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.
Culture en Thaïlande
by GeorgesOZ
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
bonjour à toi,
tu sais j'ai bien relu avant de t'écrire ce qui n'est pas une provocation mais je ne trouve pas, alors peut être mes origines belges hihihi m'empêche de voir quoi que ce soit mais je ne vois rien de tout, je pensais que la discussion serait plus claire en parlant plus sincérement mais libre à toi bien sûr ;
Une chose est sûre, il faut faire quelque chose !!!!!!
Non pourquoi ?
Mais je connais qq jeunes qui y sont.
parce que tu dis que tu as fais des études à bkk...
Mais je connais qq jeunes qui y sont.
parce que tu dis que tu as fais des études à bkk...
Quand l'eau baisse les fourmis mangent les poissons; quand l'eau monte les poissons mangent les fourmis.
Il n'y a que le changement qui ne change pas.
Le lycée français à BKK est assez récent je faisais mes études à BKK il y a assez longtemps.
peux-tu préciser stp, il semble que ce point te donne la possiblité de juger de la culture des thai. merci.
peux-tu préciser stp, il semble que ce point te donne la possiblité de juger de la culture des thai. merci.
Quand l'eau baisse les fourmis mangent les poissons; quand l'eau monte les poissons mangent les fourmis.
Il n'y a que le changement qui ne change pas.
J'ai des origines chinoises (du coté de ma grande mère).
je suis en Europe depuis 20ans environ.
Pour la différence de pensées, il faut qu'un français répond pour dire aussi pourquoi les français sont beaucoup moins tolérents que les thaï.
Personnellement, je trouve que les thaïs (en général bien sur) sont beaucoup plus respectueux et plus travailleurs (bien sur il y a des français qui sont très tolérents et ravailleurs). Quand on voit qu'en France, les profs se sont tabassés par des élèves alors qu'en Thaïlande on ne voit jamais ça ou presque jamais (il y a peut-etre eu des cas exceptionnels).
je suis en Europe depuis 20ans environ.
Pour la différence de pensées, il faut qu'un français répond pour dire aussi pourquoi les français sont beaucoup moins tolérents que les thaï.
Personnellement, je trouve que les thaïs (en général bien sur) sont beaucoup plus respectueux et plus travailleurs (bien sur il y a des français qui sont très tolérents et ravailleurs). Quand on voit qu'en France, les profs se sont tabassés par des élèves alors qu'en Thaïlande on ne voit jamais ça ou presque jamais (il y a peut-etre eu des cas exceptionnels).
Que veux tu savoir vraiment ?
ce que je veux savoir vraiment c'est qu'en te lisant, tu as dis que tu es bien placé pour parler de ça car tu as grandis à BKK et tu as poursuivi tes études à Paris. Donc, quand quelle école ? est-ce une école privée ? une école internationale ?
ce que je veux savoir vraiment c'est qu'en te lisant, tu as dis que tu es bien placé pour parler de ça car tu as grandis à BKK et tu as poursuivi tes études à Paris. Donc, quand quelle école ? est-ce une école privée ? une école internationale ?
Quand l'eau baisse les fourmis mangent les poissons; quand l'eau monte les poissons mangent les fourmis.
Il n'y a que le changement qui ne change pas.
J'ai fait toutes mes études dans les écoles publique. 🙂
bien, et maintenant que tu es en France depuis 20 ans, as-tu retrouvé des anciens camarades de classe en Thailande ? penses-tu qu'ils ont un degré de culture supérieur, égale, ou inférieur au tien ?
bien, et maintenant que tu es en France depuis 20 ans, as-tu retrouvé des anciens camarades de classe en Thailande ? penses-tu qu'ils ont un degré de culture supérieur, égale, ou inférieur au tien ?
Quand l'eau baisse les fourmis mangent les poissons; quand l'eau monte les poissons mangent les fourmis.
Il n'y a que le changement qui ne change pas.
Tu sais la tolerance...c'est difficile a expliquer ! avec toutes les guerres que la France a subie (ou initier )et ses tourments historiques !
Il me semble que la Thailande n'a jamais eu de vrais envahisseurs ?
