Hi everyone, I’ve spent two solid months reading the Lonely Planet and pretty much every post about Thailand here, plus French and English blogs. Now I’d love to get your expert opinions on our itinerary.
We’re heading off in August 2025 with our 7-year-old daughter. We only have a maximum of three weeks off, and I’m keeping an eye on flight prices before booking (1400 € per person really stings 😕).
So here’s what I’ve planned—let me know if you spot any major issues or if I’ve been way too "optimistic."
D1 - Arrival in Bangkok / rest, quick visit, overnight stay
D2 - More temple visits, etc.
D3 - Morning flight to Chiang Mai
D4 - More Chiang Mai sightseeing
D5 - Day trip to Chiang Rai (guided tour to book: blue and white temple), return to Chiang Mai late in the evening
D6 - More Chiang Mai visits / Elephant Nature Park in the afternoon
D7 - Morning flight to Koh Samui, sightseeing
D8 to D10 - More Koh Samui visits
D11 to D13 - Ferry to Koh Phangan
D14 to D15 - Ferry to Koh Tao
D16 - Return to Koh Samui, then flight to Bangkok
D17 - Day trip to Ayutthaya, return to Bangkok in the evening
D18 - Flight back to France :(
I know a lot of you recommend heading straight to Chiang Mai to recover from the international flight, but my partner and I NEVER sleep on planes (personally, I’ve been flying to Taiwan since I was little and have never slept more than an hour on a 14-hour flight...), so it’s essential for us to rest upon arrival . That’s also why I opted for domestic flights instead of the sleeper train—I know we’d lose over 10 hours and wouldn’t be able to rest properly in those conditions.
And I’m sure you’ll also say BKK > North > South is too much for three weeks, but I really want to see as much as possible. Given how much the flights will cost, I’m not sure when we’ll be able to come back 🏴☠️.
So, questions:
1. Since we’ll only be in Bangkok for a maximum of two nights and need to easily reach the airport with luggage (and a child), which neighborhood should we prioritize? We’d love to experience the evening vibe of Asian night markets, ideally within walking distance of the hotel or just a few metro stops away. I’ve looked at Chinatown, but the BTS seems far... Should we go for somewhere near BTS Saphan Taksin or BTS Krungthonburi? But is the area lively in the evening with food courts, etc.? We’d also like to treat ourselves to a hotel with a pool.
2. Have we planned too many days in the south? Should I skip Koh Tao and just do Koh Samui + Koh Phangan? My partner and daughter aren’t strong swimmers, so we’re looking for beautiful beaches without too much current. Crowded beaches don’t bother us—we just want stunning turquoise waters without killer waves . Going all the way to Koh Tao and then back to Koh Samui to catch the flight to Bangkok seems too stressful.
Is it still possible these days (I haven’t seen any recent posts on this) to head to Koh Samui in August and decide on the spot how many nights to spend in Koh Phangan or Koh Tao based on how we feel, booking hotels as we go? Or is that too risky?
If you have any better suggestions for fitting all this in while reducing internal flights, I’m all ears for your great tips
- Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is a 7-hour round-trip bus ride. Trying to do it with visits included in the same day is unreasonable.
And you’ll also say BKK>North>South is too much for 3 weeks
I see 2.5 weeks of travel, not 3.
It won’t be the entire North and South but a very small part of each, so it’s doable in 2.5 weeks. What’s surprising, though, is the large number of days dedicated to beach time compared to the North—it gives the impression that your stop in Chiang Mai is just there as a justification.
Did we plan too many days in the South?
See my two remarks above.
flight tickets (...) (1400 € per person stings 😕).
After a quick search, I see that for a Saturday departure* in August and a mid-week return, prices are more around 1100 euros. It’s still expensive but not as bad as 1400 €. Also, kids under 12 sometimes get a small discount—add that criterion when choosing your airline.
* Departing and/or returning on a weekend is usually more expensive.
Hi there,
I’ve been to Thailand a dozen or so times, from north to south, with or without kids, little ones or teens... in December, January, or February, so during the cool season, traveling by domestic flights, train, big buses, death-defying minibuses, taxis, and more.
Your itinerary has way too many places and therefore too many transport legs—it’s a huge time-waster.
If you’re stopping in Bangkok on arrival, you won’t do much on the first day because you’ll be exhausted. On the second day, visit the Grand Palace—even the kids love it because it’s bursting with color and full of massive, fantastical creatures. If you’re not too tired, check out Wat Pho.
On the second day, you can take a river bus to the end of the line and see life along the banks and the traffic on the river. You can stop to visit Wat Pho if you didn’t see it the day before—the giant reclining golden Buddha is unforgettable.
On the other side of the river, stop at Wat Arun, which lines the waterfront.
If you’re new to Thailand, what really matters is the change of scenery. In the north, Chiang Mai is enough. It’s a big city that feels familiar in some ways, but if you stay in the "square" (the historic center within the moat), you’ll have 40 temples within walking distance, including some of the most beautiful ones.
The area is really lively—sure, there are other tourists, but also lots of Thai people who come to pray at the temples, and plenty of monks. There are also restaurants, hotels (the ones I stay at in winter don’t have pools), and weekend night markets along the main street. Lots of agencies offer activities in the surrounding countryside and mountains...
In Chiang Rai, the temple architecture is the same (Lanna style), except for the recent White Temple. I only go there with friends who are into Asian architecture because it’s a long trip, and I take a flight back to Bangkok or elsewhere without returning to Chiang Mai.
Someone else might be able to tell you where to see beautiful rice fields in the north at this time of year.
For the beaches, I’m not familiar with the ones you’re interested in, but you’ve already got some answers.
Have a great trip!
Thanks so much for your quick reply!
I’d seen on GetYourGuide day trips to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai—leaving at 7 AM and returning at 10 PM. Honestly, I think I’ll take your advice and skip that tour. Or maybe add 2 extra nights there and cut 2 from the southern islands.
Flight tickets still aren’t booked 😅 I set up an alert on Skyscanner. We’re still seeing around 1300 € with one stop in Dubai, or 1400 € for a direct flight with Thai Airways. Yeah, we’re also keeping an eye on weekday flights.
