pas celui des environs de Sapa; mieux vaut rester 2j a Tam Coc. Pour ce dernier, vs pouvez prendre le train Hanoi-Hue et vs arreter 1 ou 2 nts a Tam Coc (gare de Ninh Binh), puis reprendre le train a Ninh Binh pour aller a Hue.
Tout cela s'organise sur place. Vs m'appelez qd vs arrivez a Hanoi (je vs donnerez mon no. de tel par MP) et on verra tt ca.
Je ne conseille pas les villages artisanaux ou l'on voit surtout des boutiques pour touristes, avec des prix pas moins chers que ds Hoan Kiem.
En ce qui concerne le transfert aeroport, il y a bien des bus, mais je ne sais pas ou il faut les prendre (Plus, on se perd tres facilement ds les rues du Vieux Hanoi, d'autant plus qu'il y a souvent plusieurs hotels avec le meme nom dans des rues differentes). La plupart des touristes se font envoyer un taxi ($15) par l'hotel ou ils ont fait une resa (leur donner jour, No vol, et heure arrivee)
Le Vietnam n'est pas cher. On trouve ds le Vieux Hanoi des ptes GH tres sympas pour $10 (SdB privee) ou $8 (SdB commune). A Tam Coc, je viens de decouvrir une pt htl tout neuf super pour $10 la nuit; a Mai Chau, la maison thaie est a $4. Pour les repas, compter entre $3 et $8. Pour Halong, il y en a a ts les prix; moins c'est cher ($35 le plus bas), plus le grpe est gros et moins la bouffe est bonne. A $45 tt compris, on a qq chose de correct.
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Oui je vais rajouter une nuit à Ninh Binh!
Ah bon les villages artisanaux ne valent pas le coup? j'aurais bien aimé me perdre dans ces villages...
Je vais essayer de me trouver un hôtel d'ici pour ma première nuit à Hanoi, ça m'évitera de courir dans tous les sens! surtout si j'arrive tard...
Bon merci pour tous ces renseignements ;)
Attention: c'est pas a Ninh Binh qu'il faut coucher; c'est moche comme tout. Coucher a Tam Coc, ds ma nouvelle "trouvaille" (voir ma recente discussion "une trouvaille a Tam Coc")
Pour l'htl a Hanoi, je peux le faire pour vs (ts les htls a qq mn a pied du lac Hoan Kiem. Vs voulez mettre quel prix: $10, $15, $20, ou plus?
Pour l'htl a Hanoi, je peux le faire pour vs (ts les htls a qq mn a pied du lac Hoan Kiem. Vs voulez mettre quel prix: $10, $15, $20, ou plus?
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Je ne veux pas mettre trop cher! Donc 10$ oui ça me va! Mais j'attends la réponse d'un ami vietnamien dont les parents vont peut-être m'héberger... héhé ;) mais merci c'est gentil! je te tiens au courant!
mon budget est de 650€!
Pour 21 jours, cela vous fait à peine 33 euros par jour.
10 euros pour le logement, 10 euros pour manger et 10 euros pour le transport, ce qui limite beaucoup, beaucoup les déplacements. Il ne vous reste qu'à vous serrer les coudes dans les transports en commun locaux la plupart du temps, pour pouvoir vous permettre des excursions dans la baie d'Ha Long et le transport en train et bus pour Sapa, sans oublier l'aller retour Hanoi Huê Hoi An.
Pour 21 jours, cela vous fait à peine 33 euros par jour.
10 euros pour le logement, 10 euros pour manger et 10 euros pour le transport, ce qui limite beaucoup, beaucoup les déplacements. Il ne vous reste qu'à vous serrer les coudes dans les transports en commun locaux la plupart du temps, pour pouvoir vous permettre des excursions dans la baie d'Ha Long et le transport en train et bus pour Sapa, sans oublier l'aller retour Hanoi Huê Hoi An.
http://www.maison-chance.org/
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,
W've got home;
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,
W've got home;
En fait j'ai déjà fait tous mes calculs et je rentre dans mon budget :)
oui je vais prendre les bus locaux et les trains couchette dure, oui je vais pas me péter le bide dans des grands restaus, oui je vais dormir dans des hôtels pas très luxueux, j'en suis consciente et ça me va!!! Franchement on peut partir avec moins et faire plein de trucs quand même, tout dépend des exigences...
