Merci
Go travel direct et Sky Service pour Puerto Plata: retard exagéré
by Sergefortin
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
j etais supposé partir le 19 avril pour puerto plata, go travel direct m, on téléphoner pour changer d hotel 24 hes avant le départ et n avions pas le choix d accepter, le jour du départ le 19 départ prévu pour 3, 15 pm surprise remis au lendemain a 7.30 am plus tard dans la journé remis a9, 10 am plus tard remis a 10, 30 am soit 22hrs plus tard si ca se concretise, peut t on avoir ou comment faire un recours contre eux sur une semaine de vacance déja une journée de moin.
Quoi faire ?
Merci
Merci
Salut,
Il n'y a malheureusement pas grand chose à faire, puisque dans le contrat que tu as avec eux, maintenant que tu as acheté ton voyage, il est indiqué que Go Travel Direct n'est pas responsable des retards occasionnés et des pertes du à ces retards.
Il m'est arrivé la même la chose avec Go Travel, mon vol était parti avec plus de 12 heures de retard à cause d'un bris mécanique sur l'avion.
J'ai donc perdu une journée de vacances par le fait même ( au lieu d'arriver à 11 heures du matin, nous sommes arrivé à 23 heures, et le temps d'arriver à l'hotel, il était 1heure du matin).
J'ai appelé à l'office de protection du consommateur, et comme je l'ai dit plus, ils m'ont dit qu'il n'y avait pas grand chose à faire. Sauf que tu peux toujours envoyé une lettre à Go Travel en expliquant la situation, et en disant que tu veux avoir une compensation financière pour la perte de tes jours de vacances. Tu peux aussi prendre le risque d'aller au petites créances si la situation ne se règle pas.
Appelle chez Go travel et explique leur, tu n'as rien à perdre!
Bonne chance dans tes démarches!!!
Bien dommage pour vous!😕.....cependant, ce n'est pas que Go Travel Direct......mais toutes les compagnies qui est indiqué cette clause!...ils se protègent pis pas à peu près😊
Tout même, je leur enverrais une p'tite lettre recommandée!
Bonne soirée.
Tout même, je leur enverrais une p'tite lettre recommandée!
Bonne soirée.
BuiBel
Imagine toi donc, que c'est nous à Cancun qui devait partir à 15h et quelques pour arriver à Montréal à 22h30 qui ne sommes jamais arrivés à Mtl.
Les autorités Mexicaines refusaient que l'avion partent à cause d'une fuite de liquide hydrolique sur la porte où étaient mis les bagages. Nous avons 21 heures de retard. Go travel nous a fourni une chambre à Cancun et on devait partir à 5h, dimanche matin pour finalement décoler de Cancun à +/- 16h30 dimanche pm. C'est notre avion qui devait vous mener en République. Tout le monde se demandait ce qui se passait et bien entendu, les autorités mexicaines ont pris tout leur temps, même que nous avons attendu 1 heure dans l'avion afin qu'ils signent les papiers requis pour décoller.
Pour nous, Go Travel a fait un travail exceptionnel. Concernant SkyService, je pense qu'il ne pouvait rien faire non plus car ils ont fait venir de Toronto un ingénieur, ensuite ont fait venir la pièce à changer et ensuite on est reparti. Les pilotes et agents de bord étaient dans le même bâteau que nous.
Tu peux faire une plainte à Sky Service mais vu que c'était un bris mécanique, je ne crois pas qu'ils vont nous rembourser. Ça arrive des choses de même.
Josée
Pour nous, Go Travel a fait un travail exceptionnel. Concernant SkyService, je pense qu'il ne pouvait rien faire non plus car ils ont fait venir de Toronto un ingénieur, ensuite ont fait venir la pièce à changer et ensuite on est reparti. Les pilotes et agents de bord étaient dans le même bâteau que nous.
Tu peux faire une plainte à Sky Service mais vu que c'était un bris mécanique, je ne crois pas qu'ils vont nous rembourser. Ça arrive des choses de même.
Josée
J'ai eu le meme probleme l'an dernier avec Air Transat, retard de 6 hres sans aucun commentaires de la part des employés de Air Transat, a PET.
J'ai fais une plainte a Air Tansat, Nolitours et copie conforme a mon agence de voyage.
