Ce petit pays qui n'a pas vraiment besoin de mauvaises nouvelles en ce moment, vient de connaître sur les bords du Tonlé Sap une petite catastrophe .... qui ajouté aux mauvaises récoltes de riz cette année, plus les fermetures d'usine, ne vont pas ajouter " au bonheur " des khmers .......
Bonnes nouvelles par contre, l'Inde va soutenir le Cambodge dans le domaine de l'Informatique et serait prés à apporter son concours pour l'exploitation de ressources pétrolières ...... plus l'aide du Japon qui a remis, mardi, au Cambodge 16 millions d'USD d'équipements et machines afin d'aider ce pays à neutraliser les millions de mines restées enfouies dans les campagnes depuis la fin de la guerre, il y a des dizaines d'années.
Les équipements se composent de bulldozers, d'ambulances, de poids-lourds, d'automobiles, de machines diverses.
Avec, chaque année, plus 100 millions d'USD d'aides au développement, le Japon est le plus généreux des pays donateurs au Cambodge.
Un incendie près du Tonlé Sap laisse un millier de pêcheurs sans abris
AKP Phnom Penh, 29 juin 2005 --
Plus de 230 maisons de pêcheurs situées sur les rives du lac Tonlé Sap sont parties en fumées lundi matin dans la province de Siemreap, laissant près d’un millier de personnes sans abris et dans le plus grand dénuement, a rapporté Cambodge Soir.
L’incendie, apparemment de cause accidentelle, a pris vers 10h, alors que le village était pratiquement déserté par ses habitants partis à la pêche qui n’ont rien pu sauver des flammes. Seule une jeune fille aurait été blessée, selon le vice-gouverneur de la province, Touch Sarou. Le sinistre a eu lieu dans les villages de Dei Krâhorm et de Thnot Kambot, dans la commune de Kampong Phlouk, district de Prasat Bakong, à une trentaine de kilomètres du chef-lieu de la province.
Les sinistrés ont pour habitude de partir à la pêche à 3h du matin, laissant leurs enfants à la maison, explique Srey Ly, responsable du conseil communal. Et c’est, selon lui, l’un de ces enfants qui aurait fait partir le feu en faisant cuire du riz, feu qui s’est rapidement propagé parmi les baraques en bois et en feuilles de palmier. Vers 11h30, seul un camion de pompier était parvenu sur les lieux en raison des difficultés d’accès, et le feu n’a pris fin que vers 16h. C’est la quatrième fois qu’un incendie se déclare dans cette commune, rappelle Srey Ly, dont le dernier en 1997 avait ravagé une soixantaine de maisons.
Le vice-gouverneur de Siemreap s'est rendu hier sur place pour apporter des dons aux victimes et a alerté la Croix rouge provinciale
Je trouve que ce que fait le Japon au Cambodge est bien (c'est bizard tu encense ce pays d'un côté mais le détruit sur les balaines ..., le monde est mal fait !!!!!😄 )
Mais j'ai peurt que la partie visible caches des contrats de sous tables pour les futures exploitation ou instalations d'usine coutant en energie et en main d'oeuvre voir en santé humaine ..., tou ce que fait le japon n'est jamais gratuis ...
Le dernier exemple en date ?, le réacteur de fusion nécléaire ITAR ... il l'on ceder à l'europe mais a quelle prit ...
Et dire que j'était si proche du Cambodge et que je n'est pas put le visité ... tant pis sa sera pour la prochaine fois !
Philo
"J'ai refait tous les calculs, notre projet est irréalisable, il ne nous reste plus qu'une chose à faire, le réaliser". Latecoere
dyslexique
Je n'encense pas le Japon ..... loin de moi cette idée Philo, c'est juste une info que je donne et je ne me fais pas d'illusions sur les échanges qui ont du être faits en contrepartie, je fais confiance aux japonais, ils sont trés forts pour celà .......