Vs passez tres bien avec votre budget en dormant ds de ptes GH, en mangeant ds les restaux de rue comme le font les Viets (c'est d'ailleurs souvent meilleur que ds les restaux!), et en prenant des bus publics (ne s'asseoir ni a l'arriere, ni au-dessus des roues arriere, donc arriver aux gares assez tot pour avoir un siege devant)
L'hotel dont je parle a Hanoi a des chbres a 2 lits (vs partagez la chbre avec une 2e personne) et SdB exterieure, pour $7. Il y a aussi une chbre a $5, mais elle est au 4e et la SdB au 1er.
L'hotel dont je parle a Hanoi a des chbres a 2 lits (vs partagez la chbre avec une 2e personne) et SdB exterieure, pour $7. Il y a aussi une chbre a $5, mais elle est au 4e et la SdB au 1er.
Méfiez-vous de la vie, car les ratés ne vous rateront pas!
Franchement on peut partir avec moins et faire plein de trucs quand même, tout dépend des exigences...
Ne soyez pas offusquée de mes remarques, je voudrais simplement m'assurer que vous soyez assez réaliste.
Vous avez déjà changé suite à mes remarques cyniques du début, c'est un très bon point🙂
Concernant la nourriture, n'imaginez pas que vous avez déjà l'estomac et le colon des habitants locaux. Un peu d'attention est requis.
Pour le logement, il faut savoir que toutes les guesthouses ne sont pas disponibles pour les touristes étrangers. Elles doivent recevoir l'agrément de la police en ayant répondu aux critères d'hygiène et de sécurité et en acquittant une taxe.
En tout cas, je vous souhaite de réussir à contourner toutes les embuches!
Ne soyez pas offusquée de mes remarques, je voudrais simplement m'assurer que vous soyez assez réaliste.
Vous avez déjà changé suite à mes remarques cyniques du début, c'est un très bon point🙂
Concernant la nourriture, n'imaginez pas que vous avez déjà l'estomac et le colon des habitants locaux. Un peu d'attention est requis.
Pour le logement, il faut savoir que toutes les guesthouses ne sont pas disponibles pour les touristes étrangers. Elles doivent recevoir l'agrément de la police en ayant répondu aux critères d'hygiène et de sécurité et en acquittant une taxe.
En tout cas, je vous souhaite de réussir à contourner toutes les embuches!
http://www.maison-chance.org/
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,
W've got home;
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,
W've got home;
Je ne m'offusque pas, je lis toutes les remarques de chacun avec attention. Les mises en garde sont les bienvenues. Je sais remettre en question mes projets quand il le faut! Mais là pour la question du budget, c'est définitif. Je pense avoir l'estomac blindé et au pire on verra, ça fait partie du voyage aussi! Je ne peux pas tout prévoir! Néanmoins, je ne pars pas "à l'arrache" non plus et sur place, j'ai deux points de chute au cas où!
Maintenant j'ai juste hâte d'y être!!! Je pense que j'aurais un tas d'anecdotes à raconter à mon retour... :-D
Quel bétonnage des plages? ...Le VN n'est pas aussi massacré que la France.
Eh, pourquoi tu m'agresses ? J'ai pose une question, pas emis un avis.
Eh, pourquoi tu m'agresses ? J'ai pose une question, pas emis un avis.
Je crois qu'il est préférable de faire abstraction du ton de ses réponses... 🙂😉
Je crois qu'il est préférable de faire abstraction du ton de ses réponses...
😏😏😏 Je suis particulierement fragile ces jours-ci, j'ai besoin d'amouuuuuuuuuuuuuur 😛
😏😏😏 Je suis particulierement fragile ces jours-ci, j'ai besoin d'amouuuuuuuuuuuuuur 😛
Je t'envoie des bisous alors!!!
Peace and Love 😉
il est préférable de faire abstraction du ton de ses réponses...
