Etat d'urgence déclaré à Bangkok (12 avril 2009)
by Similan
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Une des conséquences: tout regroupement de plus de 5 personnes est interdit. Quid de ceux qui ne souhaitent que participer aux festivités de Songkran? Des chars à KSR? 😉
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Et voilà, ca recommence...
Maintent c'est les rouges qui sont dans la rue
Avant c'était els jaunes
La prochaine fois ce sera de nouveau les jaunes...
Et ils choissisent toujours leur période : avant les vacances de fin d'année en 2008 ; lors de Songkran en 2009 !!
pdt ce temps là, bye bye les touristes et l'économie de leur pays en temps de crise 🤪
Maintent c'est les rouges qui sont dans la rue
Avant c'était els jaunes
La prochaine fois ce sera de nouveau les jaunes...
Et ils choissisent toujours leur période : avant les vacances de fin d'année en 2008 ; lors de Songkran en 2009 !!
pdt ce temps là, bye bye les touristes et l'économie de leur pays en temps de crise 🤪
Il n'y a pas de problème sans solution... et si il n'y a pas de solution, il n'y a pas de problème !
Apr 12 State of Emergency in Bangkok Daily Photos from Thailand
Sunday 12th April, 2009 at 11:37:21| Words: 75 words | Category: News Photos
The Thai government Sunday afternoon announced the state of emergency for Bangkok and some districts in Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom and Ayutthaya. Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban will be chief enforcer of the state of emergency measures. Police and soldiers as well as civil servants will assist Suthep in the operations to restore normality. Songkran parades and others activities in these areas are expected to be cancelled.
The Thai government Sunday afternoon announced the state of emergency for Bangkok and some districts in Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom and Ayutthaya. Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban will be chief enforcer of the state of emergency measures. Police and soldiers as well as civil servants will assist Suthep in the operations to restore normality. Songkran parades and others activities in these areas are expected to be cancelled.Bonjour Sawasdee, 😉
Merci de tes infos à la pointe, Songkran risque d'être annulée ce serai une première en espérant que cela ne dégénère pas et se règle au plus vite . 🤪
Merci de tes infos à la pointe, Songkran risque d'être annulée ce serai une première en espérant que cela ne dégénère pas et se règle au plus vite . 🤪
@+ , 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 .
Je comprends mieux maintenant que l'état d'urgence est déclaré .
Des manifestants occupent le ministère de l'Intérieur à Bangkok . Suite de l'article, Voir ICI .
Des manifestants occupent le ministère de l'Intérieur à Bangkok . Suite de l'article, Voir ICI .
@+ , 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 .
bonjour tout le monde !!!!😉
je serai a bangkok a partir du 18 pour 15 jour, c'est la premiere fois que je me rend en thailande, je ne connais pas du tout la situation politique meme si jme renseigne un peu!!
sur le site du gouvernement il dise qu'il faut eviter le quartier de Dusit et une place vers les palais!!!!
ma questions est: _sa ressemble plutot a une manif en france ou ya til des risques que sa derape vraiment ? _peut il avoir une violence vers les touristes pour je ne sait quelle raison???? _ ya til raison de s'inquieter ou pas du tout?
j'i serai avec ma copine et je prefere pas prendre de risque si vous pouvais m'eclairai de la situation politique actuel sa serait sympa 😎!!!
je serai a bangkok a partir du 18 pour 15 jour, c'est la premiere fois que je me rend en thailande, je ne connais pas du tout la situation politique meme si jme renseigne un peu!!
sur le site du gouvernement il dise qu'il faut eviter le quartier de Dusit et une place vers les palais!!!!
ma questions est: _sa ressemble plutot a une manif en france ou ya til des risques que sa derape vraiment ? _peut il avoir une violence vers les touristes pour je ne sait quelle raison???? _ ya til raison de s'inquieter ou pas du tout?
j'i serai avec ma copine et je prefere pas prendre de risque si vous pouvais m'eclairai de la situation politique actuel sa serait sympa 😎!!!