J'attends toujours leur réponses, sauf que l'agence de voyage s'en trouvait désolé, mais aucune réponse des autres.
Il est écrit dans la facture de ta réservation qu'ils peuvent changer les heures et date de vols a leur convenance et ce sans meme t'en avertir au préalable.
Mais dans ton cas s'il s'agit d'un bris mécanique et bien j'aime mieux arriver en retard qu'en corbillard
Ce n'est pas parce que les choses sont difficiles que nous n'osons pas c'est parce que nous n'osons pas qu'elles sont difficiles
Si je te disais que depuis le début décembre, il y a des retards de 10, 15 et même 20 heures avec Air Transat et Sunwing?
Consoles-toi! Je suis arrivée hier soir de Cayo Largo. Sunwing n'avait même pas d'avion pour venir nous chercher!!!!!
Ils ont dû demander à une compagnie de Toronto de venir nous prendre!!!!!! Ordinaire, n'est-ce pas?
Heureusement, tout s'est bien terminé malgré le bordel qui régnait depuis mercredi soir à l'hôtel car on changeait constamment l'heure de notre départ de l'hôtel! Il y avait même des gens qui avaient quitté étant donné que notre départ avait été déplacé dans la soirée au lieu du matin et que c'est revenu le matin!!!!!
Consoles-toi! Je suis arrivée hier soir de Cayo Largo. Sunwing n'avait même pas d'avion pour venir nous chercher!!!!!
Ils ont dû demander à une compagnie de Toronto de venir nous prendre!!!!!! Ordinaire, n'est-ce pas?
Heureusement, tout s'est bien terminé malgré le bordel qui régnait depuis mercredi soir à l'hôtel car on changeait constamment l'heure de notre départ de l'hôtel! Il y avait même des gens qui avaient quitté étant donné que notre départ avait été déplacé dans la soirée au lieu du matin et que c'est revenu le matin!!!!!
C'est quoi l'idée de toujour insister pour partir à l'heure. Une fois dans les air, il est trop tard pour dire... oupsss, il y a un problème. Je voyage beaucoup et chaques fois qu'il y a des retards pour régler un problèmes sur l'avion ou pour raison météorologique, je suis contant et je les félicites qu'ils prennent leurs responsabilités en réglant le problèmes AVANT de s'envoler alors pour les plaintes, ont repassera. Vous devriez leur envoyer une lettre de félicitation de vous avoir peut-être sauvé la vie. C'est quoi une journée de vacance contre une vie??
Le savoir c’est du pouvoir. Plus tu en sais, plus tu as le pouvoir de contrôler ta vie et ta destiné.
Ne cesse jamais d’apprendre.
Ne cesse jamais d’apprendre.
je te revien sur ta reponse le tweet, je voyage tres beaucoup le fais n est pas l heure du depart non ? tu paye pour 7 jour et tu as 6 jours ? sur une semaine, je ne suis pas le seul qui se plaint mais en passant un avion plein et en passant je demeure la bas donc fais moi pas chier avec ca car j essaie de savoir plein de chose, pour aider et clarifier une situation et a tous aussi le mesage je sais que s est mieux d etre en retard que en corbillard et ++++++ le fais est que toujour tout le monde s en lave les main, et le consommateur paye. C est le but et pourquoi ceux qui partent devrait consacrer une journer a ceux qui arrivent, ? par ce que aux fond, le tour operateur lui paye rien et le vol c est le meme chose c est les meme cout quand j entend dire de quoi que l on se plein, ? c est le quebecois tipique qui ne se defend jamais ? merci et reflechisser un peut S"V"P
je te revien sur ta reponse le tweet, je voyage tres beaucoup le fais n est pas l heure du depart non Heu.....je crois que le ''tweet'' n, est pas celui qu, on pense..... Pour quelqu'un qui prétend voyager ''très beaucoup'' tu fais dur, dur, dur.....et pas eulement niveau orthographe (faut dire qu'à force de voyager ''très beaucoup', tu ne dois pas avoir eu la chance d, apprendre à crire....🤪) Il est vai que quand on brasse de grosses affaires quelques heures de perdues valent plus qu'une vie.....😛 Que le vaya bien....
On met longtemps à devenir jeune...