Facile à deviner quand il s'agit d'un second degré avec un smile🙂
Facile à deviner quand il s'agit d'un second degré avec un smile🙂
http://www.maison-chance.org/
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,
W've got home;
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,
W've got home;
Ahhhhhhhh l'usage rassurant du smile 🙂 héhé
Bon au fait j'ai acheté mon billet d'avion: aller retour Paris Hanoi j'en ai eu pour 796eur! Pas mal, non? Je ne trouve pas ça si cher que ça! Surtout pour la période (du 10juil au 4 août)!!! Youhouuuuu!!! J'ai trop hâte!
Bon au fait j'ai acheté mon billet d'avion: aller retour Paris Hanoi j'en ai eu pour 796eur! Pas mal, non? Je ne trouve pas ça si cher que ça! Surtout pour la période (du 10juil au 4 août)!!! Youhouuuuu!!! J'ai trop hâte!
aller retour Paris Hanoi j'en ai eu pour 796eur! Pas mal, non?
Je ne trouve pas ça si cher que ça! Surtout pour la période (du 10juil au 4 août)!!!
Félicitations🙂
Le prix le moins cher est de 775 Euros entre le 21 Avril et 19 Juin et entre le 21 Aout au 20 Octobre.
En Juillet Aout, le prix se situe très souvent au dessus de 900 Euros, atteignant parfois 1200 Euros.
Vous avez fait une bonne affaire. Est-ce que l'on peut savoir chez qui vous avez déniché ce tarif?
Félicitations🙂
Le prix le moins cher est de 775 Euros entre le 21 Avril et 19 Juin et entre le 21 Aout au 20 Octobre.
En Juillet Aout, le prix se situe très souvent au dessus de 900 Euros, atteignant parfois 1200 Euros.
Vous avez fait une bonne affaire. Est-ce que l'on peut savoir chez qui vous avez déniché ce tarif?
http://www.maison-chance.org/
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,
W've got home;
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,
W've got home;
En Juillet Aout, le prix se situe très souvent au dessus de 900 Euros, atteignant parfois 1200 Euros.
Wahou!!!! J'ai eu de la chance alors! Ca faisait deux semaines que je guettais une bonne affaire sur les sites de comparateur de prix (alibabuy, jetcost etc.) et c'est sur lastminute.com (à mon grand étonnement) que j'ai trouvé cet aller-retour! Comme quoi! Faut dire que j'ai 2 mois de vacances cet été 😎 donc des dates très flexibles...
Wahou!!!! J'ai eu de la chance alors! Ca faisait deux semaines que je guettais une bonne affaire sur les sites de comparateur de prix (alibabuy, jetcost etc.) et c'est sur lastminute.com (à mon grand étonnement) que j'ai trouvé cet aller-retour! Comme quoi! Faut dire que j'ai 2 mois de vacances cet été 😎 donc des dates très flexibles...
Du coup je viens de regarder à nouveau sur ces sites un bilet pour les mêmes dates que moi: il y en a plus à 796€ chez lastminute (ils sont à 1000 et quelques maintenant 🤪!), mais il y en a à 800€ sur opodo...
Vous pouvez encore faire de bonnes affaires! 😉
En tout cas, je suis ravie 😇
En tout cas, je suis ravie 😇
Je t'envoie des bisous alors!!!
Merci Julie, je les accepte volontiers.
Merci Julie, je les accepte volontiers.
coucou
ai fait le vietnam avec une amie en un peu moins de 4 semaines super voyage! d'une facilité déconcertante! tout y est fait pour les touristes et franchement ils sont d'une gentillesse incroyable! sommes parties avec environ 250euros ça te paraîtra peu mais c'est plus que faisable!arrivée hanoî départ de saïgon (je préfère ce nom!) sans pratiquement aucune préparation...... il faut simplement savoir que souvent les chauffeurs de taxi etc touchent une com avec certains hôtels donc ils essaient de t'y emmener! mais ce n'est pas toujours un problème...... qq fois ça se révèle même être une super idée! dans les grandes villes, les hôteliers te proposent de garder le + gros de tes affaires et ta chambre pour un retour..... ce qui te permer de vadrouiller tout autour et en toute confiance!quant à la météo...... ne t'en fais pas trop! un seul jour de pluie en un mois à la même période Donc......POUR la langue, beaucoup de vietnamiens parlent anglais, pas besoin de guide! tu en trouveras qq uns aussi qui parlent français dans la région de sapa et surtout vers hué! et puis fais confiance au bouche à oreille....... pour les bonnes adresses!