Visiter le Cambodge ...... tu aurais du, mais si on faisait tout ce dont on a envie, une vie n'y suffirait pas ...... mais je pense que ton amie boudhiste a un remède à cet état de choses ........ 😉
C'était juste une chtite blague ...
Non ca ma fendut le coeur de voir que des bus partait de Lo chang pour sim reap ou pnom phen ..., mais que veut tu on avait que 10 jours et surtous j'était le seul a vouloir passer une journée entière dans un bus ... 😏
Mais j'ai pas dit mon dernier mot !!!!
Philo
"J'ai refait tous les calculs, notre projet est irréalisable, il ne nous reste plus qu'une chose à faire, le réaliser". Latecoere
dyslexique
Je trouve que ce que fait le Japon au Cambodge est bien (c'est bizard tu encense ce pays d'un côté mais le détruit sur les balaines ..., le monde est mal fait !!!!!😄 )
Mais j'ai peurt que la partie visible caches des contrats de sous tables pour les futures exploitation ou instalations d'usine coutant en energie et en main d'oeuvre voir en santé humaine ..., tou ce que fait le japon n'est jamais gratuis ...
Le dernier exemple en date ?, le réacteur de fusion nécléaire ITAR ... il l'on ceder à l'europe mais a quelle prit ...
Et dire que j'était si proche du Cambodge et que je n'est pas put le visité ... tant pis sa sera pour la prochaine fois !...............................
je constate que le japon importe beaucoup de bois dans ces regions...mais bon je pense que le monde est entrain se departager entre les grandes puissances.."FRANCE..+EUROPE sur l afrique..usa sur l amerique du sud...chine..japon sur l asie"....
. qui ajouté aux mauvaises récoltes de riz cette année, ????????????
Récolte de riz : 618 000 tonnes de surplus malgré la sécheresse
AKP Phnom Penh, 14 mars 2005 --
En dépit de la sécheresse, la production de riz pour la saison 2004-2005 (4, 13 millions de tonnes) a dégagé un surplus de 618 000 tonnes, a indiqué vendredi Tao Seng Hour, vice-président du comité de développement agricole, devant le conseil des ministres, et cité par Cambodge Soir.
La saison précédente, ce surplus avait atteint le million de tonnes. Un peu plus de deux millions d'hectares de rizières ont été cultivé, avec un rendement moyen de 1, 96 tonne à l'hectare, à précisé Tao Sen Hour.--AKP
Le Cambodge exporte du riz aux Etats-Unis pour la première fois
AKP Phnom Penh, 05 mai 2005 --
Le Cambodge a exporté, pour la première fois de son histoire, du riz sur le marché américain.
Une cargaison de 39 tonnes de riz, cultivé dans la province de Battambang, a été acheminée le mois dernier vers Long Beach, en Californie.
Ce lot est constitué de sacs de 22, 7 kilogrammes cotés à 13 dollars par unité destinés à être vendus dans les supermarchés de Long Beach.
Le coût du transport revient à 220 dollars par tonne, ce qui est trop cher pour une cargaison d'une telle envergure, a indiqué Kim Savuth, directeur d'une entreprise commerciale de riz au Cambodge.--AKP
« Le voyage apprend la tolérance. »
Benjamin Disraeli
-
Bonjour,
Au sujet des mines au Cambodge une discussion avec des locaux responsables à Siem reap ma raconté que malheureusement il fallait trouve les mines mais lentement et qu'il en reste toujours avec des accidents car plus de mines plus d'accident egale plus de dons internationnaux, plus d'ong...
Vous savez que le Japon est aussi tres tres tres present a Madagascar? Je ne pourrais pas dire les chiffres mais il sont partout, des fois on se demande presque ce qu'ils ont a se faire pardonner!
Que le vent te pousse en avant, que le soleil illumine ton visage, que le vent du destin te pousse à danser avec les étoiles.... THE BLOW pour laisser la place à ses rêves!!!!