Question: Do you know if Bangkok’s airport is a nightmare to reach by public transport? If it’s anything like CDG Étoile (for those who know), I’m seriously considering booking the direct international flight and then connecting straight to the domestic flight to Chiang Mai. We’ll be exhausted, but at least we won’t have to make the trek back to the airport after just 2 nights in Bangkok.
In that case, how many hours should we ideally allow between landing in Bangkok and our departure for Chiang Mai? 2 hours? 4 hours? Thanks!!
Hi there,
Thanks for taking the time to reply. I read your travel journals about Thailand 😊
You suggest skipping Samui and Phangan. Based on my research, I was almost ready to do the opposite and skip Koh Tao. Is it because of the island’s more authentic vibe that you prefer it? I read that it’s better for snorkeling and strong swimmers, which isn’t our case. Snorkeling means coral beaches, which is why I was ready to skip it—especially since getting back to Bangkok for the return flight is a real hassle.
Otherwise, when we arrive in Samui, should we head straight to the farthest point, so Tao, then come back to Phangan, and finally spend a few days on Samui before the flight to Bangkok (if I stick to the original plan of visiting all three islands!)? What do you think?
Hello,
Your photos are amazing 🤩 we love visiting temples when we're in Asia. Thanks for the Bangkok itinerary idea!
You seem to know this city well—would you have any recommendations for neighborhoods to stay in where there are lots of night markets and everything is within walking distance? I read that areas near BTS Saphan Taksin or Krungthonburi are practical and close to the river for visiting temples, but posts don’t mention the evening vibe. We’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing during the day and then head out on foot in the evenings to snack before heading back to the hotel, depending on our daughter’s energy (and our feet’s!).
Thanks also for your tip about staying in the "square" in Chiang Mai. I haven’t started researching neighborhoods for that city yet, but now I’ll know what to prioritize 😊
After your feedback on Chiang Rai and others’ before you, I’m really starting to doubt whether adding that stop is worth it. Thanks again!
Question: Do you know if the airport in Bangkok is a real hassle to reach by public transport? Is it like CDG Étoile?
From CDG Étoile, you don’t take off—you triumph. 😉
Bangkok’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi (BKK), is easily reachable by the Skytrain, which helps avoid the traffic jams (from 6–10 AM and 3–8 PM) from the city center. However, the Skytrain doesn’t directly serve tourist areas, so you’ll still need another form of transport to reach one of its stations.
The airport is also accessible by urban buses and special "airport" buses (I’ve forgotten the name).
Otherwise, there’s the metered taxi.
In any case, except for the Skytrain, never forget the traffic jam issue.
I’m seriously considering booking a direct international flight and then connecting straight to a domestic flight to Chiang Mai. We’ll be exhausted, but at least we won’t have to make the trip back to the airport after 2 nights.
That’s exactly what I’d do in your situation.
Just make sure your connecting flight departs from Suvarnabhumi (BKK). Currently, Bangkok Airways*, Thai Airways**, AirAsia***, and Thai VietJet**** operate from there.
If you take the Thai Airways international flight arriving at BKK around 6 AM, all these airlines have flights that’ll get you to Chiang Mai before 11 AM.
*Check at CDG if you can check your luggage straight through to Chiang Mai—it seems Thai Airways (international) and Bangkok Airways have commercial agreements, so in Bangkok, you’d only need to "transfer" and handle all formalities + baggage claim in Chiang Mai.
**Same as above with Bangkok Airways.
***Low-cost. Be careful when booking—some of their flights to Chiang Mai depart from Don Mueang (DMK), the other airport, which is far from BKK.
****Low-cost.
In that case, how many hours should we ideally allow between arriving in Bangkok and departing for Chiang Mai? 2 hours? 4 hours? Thanks!!
Arrival at BKK → connection at BKK: 2 to 2.25 hours (including formalities + baggage claim at BKK).
Arrival at BKK → connection at DMK: 4 to 5 hours.
Hello,
As I mentioned, we mostly went to Bangkok in the winter, so we didn’t need a pool—the heat was bearable. We don’t like areas with lots of hotels and the touristy night markets that come with them. We often went to the Silom and Saladaeng districts, which are part of Bangkok’s economic and commercial center. There are quiet little hotels tucked away in the alleys, and *so* much life—the Thais work in offices and shopping malls. Starting in the morning, street stalls sell prepared fruit, ready-to-eat snacks, and other treats. They’re replaced by different cooks at lunchtime and in the evening. Until COVID, there was a food court behind the Central Department Store (the local Galeries Lafayette)—it was like a canteen for the people working in the area, and for us too... with authentic Thai quality and prices, not tourist prices. I assume it’s still there. There were also restaurants, of course. Every evening (6 out of 7 days), we’d buy mangoes with coconut sticky rice from the corner of Silom Road—the photo of the owner is on our kitchen wall!
Don’t miss mango sticky rice wherever you go (the rice can be blue, colored by butterfly pea flowers), Kao Soy in Chiang Mai—a local curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top (you can find it at Picard)—and massaman curry, the favorite of Europeans. Massaman is a dish from the Muslim south, traditionally made with lamb, and it includes potatoes. Buddhists make it with chicken or beef. And don’t forget Chiang Mai sausages, pineapple pork served with dried pork... Safe travels and bon appétit!
I see that the last little place we stayed at is still on Booking—it’s called Urban House and still has great reviews.
For the islands, if I were you, I’d just stay on Samui. From there, you can do the following day trips:
- To Phangan for the day, leaving from Mae Nam with the Lomprayah catamaran (20-minute crossing). Hire a private taxi for the day and have them show you around the island. Lots of beaches, all as beautiful as each other, like Haad Son Beach, Chaloklum, Thong Naï Pan Yaï, and Haad Rien (the Full Moon Party beach). Avoid going a week before or after the party—way too crowded. The dates are easy to find online.
- Ang Thong National Marine Park
- Koh Madsum and Koh Rat by longtail boat
- Koh Nang Yuan
For where to stay, based on what you’ve said, Crystal Bay beach is a great choice. There are 5 or 6 hotels right on the beach, almost all with a pool. At this time of year, the beach is at low tide, and the water is crystal clear. You’ll find restaurants nearby, including one that serves excellent French or Thai food at reasonable prices in a lovely setting. It’s also very clean.