J'ai passé un séjour mémorable, riche en rencontres étonnantes et expériences insolites! Les gens sont d'une gentillesse incroyable! Il suffit d'apprendre quelques mots de base et apprendre à compter et ça roule... Un sourire, un mot et le charme opère. Je n'ai fait aucune mauvaise rencontre, bien au contraire. Ca m'est arrivé plusieurs fois d'être invitée à boire le thé ou à dîner chez des gens que j'avais rencontré dans la rue. J'ai souvent logé chez l'habitant, très intéressant pour s'imprégner de culture vietnamienne et comprendre les coutumes. Et même dans les hôtels, ça m'est arrivé de boire des bières avec les réceptionnistes et de manger avec eux. Franchement, c'est dingue! Je me suis sentie comme chez moi. Très facile de se débrouiller toute seule... Ce qui est sûr c'est que j'y retournerai! Merci pour tous les conseils laissés sur le forum, mine d'infos!
Bonjour,
Je pars pour 3 semaines au mois de février prochain. Je passerai une dizaine de jours dans le nord qui parait-il est une région magnifique. Pouvez-vous me transmettre vos "notes" ? Je vais bien sûr aller dans le sud, je souhaiterais connaître les sites les plus intéressants pour prévoir un itinéraire "idéal"; Je compte faire appel à un OP d'Hanoi pour un circuit à la carte. J'ai quelques noms communiqués par le forum.... Je serais ravie de recevoir des avis et conseils d'une personnes avertie.
Merci par avance.
Mon adresse : messada153@hotmail.fr
Je pars pour 3 semaines au mois de février prochain. Je passerai une dizaine de jours dans le nord qui parait-il est une région magnifique. Pouvez-vous me transmettre vos "notes" ? Je vais bien sûr aller dans le sud, je souhaiterais connaître les sites les plus intéressants pour prévoir un itinéraire "idéal"; Je compte faire appel à un OP d'Hanoi pour un circuit à la carte. J'ai quelques noms communiqués par le forum.... Je serais ravie de recevoir des avis et conseils d'une personnes avertie.
Merci par avance.
Mon adresse : messada153@hotmail.fr
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I’d love your suggestions. Thanks
Hi everyone, I’m really keen to visit Iran for three weeks in mid-March 2015.
What worries me a bit isn’t so much traveling alone—I’m used to it and know the Middle East well—but rather the current events (Islamic State) that could potentially become dangerous.
Flights are pretty cheap at the moment, and I’d like to book before prices go up.
Any advice from people who know the ground situation and Iranian current affairs better than I do would be much appreciated! :)
Any advice from people who know the ground situation and Iranian current affairs better than I do would be much appreciated! :)
Hi there! I’m in the middle of planning my first solo trip (as a woman). Do you have any ideal destinations with activities like hiking, diving, sightseeing, and easy ways to meet locals—all on a small budget?
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s had this experience before! :)
I’d love to hear from anyone who’s had this experience before! :)
Hi there,
Who could recommend a reliable agency for visiting several islands, including the parks around Komodo? I’m traveling solo as a woman.
Thanks for your great tips!
Hi everyone,
I’m often in transit in Tokyo and I stay at the hotel because Japanese people speak little English and the signs are almost always in Japanese!
Any ideas for getting from Narita to a nice park or an onsen? I wanted to try Hokkaido, but apart from renting a car, it’s all trains! Any suggestions for a car with a driver? Or is it too expensive? Small group tours in Hokkaido? I read about the Explorator group’s offer—way too expensive!!!
I’ve got a maximum of 8 days. I’d just like a nice Japanese break.
Thanks for any tips you can share!
my friend, with whom I traveled to Iran, Myanmar, and India, really wanted to take a one-month trip to Armenia and Georgia. So we booked our flights (June 21 to July 19), but disaster struck—she can’t travel anymore due to serious family reasons.