Avant de traiter le monde de TWEET, je veux simplement te faire remarquer que la majorité des gens sur ce site sont des voyageurs et qu'il est regrettable de perdre une journée de vacance.
Mais en toute sincérité, tu as en partie raison, on ne se plaindra jamais assez, mais que veux tu faire lorsque les lois et les règlements sont déjà établient par ces cies,
Ils n'ent ont rien a foutre de ta plainte.
J'ai déjà essayer crois moi, mais sans résultat.
J'ai remarqué que tu demeure a Montréal, alors la circulation, sa va, si un automobiliste tombe en panne vas tu faire une plainte, contre lui, et si c'était ton véhicule dois ton faire un recours collectif contre toi.
Je m'en fou d'etre en retard lors de mes déplacements en vacances ou pour affaire, ma sécurité est prémordial,
J'en convient avec toi que si c'est pour des raisons administratives et bien la cela est différent.
Mais ce forum se veut de source informationnel et tu devrais te rétracter d'avoir traiter certains forumiste de TWEET. en passant tu as le droit d'etre en désaccord avec les posts émis mais non pas etre déplacé dans tes commentaires. De plus on ne dit pas sur se site Chier mais bien SUER c'est plus gentil.
Mais je comprends en partie ton principe.
Bonne journée.
Bonne journée.
Ce n'est pas parce que les choses sont difficiles que nous n'osons pas c'est parce que nous n'osons pas qu'elles sont difficiles
Je suis entierement d'accord avec d'autres, réponse de tweet .?? Regarde on a droit également à notre avis et je crois également etre en retard d'une journée c'est toujours mieux que ne jamais revenir, pourquoi dit t'on qu'il y a moins de risque en avion que de prendre la voiture ou de se faire frapper en traversant une rue et bien car ils prennent des précautions . Peut-etre que tu as eu de la chance de ne pas avoir des retards et tant mieux. Donc une journée ce n'est rien pour une vie . Quand on a le moyen de voyager on doit être capable d'assumer ce qu'il vient avec. 😉
Je te conseille de formuler ta plainte. Appelle l'OPC, ils te donnent un accès pour un formulaire de réclamation. Il faut quand même se faire entendre si on se sent lésé. C'est sûr que c'est mieux de retarder un départ pour assurer la sécurité mais ils devraient pouvoir accomoder leurs clients. Ne baisse pas les bras et va de l'avant.
salut. moi aussi je revien de puerto plata appel go travel direct ils vont te donne une addresse email pour fair ta plainte.pour le vol du retour jetais assi juste derriere toi. et pour celui qui rie de nous car on fait des erreur hortographes tu pourrais garder tes commentaire pour toi car se nais pas tous le mondes qui l'on u facille a l'école temps mieux pour toi si tu es un petit genie mais tu nais pas obliger de rire des autres ! merci
😉
Tu m'as fait rire, remarque que personnellement je me fous un peu de la facon que vous avez d'ecrire la langue francaise, mais sa me chiquote quand meme un peu il s'agit juste de faire un peu attention.
Ce n'est pas personnel, loin de moi mais si on veux protèger notre langue on se doit de la parler et tenter de l'écrire correctement juste pour faire suer les provinces de l'ouest.
Car ici nous ne sommes pas une province mais un pays.
Il s'agit juste de faire un effort. Un dictionnaire sa existe alors par exprès j'ai fais volontairement quelques fautes de francais Sans rancune
Et crois moi je ne ries pas de toi, j'ai très bien compris ton texte et je crois etre en accord avec toi que ce forum n'est pas pour offusquer les gens Remarque que meme lui fais des fautes d'écriture.
Bonne journée
Ce n'est pas parce que les choses sont difficiles que nous n'osons pas c'est parce que nous n'osons pas qu'elles sont difficiles
je viens de vérifier avec le bureau-chef de GoTravelDirect a Ottawa; ils sont toujours en affaire; c'est juste qu'ils ont terminé leur saison au QUébec; ils vont reprendre à l'automne, m'ont-ils-dit. J'ai voulu les rejoindre parce qu'ils me doivent 4 "vouchers" pour des vols ratés x 4 membres de ma famille (les dates...). Je dois recevoir mes vouchers demain; je vous tiendrai au courant...
voyager c'est rajeunir!!