You’ll be just 3 km from Lamaï, with its night market, restaurants, and other attractions.
For the north, don’t forget you’ll be there during the rainy season, but that doesn’t mean it’ll rain every day or all day.
Hi there,
I don’t quite understand your desire to visit so many places... You’ll spend all your time in transit, and choosing several islands doesn’t seem wise either.
If you want to explore the north a bit, my advice would be to stick to Chiang Mai and its surroundings—there’s plenty to do within 50 km of Chiang Mai. Skip the rest, especially Chiang Rai.
As for the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, I’d recommend avoiding Koh Samui. It’s become too polluted and overcrowded...
I first visited this island in 1975—a little paradise where people lived off fishing and copra harvesting. Ten years later, things started to deteriorate (in my opinion) with the arrival of electricity and paved roads, then screens and "video"... Finally, with the construction of the airport came the era of concrete! The charm is gone. If you like crowds, noise, marine pollution, rarely clear water, and concrete, then Koh Samui might be for you—just like Pattaya, where the water might even be clearer.
Koh Phangan has certainly changed a lot too, but I think there are still some quiet spots left on the island... If I were you, I’d stick to this island—it’s a bit more "natural."
We’d like to treat ourselves to a hotel with a pool.
Hi everyone, thanks a million for all your tips! Mango sticky rice is already one of my favorite desserts, and reading your posts makes me even more excited to be there!!
Wishing you all a wonderful day
Hi, thank you so much for this detailed reply. I’ll follow your advice and Jojoone1’s too!
I’ll go over all the valuable tips everyone’s given me and fine-tune my trip to make it more realistic
Hello,
You seem to know Samui well. Is the sea no longer crystal clear these days, or is it just at this time of year? Crowds and tourists don’t bother me—in fact, I chose Samui as the main island for our trip because I thought it was the perfect balance between city and beach.
However, if the seas are a bit murky, that might be less appealing to us . Are there still some beaches you’d recommend over others in August in terms of water "quality"?
Thanks so much for the accommodation tip—I’d seen it mentioned in a lot of posts too.
Noted for Chiang Rai—everyone says to avoid that stop, so I’ll take your advice.
Hi there, I really want to thank you for such a detailed response. It’s exactly all the info I needed to get organized.
I get that it’s gonna be tough to find accommodation close to the Skytrain AND also want a lively neighborhood . And if taking a taxi, count on an extra hour in traffic jams.
Good call on the luggage transfer directly through Thai Airways—I’ll look into it ahead of time.
Anyway, thanks to everyone for taking the time to reply. And for repeating the same thing to people who keep asking the same questions, whether out of ignorance or just to feel reassured
What Djalma says isn’t entirely wrong. If you stay on this beach, you’ll notice that in the morning and until around noon, you’ll be swimming in what feels like "Vittel" (bottled water).
The water gets a bit murky with the tide, and if it’s crowded in the afternoon.
It’s nothing like a Mediterranean beach where, by 11 AM, you’re dipping into a bacterial soup.🏴☠️
You seem to know Samui well. Is the sea no longer crystal clear these days, or is it just at this time of year? Crowds and tourists don’t bother me—in fact, I chose Samui as the main island for our trip because I thought it was the perfect balance between city and beach.
However, if the seas are a bit murky, that might not be as appealing . Are there still some beaches you’d recommend over others in August in terms of water “quality”?
I wouldn’t say I *know* it well—I’ve been there at three different times, the last just after the airport was built… so that wasn’t exactly yesterday! I’m nostalgic for the days when there were no roads or electricity, and hardly any concrete except for a few buildings in the main village where you’d arrive on the island. All the “bungalows” back then were made of wood (bamboo) with palm-leaf roofs!
Even in the very early days of tourism, I’d noticed that the water quality (clarity) was worse in all the Gulf of Thailand islands (Samui, Phangan, Tao, etc.) compared to the Andaman Sea islands (Phuket, Phi Phi, Lanta, etc.). Though I’m sure that also depends on the season…
Since I’m mostly interested in what’s underwater (snorkeling, diving), I’ve always preferred the latter.
That was until my last trip to Thailand/Malaysia: Koh Muk, Koh Kradan, Koh Lipe, Koh Tarutao…
The two best for snorkeling were Koh Muk and Koh Lipe (though the latter is now overcrowded), and summer isn’t the best time to go there anyway.
At Samui, the most beautiful beaches (as always) are the busiest ones (Chaweng and Lamai), but since I prefer tranquility, I’d go for Bophut. My main interest was exploring the island’s interior, as snorkeling in Samui isn’t great—except maybe in a small cove I’ve forgotten the name of, in the south of the island.
Thanks also for your tip about staying in the "square" in Chiang Mai. I haven't started looking into neighborhoods for this city yet, but now I know what to prioritize! 😊
Great tip indeed.
In the square, a quiet and charming area with guesthouses in alleys where two cars can barely pass each other (so it's pretty much pedestrian-only): just west of Tha Phae Gate in sois 1 to 5, which run north from Ratchadamnoen Rd up to Moon Muang Rd Lane 5.
Thanks to your feedback on Chiang Rai and others before you, I'm really starting to doubt whether it's worth adding this stop.
You’re wrong to doubt—go for it! Chiang Rai is also a lovely city to visit (and much less touristy than Chiang Mai) and deserves at least 3 to 4 nights to explore its nearby attractions: the White Temple, the Blue Temple, the King Mother Royal Villa and (especially) Garden (a must-see), the border vibe in Mae Sai, Chiang Saen and its majestic Mekong... Within the city, there are also some beautiful temples. Plus, the surrounding countryside is perfect for biking—try the area west-southwest of the old airport, right near the city.
Cut down on beach time, and you’ll have time to go.
Mango sticky rice is already one of my favorite desserts
On this one, I totally disagree with you. The White Temple, for me, is exactly the kind of thing to avoid: recent, paid entry, ultra-touristy.
Just like the Blue Temple, there’s no historical appeal—just flashy, concrete stuff.
Honestly, if the Chiang Rai area could compete with Chiang Mai, we’d have known about it ages ago.
I’m planning a backpacking trip to Kazakhstan with my 8-year-old daughter this summer. She’s used to backpacking trips.