Bonjour,
Non pas de soucis, suffit bien sur de ne pas aller dans les zones de manifs comme chez nous en somme, envers les touristes pas de soucis du tout au contraire, t'inquiètes pas et vas y en toute quiétude . Bonne vacances . 😉
Non pas de soucis, suffit bien sur de ne pas aller dans les zones de manifs comme chez nous en somme, envers les touristes pas de soucis du tout au contraire, t'inquiètes pas et vas y en toute quiétude . Bonne vacances . 😉
@+ , 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 .
hello Barbot
oui ça risque encore de faire du tort à l'image du pays et les touristes vont encore craindre des blocages d'après une connaissance qui travaille là bas à l'ambassade. il a entendu dire par des personnes qu'ils craignent un nouveau blocage des aéroports. Ils vont sans doute déployer bcp de policiers autour d'eux pour éviter un second épisode comme celui de novembre. Là au moins ils sont préparés et peuvent anticiper, espérons pour tout le monde...
oui ça risque encore de faire du tort à l'image du pays et les touristes vont encore craindre des blocages d'après une connaissance qui travaille là bas à l'ambassade. il a entendu dire par des personnes qu'ils craignent un nouveau blocage des aéroports. Ils vont sans doute déployer bcp de policiers autour d'eux pour éviter un second épisode comme celui de novembre. Là au moins ils sont préparés et peuvent anticiper, espérons pour tout le monde...
Salut Lili,
Non je ne pense pas qu'il y aura des blocages d'aéroports .
Non je ne pense pas qu'il y aura des blocages d'aéroports .
@+ , 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 .
peut il avoir une violence vers les touristes pour je ne sait quelle raison????
_ ya til raison de s'inquieter ou pas du tout?
il n'y a aucun danger pour les touristes là bas, faites ce que te dit Barbot et profitez bien de vos vacances.
les problèmes politiques c'est récurrent là bas depuis des années et on s'aperçoit de rien dans les sites touristiques. juste éviter le sud profond, et certains coins prêt de la birmanie. Le site du Ministère déploie un parapluie en exagérant la situation parfois et apparemment ceux des autres pays aussi mettent en garde.. bref ils jouent la sécurité en assurant leurs arrières
passez de bonnes vacances
il n'y a aucun danger pour les touristes là bas, faites ce que te dit Barbot et profitez bien de vos vacances.
les problèmes politiques c'est récurrent là bas depuis des années et on s'aperçoit de rien dans les sites touristiques. juste éviter le sud profond, et certains coins prêt de la birmanie. Le site du Ministère déploie un parapluie en exagérant la situation parfois et apparemment ceux des autres pays aussi mettent en garde.. bref ils jouent la sécurité en assurant leurs arrières
passez de bonnes vacances
C'est incroyable ces gens qui négligent la situation en Thaîlande.
Même la songkran n'est plus fêtée dans certaines villes du pays, en outre des chars de l'armée sont aux mains des rouges...Cela risque de tourner sérieusement à la guerre civile.
Alors cessez vos boutades du style: tout est bien, la Thaîlande est un peuple pacifique... 🤪
L'armée va reprendre le pouvoir si il n'y a pas d'autres solution, et ce ne sera pas la première fois .
@+ , 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 .
Les jaunes avaient l'appui de l'armée..
Ce n'est plus le cas, l'armée est divisée entre les 2 groupes de pression..Et là, c'est inquiétant, j'espère me tromper!
C'est incroyable ces gens qui négligent la situation en Thaîlande.
Même la songkran n'est plus fêtée dans certaines villes du pays, en outre des chars de l'armée sont aux mains des rouges...Cela risque de tourner sérieusement à la guerre civile.
Ce qu'on voit à la TV, ce ne sont pas des "chars" mais des VAB (transport de troupes au front) ...
Les "rouges" sont montés sur le deuxième véhicule qui est remorqué par le premier ... (plus d'essence ?)
Qui donc "désinforme" ici ? 😠
Ce qu'on voit à la TV, ce ne sont pas des "chars" mais des VAB (transport de troupes au front) ...
Les "rouges" sont montés sur le deuxième véhicule qui est remorqué par le premier ... (plus d'essence ?)