Salut ! Je faisait aussi partie de ce voyage et je comprends la frustration... pcq j'étais aussi très frustrée !
1- Le changement d'hôtel la veille du départ 2- Go Travel fermé le samedi quand le répondeur dit que c'est ouvert 3- Le retard de l'avion; on sait tous pourquoi ... 4- L'impossibilité de Go Travel a nous changer d'hôtel rendu sur place; pcq l'hôtel (Celuisma tropical) n'est pas du tout équivalente a celle ou l'on devait aller (le Fun tropical)
Je suis en train d'écrire ma lettre de plainte a GTD (on a 30 jours après la date de retour seulement pour l'envoyer sinon la plainte ne sera pas considérée) il faut écrire a; relationsclientele@gotraveldirect.com ou bien ; gtdcustomerrelations@gotraveldirect.com
J'ai déja eu auparavent un crédit de GTD applicable sur un autre voyage en RD où l'Hôtel était très loin, mais très très loin de ce qui nous avait été promis, ce 5 étoiles de La Romana aurait du en avoir a peine 2... (Reina Cumayasa)
Souhaitons que GTD soit compréhensif dans notre cas et donnons nous des nouvelles ! Un des voyageurs (Simon) voulait intenter un recours collectif mais nous n'étions pas assez nombreux.
J'ai trouvé quelque chose de très instructif...
http://www.selection.ca/mag/2002/02/vacances.html (voici un bout du texte en question !)
1. Le contrat. Faut-il croire tout ce qui y est écrit? Pas du tout! Certaines clauses sont valables, comme les frais que le client doit acquitter en cas d’annulation. Par contre, la clause de non-responsabilité ne tient pas. Ni les agents de voyages ni les voyagistes ne peuvent se soustraire à leurs responsabilités. «Ils sont responsables de la qualité de ce qu’ils vendent. Et ce, même si vous allez à l’autre bout du monde», souligne Me Daniel Guay, avocat pour la firme Azran et Associés, et spécialiste du droit du voyage. L’avocat établit un parallèle avec les manteaux qu’on laisse au vestiaire des restaurants. Une pancarte bien en vue affirme toujours que l’établissement n’est pas responsable des objets perdus ou volés. C’est faux! La tactique est vieille comme le monde. Elle sert simplement à décourager les poursuites. Et ça fonctionne!
1- Le changement d'hôtel la veille du départ 2- Go Travel fermé le samedi quand le répondeur dit que c'est ouvert 3- Le retard de l'avion; on sait tous pourquoi ... 4- L'impossibilité de Go Travel a nous changer d'hôtel rendu sur place; pcq l'hôtel (Celuisma tropical) n'est pas du tout équivalente a celle ou l'on devait aller (le Fun tropical)
Je suis en train d'écrire ma lettre de plainte a GTD (on a 30 jours après la date de retour seulement pour l'envoyer sinon la plainte ne sera pas considérée) il faut écrire a; relationsclientele@gotraveldirect.com ou bien ; gtdcustomerrelations@gotraveldirect.com
J'ai déja eu auparavent un crédit de GTD applicable sur un autre voyage en RD où l'Hôtel était très loin, mais très très loin de ce qui nous avait été promis, ce 5 étoiles de La Romana aurait du en avoir a peine 2... (Reina Cumayasa)
Souhaitons que GTD soit compréhensif dans notre cas et donnons nous des nouvelles ! Un des voyageurs (Simon) voulait intenter un recours collectif mais nous n'étions pas assez nombreux.
J'ai trouvé quelque chose de très instructif...
http://www.selection.ca/mag/2002/02/vacances.html (voici un bout du texte en question !)
1. Le contrat. Faut-il croire tout ce qui y est écrit? Pas du tout! Certaines clauses sont valables, comme les frais que le client doit acquitter en cas d’annulation. Par contre, la clause de non-responsabilité ne tient pas. Ni les agents de voyages ni les voyagistes ne peuvent se soustraire à leurs responsabilités. «Ils sont responsables de la qualité de ce qu’ils vendent. Et ce, même si vous allez à l’autre bout du monde», souligne Me Daniel Guay, avocat pour la firme Azran et Associés, et spécialiste du droit du voyage. L’avocat établit un parallèle avec les manteaux qu’on laisse au vestiaire des restaurants. Une pancarte bien en vue affirme toujours que l’établissement n’est pas responsable des objets perdus ou volés. C’est faux! La tactique est vieille comme le monde. Elle sert simplement à décourager les poursuites. Et ça fonctionne!
