Peu connaisseur en matière de rampants j’aimerais savoir comment faire pour limiter les risques d’une malencontreuse rencontre avec un serpent siamois. 🙂
Les serpents thaïlandais sortent-ils seulement le jour ? Surtout la nuit ? 🤪
Aiment-ils ou détestent-ils l’odeur de citronnelle (on ne sait jamais 😇) ?
Sont-ils aussi trouillards que les serpents gaulois et s’enfuient-ils dès qu’ils sentent le sol vibrer sous nos pas lourds de randonneurs ? 😕
Je crois qu’en cas de morsure il est d’usage de regarder l’ennemi dans les yeux pour pouvoir ensuite le décrire aux experts anti-poison : existe-t-il quelques serpents dont il faudrait retenir en priorité la physionomie au cas où ? 😐
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
"Serpent siamois" : vous voulez dire avec des yeux bleus ?
Les serpents, particulièrement en Thaïlande, aiment les grenouilles (c'est un amour ... intéressé !) et les petits rongeurs donc on les trouve là où sont ses "restaus" préférés !
Donc (légère) méfiance dans les lieux de "restauration" de ces animaux ...
NB:J'ai "perdu" une petite minette (la soeur du matou tigré en avatar) à cause d'une piqûre de serpent.
Si vous avez compris tout ce que je viens de vous dire, c'est que j'ai dû faire une erreur quelque part. - Alan Greenspan
Science sans conscience n'est que ruine de l'âme - Rabelais
Ben zut avec le surnom de "frog" que certains n'hésitent pas à donner aux français j'espère qu'il n'y aura pas de malentendu : je ne suis pas une grenouille ! 😠
Toutes mes condoléances pour la minette.😕
P.S. : Tous les serpents siamois ont-ils les yeux bleus et le poil gris? 😇
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
Les yeux bleus, je ne sais pas, pour le "poil de serpent", c'est une denrée si rare ...
Par contre, en Thaïlande (et ailleurs ?), la "langue de serpent" est très réputée pour n'être pas d'une fiabilité totale ...
Chez nous, la "langue de vipère" est courante chez les belle-mères et autres médisants.
NB:Mon père parlait souvent de la longueur d'un "poil-du-c.l-de-grenouille" mais jamais de serpent, c'est mal barré pour vous tricoter des pull-overs ...
Si vous avez compris tout ce que je viens de vous dire, c'est que j'ai dû faire une erreur quelque part. - Alan Greenspan
Science sans conscience n'est que ruine de l'âme - Rabelais
Les serpents s'enfuient en cas de rencontre. Le danger vient surtout si on les surprend. Ils cherchent la fraicheur donc peu de chance de les voir paraisser au soleil.
Attention dans les herbes hautes, attention apres avoir passe une nuit dehors bien verifier ses vetements et ses chaussures (ca vaut aussi pour les autres petites bestioles), attention enfin a ne pas faire la sieste sous les bananiers.
Mon experience personnelle des serpents: un petit serpent vert fluo enroule autour de la rampe d'un escalier dans un parking, vicieux un tres gros serpent qui traverse une petite route de campagne en fin d'apres midi devant ma moto un serpent vert et gris dans ma salle de sejour, je l'ai poursuivi avec un balai. On flippe retrospectivement et on voit des serpents partout a cause de tous ces cables dans la maison... le serpent en question n'etait pas venimeux, je l'ai appris ensuite en allant dans une snake farm une mue de cobra dans mon jardin au petit matin... certainement la non-rencontre la plus flippante, comme une scene d'Alien
Ma machine à laver, à Paris 13e (20e étage) a un jour "pété un tuyau" (sans que je la force pourtant) et je me suis donc vu contraint de remplacer ledit tuyau (après avoir épongé bien sûr).
Tuyau (noir) éclaté attendait donc le moment propice pour être descendu "where it belonged" lorsque ma femme terrorisée vint me dire en chuchotant le lendemain soir "viens vite, il y a un serpent à la cuisine ...".