Qui donc "désinforme" ici ? 😠
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
Regarde les infos en direct . >> http://www.tv-direct.fr/live_news1.php . Aux heures du journal parler bien sur, pas les pubs . 😉
@+ , 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 .
juste par curiosité meme si tu peut pas me resumer sa en 2 phrases, qu'est ce que les chemises rouges et jaunes, jme doute que se ne sont pas des supporter de foot mais si tu peut m'eclairer ???
en deux mots car c'est complexe . Les rouges sont contre le gouvernement actuel et sont partisans de l'ancien 1er ministre Taksin ( qui est fuite à l'étranger mais pousse les rouges par tel de foutre le bordel ), ils estiment avoir étaient lésés du fait que le 1er ministre actuel n'a pas était élu par le peuple donc par vote . Et les jaunes eux on tout fait pour faire démissionner le 1er ministre avant de celui en place maintenant car en fait il était tout simplement que le beau-frère de Taksin, et bien sur les jaunes sont pour le 1er ministre actuel, voilà je t'explique en bref .
en deux mots car c'est complexe . Les rouges sont contre le gouvernement actuel et sont partisans de l'ancien 1er ministre Taksin ( qui est fuite à l'étranger mais pousse les rouges par tel de foutre le bordel ), ils estiment avoir étaient lésés du fait que le 1er ministre actuel n'a pas était élu par le peuple donc par vote . Et les jaunes eux on tout fait pour faire démissionner le 1er ministre avant de celui en place maintenant car en fait il était tout simplement que le beau-frère de Taksin, et bien sur les jaunes sont pour le 1er ministre actuel, voilà je t'explique en bref .
@+ , 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 .
Salut,
super, je pars demain..
Pensez vous que les vols seront annulés?
Je suis pas vraiment rassurée de partir dans ces conditions...
Si quelqu'un sur place pouvait me donner la température, je serai vraiment preneuse...
super, je pars demain..
Pensez vous que les vols seront annulés?
Je suis pas vraiment rassurée de partir dans ces conditions...
Si quelqu'un sur place pouvait me donner la température, je serai vraiment preneuse...
Lili c est madame Soleil
et les situations peuvent vite degénerer, et ce qui se passera demain, personne ne le sait !
toi recommence pas à faire une fixation sur ce que j'écris et fais pas ton malin surtout sur des post de style ou l'on n'a pas envie de délirer, Barbot dit comme moi que les touristes n'ont rien à craindre donc pourquoi tu lui dis pas la même chose,
Sinon pour les touristes il n'y a pas eu de blessés/victimes lors des différentes manifestation, là on répondait à la question du membre sur les risques
le reste hélas on sait tous qu'il ya eu bcp de blessés et même décès je me souviens plus parmi les manifestants en novembre... et ces nouvelles manifestations sont très fortes donc faut s'attendre à de nouveaux dérapages plus ou moins dramatiques et ça il n'ya pas besoin de boule de cristal pour en parler.
espérons que ça s'arrange pour les thais c'est à eux qu'il faut penser en particulier...les touristes iront ailleurs s'ils craignent pour leur sécurité
toi recommence pas à faire une fixation sur ce que j'écris et fais pas ton malin surtout sur des post de style ou l'on n'a pas envie de délirer, Barbot dit comme moi que les touristes n'ont rien à craindre donc pourquoi tu lui dis pas la même chose,
Sinon pour les touristes il n'y a pas eu de blessés/victimes lors des différentes manifestation, là on répondait à la question du membre sur les risques
le reste hélas on sait tous qu'il ya eu bcp de blessés et même décès je me souviens plus parmi les manifestants en novembre... et ces nouvelles manifestations sont très fortes donc faut s'attendre à de nouveaux dérapages plus ou moins dramatiques et ça il n'ya pas besoin de boule de cristal pour en parler.
espérons que ça s'arrange pour les thais c'est à eux qu'il faut penser en particulier...les touristes iront ailleurs s'ils craignent pour leur sécurité
Salut, je viens de regarder le journal de 13h que ce soit sur la une ou la 2, d'après ce qu'ils nous montrent c'est assez violent, je ne sais pas trop quoi en penser vu que j'étais présent à bangkok lors de la dernière manifestation (les jaunes) et qu'il n'y avait pas de quoi dramatiser...
Si certaines personnes sont déja sur place pour nous dire comment cela se présente pour eux à Bangkok, je pense qu'on est tous preneur :)
Quand même 4 premier ministres qui ont démissionné en 15 mois... Je ne connais pas vraiment la politique de labas mais c'est bien dommage qu'il mette de côté leur image touristique à cause de ces manifestations...