I’m brainstorming the sights to see and could really use some advice.
Ideally, I’d like to visit:
8 days in the Almaty region (Charyn, Kolsai, Kaindy, Altyn Emel, etc.)
1 day in Turkestan (mausoleum, caravanserai) (overnight train from Almaty, 16 hours)
1 day in Aktau (overnight train from Turkestan, 35 hours!!)
1 day in Mangystau
1 day in Astana (flight from Aktau)
1 day in Burabay (by train)
The distances are huge, especially between Almaty and Aktau, and Aktau to Astana.
Is the Aktau stop essential, given that the Mangystau desert looks stunning (but the excursion is expensive—300 € for three people), while Aktau itself seems pretty dull (a run-down Soviet city)?
Are Astana and Burabay (which also looks amazing) must-sees?
Is Turkestan worth it if we’ve already seen Uzbekistan and its wonders?
I’m torn between four scenarios:
1. Almaty + train to Astana and return to France from Astana: simple and not too expensive
2. Almaty-Turkestan-Aktau-Astana (train + flight = very expensive!!)
3. Almaty-Aktau-Astana (flights—very, very expensive but fast)
4. Almaty-Turkestan-Aktau and return to France from Aktau, but that means combining two different airlines with two one-way tickets and all the risks that entails...
Right now, only Flyarystan has released tickets for this summer, and the Almaty-Aktau-Astana flights cost nearly 1000 € for three people with luggage (200 € per person round-trip).
For the Almaty region, I could even spend two weeks there—there’s so much to do and see. That’d be a fifth scenario, but I’d really like to take the overnight train and see the capital and the Mangystau desert too.
International flights are operated by Turkish Airlines to Astana and Almaty, but they don’t serve Aktau. Pegasus flies to Aktau but not to Almaty or Astana on the days I’d want.
So, I’m looking for feedback from people who’ve visited Mangystau and Burabay—is it worth investing the time and money in those excursions, or is the Almaty region alone enough for the trip?
Thanks to all the great travel journals I’ve read—they’ve already given me plenty of ideas!
I’m heading to the Dominican Republic (Punta Cana) at the end of October for 10 days at an all-inclusive hotel with my wife and kids (ages 8 and 10).
Since I’m not a fan of spending entire days at the hotel, I was wondering what the best way(s) to explore the area might be.
Last year, I went to Mexico and rented a car, so I initially thought about doing the same here—but this time, I’d get full-coverage insurance, which I didn’t do in Mexico.
After checking a few forums and reviews, though, I’m really second-guessing it because some posts make it sound completely crazy to drive there.
So, I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been there recently and rented a car, as well as the different ways to get around while you’re there.
Hello,
We’re planning a two-week trip to Cape Verde at the end of July/beginning of August 2027 with our two teens (14 and 16). We’d like a mix of hiking, beach time, and soaking up the local vibe. We were thinking of sticking to São Vicente and Santo Antão to minimize transfers.
I’ve read that it’s the start of the rainy season and it can get pretty hot. Is hiking still doable despite that?
Hi there!
I’m planning a trip with my wife and our three kids (ages 9, 6, and 3) from April 16 to May 6.
I’ve started sketching out the itinerary, trying to alternate between visits, hikes, safaris, and downtime. I want to keep the pace relaxed given the kids’ ages.
Could you let me know what you think of this route? I removed Nuwara Eliya, which I had originally planned before Ella, to cut down on stops. I was also wondering if I should break up the Arugam Bay to Colombo leg with an overnight in Galle, since it’s a long drive.
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Day 1 – 04/16: Wilpattu
Arrival at the airport (08:00) + transfer to Wilpattu (180 km, 4–5 h) + afternoon safari
Overnight: Wilpattu
Day 2 – 04/17: Wilpattu
Morning & afternoon safari
Overnight: Wilpattu
Day 3 – 04/18: Trincomalee
Transfer Wilpattu → Trincomalee (200 km, 4–5 h) + beach relaxation
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 4 – 04/19: Trincomalee
Nilaveli Beach
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 5 – 04/20: Trincomalee
Pigeon Island snorkeling
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 6 – 04/21: Trincomalee
Fort Frederick & relaxation
Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 7 – 04/22: Sigiriya
Transfer Trincomalee → Sigiriya (120 km, ~3 h) + visit to Dambulla
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 8 – 04/23: Sigiriya
Sigiriya Rock
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 9 – 04/24: Sigiriya
Minneriya safari
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 10 – 04/25: Sigiriya
Polonnaruwa & village tour
Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 11 – 04/26: Ella
Transfer Sigiriya → Ella (230 km, 5–6 h) + rest
Overnight: Ella
Day 12 – 04/27: Ella
Little Adam’s Peak & Nine Arches Bridge
Overnight: Ella
Day 13 – 04/28: Ella
Ella Rock
Overnight: Ella
Day 14 – 04/29: Ella
Tea Factory & relaxation
Overnight: Ella
Day 15 – 04/30: Yala
Transfer Ella → Yala (110 km, 2–3 h) + afternoon safari
Overnight: Yala
Day 16 – 05/01: Arugam Bay
Transfer Yala → Arugam Bay (80 km, 2.5–3 h) + beach time
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 17 – 05/02: Arugam Bay
Surfing & relaxation
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 18 – 05/03: Arugam Bay
Local exploration
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 19 – 05/04: Colombo
Transfer Arugam Bay → Colombo (320 km, 7–8 h) + rest
Overnight: Colombo
Day 20 – 05/05: Colombo
City tour & shopping
Overnight: Colombo
Day 21 – 05/06: Colombo
Morning return flight from Colombo
We're a family with two kids aged 7 and 2, planning a trip to Morocco from December 21 to 28, 2026.
We're thinking of spending 2 days and 2 nights in Marrakech, then heading out on the third morning to the Erg Chebbi dunes (Merzouga or Khamlia, still deciding), and returning to catch our flight.
The plan is to go via Skoura, the Valley of Roses, the Dadès Gorges, Tinghir, to reach the Merzouga dunes. On the way back, we'd stop at Tamnougalt before returning to Marrakech.
A few notes, since traveling with young kids slows everything down:
- Ideally, we'd like to travel by shared taxi or bus
- I don’t want to stop and sleep in Ouarzazate, as I’ve already visited.