Et puis il sagit là de plus d'individualisme ( liberté de la démocratie aprés des années de royalisime 1789 ) que le royaume de Thailande plus porté a faire un grand "tout" au service de sa Majesté le Roi de Thailande...ainsi que par le boudhisme précepte philosophique et religieux inclus dans la vie de tous les jours...pronant la mise des "forces" en commun...ect ect
Mais connais toi toi même...et cela déja n'est pas chose facile ! alors comprendre "l'autre"
😉
Et puis il sagit là de plus d'individualisme ( liberté de la démocratie aprés des années de royalisime 1789 ) que le royaume de Thailande plus porté a faire un grand "tout" au service de sa Majesté le Roi de Thailande...ainsi que par le boudhisme précepte philosophique et religieux inclus dans la vie de tous les jours...pronant la mise des "forces" en commun...ect ect
Mais connais toi toi même...et cela déja n'est pas chose facile ! alors comprendre "l'autre"
😉
Dans le respect nait la liberté...
🙂Voilà, tu sors une grosse connerie.....Je connais la Thaïlande à l'âge de mes dix ans...Et pourtant, je ne me sens nullement supérieur à celui qui vit à présent depuis vingt, dix ou trois ans...
Ah, Vf c'est la star arc realité😛
🙂Tu me fais rire aussi Sunpax avec la tolérance..la tolérance c'est une notion purement judéo-chrétienne....Cela n'existe pas dans le langage des africains ou asiatiques..Et le fond de la culture en Europe; c'est baratiner pour rien dire..Si tu reçois une flèche sur ton bras, tu vas réagir en disant pourquoi j'ai reçu une flèche..Par contre, un asia ne va pas se poser des questions existentialistes: il va retirer immédiatement la flèche.😛
🙂Tu me fais rire aussi Sunpax avec la tolérance..la tolérance c'est une notion purement judéo-chrétienne....Cela n'existe pas dans le langage des africains ou asiatiques..Et le fond de la culture en Europe; c'est baratiner pour rien dire..Si tu reçois une flèche sur ton bras, tu vas réagir en disant pourquoi j'ai reçu une flèche..Par contre, un asia ne va pas se poser des questions existentialistes: il va retirer immédiatement la flèche.😛
Il est étonnant que pour qqun qui cite un chapitre du tipitaka bouddhiste, le sermon de la flèche, dise que la tolérance est un concept uniquement judéo-chrétien !!!
Il est étonnant que pour qqun qui cite un chapitre du tipitaka bouddhiste, le sermon de la flèche, dise que la tolérance est un concept uniquement judéo-chrétien !!!
Quand l'eau baisse les fourmis mangent les poissons; quand l'eau monte les poissons mangent les fourmis.
Il n'y a que le changement qui ne change pas.
ns les français ns sommes "cartésiens" carrés !! et donc difficiles à admettre que l'on puisse fonctionner de la même façon 😉
l'on dit en thérapie comportemental que chacun d'entre nous nous avons notre propre carte géographique ; dès l'instant qu'on est conscient et qu'on l'accepte on devient + zen : on devrait ! même pour moi ce n'est pas toujours évident et surtout sur VF 😎😎
Mais tu as vraiment rien compris.
ps : la tolérance n'exite pas qu'en Europe et tu penses que les asiatiques ne connaissent cette notion de tolérance alros tu es encore plus stupide que je crois mais je ne t'en veux pas j'éprouve de la tolérance pour toi alros que je ne suis pas européen...
ps : la tolérance n'exite pas qu'en Europe et tu penses que les asiatiques ne connaissent cette notion de tolérance alros tu es encore plus stupide que je crois mais je ne t'en veux pas j'éprouve de la tolérance pour toi alros que je ne suis pas européen...
Je ne suis pas faché du tout ne t'inquietes pas 😉
Je trovue dommage que certaines personnes se permettent de juger un peuple sans les connaitre vraiment. On peut très bien aller souvent dans un pays mais si on n'est pas origine de ce pays, si on n'a pas de famille de ce pays et si on ne vit pas tous les jorus avec le peuple de ce pays je ne pense pas qu'on arrive à juger quoique ce soit.