Si certaines personnes sont déja sur place pour nous dire comment cela se présente pour eux à Bangkok, je pense qu'on est tous preneur :)
Quand même 4 premier ministres qui ont démissionné en 15 mois... Je ne connais pas vraiment la politique de labas mais c'est bien dommage qu'il mette de côté leur image touristique à cause de ces manifestations...
pour les touristes il n'y a pas eu de victimes, là on répondait à la question du membre sur les risques
Bien sur pas de victimes en Thaïlande vis à vis des touristes rien à voir par exemple de l'Egypte comme Louxor dont là ils tiraient carrément dans la foule de touristes, ce qu'on ne verra jamais en Thaïlande .
Bien sur pas de victimes en Thaïlande vis à vis des touristes rien à voir par exemple de l'Egypte comme Louxor dont là ils tiraient carrément dans la foule de touristes, ce qu'on ne verra jamais en Thaïlande .
@+ , 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 .
Bien sur que je croise les doigts aussi que ça arrive jamais, mais cela dans mon esprit ça me parait inimaginable de leur part eux ne mélange pas tout rien à voir avec certains pays .
@+ , 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 .
ça me parait inimaginable de leur part eux ne mélange pas tout rien à voir avec certains pays
je pense que tous les habitués de ce pays espèrent un retour sans drame à la normal et que les thais retrouvent sérénité dans leur pays. ça doit être très dur pour eux .
là le quai d'orsay à fait une dépêche à la fin du journal de TF1... ils demandent que l'on s'y rende pas .. moi perso si j'avais un billet je n'annulerai pas mais ça chacun analyse à sa façon que ça plaise ou pas...
je pense que tous les habitués de ce pays espèrent un retour sans drame à la normal et que les thais retrouvent sérénité dans leur pays. ça doit être très dur pour eux .
là le quai d'orsay à fait une dépêche à la fin du journal de TF1... ils demandent que l'on s'y rende pas .. moi perso si j'avais un billet je n'annulerai pas mais ça chacun analyse à sa façon que ça plaise ou pas...
faut il en conclure que si on post sur VF, on s'ennuie
toi oui car souvent tu commentes bêtement les réponses de certains membres et parle encore de bikinis comme plus haut (ah les modérateurs ont de nouveaux zappés tes posts idiots😛 donc pas possible de lire ce que tu avais répondu à yaya... (quest-ce que ça venait faire d'ailleurs le bikini dans la conversation, t souvent hors sujet mon pauvre!!!, )...au lieu de répondre intelligemment et utilement comme le post d'asiaonly hier par ex ou tu fais des commentaires idiots...
allez bon we flipflop amuse toi bien,
toi oui car souvent tu commentes bêtement les réponses de certains membres et parle encore de bikinis comme plus haut (ah les modérateurs ont de nouveaux zappés tes posts idiots😛 donc pas possible de lire ce que tu avais répondu à yaya... (quest-ce que ça venait faire d'ailleurs le bikini dans la conversation, t souvent hors sujet mon pauvre!!!, )...au lieu de répondre intelligemment et utilement comme le post d'asiaonly hier par ex ou tu fais des commentaires idiots...
allez bon we flipflop amuse toi bien,
là le quai d'orsay à fait une dépêche à la fin du journal de TF1... ils demandent que l'on s'y rende pas .. moi perso si j'avais un billet je n'annulerai pas mais ça chacun analyse à sa façon que ça plaise ou pas...
Oui enfin, c'est pas super rassurant quand meme..
Et puis, faut espérer qu'ils vont pas annuler les vols demain..
Pfff jsuis JUSTE dégoutée...
Oui enfin, c'est pas super rassurant quand meme..
Et puis, faut espérer qu'ils vont pas annuler les vols demain..
Pfff jsuis JUSTE dégoutée...
là le quai d'orsay à fait une dépêche à la fin du journal de TF1... ils demandent que l'on s'y rende pas .. moi perso si j'avais un billet je n'annulerai pas mais ça chacun analyse à sa façon que ça plaise ou pas...
Si il faut les écouter on irait nul part . 😛
Si il faut les écouter on irait nul part . 😛
@+ , 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 .
Si il faut les écouter on irait nul part
ah oui c'est vrai ça souvent c'est pour assurer leurs arrières si problème rencontrer sur place...
bref chacun est assez grand pour faire un choix, espérons pour tout le monde qui va là bas dans les jours à venir qu'ils profitent de leur séjour.