Now I’m heading off on this adventure alone. It’s not that I’ve never traveled solo before—I spent three months exploring Southeast Asia by myself last year—but I still have a few questions, and I’d really appreciate your input.
* I don’t think traveling alone in these countries is very risky—what do you think? * Maybe I could hire a driver? What would that cost, since some places seem tricky to reach by public transport. Do you have any driver recommendations? * I don’t want to rent a car—the driving seems too unpredictable, especially in Georgia. * I’d love to do some nice hikes—are there any guides available?
Here’s my rough itinerary: YEREVAN and surroundings YEGHEGNADZOR for Noravank GORIS and TATEV LAKE SEVAN DILIJAN HAGHPAT TBILISI and surroundings The CAUCASUS toward Mestia UPLISTSIKHE VARDZIA Return to Yerevan for my flight
Thanks to anyone who can share their experiences or answer my questions!
Now I’m heading off on this adventure alone. It’s not that I’ve never traveled solo before—I spent three months exploring Southeast Asia by myself last year—but I still have a few questions, and I’d really appreciate your input.
* I don’t think traveling alone in these countries is very risky—what do you think? * Maybe I could hire a driver? What would that cost, since some places seem tricky to reach by public transport. Do you have any driver recommendations? * I don’t want to rent a car—the driving seems too unpredictable, especially in Georgia. * I’d love to do some nice hikes—are there any guides available?
Here’s my rough itinerary: YEREVAN and surroundings YEGHEGNADZOR for Noravank GORIS and TATEV LAKE SEVAN DILIJAN HAGHPAT TBILISI and surroundings The CAUCASUS toward Mestia UPLISTSIKHE VARDZIA Return to Yerevan for my flight
Thanks to anyone who can share their experiences or answer my questions!
Hi,
Can you share some info about Mauritius, since I’m traveling alone and would like a local contact there?
Thanks.
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share a few tips that really helped me better prepare my carry-on luggage. After a few trips (and some mistakes too!), I’ve finally found a way to organize myself that makes life a lot easier. Maybe this can help other travelers here.
1. Choose a practical and sturdy bag
A good bag is the foundation. I’ve noticed that a model with a solid structure, sturdy wheels, and a well-thought-out interior really changes the experience. Hard-shell suitcases hold up better, especially when you’re hopping between flights. Personally, I use a Lambert suitcase because the interior is super well-divided, but the important thing is to find a model that works for you.
2. Rolling your clothes really works
It’s simple, but it saves so much space. Plus, it wrinkles less. I do this now for almost everything, especially lightweight clothes.
3. Keep everything in a small kit
100 ml liquids, toothbrush, cream, mini first-aid kit… Having all of that in one clear toiletry bag makes going through security much easier. It saves you from having to take everything out and put it back in a rush.
4. A pouch for essentials
Passport, headphones, charger, phone… I keep all of that in the same pouch. It saves so much stress when you need to find something quickly, especially on the plane.
5. Traveling lighter makes all the difference
Since I started choosing versatile clothes that mix and match well, I travel with a lot less. Less weight, fewer decisions to make, fewer things to lug around. It honestly makes traveling so much more enjoyable.
From the conversations I’ve had with other travelers (and several customers too), I’ve realized you can really simplify your trip just by organizing a little better and choosing good accessories.
If you have other tips or methods that work for you, I’d love to read them. We always learn from others on this forum.
Looking forward to exchanging with you all!
Hi,
Has anyone recently taken the boat to Casamance from Dakar and could share their experience?
From France, is it possible to book online, or do you need to go through an agency? How far in advance?
Boarding/disembarking: how does it work? Do we have to check in our luggage and then pick it up on arrival?
What’s the vibe like on the boat in the seating area?
Has anyone ever stopped over in Carabane? Accommodation options there?
Thanks so much if you have any recent info!
Exploring India by road is all about having a good driver. I highly recommend the one I’ve traveled with for 5 "safe" trips—Rajasthan 3 times over 16 years, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab. He’s been driving tourists for 25 years now and is more than just a driver. He knows how to talk about his country, the cities you visit, and suggests alternative routes.