Questions:
- Does this seem doable in December (especially the Marrakech-Ouarzazate stretch)?
- Which overnight stops would you recommend between Marrakech and Merzouga? We’ll spend 2 nights in two different places, then 2 nights in Merzouga, and 1 night in Tamnougalt.
- I’d prefer shared taxis, but can they drop us off a bit farther than city centers (e.g., if our hostel is a few kilometers from Boulmane Dadès, or not in central Merzouga but in Khamlia)? Basically, is it possible to travel a little off the beaten path with shared taxis?
- We love family-friendly hostels—if you have any recommendations, we’re all ears!
hello
we're heading to Marrakech with a 5-year-old and would love to give them a memorable experience. Any suggestions for something simple and definitely not too "luxury"?
Thanks so much
Hello everyone!
What a pleasure to be back on this forum after all these years… Goodness, we’re clearly far from the days of backpacking solo and carefree! Today, I’m well and truly "tied down," with two adorable little anchors—ages 3 and 5½—keeping me on my toes 😊
But here we are, finally mustering the courage to dive back into adventure, backpacks and all… this time as a family!
We know traveling with young kids won’t be a walk in the park, but we’re ready to adapt. And for that, I’ll need your brilliant advice!
Here’s our plan:
We’ve got our tickets for Kochi, from December 28 to January 5, 2026.
From my research, I’ve seen that this period is super lively in Kochi, with lots of festivities. I’ve also read that despite the crowds, it’s generally pretty "kids-friendly." Can any of you confirm this?
I figure it’d be a shame to miss all the fun, especially if there are parades (with or without elephants… even if I’m not a fan of the concept, I know my kids would be amazed…).
As for the itinerary, I’m still a bit unsure.
Since New Year’s Eve falls right in the middle of our trip, it complicates the idea of doing a loop around Kerala. Here’s what I’m considering so far:
December 28: Arrival in Kochi, then we’d head straight to Marari Beach (or a similar beach) to settle in and let the kids get their bearings.
December 30: Houseboat cruise in Alleppey
December 31: Back to Kochi, to enjoy the New Year’s festivities
We’d stay in Kochi until January 1 or 2, then head to Munroe Island for a few more relaxing days before heading home
January 5: Flight back to France
My big question: Is spending New Year’s Eve in Kochi with kids a good idea?
Or should we arrive, then leave the city quickly to avoid the crowds?
Thanks in advance for your feedback, experiences, and tips. I’m all ears for any suggestions to make this first (real) family trip as smooth as possible 😊
Hi everyone, we're heading to Brazil for two weeks during the Easter holidays.
Arriving in Rio and departing from São Paulo. Any recommendations for hotels, guides, or must-see spots?
I’d like to organize everything myself with reliable local drivers, and I’m looking for nice, comfortable accommodations considering my 5-year-old son.
Thanks so much!
Emilie
After scouring the forum without managing to decide, I thought I’d ask for your advice!
Before becoming a mom, we traveled for a year from Iran to Indonesia, and now my partner and I are finally ready to take our first big one-month trip with our kids.
We’d like 2 or 3 places to visit, settle in, and explore the surrounding area.
We’re looking for a destination that’s fairly easy (since our kids aren’t always easy themselves), but I’m hesitant about Thailand (which I didn’t enjoy because it felt too touristy at the time).
I was thinking about Vietnam, which I don’t know at all. Maybe Laos, but spending a few days near a nice beach would be relaxing with two little ones full of energy…
We don’t want to rush through crowded, commercial sites—we want to take our time and discover beautiful places.
I’ve read the forum a lot and found a wealth of information. I’ve tried to compile all of it into our itinerary and would love your feedback to finalize the bookings (we’re planning this *very* last-minute).
Here’s what we’re thinking of doing:
22 July: arrival in Johannesburg
Night of 22–23: Johannesburg
Nights of 23–26: Marloth Park (with Kruger visits on the 24th, 25th, and a crossing visit on the 26th)
Nights of 26–28: Graskop (visiting the canyon and Panorama Road on the 27th and 28th)
Nights of 28–30: Hoedspruit (visiting the central area of Kruger on the 29th?)
Nights of 30 July–1 August: Balule Park (private reserve with safari)
Nights of 1–5 August: flight from Hoedspruit to Cape Town, then 2 days in Cape Town, 1 day on the peninsula, and 2 days for wine (just the route) or something else based on your advice (we don’t know where to stay—whether to stay all 5 nights in Cape Town and where in the city, or do 2 nights in Cape Town and 3 nights nearby—but where?)
Night of 5–6 August: Kelders for penguins and whales
Nights of 6–8 August: Tsitsikamma (what is there to do/see?)
Nights of 8–10 August: Addo Park on the 9th
10 August: flight from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg and back home
What do you think?
Is there a lot of driving time?
We’d really appreciate your comments and suggestions.
Thanks!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our kids.
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, we’d like a trip more focused on nature. We don’t want to visit any cities (maybe a floating market if it’s really worth the detour).
We’re looking for:
- Spectacular jungle;
- Animals in their natural habitat;
- Beautiful hikes or boat rides;
- Paradise-like beaches;
- Turquoise water with excellent snorkeling, preferably directly from the beach (turtles, tropical fish, etc.).
We’re thinking of including Khao Sok, but we’re unsure which islands to combine with this park.
Do you have any suggestions for 2-week itineraries with reasonable travel times? We’re prioritizing landscapes, nature, and the sea above all else.
I’d love some advice on choosing a Christmas destination for a trip with my partner and our two kids, aged 10 and 12.
We’re looking for a place where we can enjoy great, easy snorkeling with the kids—ideally from the beach or in shallow water.
And if possible, a beautiful spot to explore, with nature, hikes, and a more laid-back, backpacker-friendly vibe than big resorts or mass tourism.
A "reasonable" flight time and not too much jet lag would be ideal!
I’ve been considering Mauritius, Zanzibar (plus possibly Tanzania), Martinique, or Guadeloupe—but maybe you have other suggestions or thoughts on these options?
I wanted to share our experience after a 5-day trip to Armenia with my wife and our 8-month-old baby.