Et moi, en riant, tel un chevalier blanc, de m'en aller pourfendre "l'animal caoutchouteux" sans la moindre peur ...
Curieusement, mon épouse, charmante de par ailleurs, ne m'en a jamais su gré, allez donc savoir pourquoi !
Si vous avez compris tout ce que je viens de vous dire, c'est que j'ai dû faire une erreur quelque part. - Alan Greenspan
Science sans conscience n'est que ruine de l'âme - Rabelais
Le cobra noir... redoutable... Il peut se dresser sur les 2/3 de sa longueur, donc 2m facile pour un adulte. La mort est douloureuse, mais rapide. (certains sur Phi Phi, cherchant refuge dans "les hauts" après le tsunami, sont morts de l'avoir vu de trop près...) C'était pas le jour pour jouer au loto...
Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by the rulers as useful. ~Seneca
Histoire de serpent raconté par un thaï:
Quand il était enfant, un jour un instituteur puni un enfant trop turbulent et l’envoi attendre la fin du cours dans les toilettes. Pendant une bonne partie du cours la classe entend l’enfant pleurer, puis il s’arrête. Quand le professeur va chercher l’enfant juste avant la fin du cours, il n’était plus la, mais a la place il y avait un serpent repu !
On n’a jamais su si c’est une histoire vrai ou pas !
"The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man." - George Bernard Shaw
Que faire en cas de morsure de serpent, Voir ICI . Et un autre article très intéressant . Les morsures de serpents dans le monde, On compte annuellement 5 millions de morsures de serpent et 150 000 décès, principalement dans les pays tropicaux. Les vipères entraînent des hémorragies et les cobras des paralysies respiratoires mortelles. Le sérum antivenimeux est le seul traitement .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
Peu connaisseur en matière de rampants j’aimerais savoir comment faire pour limiter les risques d’une malencontreuse rencontre avec un serpent siamois.
rester a paris, 🙂
Les serpents thaïlandais sortent-ils seulement le jour ? Surtout la nuit ?
tomber du soleil,
Aiment-ils ou détestent-ils l’odeur de citronnelle (on ne sait jamais ) ?
non
Je crois qu’en cas de morsure il est d’usage de regarder l’ennemi dans les yeux pour pouvoir ensuite le décrire aux experts anti-poison : existe-t-il quelques serpents dont il faudrait retenir en priorité la physionomie au cas où ?
quant on n'y connais rien, tout rampant est mortel,
« Le voyage apprend la tolérance. »
Benjamin Disraeli
-
"""rester a paris, """ Ah nan nan, tenter de se tropicaliser c' est aussi ça 😉😉😉😉 ça donne une petite impression d' aventure !!!😏😏😏😏😏😏
"""tomber du soleil""", pas seulement à ce que j' ai vécu ( une seule fois fort heureusement )
"""quant on n'y connais rien, tout rampant est mortel, """ Exact, à 15h je rentre ds mon bungalow, me dirige ds la salle de bain...oh frayeur, je vois quoi : un serpent long, vert, imposant, arrogant, enroulé à la barre de douche...panique de chez panique. Les voisins des bungalows à côté intrigués arrivent, et chacun y va de son expertise : pas dangereux🙂, dangereux😠, innofensif😎, mortel....😠😠😠😠 un gentil monsieur Thai est arrivéet nous a aidé à déloger l' intru. C' est resté un " souvenir " comme tant d' autres de Thailande.
Là où j' en ai vu plein, c'est dans les environs de Kradi et Ao Nang, lors de promenades, soit à pieds, soit en motobyke, soit morts-écrasés, soit en pleine activité, il faut bien regarder où on mets ses pieds, mais ils fuient en général au moindre bruit.
""Le voyage pour moi, ce n' est pas arriver, c' est partir. C' est l' imprévu de la prochaine escale, c' est le désir jamais comblé de connaître sans cesse autre chose, c' est demain, éternellement demain"" Roland Dorgelès.