He’s well-connected with real local guides who don’t just ramble (as he puts it himself) or drag you into shops claiming to be run by their "so-called family." Depending on your preferences, he can suggest well-tested itineraries and recommend typical hotels like Havelis.
For dining, he oversees meal prep based on your spice-level preferences. He’s Sikh and deeply respectful of his passengers.
He speaks English better than French, but one of his daughters is studying French at university.
DM me if you’d like his contact details.
Happy travels!
He’s well-connected with real local guides who don’t just ramble (as he puts it himself) or drag you into shops claiming to be run by their "so-called family." Depending on your preferences, he can suggest well-tested itineraries and recommend typical hotels like Havelis.
For dining, he oversees meal prep based on your spice-level preferences. He’s Sikh and deeply respectful of his passengers.
He speaks English better than French, but one of his daughters is studying French at university.
DM me if you’d like his contact details.
Happy travels!
Hi,
We’d like to spend about twenty days in Albania next July. We’re two women traveling together and we’re thinking of renting a small car. Does that sound reasonable, or should we avoid it?
Thanks for your advice.
Hi there,
I’m spending a week in Morocco (Rabat - Meknes - Fes).
I’ll be traveling solo—is it safe for a woman over 60?
For transportation, I’m planning to take the train. I was thinking of buying my ticket last minute, but it’s around the end-of-year period…?
I’ll be in Meknes on December 31st—any suggestions on how they celebrate New Year’s Eve there?
Is anyone visiting these destinations? Maybe we could meet up…?
Thanks in advance.
Hi there,
After hearing so much about Djerba, especially the GO clubs, is it risky for a young, pretty newly-retired woman to visit the island alone?
Thanks in advance.
Hi,
Does anyone know how late the buses run from Cusco Airport to the city center? I land at 9:30 PM, plus time to clear customs, pick up my luggage, and exchange some money—figure an extra 30 to 45 minutes. Though, come to think of it, I still have 5 sols from last time—maybe that’ll be enough for the bus?
Thanks.
Brigitte
Planned arrival on Sunday evening, November 16, 2025, in San José. Staying 3 nights, then taking a bus to Tortuguero for 2 nights. Looking for a shared shuttle to La Fortuna for 2 nights, then a van-boat-van combo to Santa Elena for 2 or 3 nights. Heading to Quepos for 4 nights for day trips using local buses—Jaco, San Antonio, Uvita. After that, a full-day bus ride to Cahuita. I’m booking hotels as I go, which gives me the flexibility to stay longer in places I like. I’m looking for accommodations in city centers near restaurants and not too far from the bus station. Budget: 50 € for a room with a private bathroom (if you’ve got any great tips!). For my finale, I’ll cross the land border to Panama City for 4 days. Thanks for your suggestions! 😉
As I mentioned before, I’m heading to Istanbul next summer, and I’ve heard there have been quite a few attacks by Kurds in Turkey recently, which is making me hesitate about my trip.
What do you all think? :( I’m wondering if it’s really a good idea to go...
What do you all think? :( I’m wondering if it’s really a good idea to go...
Hi everyone,
I’m 66 and just discovered solo travel in Uzbekistan—I loved it! So I’ve decided to explore Africa, starting with Senegal. I’m just beginning my research, but if anyone can give me advice on which month to go, what to see, and whether this destination is safe—or maybe suggest another African country—I’d really appreciate your tips!
Hi there!
We’re leaving in early November for a month.
Here’s our itinerary:
Arrival in Takhmau, then heading to:
Kampong Cham
Kratie – 2 days
Mondolkiri – 3 days
Ratanakiri – 3 days
Stung Treng – 1 day
Siem Reap – 4 days
Battambang – 1 day
Kampong Chhnang – 3 days
Kampot – 2 days
Islands (WE’RE HESITATING WHICH ONE?) – 4 DAYS
Phnom Penh – 2 days
That’s it! 😊
We’re backpacking… and we love spots that aren’t too touristy. If you’ve got any tips, we’re all ears!
Thanks
Hi there,
We’d like to stay in Switzerland for five days.