It’s a destination that’s still relatively unknown, but it’s really worth the trip, especially if you enjoy cultural, spiritual, historical, and human-centered travel.
We were looking for a change of scenery but not too complicated with a baby—and easy to organize (even though our travel agency helped us a lot, thanks to them! 😊). In the end, Armenia was a wonderful surprise. It’s not a "postcard-perfect" destination. It’s a raw, mountainous, ancient country with real depth.
And most importantly: Armenians *love* children.
That’s probably what surprised us the most. In restaurants, waitresses, owners, or even other customers would naturally come over to play with our baby, hold them for a few minutes, smile at them, or keep them entertained while we ate.
It wasn’t intrusive. It was very natural, very family-oriented. You can tell that children have a real place in society. For parents traveling with a baby, it’s honestly a pleasure.
Day 1 — Yerevan
We started with Yerevan, a pleasant capital that’s quite easy to explore with a child.
The city isn’t huge. You can stroll around Republic Square, visit cafés, discover markets, and walk at a relaxed pace.
With a baby, it’s pretty practical: you can easily take breaks, return to the hotel, or go back out in the evening. The vibe is laid-back, family-friendly, and we felt safe.
In the evening, Yerevan is very lively. The restaurants are welcoming, and almost everywhere, our baby drew smiles.
Day 2 — Etchmiadzin and Khor Virap
On the second day, we headed to Etchmiadzin, the spiritual heart of Armenia. It’s an important place for understanding the country and its Christian identity.
Then, we visited Khor Virap, facing Mount Ararat.
It’s probably one of the most striking places on the trip. The monastery, the plain, the distant Ararat—everything is visually and symbolically powerful.
With a baby, you just need to plan a relaxed pace, avoid rushing, and take your time.
Day 3 — Garni and Geghard
The third day was one of our favorites.
We visited the Temple of Garni, very different from the monasteries, with a stunning setting in the mountains.
Then we went to Geghard, a monastery partially carved into the rock.
The atmosphere is incredible. It’s quiet, mineral, almost timeless. Even if you’re not very religious, you feel something.
With a child, the visit goes well, but again, it’s best not to overload the day. The key is to keep a flexible pace.
Day 4 — Noravank
On the fourth day, we headed to Noravank.
The road itself is an experience: dry landscapes, mountains, red rocks, valleys. The monastery is surrounded by impressive cliffs.
It’s one of the most beautiful sites we saw in Armenia.
You really get the sense that Armenian monasteries were built in impossible places—between sky, stone, and mountain.
Along the way, you can also pass through the Areni region, known for its wine. With a baby, we mostly prioritized simple breaks, relaxed meals, and uncompressed travel times.
Day 5 — Lake Sevan and return to Yerevan
For the last day, we went to Lake Sevan.
The lake is vast, bright, and surrounded by mountains. The Sevanavank Monastery, up high, offers a beautiful view.
It’s a gentler stop, perfect for ending the trip.
Then we returned to Yerevan for a final dinner. Once again, the welcome in restaurants stood out. In Armenia, traveling with a baby isn’t seen as a hassle. On the contrary, people spontaneously come up to the child.
Our overall impression
In 5 days, you obviously don’t see all of Armenia. To reach Tatev, Dilijan, Haghpat, or Sanahin, you’d need more like 7 to 10 days.
But for a first visit, 5 days are enough to feel the essence: Yerevan, the major monasteries, Mount Ararat, the landscapes, the Christian history, and the Armenian hospitality.
What we loved most:
- the kindness of people toward our baby;
- the very family-friendly atmosphere;
- the monasteries in incredible landscapes;
- the view of Mount Ararat from Khor Virap;
- the atmosphere of Geghard;
- the cliffs of Noravank;
- the food;
- the feeling of safety;
- the fact that the country is still relatively untouched by mass tourism.
What to know when traveling with a baby:
- distances can be longer than expected;
- some roads are mountainous;
- avoid overloading the day;
- it’s better to have a driver or a car;
- plan for breaks, water, diapers, baby meals;
- a stroller isn’t always practical on ancient sites;
- a baby carrier can be very useful.
Recommended 5-day itinerary
For a first trip, I’d suggest:
Day 1: Yerevan
Day 2: Etchmiadzin + Khor Virap
Day 3: Garni + Geghard
Day 4: Noravank + Areni
Day 5: Sevan + return to Yerevan
It’s balanced, not too tiring, and gives a great first impression of the country.
Conclusion
Armenia is a wonderful destination with a baby, as long as you travel slowly and don’t try to see everything.
What touched us most, beyond the landscapes and monasteries, was the attitude toward children. There, you feel that babies are welcomed with real tenderness. In restaurants, people naturally helped us, played with our child, and gave us a few minutes to breathe.
That’s rare, and it makes a big difference in the travel experience.
Armenia isn’t a destination you consume quickly.
It’s a country that you *feel*.
For those who love cultural, spiritual, historical, family, and human-centered travel, I highly recommend it.
Hi everyone,
We're heading to Colombia soon for two weeks as a family with our two 10-year-old boys. I'm a bit behind on planning our itinerary and could really use your advice!
We arrive in Cartagena, where we'll spend 3 nights.
Next, we're heading to the Tayrona area for 3 nights. Could you recommend a nice hotel with a pool, ideally family-friendly? Unfortunately, Senda Watapuy and Senda Koguiwa are already fully booked for our dates.
After that, we were thinking of spending a few days in Minca. Is that a good idea in late July/early August? How many nights would you recommend?
Finally, we're looking for a last stop before returning to France. We've heard about Mompox, but we're hesitant because it seems like a big detour. We love nature, animals, beautiful landscapes, beaches, and authentic places. Do you think Mompox is worth the detour with two kids, or would you recommend another destination (Palomino, Barú, La Guajira...) instead?
We don’t want to take any domestic flights.
Thanks in advance for all your tips and experiences!
This summer, we’ve decided to do a 3-week road trip starting from Nice and heading down to Ksamil in Albania.
We’re leaving from Nice, and our route is already pretty much set:
Nice - Verona (Italy) - Rijeka (Croatia) - Zadar - Split - Budva (Montenegro) - Shkodër (Albania) - Ksamil, then back through Italy via Bari.
The itinerary is packed! 🙂
Do you have any suggestions for things to see—visits, beaches, viewpoints, villages, or excursions—to make the most of our journey?