Je crois qu’en cas de morsure il est d’usage de regarder l’ennemi dans les yeux pour pouvoir ensuite le décrire aux experts anti-poison (Non, ca c'est pour l'hypnotiser 😏): existe-t-il quelques serpents dont il faudrait retenir en priorité la physionomie au cas où ? oui, le cobra sinon celui la 😉
je me permet juste de rectifier une chose taper des pieds en marchant dans les hautes herbes, oui mais en fait ça n'a rien à voir avec le bruit . C'est le fait de créer des vibrations qui fait fuir les serpents. De manière générale à part certains reptiles territoriaux assez agressif styles cobras, mambas noirs, le reste des reptiles fuit devant une autre présence. Le risque étant justement de "tomber" dessus par surprise. Pour la thailande je ne sais pas mais dans le style chiant y a le mamba vert du kenya qui se laisse tomber des arbres, mais je crois pas qu'il y en aie en thailande. à savoir les serpents les plus venimeux sont les serpents d'eau de la grande barrière de corail. Viennent ensuite les mambas noirs et les cobras royaux. Mais le plus grand nombres de mort est du aux vipères présente dans beaucoup de pays et notamment en europe.
En bref, marche comme un éléphant dans les hautes herbes.
""En bref, marche comme un éléphant dans les hautes herbes."""
C' est exact Tintin, faire du bruit comme je le disais ne suffit pas 😛😛😛😛😛 c' est pour cela que je me promène avec un grand bâton toujours 😉😉😉😉😉😉 comme ça je ne fais pas peur qu' aux serpents 😛😛😛😛😛
""Le voyage pour moi, ce n' est pas arriver, c' est partir. C' est l' imprévu de la prochaine escale, c' est le désir jamais comblé de connaître sans cesse autre chose, c' est demain, éternellement demain"" Roland Dorgelès.
Elles sont tellement hautes vos herbes qu'on dirait des arbres ...
L'éléphant tape-t-il les "herbes" avec sa trompe ?
Si oui, les touristes sexuels peuvent peut-être imiter ce comportement ...
Il faut toujours copier la nature !
Si vous avez compris tout ce que je viens de vous dire, c'est que j'ai dû faire une erreur quelque part. - Alan Greenspan
Science sans conscience n'est que ruine de l'âme - Rabelais
"""si je te rencontre avec ton grand baton tu risque de me faire peur aussi"""
Oui, mais tu sauras pas que c' est moi...............😛😛😛😛😛😛 et en plus tu seras au Pekin Express selon ce que j' ai lu dans les news de VF 😛😛😛😛😛😛
""Le voyage pour moi, ce n' est pas arriver, c' est partir. C' est l' imprévu de la prochaine escale, c' est le désir jamais comblé de connaître sans cesse autre chose, c' est demain, éternellement demain"" Roland Dorgelès.
ben oui c'est tellement important que je ne voudrais rater ça pour rien au monde, si j'étais pas dans les bonnes dates j'aurais changé mon billet (pffffffff.... Hi HI)
C'est également ma phobie.... 🤪
En une vingtaine de voyages en Thaïlande; j'ai dû en rencontrer une quizaine (dont 5 ou 6 lors du même voyage). Généralement c'est lorsqu'ils, ils traversent la route la route en plein jour (pas mal de serpents écrasés). C'est impressionnant un cobra quand même). Parfois, à des endroits plus inattendus comme dans ce restaurant en bordure de plage à Patong ou ce serpent sautant littéralement sur l'eau à Uthai Thai.
Quand je vais dans les champs, je ne suis pas trop rassuré à l'idée de marcher sur un. Il y a peu, un cobra a tuée 7 poulets en une nuit chez ma copine et un python a également élu domicile dans son étang, se nourissant des poissons et des grenouilles.