Selon l'OPC nous devons formuler notre plainte le plus tôt possible mais à l'intérieur de 3 ans de la date du préjudice.
Au Québec c'est la loi et aucune compagnie ne peut se soustraire à cette loi.
Au Québec c'est la loi et aucune compagnie ne peut se soustraire à cette loi.
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hi there, I’ve never been to Martinique. my girlfriend, who’s of Martinican origin, has never had the chance to go either (life isn’t always easy). now we can plan a little trip, but we don’t know which airline to choose or how to find accommodation.
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Hi! We spent 10 wonderful days in Guadeloupe’s gorgeous climate. Our arrival got off to a shaky start, though—our suitcase was left behind at the airport, which caused quite a stir. A police officer was shouting at us to get out and cross the street. Then, a taxi driver refused to take us after we showed him where we were staying, right by the port in Pointe-à-Pitre. "No one goes there," he told us! Good thing we arrived during Carnival! A second driver finally agreed to take us, and I can say he knew every nook and cranny of his city.
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The rest of the trip was amazing. The locals were smiling and welcoming. We didn’t rent a car, so we didn’t get around much and stayed in the Deshaies area—a real favorite. Plage de la Perle (Pearl Beach) truly lives up to its name! We liked Grande Anse Beach less because of the steep slope, which made walking tricky, and the waves were pretty intense. The landscapes in this part of the island are idyllic. We visited the botanical garden—it’s worth it—and went to the port in Deshaies. If we ever go back, we’ll rent a vehicle so we can explore more, because taxis aren’t cheap!
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Good evening,
We spent 15 days in the Exumas from March 10th to 26th.
I should mention that we’ve been traveling to islands for 20 years, so we have points of comparison when it comes to prices, hospitality, and landscapes.
First, the flights: we now live in the Luberon, so we flew out of Marseille. We took British Airways, which we’ve used several times before for trips to the English-speaking Caribbean and which offers flights via Heathrow. We had an overnight layover in London on the way out, then a flight to Nassau. After that, we took a connecting flight (we had a 2h20 layover in Nassau, which was more than enough) to George Town with Sky Bahamas. We had initially ruled out Bahamasair based on very negative reviews. Immigration and customs were very quick.
When we arrived, we took a taxi to our hotel, Augusta Bay. Cost: $30.
We rented a car through Sure and Shore. It was delivered to our hotel the day after we arrived, and we kept it until we left for Stocking Island. For 9 days, we paid $470 (which is a great price) for a small Honda that wasn’t very new, but we didn’t have any issues with it. One thing we’d never experienced before: they’d put newspaper sheets on the floor, and we were told not to get any sand in the car if we went to the beach!
We stayed 5 nights at Augusta Bay. A 5-minute walk away is the beautiful, uncrowded Jolly Beach, perfect for swimming. We visited the southern part of the island to see the beaches of Little Exuma, especially Tropic of Cancer Beach and the one next to Santana’s restaurant. We also went to Hopper Bay Beach, where you can see a group of about ten turtles near a small boat dock. We went kayaking from the hotel.
Then we stayed at Paradise Bay in the north. While we hadn’t encountered the sandfly problem before, here it’s important to know that the beach is infested with them. The hotel’s restaurant, which is very good otherwise, even provides repellent for guests— that’s how bad it is! From there, we visited Coco Plum Beach, Three Sisters Beach (where you can snorkel), and others. We also went kayaking again.
We ended our trip with 3 nights on Stocking Island at Saint Francis Resort. If we were to do it again, we’d spend 4 nights there. The island has many trails, snorkeling spots, and you can get around by kayak. We saw rays, turtles, and even a harmless shark, as well as some beautiful beaches. Plus, the welcome at Saint Francis was the warmest we experienced.
Be aware that everything is very expensive on the island—much more so than in the English-speaking Caribbean. Clearly, the purchasing power of Americans plays a role. They say everything is imported, but that’s the case on all islands! Some places only accept cash or charge a 5% fee if you pay by card.
