I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
Couples Franco-Thaï et comportement en Thaïlande
by Louisxviii
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Salut boumba.
Je l'ai dit plus haut : c'est tres con, mais ce qui compte c'est les sentiments d'abord.😉😉😉
Je l'ai dit plus haut : c'est tres con, mais ce qui compte c'est les sentiments d'abord.😉😉😉
mai pen rai krap
j'ecrit sur clavier américain désolé pour les accents...
T'inquietes pas vel, seul ceux qui croient savoir en parlent, personne n'a parlé d'amour...et pourtant ca existe aussi 😉
🙂
🙂
Bon, après 357 posts, on peut dire tout simplement qu'il y a des jambons et des salamis partout non ?
Ben oui, les statistiques des ambassades sur les mariages sans succès sont hautes, que voulez-vous, c'est déjà pas facile de tenir un couple dans la même culture, alors 2 complètement distinctes...
Ceci dit, oui, l'amour existe, et les couples heureux font moins de bruits que ceux dont le mariage a été un fiasco, il n'empêche que cela existe.
Et oui, aussi, il faut avertir les jeunes (et moins jeunes parfois) des risques et des dangers possible dans cet engagement important, mais il y a la manière de présenter les choses, si c'est fait avec virulence, je pense que c'est improductif, même si certains sont convaincus de la méthode "shocking" pour réveiller certaines consciences naîves.
Un 359ème ?
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.
Je signe et j'em....rde ceux qui disent le contraire, des frustrés qui n'ont rien compris c'est pas avec la thailande qu'on se marie c'est avec une femme qu'on aime, pourquoi tout mélangé avec les bars etc? Coup de gueule la...ca existe, mais faut surtout pas généraliser, je connais des mariages plus malheureux en France 🙁
Khun maa jak nai krap?
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
Je signe et j'em....rde ceux qui disent le contraire, des frustrés qui n'ont rien compris c'est pas avec la thailande qu'on se marie c'est avec une femme qu'on aime, pourquoi tout mélangé avec les bars etc? Coup de gueule la...ca existe, mais faut surtout pas généraliser, je connais des mariages plus malheureux en France 🙁
Je sais, c'est la réputation qui colle à la peau, même les femmes thais diplomates installées à l'étranger en souffrent. Souviens toi, il y avait une campagne d'affichage en Suisse qu'ils ont dû retirer sous je ne sais plus quel prétexte. On voyait sur une photo un kosovar qui disait, non, je ne suis pas dealer de drogues, sur une autre, un sri-lankais qui disait, non, je ne suis pas demandeur d'asile, un arabe qui disait, non, je ne suis pas terroriste, et une thailandaise qui disait non, je ne suis pas une prostituée. La généralisation est très néfaste. D'ailleurs de l'autre côté, beaucoup de thais font aussi ces amalgames, pas partout heureusement, mais dans certains endroits.
Je sais, c'est la réputation qui colle à la peau, même les femmes thais diplomates installées à l'étranger en souffrent. Souviens toi, il y avait une campagne d'affichage en Suisse qu'ils ont dû retirer sous je ne sais plus quel prétexte. On voyait sur une photo un kosovar qui disait, non, je ne suis pas dealer de drogues, sur une autre, un sri-lankais qui disait, non, je ne suis pas demandeur d'asile, un arabe qui disait, non, je ne suis pas terroriste, et une thailandaise qui disait non, je ne suis pas une prostituée. La généralisation est très néfaste. D'ailleurs de l'autre côté, beaucoup de thais font aussi ces amalgames, pas partout heureusement, mais dans certains endroits.
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.
C'est vrai j'oubliais qu'il y a des koso non dealer de drogues comme des serbes non dealers d'armes...mais ils existent aussi 🤪 La généralisation est très néfaste. En effet.
Khun maa jak nai krap?
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
C'est vrai j'oubliais qu'il y a des koso non dealer de drogues comme des serbes non dealers d'armes...mais ils existent aussi 🤪 La généralisation est très néfaste. En effet.
Bon Boum, je vais me coucher, j'ai le "grippe lag" dans les jambes. Essaie de trouver comme même le sommeil. Bonne nuit.