Bref, en voir ou pas, c'est une question de (mal)chance.
la quasi totalité des serpents fuient si ils en ont la possibilité en un mois en thailande je n'en ai vu que dans les fermes à serpents pour des démonstrations!!! Nous avons pourtant fait un treck près de chiang Mai avec un itinéraire de plusieurs heures en forêt dormis dan un village loin de la civilisation rien vu!! simplement toujours regarder où tu mets les pieds . Les vibrations du sol quand tu marches (les serpents sont sourds) sont en général suffisantes pour les faire fuir. Le vrai danger vient quand le serpent est surpris parce que tu ne l'a pas vu et que tu es trop proche dans ce cas ne pas paniquer reculer lentement le serpent n'attaque que si tu rentres dans son périmètre de sécurité exception mamba mais il en en a pas en asie. En cas de morsure accidentelle il est indispensable de pouvoir identifier l'espèce pour pouvoir administrer un sérum . Soit prendre des photos pour pouvoir identifier ou le capturer (tuer). Le plus important rassurer la victime etlui éviter le moindre effort, immobiliser le membre faire un garrot entre la morsure et le coeur et surtout ne pas relacher le garrot avant l'arrivée à l'hôpital. Ne pas inciser, ni aspirer la plaie. Le Cobra royal le plus dangereux est assez rare, il n'est pas spontanément agressif et préfèrera toujours la fuite à l'attaque à l'exception peut être d'une femelle couvant les oeufs (c'est une exception chez les serpents). Les morsures de serpents les plus fréquentes ont lieu dans les rizières avec les paysans
Merci pour vos diverses reponses. Vous aurez note que mon ecriture s est deterioree : je suis arrive hier au pays des serpents mechants. 😇
Dans l attente de trouver un elephant a louer pour m ouvrir la route je vais prudemment rester calfeutre dans ma chambre d hotel climatise ou je me ferai livrer des pizzas pour ne pas devoir risquer ma vie dehors. 😛
Ah zut j avais oublie qu il y a plein de trucs delicieux a manger hors de ma chambre, je vais donc devoir prendre des risques insences pour me faire une brochette, un curry, une soupe, une salade, ...
Je ne suis qu a moitie rassure d avoir appris que quelques serpents parmi les plus dangereux peuvent ne pas etre effrayes par mon pas lourd, je mise donc sur leur rarete pour ne pas trop stresser.🤪
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
Je crois que le plus dangereux est la vipère des mangroves (serpent noir et jaune à rayures) mais heureusement pour moi, je n'ai jamais eu la chance de croiser ce spécimène en liberté. Le plus souvent, j'ai croisé des cobras (écrasés ou vivant); toujours sur des routes de campagne. Il y a aussi ces jolis serpents verts qui sont assez fréquents. Chez ma copine, ils vont se nicher parfois dans le toît de sa maison... Faire quand même gaffe si on se baigne dans un étang ou une rivière car ça nage super bien ces machins là.
Ben, vous pensez, avec le coup de queue qu'ils ont ...
De quoi faire baver de jalousie un "Lacaille", c'est vous dire !
Si vous avez compris tout ce que je viens de vous dire, c'est que j'ai dû faire une erreur quelque part. - Alan Greenspan
Science sans conscience n'est que ruine de l'âme - Rabelais
Je crois que le plus dangereux est la vipère des mangroves (serpent noir et jaune à rayures) mais heureusement pour moi, je n'ai jamais eu la chance de croiser ce spécimène en liberté. Le plus souvent, j'ai croisé des cobras (écrasés ou vivant); toujours sur des routes de campagne. Il y a aussi ces jolis serpents verts qui sont assez fréquents. Chez ma copine, ils vont se nicher parfois dans le toît de sa maison... Faire quand même gaffe si on se baigne dans un étang ou une rivière car ça nage super bien ces machins là.