Je trovue dommage que certaines personnes se permettent de juger un peuple sans les connaitre vraiment. On peut très bien aller souvent dans un pays mais si on n'est pas origine de ce pays, si on n'a pas de famille de ce pays et si on ne vit pas tous les jorus avec le peuple de ce pays je ne pense pas qu'on arrive à juger quoique ce soit.
la Thailande n'a jamais eu de vrais envahisseurs ?
tient cela me rappelle des souvenirs 😉 mais il faut retirer vrais ! et la conclusion ? la démocratie c'est tout saud de l'individualisme : être citoyen 😉 c'est quoi vous déraillez : veuillez respecter la Haute Autorité de ce pays, vénérée; vous ne pouvez calquer un modèle sur un autre ! d'autant qu'il confus : moi ces discours me rendent malades ! je me dis que le monde n'avance pas 😕
tient cela me rappelle des souvenirs 😉 mais il faut retirer vrais ! et la conclusion ? la démocratie c'est tout saud de l'individualisme : être citoyen 😉 c'est quoi vous déraillez : veuillez respecter la Haute Autorité de ce pays, vénérée; vous ne pouvez calquer un modèle sur un autre ! d'autant qu'il confus : moi ces discours me rendent malades ! je me dis que le monde n'avance pas 😕
🙂Perso: tolérance c'est accepter avec diplomatie quelqu'un...et là Kobé que tu sois chromosome asia mais élevé à l'européenne, tu as bouffé la conscience judéo-chrétienne..Tu essayes tout simplement de le dénigrer comme beaucoup..de personnes qui sont chromoso euro et admirent la culture asiatique en dénigrant la patrie d'origine.
Personne ne connait mon passé sur Vf...je pense que tu as le même âge que moi...et crois moi, j'ai vécu beaucoup et beaucoup de choses..😉
le Royaume de Siam était bcp plus vaste qu'il n'est aujourd'hui, les conflits guerriers auxquels tu fais allusion prenons la France et un exemple connu de tous : les guerres napoéloniennes ont été des guerres de conquêtes
dans les guerres agrandir son territoire, c'est agrandir son pouvoir politique mais aussi et surtout économique, ss économie forte pas de dynamisme culturel, scientifique
Idem😄
Allez cela ne m'empêche pas de boire un bon verre à ta santé et à la santé de tout le monde😛
Enorme difference avec les indiens, par exemple, qui sont d'une tres grande curiosite, et souvent tres instruits et penetrants.
Grande curiosite des indiens : tu viens d'ou, tu restes combien de temps, tu es marie, tu as combien d'enfants ? Il me semble qu'en Thailande, on n'echappe pas a ce genre de questions ! Tres instruits ? Oui, bien sur, dans ce pays qui est un rassemblement de pays, avec leurs langues propres, leurs drapeaux, ou il y a 1 milliard et + d'habitants, on rencontre des instruits - c'est le pays des informaticiens !-, mais surtout dans les grandes villes ! Voici bientot 4 mois que je sejourne a Mamallapuram, au sud de Chennai (Madras), et pour la plupart des indiens ici, ce qui compte, c'est "l'exigence de chaque jour !"
Grande curiosite des indiens : tu viens d'ou, tu restes combien de temps, tu es marie, tu as combien d'enfants ? Il me semble qu'en Thailande, on n'echappe pas a ce genre de questions ! Tres instruits ? Oui, bien sur, dans ce pays qui est un rassemblement de pays, avec leurs langues propres, leurs drapeaux, ou il y a 1 milliard et + d'habitants, on rencontre des instruits - c'est le pays des informaticiens !-, mais surtout dans les grandes villes ! Voici bientot 4 mois que je sejourne a Mamallapuram, au sud de Chennai (Madras), et pour la plupart des indiens ici, ce qui compte, c'est "l'exigence de chaque jour !"
Voyager c'est découvrir que tout le monde a tort.
Aldous Huxley
Un habitant de Bkk meprise les gens de l'issan ! a ecrit Mastergoupil
Eh oui, Kobe 75, bien que moi non plus je ne suis pas thai, ni fait des etudes au lycee de bkk, je l'affirme aussi. J'ai vecu quelque temps dans une famille sino-thaie, riche, mais fallait voir comment ces dames parlaient des filles de l'issan et leur peau...noire ! Elles ne comprenaient pas pourquoi les farangs etaient attires par cette couleur de peau !
De Bkk et d'autres villes... bien entendu !
Voyager c'est découvrir que tout le monde a tort.
Aldous Huxley
bien evidemment on rencontre des gens passionnants ( et cultivés) en pleine cambrousse
simplement c'est plus difficile a trouver et a rencontrer avec juste le guide du routard sous le bras !