Bon Boum, je vais me coucher, j'ai le "grippe lag" dans les jambes. Essaie de trouver comme même le sommeil. Bonne nuit.
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.
Bonne nuit, je fatigue même si mes arguments restent vrais 😉
Khun maa jak nai krap?
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
"être loin d'ailleurs, c'est être ici" (P. Geluk)
On voyait sur une photo un kosovar qui disait, non, je ne suis pas dealer de drogues, sur une autre, un sri-lankais qui disait, non, je ne suis pas demandeur d'asile, un arabe qui disait, non, je ne suis pas terroriste, et une thailandaise qui disait non, je ne suis pas une prostituée.
La généralisation est très néfaste.
D'ailleurs de l'autre côté, beaucoup de thais font aussi ces amalgames, pas partout heureusement, mais dans certains endroits.
Il fallait le dire ! 😉 Comme d'autres pensent que tout étranger va obligatoirement à Pattaya. 😕
Cependant, je pense qu'ils perçoivent très bien quand un couple est bien réel. Dans la façon de se conduire, le regard et les mots...
Il fallait le dire ! 😉 Comme d'autres pensent que tout étranger va obligatoirement à Pattaya. 😕
Cependant, je pense qu'ils perçoivent très bien quand un couple est bien réel. Dans la façon de se conduire, le regard et les mots...
Il est certain qu'il ne faut jamais oublier que la femme avec qui vous etes, c'est vous seul qui l'avez choisi, et il est vrai que d'aller chercher une femme dans un bar, tatoue, qui boit et fume n'est pas mettre toutes les chances de son cote pour que cela ce passe bien de le future.... Oui oui je sais il y a aussi des femmes bien dans les bars, mais une femme dans un bar travaille, qui dit travaille, dit forcement qu'elle vient avec vous pour une raison de salaire et non pas parce que vous etes le David Beckham de la Thailande.....😕
Apres c'est une question personnelle de savoir si vous pouvez vivre toute votre vie en vous demandant si elle est avec vous par amour ou par interet...... mais quand on est de passage en Thailande et que l'on rencontre une 'fille de reve' on n'est pas forcement au courant de comment ca fonctionne et bien loin d'imaginer cela.....
ABE pour reprendre le mot de la fin de Latomme
Bonjour Cricket,
Mon nom c'est Latome avec 1 M
Je vois qu'apparement tu parles toi aussi de la majorite de ces demoiselles, car parle des exceptions nous menerait a "Helene et les garcons".
On ne marie pas que la fille, mais toute la famille, voir le village. Tant que tu donnes, t'es un gentil mari a la limite d'etre "Thai", mais quand ca part en vrille, la tu redeviens rapidos le mechant "Felang" radin.
Mefiez-vous des eaux qui dorment !!!
Au debut elles sont toutes gentilles, meme te mettre le dentifrice sur la brosse au petit matin, te porter ton sac jusqu'a la voiture quand tu pars au boulot. Elle va meme acheter des cigarettes avant que ton paquet soit vide, et j'en passe...
Il est clair qu'il existe des couples qui marchent, mais n'oublions pas que c'est deux cultures completement differentes et pas toujours evident a gerer, autant pour toi que pour la fille.
PS: Tu peux avoir la nationalite Thai mais tu ne seras jamais de race Thai !🏴☠️
Mefiez-vous des eaux qui dorment !!!
Au debut elles sont toutes gentilles, meme te mettre le dentifrice sur la brosse au petit matin, te porter ton sac jusqu'a la voiture quand tu pars au boulot. Elle va meme acheter des cigarettes avant que ton paquet soit vide, et j'en passe...
Il est clair qu'il existe des couples qui marchent, mais n'oublions pas que c'est deux cultures completement differentes et pas toujours evident a gerer, autant pour toi que pour la fille.
PS: Tu peux avoir la nationalite Thai mais tu ne seras jamais de race Thai !🏴☠️
Salut Latome, desole pour mon erreur mais dans mon pays natal on a un fameux fromage du nom de Tomme.... d'ou mon lapsus revelateur....
Par contre j'ose imaginer que tu n'as pas choisi ce nom par hasard, car ici en langue thai, une tome on en croise partout.... mais ca tui le sais apres 18 ans de Thailande...