There are two of us (women).
We don’t know this country at all.
What cities or affordable spots would you recommend for visiting?
Cheap accommodation.
Looking for community-based options.
And being close to public transport.
Thanks for your tips and experiences!
Best regards.
Hi there,
I was wondering if anyone has taken a Rede Expressos bus from Lisbon Airport to Lagos, and if so, where exactly at the airport you need to board it? I’m worried I’ll get lost and miss my bus...
Hi again,
I’m adding more details to my info request. Here are two proposed itineraries. We’re hesitating:
Colombo - Unawatuna 2 days - Sinharaja 1 day - Bandarawela 2 days - Kandy 3 days - Dambulla 2 days - Wilpattu Park 1 day - Kalpitiya 3 days - Negombo 1 day
What should we change or add a day for to include Jaffna?
Or: Negombo 1 day - Anuradhapura 2 days - Jaffna 2 days - Sigiriya 2 days - Dambulla 1 day - Kandy 2 days - Ella 1 day - Galle 3 days For your advice. Is it better to finish in Galle or Kalpitiya? Thanks in advance! Nicole
Or: Negombo 1 day - Anuradhapura 2 days - Jaffna 2 days - Sigiriya 2 days - Dambulla 1 day - Kandy 2 days - Ella 1 day - Galle 3 days For your advice. Is it better to finish in Galle or Kalpitiya? Thanks in advance! Nicole
Hello everyone,
This is a warning message! I’d like to address it especially to young women traveling alone for the first time in India. Other travelers may react to my post based on their own experiences, but I think what I’m about to say shouldn’t be taken lightly—unless that’s what you’re looking for!
Last July, I traveled to Northern India. I stopped in Khajuraho to see the famous tantric temples. I stayed one night, and that was more than enough. Khajuraho is very touristy, but you should know that 80% of young Indian men there are "gigolos." Locals call these young men (aged 18 to 30) "playboys" or "Lapka" (which means "capture the woman" in Hindi)!!!
They approach tourists with kindness and politeness, offering tea or a motorcycle ride (which they’ve often gotten from generous Western female tourists) to waterfalls a few kilometers from Khajuraho or other tourist sites. After befriending you, they charm you—be careful, these are professionals who are very skilled at this; it’s all they do, and they do it well. They’ll offer you food, drinks, and even temple entry to confuse you. They’ll suggest spending the evening or even the night with them. **Refuse (unless you’re into local flings and that’s why you came)!!!!**
At first, you’ll be seduced by their generosity, let your guard down, and then they’ll make you believe in *true love*. They won’t leave you alone and will keep in touch via email or phone if you give them your details. The lines they use to soften you up and scam you include: *"I’m the only one taking care of my family, my brother is sick, I don’t know what to do..."* All of this is to manipulate you into offering them money. They’ll never ask for it outright (to avoid being exposed) but will wait for you to suggest it.
If you receive emails from them, they’ll never be signed, and their name won’t appear in the email address (to avoid leaving traces). They use fake names to avoid being reported. If you believe their sob stories and offer help, they’ll give you a bank account number to send money via Western Union. These young men make a living from this—selling their bodies and scamming people! They’re very skilled, charming, manipulative, and *big-time cheaters*!
(Especially one young man who goes by the alias *Tony*—apparently the most skilled. He lives in a hotel near the lake, *Krishna Cottage*, and is in regular contact via Skype with Western women he’s tricked into believing he loves them while shamelessly scamming them. He even opened an internet café on the roof of the hotel with money he stole from women who fell for his charm.)
So, young romantic women craving love, sensitive singles, or anyone emotionally vulnerable—**don’t let yourself be scammed!!!** This behavior is becoming more common in India and is still relatively unknown. Male prostitution is on the rise, and cases of romantic scams and financial fraud by gigolos are increasing.
This is a warning message! I’d like to address it especially to young women traveling alone for the first time in India. Other travelers may react to my post based on their own experiences, but I think what I’m about to say shouldn’t be taken lightly—unless that’s what you’re looking for!