Par ex, ChiangRai est la résidence d'un des artistes ( peinture sculpture) thai les plus connus Tawan Duchanee . Il a construit une extraordianire résidence composée d'une trentaine de pavillons et sites d'expo melant style traditionnel et contemporaine ( photo jointe d'un des 10 ou 15 batiments qui abritent ses collections)
c'est en pleine cambrousse à 15 Km de la ville magnifique, mais c'est une villa particulière et abrite sa collection privée, donc a visiter sur rendez vous, pas compliqué mais a préparer d'avance
avis aux amateurs (et aux pros)
Par ex, ChiangRai est la résidence d'un des artistes ( peinture sculpture) thai les plus connus Tawan Duchanee . Il a construit une extraordianire résidence composée d'une trentaine de pavillons et sites d'expo melant style traditionnel et contemporaine ( photo jointe d'un des 10 ou 15 batiments qui abritent ses collections)
c'est en pleine cambrousse à 15 Km de la ville magnifique, mais c'est une villa particulière et abrite sa collection privée, donc a visiter sur rendez vous, pas compliqué mais a préparer d'avance
avis aux amateurs (et aux pros)
J'ai vecu quelque temps dans une famille sino-thaie, riche, mais fallait voir comment ces dames parlaient des filles de l'issan et leur peau...noire
alors que les Issans acceptent les temples chinois, eux n'on pas oublier leurs origines chinoises si je ne me trompe pas ? comme quoi la culture c'est bien, mais la tolerance est le ciment des peuples
a Ban Phue, Issan :
alors que les Issans acceptent les temples chinois, eux n'on pas oublier leurs origines chinoises si je ne me trompe pas ? comme quoi la culture c'est bien, mais la tolerance est le ciment des peuples
a Ban Phue, Issan :
salut Geob!
Bien sur, il y aura toujours (partout) un fond de discussion qui commence avec ces questions de base. Cependant, j' ai rencontre des indiens (surtout dans le train) avec qui les discussions ont progresse bien au-dela de ca, que ce soit sur ce que represenete le murti puja populaire dans l' hindouisme, sur les problemes sociaux/religieux, et meme une fois sur la ligne de suture entre Gondwana et l' Asie (the Narmada Line), pour dire que la curiosite dont je parle ne se limite donc pas au nombre d' enfants!
En lancant cette discussion sur la culture, je pensais en partie a la possibilite de tenir de bonnes discussions avec les gens du pays. Bon, j' admets que parler une langue commune avec un degre de facilite suffisant est une condition sine qua non, et jusqu' a present j' ai eu plus de chance en Inde qu' en Thailande, mon thai etant encore trop rudimentaire et l' anglais des thais etant souvent tres limite.
Bien sur, il y aura toujours (partout) un fond de discussion qui commence avec ces questions de base. Cependant, j' ai rencontre des indiens (surtout dans le train) avec qui les discussions ont progresse bien au-dela de ca, que ce soit sur ce que represenete le murti puja populaire dans l' hindouisme, sur les problemes sociaux/religieux, et meme une fois sur la ligne de suture entre Gondwana et l' Asie (the Narmada Line), pour dire que la curiosite dont je parle ne se limite donc pas au nombre d' enfants!
En lancant cette discussion sur la culture, je pensais en partie a la possibilite de tenir de bonnes discussions avec les gens du pays. Bon, j' admets que parler une langue commune avec un degre de facilite suffisant est une condition sine qua non, et jusqu' a present j' ai eu plus de chance en Inde qu' en Thailande, mon thai etant encore trop rudimentaire et l' anglais des thais etant souvent tres limite.
En lancant cette discussion sur la culture, je pensais en partie a la possibilite de tenir de bonnes discussions avec les gens du pays
sans vouloir t'offenser pour avoir de bonnes discutions il faut commencer par répondre aux gens qui s'interesse au post, ou alors çà devient de l'élitisme, regarde aux posts auquels tu n'a pas répondu aucun états d'âme personnel, un constat
cordialement
sans vouloir t'offenser pour avoir de bonnes discutions il faut commencer par répondre aux gens qui s'interesse au post, ou alors çà devient de l'élitisme, regarde aux posts auquels tu n'a pas répondu aucun états d'âme personnel, un constat
cordialement
Robert,
Aucune intention maligne de ma part, et certainement aucun elitisme, bien au contraire. Si j' en ai donne l' impression, mille excuses! 🤪
Mais, (1) je ne suis pas 100% de mon temps sur VF - je n' ai pas le luxe de certains (....) = je suis a mon travail! 😕, et (2) il y a eu un certain nombre de reponses qui meritaient d' etre suivies. Cela dit, je suis partant pour continuer la discussion avec ceux qui sont interesses 🙂, et qui ont ont peut-etre ete laisses en marge jusqu' a present (sans aucune mauvaise intention, je le repete!). Surtout, que lles echanges precedents ont malheureusement derive quelque peu.....