🙂 ..... donc, c'est bien ce que je disais il y a une pénurie dans la récolte du riz ..... et si je fais les comptes d'aprés les chiffres que tu donnes, celà fait 400 000 tonnes de moins que l'année dernière, et ne pas oublier que cette année malgré tout, de nombreux paysans ont quittés leurs provinces lointaines pour se rapprocher des grands centres comme principalement Siem Reap ou la misère s'installe doucement ..... et celà donne des dérapages comme on en a vu lors de la prise d'otages d'enfants dans cette même ville .......
Et malheureusement encore une fois, le gouvernement ne tient pas compte des besoins de la population et continuera à exporter du riz pour renflouer ses caisses ...... mais il est vrai que la situation n'est pas aussi catastrophique que ce que l'on prédisait en début d'année, et je pense que tout le<monde peut s'en réjouir, même si la situation n'est pas ausi rose que les chiffres pourraient le laisse supposer ........
Autre article " intéressant " sur le problème des mines au Cambodge :
Entre 1996 et fin 2003, le nombre d’accidents provoqués par les mines antipersonnel et les explosifs a progressivement diminué. On se réjouissait déjà de ces bons résultats, dus sans doute aux campagnes d’information sur le danger de ces engins de la mort, et au nombre croissant de parcelles déminées… jusqu’à ce que, tout à coup, à partir de janvier 2004, le nombre de victimes fasse un bond de plus de 30% par rapport à 2003.
Les autorités cambodgiennes en charge du déminage ont mis quelques mois pour comprendre ce phénomène. La réponse se trouve sur le marché du recyclage du métal, très développé en Thaïlande. De nombreux intermédiaires achètent du métal au Cambodge et le payent au kilo, selon le cours de l’acier. Or, ces derniers mois, le cours mondial de l’acier a grimpé (+50% en 2003, +20% au premier semestre 2004), et les « chasseurs de métal », villageois, adultes et enfants, ont pris plus de risques, jusqu’à tenter de déterrer des explosifs qui représentent un bon poids.
Menaces sur les trafiquants
Les autorités n’ont compris le problème qu’en avril, et ont déclenché des opérations à l’encontre des intermédiaires en menaçant de confisquer toute munition qu’ils rachèteraient. Ces menaces semblent avoir porté leurs fruits : le nombre d’accidents a diminué drastiquement depuis le mois de mai. Ce phénomène révèle encore une fois l’extrême pauvreté des populations rurales cambodgiennes qui risquent leur vie pour nourrir leurs familles.
La plupart des accidents dus aux mines ou aux explosifs se produisent dans les champs. Suon Rem, une jeune femme de 25 ans, a perdu ses deux jambes en juillet 2003 en sautant sur une mine, à 150 mètres de sa maison, alors qu’elle se rendait sur sa plantation. Pao Rim, un jeune homme de 20 ans, a perdu sa jambe gauche alors qu’il ramassait du bois, le 20 avril 2004. Au Cambodge, plus de quinze ans après la fin de la guerre, les mines et les munitions non explosées font plus de deux victimes par jour. Plus de 30 000 personnes sont mutilées. Ce pays en proie à plus de 30 années de guerre est l’un des plus minés au monde (plus de 6 millions de mines), avec l’Angola, le Mozambique, l’Afghanistan et la Colombie. Le Centre cambodgien d’action anti-mines (CMAC) estime que depuis 1992, seulement 8% des zones contaminées au Cambodge ont été nettoyées.Ici, ce sont surtout des femmes qui déminent
District de Samloth, à 80 kilomètres de la grande ville de Battambang, à l’ouest du pays : une des nombreuses organisations non gouvernementales (ONG) présentes au Cambodge démine un champ. Dans cette région, les terres sont fertiles, mais très minées. Depuis 1999, plus de 300 000 réfugiés reviennent de Thaïlande et faute de terres disponibles dans les zones déminées, s’installent avec leurs familles à leurs risques et péril, de plus en plus près de la frontière thaïlandaise, sur ces terres « contaminées », données par les autorités locales qui sollicitent les organisations de déminage.