Oui il y en a beaucoup même que j'en ai rencontrer souvent, un jour il y en avait un sur ma terrasse de guest house dès qu'il a senti ma présence il a filer à toute vitesse, je ne sais pas comment il est arriver là .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
A ce qu'on m'a dit, il y en a beaucoup dans les champs de riz....
On va dire que je suis parano, mais je ne suis jamais très rassuré quand ma copine m'emmnène voir ses plantations. Surtout quand je me ballade en tongues....
oui les vipères sont aussi très dangereuses mais on se ballade plus facilement en forêt ou dans les champs qu dans une mangrove
Je n'ai jamais fréquenté les "champs de riz", ma femme m'a parlé des sangsues qui y vivent (épisode d'enfance).
Il faudrait la payer très cher pour l'obliger à fréquenter les routes départementales rizières.
Si vous avez compris tout ce que je viens de vous dire, c'est que j'ai dû faire une erreur quelque part. - Alan Greenspan
Science sans conscience n'est que ruine de l'âme - Rabelais
Il ne faut peut-être pas trop exagérer. Un cobra qui se dresse sur 2 mètres, je n'ai jamais entendu parler ce cela. Les plus gros spécimens que j'ai vu était des cobras royaux à l'institut Pasteur de Bangkok.
Ils étaient impressionnants, mais, lorsqu'ils se redressaient, il ne dépassaient pas 60-70 centimètres.
Il y a souvent des serpents dans des lieux ou on ne les attend pas.
A Sihanoukville, le propriétaire du Snake Restaurant m'a indiqué la provenance d'un magnifique cobra royal qu'il exhibait dans son resto. Il provenait d'une des plages de Sihanoukville, Victoria Beach me semble t-il. Il était dans un petit arbre, près des baigneurs.
La visite des temples d'Angkor peut apporter quelques surprises. Lonely Planet signale qu'il y a des serpents verts dans les ruines. Exact, ma femme en a approché un de très près. il est tombé d'un plafond à quelques centimètres d'elle. Une belle bête bien verte et très nerveuse de 2 mètres environ.
Idem à Sokothaï, mais là il se baladait dans les ruines.
A Yangon au Myanmar, Gérard, un français qui a ouvert un restaurant dans un coin comme le Bois de Boulogne local, à eut la surprise de voir quand il a emménagé que 2 pythons avait élu domicile dans sa future maison. L'un était de belle taille.
J'avais rencontré à la Royal Guesthouse à Chang Maï, un préparateur militaire français qui préparait les commandos et les aviateurs en Guyane.
Il m'a dit que très souvent, les serpents "mordaient mal " et qu'ils n'injectaient qu'un faible partie de leur venin.
Et que si on était tenu de passer la nuit en forêt, il était préférable de tout nettoyer autour de la tente.
LOL, ca me rappelle une anécdote:
J'étais à Phuket, au cap Prom Thep (d'où on a un beau point de vue sur la baie de Kata). Quelques touristes japonais se trouavient la devant moi. Je les interpelle de loin pour leur signaler qu'un serpent se trouve à leurs pieds à +- 2 mètres d'eux. Ils me sourient en hochant la tête verticalement comme pour me confirmer que le point de vue est joli. Là j'insiste en criant un peu plus fort. Un des gars se retourne et apperçoit la bête... C'est la que ca devient marrant. Je n'ai jamais vu quelqu'un courir le 100m aussi rapidement. 🙂
A sukhtothai, dieu merci je n'ai rien vu. Par contre, à Anvient city, on en voit assez régulièrmeent dans les pelouses (mal entretunes par ailleurs).
Il y a souvent des serpents dans des lieux ou on ne les attend pas.
A Sihanoukville, le propriétaire du Snake Restaurant m'a indiqué la provenance d'un magnifique cobra royal qu'il exhibait dans son resto. Il provenait d'une des plages de Sihanoukville, Victoria Beach me semble t-il. Il était dans un petit arbre, près des baigneurs.