Aucune intention maligne de ma part, et certainement aucun elitisme, bien au contraire. Si j' en ai donne l' impression, mille excuses! 🤪
Mais, (1) je ne suis pas 100% de mon temps sur VF - je n' ai pas le luxe de certains (....) = je suis a mon travail! 😕, et (2) il y a eu un certain nombre de reponses qui meritaient d' etre suivies. Cela dit, je suis partant pour continuer la discussion avec ceux qui sont interesses 🙂, et qui ont ont peut-etre ete laisses en marge jusqu' a present (sans aucune mauvaise intention, je le repete!). Surtout, que lles echanges precedents ont malheureusement derive quelque peu.....
+1 à tous les admirateurs de ce pays, de ses cultures et de son peuple.
Au fond de chaque personne, un coeur qui parle, des actions qui réconfortent, les problèmes sont temporisés pour ne solutionner qui leur centre voir leur cause.
Je n'en suis pas encore à 21 fois, mais je m'y rends depuis deux ans tous les trois mois, une dizaine de jours...
Il est vrai que les comprendre est sans doute une enigme mais vivre à leur rithme et se laisser entourer est sans doute pour moi la meilleur des choses qu'il aurait pu m'arriver depuis ce que j'ai vécu par ces blancs d'Europe...
Ces pensées sont les miennes.
il n'est pas d'être humain, ou non, qui ne possède un peu de sagesse et de compassion, qui n'éprouve parfois un bon sentiment pour quelqu'un. Quel que soit son degré de négativité, tout être possède en lui un minimum d'amour, de bonté et de compassion
Ben deja pour s'interesser a la culture "art, cinema, peinture" a Bangkok (je ne vous parle meme pas du reste du pays) faut se lever de bonne heure!!!
les musees, les petites salles de concert, faut vraiment les chercher.
et puis bon faut bien dire ce qui est, en france on est vraiment les champions de la masturbation intellectuelle, alors pour trouver l'equivalent ailleurs.
le thai vie simplement et ne se prend guere le choux avec quoi que ce soit.
toutefois tu as toute une jeunesse thai qui s'interresse a tout ca, mais celle ci frequente les universites.
oui meme dans la cambrousse il y a des gens cultivés, comme partout dans le monde
Je comprends bien que tu parles de gens "cultivés" ou "eduqués" en général mais cela est un trop vaste sujet
dans tous les coins de thailande tu trouve des artistes locaux et des artisans qui sont aussi de vrais artistes, qui connaissent la valeur de leur travail et qui ont envie de la montrer et de l'expliquer a tous ceux qui s'y intéresssent
la plupart des grands artistes nationnaux habitent à la campagne ( d'ou ils sont issus) Dans le Nord, il y a des choses et des gens magnifiques . Tawan Duchanee, l'un des artistes les p lsu connus de Thailande ( peintre & sculpteur) a une extraordinaire maison a 15 km de ChiangRai (un truc extraordinaire mi traditionel mi contemporain d'une vingtaine de batiments qui abritent ses collections et qu'on peut visiter sur rendez-vous ) Il ya partout des thais qui ont des collections privés d'antiquités et de costumes, Les propriétaires des immenses villas en teck du coin t'ouvrent leur portes s'ils voient que tu est amateur ...
quant a ton avis sur la culture "gouvernementale" et l'épanouissement culturel dismoi en France si tu connais encore des écoles publiques qui font des cours de musique, de peinture de danses ?? ici en Thailande les cours de musique ou de danse ca fait encore partie du cursus ordinaire
Quant au financement privé, je dirais que c'est plutot la regle dans le monde entier et que le cas de la France avec son "exception culturelle" et certains "vieux" pays européens est plutot un cas particulier .
quant a l'ouverture vers l'ext, ici c'est chez les jeunes plutot dirigé vers la corée et le Japon, donc encore plus déroutant pour les européens qui eux ont grandis avec Mickey et les films américains !