Et encore une fois pour les thais souhaitons que tout rentre dans l'ordre sans drame humain rapidemment
ah oui c'est vrai ça souvent c'est pour assurer leurs arrières si problème rencontrer sur place...
bref chacun est assez grand pour faire un choix, espérons pour tout le monde qui va là bas dans les jours à venir qu'ils profitent de leur séjour.
Et encore une fois pour les thais souhaitons que tout rentre dans l'ordre sans drame humain rapidemment
Hello,
Maigre contribution depuis Bangkok:
La ville est un peu plus calme que d'habitude, un petit peu moins de gens dans les rues, mais à part ca rien de particulier, circulation normale, attitude des gens tout à fait ordinaire. Les troubles doivent se concentrer dans certains quartiers.
Globalement pas d'inquiétude avoir pour le moment. Pour les futurs touristes c'est vrai que les blocages peuvent être génants.
Pour ce qui est des "allez y sans problème" un peu plus de retenue serait préférable...on ne sait pas comment la situation peut évoluer, même si dans l'état actuel des choses, aucun risques.
Maigre contribution depuis Bangkok:
La ville est un peu plus calme que d'habitude, un petit peu moins de gens dans les rues, mais à part ca rien de particulier, circulation normale, attitude des gens tout à fait ordinaire. Les troubles doivent se concentrer dans certains quartiers.
Globalement pas d'inquiétude avoir pour le moment. Pour les futurs touristes c'est vrai que les blocages peuvent être génants.
Pour ce qui est des "allez y sans problème" un peu plus de retenue serait préférable...on ne sait pas comment la situation peut évoluer, même si dans l'état actuel des choses, aucun risques.
alors moi aussi je suis a bangkok, depuis plus d'une semaine, avant hier des manifestants avaient coupees la grande route pres du democraty monument mais rien de mechant, et la cette aprem quand je suis revenue de chatuchak, cetait la merdasse puisque tout les grands axes etaient coupees (donc seul moyen de se deplacer en ville cest tuktuk ou mobylette, du moins dans els quartiers que jai vu) sinon la sur Khao san cest le bordel de Songkran, beaucoup de gens bourres qui sarrosent, jai envie de dire "normal"... juste que je prends lavion mercredi jespere que les rues seront debloquees!
voila si vous en savez plus nhesitez po a partager! :)
voila si vous en savez plus nhesitez po a partager! :)
Comme il a été dit, des tanks ont été déployés dans certains secteurs de la ville. Pour le moment, à part quelques heurts entre les "rouges" et des officiels du gouvernement, la situation semble plutôt calme. Mais comme l'a très justement fait remarquer rennais52, personne ne sait comment cela peut évoluer. Dire que tout est beau tout est rose et qu'il n'y a aucun risque est peut-être un peu prématuré. Ceci dit il n'y a pas lieu de dramatiser non plus. En évitant les zones à risques, les touristes n'ont pas grand chose à craindre, ce ne sont pas des cibles.
Je ne sais pas si les aéroports seront bloqués comme l'an dernier. Cela peut arriver même si le risque est faible.
"There is no way to happiness, happiness is the way" Buddha
"Le vrai voyageur n'a pas de plan établi et n'a pas l'intention d'arriver" Lao Tseu
Bangkok est super calme et super vide. j'ai l'impression qu' encore plus de gens que l'année dernière sont partis pour Songkran. Bien sûr toutes les chaînes Thai retransmettent en direct.
Sans vouloir dramatiser je pense que la situation est beaucoup plus tendue que la précédente avec les jaunes qui avait l'air bon enfant (même s'il y avait eu 3morts.
Je me suis baladé aujourd'hui du côté de Pratunam et Petchburi et des petits groupes de rouges circulent dans toute la ville. Apparement, l'armée s'est beaucoup plus déployée qu'en décembre.ON parle de 50 points stratégiques dans Bangkok.
A la télé ca semble un peu violent.Ils ont envahi le ministère de l'intérieur.Ils ont caillasé la belle Mercedes d'Abishit qui apparement n'était pas dedans. Plus inquiétant, on voiut des rouges sur des AVB et ce connard de Thaksin appelle maintenant à la révolution !
Sans vouloir dramatiser je pense que la situation est beaucoup plus tendue que la précédente avec les jaunes qui avait l'air bon enfant (même s'il y avait eu 3morts.