La visite des temples d'Angkor peut apporter quelques surprises. Lonely Planet signale qu'il y a des serpents verts dans les ruines. Exact, ma femme en a approché un de très près. il est tombé d'un plafond à quelques centimètres d'elle. Une belle bête bien verte et très nerveuse de 2 mètres environ.
Idem à Sokothaï, mais là il se baladait dans les ruines.
A
Je me souviens en avoir vu d'ecrases sur la route a Sukhothai, plus quelques peaux de mue ici et la. Je me souviens aussi ne pas avoir pu emprunter l'escalier de je ne sais plus quel temple celebre de Sukhothai pour cause de serpents passee une certaine heure (l argument m a convaincu, je n'ai pas insiste pour cette visite). 🤪
Pour Ancient City je comptais bien l'honorer de ma presence mais je realise tout d'un coup qu'il y a encore plein de bitume que je n'ai pas encore visite a Bangkok, les cobras royaux et leurs copains se passeront de moi. 😛
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
Je ne suis qu a moitie rassure d avoir appris que quelques serpents parmi les plus dangereux peuvent ne pas etre effrayes par mon pas lourd,
Marcher d'un pas lourd ne sert à rien... donc, si vous croisez un mec tout blanc avec un long baton, qui se déplace en sautant à pieds joints sur les trotoirs de la capitale, vous aurrez reconnu notre craintif amis Ludomero...
merci de me lire au second degré... on rigole, on rigole (mais pas toujours)
Je ne suis qu a moitie rassure d avoir appris que quelques serpents parmi les plus dangereux peuvent ne pas etre effrayes par mon pas lourd,
Marcher d'un pas lourd ne sert à rien... donc, si vous croisez un mec tout blanc avec un long baton, qui se déplace en sautant à pieds joints sur les trotoirs de la capitale, vous aurrez reconnu notre craintif amis Ludomero...
😇 😛
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
Les opérateurs de jet-ski et les loueurs de motocyclettes devront soumettre leurs photos et leurs empreintes digitales aux autorités a annoncé dimanche le…
J'ai réservé des vols intérieurs en Thailande sur Thai Airways, j'ai bien reçu mes billets elctronique, ok jusque là... sauf qu'il n'est précisé nulle part…
Encore moi, Autres questions. J'ai lu dans les messages que l'un des internautes avait pu limiter ses valises à un sac à dos pour 2 adultes et 2 filles.…
Mon épouse (Thaï) voudrait savoir si elle peut prendre l'avion pour Bankok le 5 avril à 13h avec son passeport qui expire à la même date, le 5 avril 2019.…
Bonjour à tous
Je n ai pas trouvé d infos récentes sur Kuching
Est ce quelqu un peut recommander un hotel ou une guesthouse à moins de 100 RM bien et pas cher? pas de dortoir merci
Est ce qu en novembre il pleut beaucoup et aller à Semenggoh ou Bako vaut le coup ou pas?
Hi,
On September 1st, we're heading to Kalimantan for six weeks, probably from Pontianak to the Derawan Islands.
I've scoured this site, which is usually my go-to 😉, and others like VoyageForum, but recent info is pretty scarce.
I'd love any tips on places you've visited—our itinerary is still a work in progress.
We're two couples traveling with backpacks, using buses, boats, guesthouses, and homestays.
Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
However, I’m not quite sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight)
· Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok)
· Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x")
· Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x")
· Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok)
· Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok)
· Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there, we’re landing at Hanoi Airport and would like to head straight to Cao Bang without going into Hanoi. Does anyone know if there are buses that go directly from the airport to Cao Bang (especially in the early afternoon)? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
hi everyone,
I want to travel in the north for 3 weeks in September-October 2026 to meet ethnic minorities, photograph mountain rice terraces and their harvest, and revisit Halong Bay—but maybe Lan Ha Bay instead. Can you recommend one or more local agencies?
Thanks, and happy holidays!
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling.
For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees?
We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo.
Thanks for your tips and help!
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Hi 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.
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