a suivre
dans tous les coins de thailande tu trouve des artistes locaux et des artisans qui sont aussi de vrais artistes, qui connaissent la valeur de leur travail et qui ont envie de la montrer et de l'expliquer a tous ceux qui s'y intéresssent
la plupart des grands artistes nationnaux habitent à la campagne ( d'ou ils sont issus) Dans le Nord, il y a des choses et des gens magnifiques . Tawan Duchanee, l'un des artistes les p lsu connus de Thailande ( peintre & sculpteur) a une extraordinaire maison a 15 km de ChiangRai (un truc extraordinaire mi traditionel mi contemporain d'une vingtaine de batiments qui abritent ses collections et qu'on peut visiter sur rendez-vous ) Il ya partout des thais qui ont des collections privés d'antiquités et de costumes, Les propriétaires des immenses villas en teck du coin t'ouvrent leur portes s'ils voient que tu est amateur ...
quant a ton avis sur la culture "gouvernementale" et l'épanouissement culturel dismoi en France si tu connais encore des écoles publiques qui font des cours de musique, de peinture de danses ?? ici en Thailande les cours de musique ou de danse ca fait encore partie du cursus ordinaire
Quant au financement privé, je dirais que c'est plutot la regle dans le monde entier et que le cas de la France avec son "exception culturelle" et certains "vieux" pays européens est plutot un cas particulier .
quant a l'ouverture vers l'ext, ici c'est chez les jeunes plutot dirigé vers la corée et le Japon, donc encore plus déroutant pour les européens qui eux ont grandis avec Mickey et les films américains !
a suivre
interessant cette remarque sur la masturbation intellectuelle propre aux francais. c' est un peu vrai, et c' est fatiguant (donc, pour etre consequents, nous pourrions laisser tomber la discussion?). ce qui m' inetresses personellement, c' est la possibilite de rencontrer des gens avec lesquels on puisse tenir une discussion qui aille un peu au-dela des sujets de base du genre combien d' enfants, comment est la nourriture etc...., mais pour cela faire il suffit de tomber sur des gens un peu eveilles et intelligents (pas de probleme en Thailande) qui aient un peu de curiosite et d' ouverture sur le monde exterieur ... ou sur leur propre monde (ca suffit deja pour avoir des echanges passionants). pour cela, pas besoin d' avoir des prix nobel, ni des agreges en mathematiques, ni d' opera au centre ville.
je dois avouer que je ne suis pas tres au courant de ce qu' on fait en France, etant de la "vieille ecole" (j' ai 50 + apres tout) et ayant vecu ces derniers 30 ans en dehors du "vieux pays". d' apres certaines reponses, je commence a me faire l' image d' une France ou le developement culturel est devenu un ecran de fumee politique avec de moins en moins de realite sous-jacente.
que les thais s' interessent plus a la Coree et au Japon ne me surprendrait pas, vu la presence economique de ces pays en Thailande. mais cela ne derange pas, pourquoi serait-on difficile? ce qui compte c' est que les gens s' interessent a quelque chose d' autre que leurs problemes purement materiels.
que les thais s' interessent plus a la Coree et au Japon ne me surprendrait pas, vu la presence economique de ces pays en Thailande. mais cela ne derange pas, pourquoi serait-on difficile? ce qui compte c' est que les gens s' interessent a quelque chose d' autre que leurs problemes purement materiels.
Si j' en ai donne l' impression, mille excuses! 🤪
Euh... oui... Je viens de prendre le temps de lire toute la discussion, j'ai parfois bien souri (Kobe, tu peux parfois être impayable) et je me suis parfois redressée sur ma chaise. Ce qui m'apparait saugrenu, c'est qu'on en arrive à nouveau à comparer les pommes et les ananas (les poires sont trop proches) et à se référer à LA culture EUROPEENNE.
Tu sembles croire, Georges, que les thais manquent de culture "générale", c'est quoi la culture générale pour un thai ? Pour nous, c'est souvent connaître un petit peu de tout sur tout, ce qui se résume à pouvoir répéter ce qu'on nous a appris à l'école (du primaire à l'unif) et souvent sans avoir approfondi la question.
Est-il vraiment important de pouvoir citer la capitale de Tobago et Trinidad si on ne sait pas à quoi ressemblent les gens qui y vivent ? C'est pourtant bien ce que l'on nous apprend et qui semble, pour nos professeurs, d'une importance CAPITALE (sans et avec jeu de mot).