Je me suis baladé aujourd'hui du côté de Pratunam et Petchburi et des petits groupes de rouges circulent dans toute la ville. Apparement, l'armée s'est beaucoup plus déployée qu'en décembre.ON parle de 50 points stratégiques dans Bangkok.
A la télé ca semble un peu violent.Ils ont envahi le ministère de l'intérieur.Ils ont caillasé la belle Mercedes d'Abishit qui apparement n'était pas dedans. Plus inquiétant, on voiut des rouges sur des AVB et ce connard de Thaksin appelle maintenant à la révolution !
+1
Et je voudrais aussi insister sur le côté vaguement irresponsable qui consiste à "prendre de haut" les instructions du Quai d'Orsay ...
Pour mémoire, le voilier Tanit a entamé une "croisière" qui l'a amené au large de la Somalie CONTRE L'AVIS DU MINISTERE !
Et il y a eu 1 mort ... qui aurait du être évité 😕
Merci donc à tous les "grouillots" anonymes qui matérialisent chaque jour ce qu'on peut appeler la solidarité citoyenne, ils méritent le respect ...
Et je voudrais aussi insister sur le côté vaguement irresponsable qui consiste à "prendre de haut" les instructions du Quai d'Orsay ...
Pour mémoire, le voilier Tanit a entamé une "croisière" qui l'a amené au large de la Somalie CONTRE L'AVIS DU MINISTERE !
Et il y a eu 1 mort ... qui aurait du être évité 😕
Merci donc à tous les "grouillots" anonymes qui matérialisent chaque jour ce qu'on peut appeler la solidarité citoyenne, ils méritent le respect ...
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
au j'opte pour l'option sans chemise 😉
Sans chemise et sans pantalon comme la chanson, succès garantie . 😛😏😉
Sans chemise et sans pantalon comme la chanson, succès garantie . 😛😏😉
@+ , 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 .
Salut, je viens de regarder le journal de 13h que ce soit sur la une ou la 2, d'après ce qu'ils nous montrent c'est assez violent, je ne sais pas trop quoi en penser vu que j'étais présent à bangkok lors de la dernière manifestation (les jaunes) et qu'il n'y avait pas de quoi dramatiser...
Si certaines personnes sont déja sur place pour nous dire comment cela se présente pour eux à Bangkok, je pense qu'on est tous preneur :)
On est bien là sans trop de soucis ! les avions sont bien pleins pour l'aller comme pour le retour!...les évènements progressent il faudra bien que le ministre démissionne pour de nouvelles élections et cette fois ci les 55% Rouges reprendrons le contrôle comme c'était avant pour ce qui concerne votre sécurité rien à craindre les Thailandais sont des gens pragmatiques ils savent ce que représente les faranges et puis ce n'est pas dans leur culture de s'en prendre aux étrangers sauf si vous vous mêlez de leur affaires ....Donc évitez de vous faire une opinions à partir des journaux qui brodent beaucoup n'ayant pas de réel contact dans le pays fautes de finances comme d'habitude Petit pays mais avec de grandes idées enfin le passé ...
Si certaines personnes sont déja sur place pour nous dire comment cela se présente pour eux à Bangkok, je pense qu'on est tous preneur :)
On est bien là sans trop de soucis ! les avions sont bien pleins pour l'aller comme pour le retour!...les évènements progressent il faudra bien que le ministre démissionne pour de nouvelles élections et cette fois ci les 55% Rouges reprendrons le contrôle comme c'était avant pour ce qui concerne votre sécurité rien à craindre les Thailandais sont des gens pragmatiques ils savent ce que représente les faranges et puis ce n'est pas dans leur culture de s'en prendre aux étrangers sauf si vous vous mêlez de leur affaires ....Donc évitez de vous faire une opinions à partir des journaux qui brodent beaucoup n'ayant pas de réel contact dans le pays fautes de finances comme d'habitude Petit pays mais avec de grandes idées enfin le passé ...
La chanson de Jean Gabin "Je sais" un peu triste! je vous l'accorde mais tellement vraie et d'actualité....
Plus inquiétant, on voiut des rouges sur des AVB et ce connard de Thaksin appelle maintenant à la révolution !