Last July, I traveled to Northern India. I stopped in Khajuraho to see the famous tantric temples. I stayed one night, and that was more than enough. Khajuraho is very touristy, but you should know that 80% of young Indian men there are "gigolos." Locals call these young men (aged 18 to 30) "playboys" or "Lapka" (which means "capture the woman" in Hindi)!!!
They approach tourists with kindness and politeness, offering tea or a motorcycle ride (which they’ve often gotten from generous Western female tourists) to waterfalls a few kilometers from Khajuraho or other tourist sites. After befriending you, they charm you—be careful, these are professionals who are very skilled at this; it’s all they do, and they do it well. They’ll offer you food, drinks, and even temple entry to confuse you. They’ll suggest spending the evening or even the night with them. **Refuse (unless you’re into local flings and that’s why you came)!!!!**
At first, you’ll be seduced by their generosity, let your guard down, and then they’ll make you believe in *true love*. They won’t leave you alone and will keep in touch via email or phone if you give them your details. The lines they use to soften you up and scam you include: *"I’m the only one taking care of my family, my brother is sick, I don’t know what to do..."* All of this is to manipulate you into offering them money. They’ll never ask for it outright (to avoid being exposed) but will wait for you to suggest it.
If you receive emails from them, they’ll never be signed, and their name won’t appear in the email address (to avoid leaving traces). They use fake names to avoid being reported. If you believe their sob stories and offer help, they’ll give you a bank account number to send money via Western Union. These young men make a living from this—selling their bodies and scamming people! They’re very skilled, charming, manipulative, and *big-time cheaters*!
(Especially one young man who goes by the alias *Tony*—apparently the most skilled. He lives in a hotel near the lake, *Krishna Cottage*, and is in regular contact via Skype with Western women he’s tricked into believing he loves them while shamelessly scamming them. He even opened an internet café on the roof of the hotel with money he stole from women who fell for his charm.)
So, young romantic women craving love, sensitive singles, or anyone emotionally vulnerable—**don’t let yourself be scammed!!!** This behavior is becoming more common in India and is still relatively unknown. Male prostitution is on the rise, and cases of romantic scams and financial fraud by gigolos are increasing.
hi everyone! I’d like to visit Montreal and the surrounding areas in August, and I’ve got 3 weeks of vacation. I’m traveling alone and will be visiting my daughter, who recently moved there. She’ll be working and only available in the evenings! So I’m torn between spending a week in Montreal, then taking a flight to Cuba, and returning to France from Havana—or staying in Montreal and exploring the nearby areas alone.
For my first idea—going to Cuba—is it feasible in terms of administrative formalities and legality? And for my second idea, is it possible to take buses? If so, is it too expensive? And are there many places served by them?
Thanks for your advice! Jocelyne
For my first idea—going to Cuba—is it feasible in terms of administrative formalities and legality? And for my second idea, is it possible to take buses? If so, is it too expensive? And are there many places served by them?
Thanks for your advice! Jocelyne
From FES, I’d like to spend a few days in:
MEKNES
CHEFCHAOUEN
TETOUAN
and then return to FES.
I’m planning this trip in November.
Thanks for your tips!
I just got back from an unforgettable road trip in Madagascar where I drove down the legendary RN7. It connects Tana (the capital) to Tulear.
Since we were traveling as a group of girls, we decided to go with a guide. I’d never done an “organized” trip before, but I have to say we loved this first tailor-made travel experience.
From the highlands of the Red Island
down to the west coast, by the Mozambique Channel.
Vast landscapes as far as the eye can see
Human encounters
Discovering ancestral artisanal know-how
Sunsets over the ochre mountains
Intense, precious moments with my friends
We loved the mountains, visits to artisans, and the parties too ;-)
We used local guides to show us specific spots (like Isalo National Park, where we were able to bivouac)
Hi there,
My friend and I are traveling together between October and November 2025—no exact dates yet.
We’d love to step away from the typical travel agency packages and are hoping to rent a car locally and stay with locals, living with them rather than in a vacation rental.
Does anyone know if this is possible? Thanks in advance for your advice and tips! Warm regards to all
Does anyone know if this is possible? Thanks in advance for your advice and tips! Warm regards to all