Hi there, we're planning our vacation in Indonesia. We're a family with two kids aged 11 and 14. We leave on July 26th and return on August 17th, 2026.
We initially planned to visit Bali, Komodo, and Flores, but after looking into it more, we came across Sumatra, which is less touristy... a real plus for us. However, skipping Bali might be a shame.
I was wondering if spending 12 days in Sumatra and finishing with about 7 days in Bali is a doable plan.
Hi,
I’m traveling with my 5-year-old son this summer to Northern Thailand, Northern Vietnam, Yunnan, and Indonesia. I plan to equip him with a GPS tracker, but the SIM cards come with a contract. Do you know what the options are in Asia?
Thanks,
Nora
Hi there,
We’d like to spend 2 days in Lyon in May with our 8- and 12-year-old kids, exploring the city on foot.
We’ll arrive on day 1 around 11 AM and leave on day 2 around 6 PM.
I’ve mapped out two routes and was wondering if they’re doable in our 2 days, and if you have any tips or info on visit prices.
We’re not sure where to stay yet, but we’d like to optimize by booking accommodation (hotel or Airbnb) between the two routes, maybe?
We’re heading to Sri Lanka for three weeks in July with two kids (ages 6 and 13).
We’ve drafted a rough itinerary but would love to hear from those who’ve already been there 😊
Of course, we want to see everything, but we have to make choices—even though three weeks on the ground lets us do quite a bit.
We originally planned a schedule that felt too packed, so we had to cut one stop. We decided to skip Tangalle, even though we were really tempted. The monsoon won’t let us swim there, and the weather in the south is too uncertain, so we preferred to keep our stops on the east coast. Plus, we don’t think it’s reasonable to cut nights from other places.
We’ve added a stop in Batticaloa, which we think will be a nice break between Arugam Bay and Sigiriya. What do you think?
We’re also debating between Batticaloa and Passikudah.
Does the itinerary seem logical to you?
Here it is:
Sri Lanka Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival around 1 PM at the airport
Night in Negombo
Day 2
Drive from Negombo to Galle
Visit Galle and surrounding areas
Night in Galle
Day 3
Visit Galle and surrounding areas
Night in Galle
Day 4
Visit Galle and surrounding areas
Drive from Galle to Udawalawe
Night in Udawalawe
Day 5
Visit Udawalawe National Park
Night in Udawalawe
Day 6
Drive from Udawalawe to Ella
Night in Ella
Day 7
Ella Rock
+ Nine Arch Bridge
Night in Ella
Day 8
Visit Haputale
Lipton’s Seat and Dambatenne Tea Factory
Train ride back from Haputale to Ella
Night in Ella
Day 9
Little Adam’s Peak
+ drive from Ella to Arugam Bay
Night in Arugam Bay
Day 10
Visit Arugam Bay and surrounding areas
Night in Arugam Bay
Day 11
Visit Arugam Bay and surrounding areas
Night in Arugam Bay
Day 12
Drive from Arugam Bay to Batticaloa
Night in Batticaloa
Day 13
Visit Batticaloa
Night in Batticaloa
Day 14
Drive from Batticaloa to Sigiriya
Night in Sigiriya
Day 15
Lion Rock and Pidurangala
Night in Sigiriya
Day 16
Visit Dambulla
Drive from Sigiriya to Trincomalee
Night in Trincomalee
Day 17
Visit Trincomalee and surrounding areas
Night in Trincomalee
Day 18
Visit Trincomalee and surrounding areas
Night in Trincomalee
Day 19
Drive from Trincomalee to Anuradhapura
Night in Anuradhapura
Day 20
Visit Anuradhapura
Night in Anuradhapura
Day 21
Visit Mihintale
Drive from Anuradhapura to Negombo
Night in Negombo
Day 22
Day in Negombo and return flight
We’d love to hear your thoughts and tips! Thanks in advance!
We’re planning a 4-month trip in spring 2027. We’re looking for a third destination that optimizes transport costs. Ideally, somewhere very different from the other two (Polynesia and Indonesia). Thanks
Hi everyone!
We’re so excited to be heading to Italy for the first time this April with our two kids for a week. We’ve booked our round-trip flight, and we’ll be arriving and departing from Pisa.
Our rough plan so far includes visiting Pisa, taking the train to Florence, and exploring the Cinque Terre. Last night, a friend also suggested adding Siena to the list.
Our kids are 12 and 9 and are used to walking, but we’re not looking to rush around too much. We’d love any advice, especially about accommodation. Should we stay in Pisa and take day trips by train, or split our nights between a couple of different places?
We’re just starting our research, so any tips would be amazing! 😉
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone.
A few days ago, I asked my 14-year-old son to pick a destination for a trip, and he chose Germany. So, we’re heading to Berlin for four days in February. The catch is that I don’t know this city (or this country) at all—I hadn’t even considered visiting just a month ago .
Could you please share some suggestions to make this first mother-son trip abroad a success? 🙂
Thanks for your tips and great deals.
Nanyne
Next summer, we (2 adults and a 12-year-old child) have decided to visit Japan.
Admittedly, it’s still early to plan everything, but my wife will soon need to request her vacation time—either in August or July... and we’re hesitating.
I know summer isn’t the ideal time to visit Japan, but we don’t really have a choice... It’s either July or August. On one hand, I’d love to experience the O-Bon festivities from August 14th to 16th, and I’ve drafted an initial itinerary that would let us experience the Gujo Hachiman Bon Odori, possibly visit the Okunoin Cemetery in Koyasan, and be in Kyoto on the 16th for the Gozan Okuribi fires. But on the other hand, I’m worried it’ll be *packed*, especially in Kyoto, and less enjoyable than in July. So, have any of you experienced these celebrations? Are they worth it? Too crowded? Do you know of other celebrations or festivals in July?
Thanks for your input!