Et ce connard d'abhisit qui se fout royalement de la démocratie, ce gars est un despote 😠 de plus la plupard des soldats sont originaires de l'Isan la ou Thaksin est tres populaire. Les militaires se laissent prendre des chars et des véhicules blindé comme ça, les militaires pretent-ils aux rouges des blindés pour faire un petit tour en ville ???? Sache qu'auparavant le parti Démocrate étaient les champions de la corruption et de l'achat des voix, a cause d'eux la Thailande était endetté. Et qui a rembourser la dette ? C'est Thaksin, le moins pire des pires.
Et ce connard d'abhisit qui se fout royalement de la démocratie, ce gars est un despote 😠 de plus la plupard des soldats sont originaires de l'Isan la ou Thaksin est tres populaire. Les militaires se laissent prendre des chars et des véhicules blindé comme ça, les militaires pretent-ils aux rouges des blindés pour faire un petit tour en ville ???? Sache qu'auparavant le parti Démocrate étaient les champions de la corruption et de l'achat des voix, a cause d'eux la Thailande était endetté. Et qui a rembourser la dette ? C'est Thaksin, le moins pire des pires.
On ne désire pas ce qu'on ne connaît pas.
On écrit pour raconter, non pour prouver.
http://velo-thailand.over-blog.com/
http://velo-thailand.over-blog.com/
Bien sûr, chacun peut avoir ses opinions mais traiter Abhisit de despote me paraît quand même exagéré.
C'est en tout cas depuis quelques jours un "despote" qui soit a tout fait pour eviter les violences, soit ne contrôle rien du tout.
Toxin lui, n'aynay plus rien à perdre et voulant récupérer ses thunes, fait tout pour attiser le feu et appelle à une nouvelle révolution. Un ancien flic, milliardaire corrompu et populiste, fugitif en exil, on fait mieux comme démocrate 😉
Toxin lui, n'aynay plus rien à perdre et voulant récupérer ses thunes, fait tout pour attiser le feu et appelle à une nouvelle révolution. Un ancien flic, milliardaire corrompu et populiste, fugitif en exil, on fait mieux comme démocrate 😉
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwLnbEIIpn8
Thai reds shirts saisissent un véhicule de transport de l'armée.................
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=of1Flf2vQMQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=of1Flf2vQMQ
NON, ce n'est pas un CHAR, le véhicule n'est pas armé et c'est un
transport de troupes.
On voit distinctement, même pour ceux qui n'y connaissent rien, la porte vers la seconde 28 du clip ...
D'ailleurs, le titre du clip ne parle pas de tank mais de vehicule !
Plus tard, à la TV (TV11), on voyait ce véhicule en remorque, il devait être en panne 😎
Désolé de casser l'ambiance "grand-soir" par ici 😎😎😎😎
On voit distinctement, même pour ceux qui n'y connaissent rien, la porte vers la seconde 28 du clip ...
D'ailleurs, le titre du clip ne parle pas de tank mais de vehicule !
Plus tard, à la TV (TV11), on voyait ce véhicule en remorque, il devait être en panne 😎
Désolé de casser l'ambiance "grand-soir" par ici 😎😎😎😎
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
bon ambiance bon enfant?............
Ils devraient toutefois faire attention, ils peuvent se faire coller une bonne fessée ...
Ils devraient toutefois faire attention, ils peuvent se faire coller une bonne fessée ...
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
Enfin au vu de certaines images mais pas toutes je précise!!
Annulation du festival pour économiser l'eau...et vu la situation........
La fête de songkran (nouvel an bouddhiste) vient d'être annulée par les autorités. Cette décision a été prise suite au 5e forum de l'eau qui s'est tenu la semaine dernière en Turquie à Istanbul. La journée de l'eau du 22 mars a été le déclenchement de cette décision.
Pour économiser des millions de mètres cubes d'eau cette manifestation n'aura pas lieu cette année
Pour économiser des millions de mètres cubes d'eau cette manifestation n'aura pas lieu cette année
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More discussions
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!
Bonjour je souhaite diviser mon séjour en 2 parties soit 15 jours à phuket et 15 jours sur krabi. Savez-vous si je peux louer une voiture et la rendre a krabi lors de mon retour en France
Merci de vos retours
Bon dimanche
Martine
Bonjour à tous, me voilà revenue sur le forum.
Je cherche la perle rare pour mon 3eme séjour sur Koh Lanta : un bel hotel qualitatif au bord d' une plage facile d'accès dans un endroit animé. Si vous connaissez quelque chose qui s'apparente à ma recherche et que vous souhaitez partager n' hésitez pas.