We didn’t find the locals particularly friendly. If you’ve been to Dominica or Grenada, for example, you’ll know what I mean.
We explored the whole island. The beaches are stunning, but the roads tell a different story. There are a lot of car wrecks—some houses have two or three in front of them, which really spoils the landscape. There are also many abandoned, ruined houses.
The vegetation is lush but not tropical, and you’ll be served apples and oranges for breakfast because there are very few exotic fruits.
As for the climate in March, there was no humid atmosphere, and the heat was very manageable (26°C). It was very pleasant. The seawater, however, is definitely cooler than in the Indian Ocean, for example.
There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
In conclusion: beautiful beaches, sand as fine as flour, and a very pleasant climate. But honestly, for the same cost, I’d prefer the Seychelles, for example.
Best regards.
We spent 15 days in the Exumas from March 10th to 26th.
I should mention that we’ve been traveling to islands for 20 years, so we have points of comparison when it comes to prices, hospitality, and landscapes.
First, the flights: we now live in the Luberon, so we flew out of Marseille. We took British Airways, which we’ve used several times before for trips to the English-speaking Caribbean and which offers flights via Heathrow. We had an overnight layover in London on the way out, then a flight to Nassau. After that, we took a connecting flight (we had a 2h20 layover in Nassau, which was more than enough) to George Town with Sky Bahamas. We had initially ruled out Bahamasair based on very negative reviews. Immigration and customs were very quick.
When we arrived, we took a taxi to our hotel, Augusta Bay. Cost: $30.
We rented a car through Sure and Shore. It was delivered to our hotel the day after we arrived, and we kept it until we left for Stocking Island. For 9 days, we paid $470 (which is a great price) for a small Honda that wasn’t very new, but we didn’t have any issues with it. One thing we’d never experienced before: they’d put newspaper sheets on the floor, and we were told not to get any sand in the car if we went to the beach!
We stayed 5 nights at Augusta Bay. A 5-minute walk away is the beautiful, uncrowded Jolly Beach, perfect for swimming. We visited the southern part of the island to see the beaches of Little Exuma, especially Tropic of Cancer Beach and the one next to Santana’s restaurant. We also went to Hopper Bay Beach, where you can see a group of about ten turtles near a small boat dock. We went kayaking from the hotel.
Then we stayed at Paradise Bay in the north. While we hadn’t encountered the sandfly problem before, here it’s important to know that the beach is infested with them. The hotel’s restaurant, which is very good otherwise, even provides repellent for guests— that’s how bad it is! From there, we visited Coco Plum Beach, Three Sisters Beach (where you can snorkel), and others. We also went kayaking again.
We ended our trip with 3 nights on Stocking Island at Saint Francis Resort. If we were to do it again, we’d spend 4 nights there. The island has many trails, snorkeling spots, and you can get around by kayak. We saw rays, turtles, and even a harmless shark, as well as some beautiful beaches. Plus, the welcome at Saint Francis was the warmest we experienced.
Be aware that everything is very expensive on the island—much more so than in the English-speaking Caribbean. Clearly, the purchasing power of Americans plays a role. They say everything is imported, but that’s the case on all islands! Some places only accept cash or charge a 5% fee if you pay by card.
We didn’t find the locals particularly friendly. If you’ve been to Dominica or Grenada, for example, you’ll know what I mean.
We explored the whole island. The beaches are stunning, but the roads tell a different story. There are a lot of car wrecks—some houses have two or three in front of them, which really spoils the landscape. There are also many abandoned, ruined houses.
The vegetation is lush but not tropical, and you’ll be served apples and oranges for breakfast because there are very few exotic fruits.
As for the climate in March, there was no humid atmosphere, and the heat was very manageable (26°C). It was very pleasant. The seawater, however, is definitely cooler than in the Indian Ocean, for example.
There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
In conclusion: beautiful beaches, sand as fine as flour, and a very pleasant climate. But honestly, for the same cost, I’d prefer the Seychelles, for example.
Best regards.
Hi everyone,
I need your help!
We’re planning to visit Guadeloupe and take the opportunity to explore the islands La Désirade, Marie-Galante, and Les Saintes.
I initially planned to rent a car to get around the main island and then take the ferry from Trois-Rivières to Les Saintes, from Pointe-à-Pitre to Marie-Galante, and finally from Saint-François to La Désirade, following that route.