Salut Latome, desole pour mon erreur mais dans mon pays natal on a un fameux fromage du nom de Tomme.... d'ou mon lapsus revelateur....
Par contre j'ose imaginer que tu n'as pas choisi ce nom par hasard, car ici en langue thai, une tome on en croise partout.... mais ca tui le sais apres 18 ans de Thailande...
Salut Cricri, mon surnom vient de L'atome, parce que j'ai une entreprise d'atomiseurs. Avec ton surnom, fais gaffe si tu vas en Isan profonde, tu vas te faire griller, 555.
Je suis sur que tu vas chercher un moment pour les 3 chiffres 5 !!!
A+ sauterelle 😏
Salut Cricri, mon surnom vient de L'atome, parce que j'ai une entreprise d'atomiseurs. Avec ton surnom, fais gaffe si tu vas en Isan profonde, tu vas te faire griller, 555.
Je suis sur que tu vas chercher un moment pour les 3 chiffres 5 !!!
A+ sauterelle 😏
Je suis sur que tu vas chercher un moment pour les 3 chiffres 5 !!!
555 = hahaha!
555 = hahaha!
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Je vois qu'apparement tu parles toi aussi de la majorite de ces demoiselles, car parle des exceptions nous menerait a "Helene et les garcons".
Les exceptions sont les filles qui travaillent dans les bars des endroits touristiques tels que Pattaya, Phuket et certais quartier de Bangkok.
Ensuite, parmi ces "travailleuses de la nuit", je n'ai pas de statistiques exactes mais l'immense majorité de mes amis qui sont en couple avec une Thaïe en sont ravis même si, comme dans toute relation, et en particulier entre deux personnes de cultures différentes, il y a des hauts et des bas.
Maintenant une des caractéristiques communes à mes amis c'est qu'ils sont relativement jeunes et que leurs épouses ont le même age. Qui plus est la plupart d'entre eux débute dans la vie professionnelle et ont donc beaucoup moins de moyens que les quincagénaires (ou plus) que l'on rencontre régulièrement dans ces bars.
Tout ça pour dire qu'il y a une différence, quoi que certains puissent en penser, entre un couple formé par une belle jeune femme de 25 ans et un beau jeune homme de 30 et un couple formé par une belle jeune femme de 25 ans et un "papy", ridé, chauve et bedonant de 50, 60 voir 70 ans (je caricature volontairement). Il est évident que l'intérêt porté par la jeune femme n'est pas le même dans les deux cas.
Mon conseil à tous ceux qui sont persuadés que la jolie jeune femme est tombée raide dingue amoureuse, regardez-vous dans un mirroir le matin et demandez-vous objectivement si, à sa place, vous pourriez sincèrement aimer l'image que vous renvoie le mirroir. Ce n'est évidemment pas une garantie, dans un sens comme dans l'autre, mais c'est déjà un bon indice.
Maintenant une des caractéristiques communes à mes amis c'est qu'ils sont relativement jeunes et que leurs épouses ont le même age. Qui plus est la plupart d'entre eux débute dans la vie professionnelle et ont donc beaucoup moins de moyens que les quincagénaires (ou plus) que l'on rencontre régulièrement dans ces bars.
Tout ça pour dire qu'il y a une différence, quoi que certains puissent en penser, entre un couple formé par une belle jeune femme de 25 ans et un beau jeune homme de 30 et un couple formé par une belle jeune femme de 25 ans et un "papy", ridé, chauve et bedonant de 50, 60 voir 70 ans (je caricature volontairement). Il est évident que l'intérêt porté par la jeune femme n'est pas le même dans les deux cas.
Mon conseil à tous ceux qui sont persuadés que la jolie jeune femme est tombée raide dingue amoureuse, regardez-vous dans un mirroir le matin et demandez-vous objectivement si, à sa place, vous pourriez sincèrement aimer l'image que vous renvoie le mirroir. Ce n'est évidemment pas une garantie, dans un sens comme dans l'autre, mais c'est déjà un bon indice.
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Log in first, then come back to this page.
You might also like
More discussions
Hi there,
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
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!
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
Hi! I’m planning a 15-day trip to Malaysia. The idea is to visit KL for 2 or 3 days, then Borneo, and I’m wondering what to do with the rest of the time. I’d like to finish with the Perhentian Islands... What do you think? Any tips or advice would be great—I’d really appreciate it!