J'ai lu qu'en Thailande (et probablement dans d'autres pays dits "moins cultivés") on insistait plus sur la culture "du coeur" ou qqch qui ressemble, c'est en tout cas l'idée que j'ai retenue. J'ai aussi lu que les Thais respectaient les aînés, les professeurs, les supérieurs hiérarchiques et n'étalaient pas leur savoir face à eux afin de ne pas les mettre mal à l'aise. N'est-ce pas cela AUSSI la culture ?
Laa musique classique ? Mozart, Shubert et autres sont-ils LES références culturelles ? La musique thaie traditionnelle est magnifique, il me suffit de mettre un cd et je suis calmée, tranquille, zen et tout cela avec cinq notes de base...
La peinture ? Rubens, Vermeer, ... LES références ? Regarde les habits traditionnels, les temples, les décorations, la finesse du travail artisanal, ...
Je pourrais en trouver des tas, mais je vais faire long comme toujours... 😊
Je doute TRES TRES fort que les Thais soient en carence de culture.
Euh... oui... Je viens de prendre le temps de lire toute la discussion, j'ai parfois bien souri (Kobe, tu peux parfois être impayable) et je me suis parfois redressée sur ma chaise. Ce qui m'apparait saugrenu, c'est qu'on en arrive à nouveau à comparer les pommes et les ananas (les poires sont trop proches) et à se référer à LA culture EUROPEENNE.
Tu sembles croire, Georges, que les thais manquent de culture "générale", c'est quoi la culture générale pour un thai ? Pour nous, c'est souvent connaître un petit peu de tout sur tout, ce qui se résume à pouvoir répéter ce qu'on nous a appris à l'école (du primaire à l'unif) et souvent sans avoir approfondi la question.
Est-il vraiment important de pouvoir citer la capitale de Tobago et Trinidad si on ne sait pas à quoi ressemblent les gens qui y vivent ? C'est pourtant bien ce que l'on nous apprend et qui semble, pour nos professeurs, d'une importance CAPITALE (sans et avec jeu de mot).
J'ai lu qu'en Thailande (et probablement dans d'autres pays dits "moins cultivés") on insistait plus sur la culture "du coeur" ou qqch qui ressemble, c'est en tout cas l'idée que j'ai retenue. J'ai aussi lu que les Thais respectaient les aînés, les professeurs, les supérieurs hiérarchiques et n'étalaient pas leur savoir face à eux afin de ne pas les mettre mal à l'aise. N'est-ce pas cela AUSSI la culture ?
Laa musique classique ? Mozart, Shubert et autres sont-ils LES références culturelles ? La musique thaie traditionnelle est magnifique, il me suffit de mettre un cd et je suis calmée, tranquille, zen et tout cela avec cinq notes de base...
La peinture ? Rubens, Vermeer, ... LES références ? Regarde les habits traditionnels, les temples, les décorations, la finesse du travail artisanal, ...
Je pourrais en trouver des tas, mais je vais faire long comme toujours... 😊
Je doute TRES TRES fort que les Thais soient en carence de culture.
Si tu es qqn d'intelligent, tu devrais savoir qu'on ne doit pas jusger un peuple sans les connaître même si on va souvent la bas ou même si on est marié avec 1 thaie et c'est ce que beaucoup trop de personne font sur ce sujet.
Tu vois ce n'est pas parce qu'une personne est allée 20 fois en Thaïlande qu'elle connaît ce pays et son peuple.
Tu vois ce n'est pas parce qu'une personne est allée 20 fois en Thaïlande qu'elle connaît ce pays et son peuple.
çà devait partir en sucette ce post, "obligatoirement" !!!!
Ottlnpac à pourtan en partie raison et puis arrête de nous répeter et de systématiser la situation des mariés aux Thais, (ce que je suis d'ailleurs pas donc je peux en parler tranquillement !!) je te repondrai que c'est pas parce que tu as fais quelques études à Bangkok que tu connais mieux la culture Thai.... certains Français ne conaissent pas grand chose de la culture Française !!
Ottlnpac à pourtan en partie raison et puis arrête de nous répeter et de systématiser la situation des mariés aux Thais, (ce que je suis d'ailleurs pas donc je peux en parler tranquillement !!) je te repondrai que c'est pas parce que tu as fais quelques études à Bangkok que tu connais mieux la culture Thai.... certains Français ne conaissent pas grand chose de la culture Française !!