Pao Da Rassmei de l’ONG MAG (Mines Advisory Group) reconnaît qu’il leur faudra plus de 3 mois pour déminer cette parcelle de 17 000 m². Un travail de fourmi, réalisé ici par des équipes de femmes. La plupart de ces démineuses ne travaillent pas ici par choix, mais parce que le salaire y est huit fois plus élevé que le salaire de base. Les paysans démineurs
A côté de la parcelle, des maisons sont construites sur la zone à risque. Souvent, les paysans s’improvisent démineurs, car ils n’ont pas le temps d’attendre les opérations de « nettoyage ». C’est là que se produisent la plupart des accidents. Le CMAC a été appelé il y a quelques mois pour vérifier un champ déminé par des villageois, dont 4 ont été tués et 7 autres blessés. Ils avaient trouvé 400 mines sur leurs parcelles. Le CMAC a vérifié le champ et en a trouvé 53 autres.
Une fois par mois, des volontaires de la Croix-rouge cambodgienne rassemblent les villageois de la commune de Samloth pour une campagne d’information sur le risque des mines et des munitions non explosées qu’ils peuvent trouver à tout moment dans leurs champs. Une jeune fille de 14 ans témoigne : « L’autre jour, j’ai trouvé une bombe dans un champ près de chez moi. C’était métallique, ça brillait un peu au soleil, c’est comme ça que je l’ai repérée. Je suis rentrée chez moi, j’ai pris mon manuel avec la liste et les photos des engins que nous a distribué la Croix rouge, j’ai trouvé le nom de cette bombe, et j’ai raconté ce que j’avais vu au chef de mon village. Une équipe de déminage est venue retirer l’engin ». La jeune fille a raconté son histoire. Les villageois et leurs enfants applaudissent. Ils ont même inventé une chanson : « ne joue pas avec les mines et les explosifs, attention il peut même y en avoir dans les arbres ! ».
Samloth se trouve dans la région qui a constitué le camp retranché de Pol Pot et de ses Khmers rouges jusqu’en 1998. D’ailleurs, ici, de nombreux habitants sont d’anciens Khmers rouges. Beaucoup ont été blessés par des mines au cours d’opérations militaires. Les mines et les explosifs ont été disséminés par milliers, sans aucune carte, et aujourd’hui que la paix est revenue, ces engins continuent de tuer et de mutiler les populations civiles qui n’ont d’autre choix que de cultiver la terre.
Véronique Gaymard Article publié le 28/11/2004 Dernière mise à jour le 28/11/2004 à 14:33 (heure de Paris)
je viens de m'inscrire sur ce forum et j'ai lu avec beaucoup de plaisir ton approche de l'asie, j'aimerai partir qqs mois et je ne connais que la thailande mais mon voyage remonte a qqs années déjà
j'habite nice et peut être pourrions nous prendre un verre avec ta compagne un jour
c'est vrai le Japon est tres present en Indochine, construction de route pont etc ......
C'est une de ses zones d'influence comparable à la zone d' influence française en Afrique
On ne va pas blamer les japonais qui vienent en aide à des pays tres pauvres (peut etre par intérét indirect ) sous pretexte qu'ils tuent des baleines (ce qui est tout a fait condamnable )
A Siem Rap par hasard en avril dernier j'ai déjeuné dans un restaurant d'enfant des rues managé par une ONG japonaise, ils initient les enfants au metier du tourisme et de la restauration et ont egalement une ferme d'initiation et une ecole à qq kms de SR
ce restaurant se situe dans une rue parallelle au quai face au marché de l'autre coté de la riviére
ne marchez jamais sur le chemin tracé
il ne te méne que là ou d'autres sont déjà allés
jps
🙂 .... Merci pour ton petit mot, on essaye tous d'avoir une approche en phase avec nos ressentis pour les pays que l'on aime ..... et chacun le fait à sa manière suivant les émotions reçues par les pays d'Asie du Sud Est traversés ..... et des voyageurs comme Soho, Sisophon, Hevia, jps692, Sawaddeekha, Sabaidee, nong, thuan, Marsu et Ivo, Rimcha, nnthanh et tant d'autres te livreront également les clefs de leur passion pour cette région, et celà chacun à sa façon .......