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
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.
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi. Is it possible to take the train from Malacca to Ipoh? Thanks for your feedback.
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
Hello,
We’re a couple looking for a driver for 10 days to explore Northern Vietnam in April.
Best regards,
hi
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
Hi there,
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Hi there,
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
Hi there
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
Hi there,
we’ll be in Mai Chau in June and we’re thinking of heading to Sapa, but first spending a few days in Bac Ha to do some hiking and explore the area.
Is this a good idea for those who’ve been there?
How do you get there?
Thanks for your feedback.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there,
I’m planning an itinerary and would love some feedback on whether it’s doable and if the number of days per destination is enough—or too much. I was also debating whether to add an extra night on an island or spend an extra night in Kampot to visit Kep or Battambang.
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning March 24: Phnom Penh March 25: Phnom Penh March 26: Depart for Kampot March 27: Kampot March 28: Depart for Battambang March 29: Battambang March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap March 31: Siem Reap April 1: Siem Reap April 2: Siem Reap April 3: Siem Reap April 4: Siem Reap April 5: Departure
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
March 23: Arrival in Phnom Penh in the morning March 24: Phnom Penh March 25: Phnom Penh March 26: Depart for Kampot March 27: Kampot March 28: Depart for Battambang March 29: Battambang March 30: Tonlé SAP to Siem Reap March 31: Siem Reap April 1: Siem Reap April 2: Siem Reap April 3: Siem Reap April 4: Siem Reap April 5: Departure
Thanks for any suggestions or help!
Hi there,
Yesterday in the Thailand section, 100% of the new threads were just about beach destinations 😕...
So here’s the counterattack in the form of this photo thread, dedicated solely to the countryside: the locals, their livestock, fields, farms, rice paddies, small rivers, and agricultural machinery. If you’ve got any pictures that fit these categories, feel free to add them!
Comments welcome.
For each photo, I’ll (or you can) indicate the area where it was taken.
Kanchanaburi:
Kanchanaburi:
Sri Chiangmai:
Soppong:
Tha Wang Pha:
Kanchanaburi:

Kanchanaburi:

Sri Chiangmai:

Soppong:

Tha Wang Pha:

🙂 Hi everyone!
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!
For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...
Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).
Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️
Hi there,
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta. 21/09: Borobudur 22/09: Prambanan 23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang) 24/09: Bromo 25/09: Kawa Ijen 26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran 27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran 28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk 29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud 02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo 05/10: Komodo cruise 06/10: Komodo cruise 07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo. 08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar 09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore 10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!
My partner and I are planning a trip to Indonesia in September-October 2026. It’ll be our first time in Asia, and we’re thinking of hitting the classic spots in East Java and Bali, then wrapping up with a cruise around Komodo for some snorkeling/diving. Here’s a rough draft of our itinerary—I’m wondering if it’s doable.
20/09: Flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, arrive around noon, afternoon/evening and overnight in Yogyakarta. 21/09: Borobudur 22/09: Prambanan 23/09: Travel to Bromo (Cemoro Lawang) 24/09: Bromo 25/09: Kawa Ijen 26/09: Travel to Bali, overnight in Pemuteran 27/09: Excursion to Pulau Melujan, overnight in Pemuteran 28/09: Travel to Munduk, overnight in Munduk 29/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 30/09: Explore Munduk and surroundings, overnight in Munduk 01/10: Route to Ubud (via Pura Ulu Danau Bratan, Jatiluwih?), overnight in Ubud 02/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 03/10: Explore Ubud and surroundings, overnight in Ubud 04/10: Travel to Denpasar, flight to Labuan Bajo, overnight in Labuan Bajo 05/10: Komodo cruise 06/10: Komodo cruise 07/10: Komodo cruise, flight to Denpasar in the late afternoon/evening or overnight in Labuan Bajo. 08/10: Flight to Denpasar (if not taken the day before), afternoon in Jimbaran, overnight near Denpasar 09/10: 10:00 AM flight Denpasar - SIN, overnight in Singapore 10/10: Flight SIN-YQB
Thanks for your thoughts—and for your time!