Je pense que tu fais parti aussi des gens qui n'ont rien compris et/ou n'ont pas bien lu le topic en entier.
Je ne parle pas que des gens mariés avec un ou une thaie. Je parle aussi des gens qui sont allés seulement qq fois et qui se permettent de juger un pays et un peuple sans les connaître vraiment.
Si tu crois et pense que je suis un français et j'ai fait seulement quelques études à Bangkok alros ça montre vraiment que tu n'as rien lu et rien compris. Un petit conseil, relis bien le topic surtout mes posts et peut-être que tu verras la lumière 😏
Je ne parle pas que des gens mariés avec un ou une thaie. Je parle aussi des gens qui sont allés seulement qq fois et qui se permettent de juger un pays et un peuple sans les connaître vraiment.
Si tu crois et pense que je suis un français et j'ai fait seulement quelques études à Bangkok alros ça montre vraiment que tu n'as rien lu et rien compris. Un petit conseil, relis bien le topic surtout mes posts et peut-être que tu verras la lumière 😏
Si tu es qqn d'intelligent, tu devrais savoir qu'on ne doit pas jusger un peuple sans les connaître même si on va souvent la bas ou même si on est marié avec 1 thaie et c'est ce que beaucoup trop de personne font sur ce sujet.
Tu vois ce n'est pas parce qu'une personne est allée 20 fois en Thaïlande qu'elle connaît ce pays et son peuple.
Je suis tout à fait d'accord, je pense que tu n'as pas compris mon raisonnement. Juger est un mot que j'exècre entre parenthèses. Juger, pour moi, c'est réservé aux Magistrats lors d'un procès. Juger, c'est se croire au-dessus des autres, et qui peut s'arroger cette position ? Que l'on donne son avis, en toute humilité et en continuant à respecter et écouter celui des autres, là, je suis entièrement d'accord.
Lorsque je dis que tu es "impayable" parfois, cela signifie en langage "belge", tu es "amusant", tu réponds avec une forme de sagesse qui fait sourire et tu t'emballes en restant courtois, mais en mettant les points sur les i, j'aime bien, ça me distrait, même si ce n'est pas ton but. "Impayable" n'est pas une critique négative. Dois-je ajouter "susceptible" à "impayable" ?
Tu vois ce n'est pas parce qu'une personne est allée 20 fois en Thaïlande qu'elle connaît ce pays et son peuple.
Je suis tout à fait d'accord, je pense que tu n'as pas compris mon raisonnement. Juger est un mot que j'exècre entre parenthèses. Juger, pour moi, c'est réservé aux Magistrats lors d'un procès. Juger, c'est se croire au-dessus des autres, et qui peut s'arroger cette position ? Que l'on donne son avis, en toute humilité et en continuant à respecter et écouter celui des autres, là, je suis entièrement d'accord.
Lorsque je dis que tu es "impayable" parfois, cela signifie en langage "belge", tu es "amusant", tu réponds avec une forme de sagesse qui fait sourire et tu t'emballes en restant courtois, mais en mettant les points sur les i, j'aime bien, ça me distrait, même si ce n'est pas ton but. "Impayable" n'est pas une critique négative. Dois-je ajouter "susceptible" à "impayable" ?
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More discussions
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?
Hi there,
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?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hey everyone,
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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.
Thanks! 🙂
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...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hi everyone,
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.
Thanks
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.
Thanks
Hi,
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.
Thanks
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.
Thanks
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,
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 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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
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.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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!
Time to hit the road again!
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...
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...
Hello,
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:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
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.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
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:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
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.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
Hi there,
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.
However, I’m not quite 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 some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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.
However, I’m not quite 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 some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
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
Hello everyone,
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.
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.
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!
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 everyone,
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!
Hi everyone, I’m looking to do a 15-day Muay Thai training course. Any great places to recommend? Thanks
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise
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 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
Hi,
To save time, we sometimes take long-distance taxis for certain trips in Asia.
We're considering doing the PP - Sen Monorom route by private taxi. Does anyone have an idea of the price for such a distance (380 km)?
Thanks in advance for your tips.
To save time, we sometimes take long-distance taxis for certain trips in Asia.
We're considering doing the PP - Sen Monorom route by private taxi. Does anyone have an idea of the price for such a distance (380 km)?
Thanks in advance for your tips.
Hi there,
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.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
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.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
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!