Merci pour ta réponse, tes articles sont vraiment super et je vais suivre tes conseils je vais voir ce que les autres ont vecu
c'est la premiere fois que je suis sur un forum, est ce facile de rencontrer des autres personnes qui voyagent au même moment que toi dans le même secteur, par le biais de ce forum?
je te souhaite un bon week end et merci pour ta gentillesse
Tu peux déjà poster des messages dans le forum " Compagnons de voyage " pour voir si des voyageurs se trouveront en même temps que toi dans le pays que tu visites, et puis en début d'année lors de mon dernier voyage en Thailande et Cambodge en Janvier et Février 2005, j'avais organisé une rencontre de forumistes sur Bangkok et Phnom Penh, et l'une et l'autre ont eu beaucoup de succés, tellement que nous avons partagé la route à plusieurs durant quelques jours ....... et ce fut une sacré belle expérience de vivre une passion sur le terrain, peut être plus forte que les rencontres que l'on peut faire ici en France ou ailleurs, bien que ces rencontres soient toujours les bienvenues pour parler voyages et renforcer les liens d'amitié qui se créent .......
A bientôt, ici ou ailleurs, et même devant un verre quelquepart .......
j'ai ete assez surpris au cambodge lors de mes 2 séjours, les seuls 4 x 4 qui partent de bonne heure au boulot, qui ne sont pas blanc de blanc et super bien lavés ceux sont les 4x4 des équipes de déminage idem dans la région de Battambang
les équipes de déminage australiennes ont fait un sacré boulot également rendons leur hommage
Dommage qu'au Cambodge toutes les ONG ou similaires ne soient pas aussi efficaces que les demineurs(cambodgiens ou internationnaux)
ne marchez jamais sur le chemin tracé
il ne te méne que là ou d'autres sont déjà allés
jps
Sites personnels des membres › Cambodge · 0 replies
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Je repars en Thaïlande en juillet 2026 avec une escale au Cambodge pour aller faire le site d'Angkor. Après Angkor j'ai réservé dans l'île de Ko Chang,…
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Sites personnels des membres › Cambodge · 0 replies
Nous revenons de 3 semaines au Cambodge avec un voyage réalisé par l 'agence Siem Reap à la carte ; dès le début, l’agence a compris notre façon de voyager et…
First stop on our discovery of the peninsula: Amphawa. It’s our first night in Thailand (we arrived at Suvarnabhumi at 8:50 AM).
Our initial plan was to explore the area before heading further south. The Mae Klong Railway Market is tempting... but what else is there to do????
We’ll be there on a Wednesday, and from what I’ve read on the forum, some say there’s absolutely nothing to do during the week—no floating market, barely any shops open, no restaurants, etc.
Others, though, say the place is actually more charming without the weekend crowds.
Could you share your thoughts? Missing the floating market is one thing, but if it’s really a ghost town on Wednesdays, I might just drop our bags somewhere else.
Amphawa seemed like a good first stop, just 1.5 hours from the airport, but I’d still like to settle somewhere a bit lively for our first evening.
We’ll be there at the end of October.
Thanks!
Hi,
I wanted to visit the plantations in the morning with GetYourGuide or by just showing up.
How much time should I really plan for?
I’d like to catch either the 3 PM or 5 PM bus back to KL.
Thanks
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
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 fellow travelers,
First trip to Vietnam.
We’ll be arriving in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet.
Is it complicated to find accommodation and get around during this period?
Any tips would be welcome.
Thanks for your replies.
Hi! I’d like to split my trip into two parts: 15 days in Phuket and 15 days in Krabi. Do you know if I can rent a car and drop it off in Krabi when I fly back to France?
Thanks for your feedback!
Have a great Sunday!
Martine
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search.
I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices?
Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis?
What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc.
Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
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.
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
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?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi 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 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.
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.
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.