I’m reaching out because I’ve already read tons of info from other forums (thanks a million, by the way!) and blogs, but now I’m overwhelmed with details and have so many questions. I’m really hoping you can help us figure this out! Here’s the plan:
We’re leaving France for Senegal in our camper van (with two kids, aged 4 and 7), then shipping the van to South Africa before heading to Namibia. We’re planning to leave this summer and should arrive in South Africa in early September. The goal is to reach Réunion by early December, which gives us 3 months to explore Southern Africa. Originally, we wanted to pick up the van in Cape Town, head up to Namibia, and visit the main parks and iconic spots, then go north to Botswana (Etosha Park) and Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls) before heading back down to South Africa to enjoy the milder temperatures while exploring the country. But now we’re wondering how to get back to South Africa. We’ve come up with three options:
- Head back down through Botswana: I’ve read everywhere that Botswana isn’t recommended for kids under 6 (most parks) because it can be potentially dangerous—few enclosures for animals (even though we have a camper van with "secure" beds), and the agencies we’ve contacted don’t recommend it. Plus, southern Botswana is tough to navigate in a camper van.
- Return from central Botswana (Maun) to Windhoek and drive back to Cape Town via Namibia.
- Cross Zimbabwe and potentially Mozambique to head down to Kruger Park and Johannesburg.
Anyone familiar with this region have any recommendations?
Also, is it necessary to book accommodations in advance? Is that only required in certain countries (maybe Botswana/Zimbabwe)? We’d like a mix of camping and lodges.
Hi there,
We’re planning a two-week trip to Colombia with our two kids at the end of July – early August, with a round-trip flight to Cartagena.
What itinerary would you recommend, knowing we’d prefer to avoid domestic flights?
We were thinking of Cartagena, Tayrona Park, Mompox, and maybe an island.
Do you think it’s a shame to skip big cities like Bogotá or Medellín?
Thanks so much in advance for your help!
Good morning! We're heading to Cape Verde for 2 weeks at the end of April—São Vicente, Boa Vista, and Santiago. We’re a family of 5: 3 kids (4, 6, and 12) and 2 adults.
My questions revolve around beaches (a spot with interesting snorkeling and safe swimming for the kids), accommodation (kid-friendly, parks nearby, pool, beach, or nature—more like guesthouses or family-run pensions), hikes (accessible for kids), and whether renting a car makes sense depending on the island, even though local buses are an adventure in themselves.
**Santiago:**
- Beach & snorkeling: Tarrafal, Quebra Canela in Praia, Ribeira da Barca (okay for kids?), Águas Belas?
- Any nice places to stay?
- Hikes: Malagueta?, Baobab Boa Entrada, Pico António (accessible? elevation gain, time to climb, difficulty, interest for kids?)
**Boa Vista:**
- Beach + snorkeling: Santa Mónica, Praia de Chaves, Gatas, ... Estoril Beach in Sal Rei maybe?
- Can we swim at Turtle Bay to see the turtles even though it’s not nesting season?
- Any nice places to stay?
- Hikes: Viana Desert? Can we explore it solo by renting a 4x4 and easily find the points of interest?
- Is it worth renting a 4x4 for our stay in Boa Vista?
**São Vicente:**
- Beach + snorkeling: Laginha, Porto Grande, Praia Grande, Baía das Gatas, São Pedro...? (safe, good snorkeling?)
- Any nice places to stay?
- Hikes: cliffs?, Monte Verde?
Thanks for your feedback, great tips—especially for accommodation where we’re totally in the dark! And your thoughts on whether renting a car is a good idea and which beaches are safest for kids.
Hi,
We’d like to visit the Alpes de Haute-Provence for 2 weeks with our 2 (adult) kids.
Any ideas for things to see and do?
Where should we choose our accommodation (house only) to be centrally located for sightseeing? We’re looking for villages with restaurants and bakeries.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Best regards
Hi there, we’re heading to Tuscany in the second half of August with two kids (8 and 6 years old).
We’ve zeroed in on the area around Siena and Florence for now.
I’m looking for recommendations on places to stay and things to see that are great for families.
Also, just to add, we’ll be traveling by train and plan to rent a car once we’re there—any tips on car rental companies?
Hello everyone,
We’ve decided to head to Quebec next year—it’s been a dream for the whole family (after watching so many travel shows and the like...). There’ll be five of us: 2 adults, 2 teens (16 and 13), and a child (8 years old). We’re all pretty good walkers, though maybe the teens a little less so—it’s just that age, you know? 😊 That said, they’ve got no problem doing 15 km hikes, just not every single day.
We’re planning to go from July 23 to August 14, arriving and departing from Montreal, so almost 3 weeks.
I’ve started looking into logistics and accommodation prices, but before I dive into bookings, I’d love some advice on the itinerary. I’ve read a few threads here and there.
Our idea is to visit between 3 and 5 different places over the 3 weeks, so that means the same number of accommodations. The goal is to optimize travel as much as possible—I’ve realized that getting around can take a long time.
I think the first two days will be in Montreal to adjust to the time difference, and the last two in Quebec City, though that’s not set in stone.
Anyway, I’m not really sure about the route. I’ve got time to plan everything, but I know the longer we wait, the more expensive and scarce accommodations will get.
Same goes for budget—we’ve set aside a mid-range budget, flights included: 3k per person (1k for the flight). So if you’ve got any great tips or advice, we’re all ears!
I was thinking of going up the St. Lawrence River, but I’m not sure how long that takes or where to stop. Maybe there are other places worth visiting farther away...
Anyway, thanks for reading this far! If you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate.
I hope you're starting this new year with your head full of travel memories or plans!!
I’d love to spend a week in July on a Greek island with my 8-year-old son. I’m totally in love with Amorgos, but not all the beaches are accessible for him. I’ve been to Santorini and Naxos before and don’t want to go back. Would you have an island to recommend that’s not too crowded 😕, with a few accessible beaches and where we won’t have to fight to get around or park?
On the other side of the river, stop at Wat Arun, which lines the waterfront.
Don’t miss mango sticky rice wherever you go (the rice can be blue, colored by butterfly pea flowers), Kao Soy in Chiang Mai—a local curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top (you can find it at Picard)—and massaman curry, the favorite of Europeans. Massaman is a dish from the Muslim south, traditionally made with lamb, and it includes potatoes. Buddhists make it with chicken or beef. And don’t forget Chiang Mai sausages, pineapple pork served with dried pork... Safe travels and bon appétit!
I see that the last little place we stayed at is still on Booking—it’s called Urban House and still has great reviews.