Merci beaucoup
Marsyork
Je cherche la perle rare pour mon 3eme séjour sur Koh Lanta : un bel hotel qualitatif au bord d' une plage facile d'accès dans un endroit animé. Si vous connaissez quelque chose qui s'apparente à ma recherche et que vous souhaitez partager n' hésitez pas.
Merci beaucoup
Marsyork
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!
Bonjour précieuse communauté,
J'envisage de me rendre au Cambodge cet hiver, juste après Noël, pour un premier voyage seule, et mon premier voyage en Asie. Pour deux semaines (oui, je sais, c'est peu, mais je ne peux vraiment pas plus...). J'ai deux grandes envies: Siem Reap, et la campagne, les villages, le Mekong...
Que pensez-vous de cet itinéraire? Arrivée à Siem Reap, départ de Phnom Penh
SR: 5 jours (1 jour pour l'arrivée, 3 pour les temples, 1 pour le lac et ses villages)
Kratie (étape sur la route du Mondolkiri): 3 jours (1 jour de trajet, 2 jours sur place)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 jours (1 jour de trajet, 1 jour sur place, 2 jours de treks)
PP: 3 jours (1 jour de trajet, 2 jours de visite)
Je pense qu'il faut que j'enlève un jour quelque part, si je pars du samedi au samedi, ou du dimanche au dimanche. A Kratie, peut-être? à PP? et je rate le trajet en bateau que tout le monde conseille (SR-Battambang), mais je ne vois pas où le caser. Sauf à faire un PP-PP en commençant par l'est, laisser tomber Kratie ou vraiment juste une nuit, puis SR, puis PP).
Dans mon timing, j'ai l'impression que le Mondolkiri est plus proche que le Ratanakiri, qui me tentait aussi beaucoup! Est-ce que cela restera pas trop compliqué toute seule? Je pense faire appel à des guides locaux, ou une petite agence locale, pour faire une escapade dans la nature et les villages.
Je lis qu'il y a beaucoup de monde à SR entre Noël et Nouvel An, je peux aussi faire le circuit dans l'autre sens. Mais je trouvais plus facile de me familiariser avec le pays en arrivant en territoire touristique, je me trompe peut-être...
Merci pour vos conseils et avis!
Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
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 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
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.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
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.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
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?
Hi there,
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hey everyone,
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip? I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Thanks! 🙂
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip? I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hi everyone,
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
Thanks
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
Thanks
Hi,
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days. I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome! I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Thanks
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days. I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome! I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Thanks
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral. Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo). Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok: * Orangutan Center * Malayan Sun Bear Center * Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan. Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari. Jungle walk. Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari. Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port. Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar 5 full days. * Snorkeling * Hiking * Turtle watching * Wild beaches * Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland. Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral. Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo). Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok: * Orangutan Center * Malayan Sun Bear Center * Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan. Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari. Jungle walk. Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari. Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port. Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar 5 full days. * Snorkeling * Hiking * Turtle watching * Wild beaches * Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland. Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Time to hit the road again!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali. And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people! So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops): - 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud 2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa) 1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...) - 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces) - 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai - 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed) - 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island) - 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan) - 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels. Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?) Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?) Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali. And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people! So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops): - 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud 2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa) 1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...) - 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces) - 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai - 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed) - 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island) - 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan) - 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels. Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?) Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?) Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
Hello,
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027: - Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham - Kratie - Siem Reap - Battambang - Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights. Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above. Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027: - Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham - Kratie - Siem Reap - Battambang - Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights. Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above. Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
Hello everyone,
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations: We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights: The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1: We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2: This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3: With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4: Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings. We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops. In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5: Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6: This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8: Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10: On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12: We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines. Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment. We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15: From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP). We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning. We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise. Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16: We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town. It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view. We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise. In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911. On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city. We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17: Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning. Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in. The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances: In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary: Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional. Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations: We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights: The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1: We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2: This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3: With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4: Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings. We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops. In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5: Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6: This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8: Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10: On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12: We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines. Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment. We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15: From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP). We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning. We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise. Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16: We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town. It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view. We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise. In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911. On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city. We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17: Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning. Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in. The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances: In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary: Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional. Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips: Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred. PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront). Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
A few practical tips: Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred. PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront). Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
Hi everyone,
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!