But when I look at it, the car would sit unused for at least 5 days—that’s paying for nothing🙁.
Is it possible to go from LES SAINTES to MARIE-GALANTE and then on to LA DÉSIRADE? We’d only rent a car once we arrive in Saint-François to continue exploring Guadeloupe. What do you think—is that doable?
This trip is planned for April.
Thanks so much for your help
Hi there,
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Hi! We’re visiting Guadeloupe for the first time in January. We’re looking for accommodation near Deshaies to start our trip. A quiet spot, not too far from the sea so we can walk there. Any suggestions are welcome!
Have a great day!
Have a great day!
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
Hi,
Several comments recommend bringing mosquito repellent. Got it. Are there a lot of them during the day? And by the seaside? Or are they more present (and voracious) in the evening? Thanks.
Hi everyone,
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
Hi!
I’m heading to Havana for a week in February. I’m looking for a casa particular that’s affordable, clean, and cozy. Since I’ll be traveling alone, I’d love a place where people are welcoming!
Also, I really want to stay in Habana Vieja...
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Hi fellow travelers,
We're heading to Martinique for a month from mid-January to mid-February.
Our plan is to explore the island by staying in three different spots for 10 days each, on both sides of the island...
Could you share some great tips on where to stay for an authentic experience and what we absolutely must see?!
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Hi there,
In March 2026 I’ll be at the Club Med in Sainte-Anne and I’m thinking of heading to Les Saintes at the end of my stay.
Do you know what the most convenient way to get there is?
Thanks so much!
Hi everyone.
For those traveling to Cuba and then planning to go to the USA, you won’t be able to get your ESTA for the United States (same applies) if you’ve been to Cuba after 2021 due to a law passed by Donald Trump (a law that Biden later repealed).
You’ll have no choice but to apply for a visa, which costs 200 € (and approval isn’t guaranteed even after payment).
If you’re in this situation, the process to get this visa will be a real hassle—you’ll need to book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. It’s the only embassy in France authorized to handle your application after you’ve filled out the visa request on the official website.
If you try to cheat by applying for an ESTA for the USA, just know that the American administration has ways of finding out if you’ve been to Cuba. 😉
What would you recommend at the airport to get to Ste Anne... Taxis or rideshares?
Can you point me to a good one?
I'm looking for information on the islands of Puerto Rico, St. Barthélemy, and St. Martin for March 2026.
What is there to see, and if possible, prices or tips, please?
Thanks, Michel V.
Hi everyone,
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I’m planning our upcoming trip to Guadeloupe. We’re looking for a place to stay where human contact is a priority, with air conditioning, close to the beaches, and clean.
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
Hi,
I’ll be staying at Playa Pesquero in Holguin and I’d like to rent a bike or scooter to explore the area. Do you know how I can do that? Thanks
Hi there,
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
hi
need some info—I’m torn between Martinique and Guadeloupe for April.
also, which island is bigger in terms of trip length?
thanks in advance
Hi,
When booking the tickets to Martinique for our family, I must have made a mistake, and on one of the tickets, the third first name is wrong. Michel instead of Joel...
CORSAIR Airlines is telling me I have to buy a new ticket for 1200 € (Christmas period). I think that’s outrageous and, above all, impossible for us.
I’m desperate—I feel like Corsair is really overdoing it.
Is there any recourse? How can I get out of this?
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
Hi
On a layover in Pointe-à-Pitre—where’s a good place to stay for one night?
Thanks
Hi, I'm looking for a car rental for January 2020 in Guadeloupe. There are several agencies I've seen reviews for—has anyone dealt with Autolagon before?
Thanks!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Bayahibe this winter. It’ll be my second time in this country, where I feel so at home. I’d love to bring back some Larimar jewelry... the real deal.
I saw some at a shop in the Iberostar Dominicus hotel, but I’m guessing I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Maybe in La Romana?
If anyone has any tips on this, I’d really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance!
I’m heading to Bayahibe this winter. It’ll be my second time in this country, where I feel so at home. I’d love to bring back some Larimar jewelry... the real deal.
I saw some at a shop in the Iberostar Dominicus hotel, but I’m guessing I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Maybe in La Romana?
If anyone has any tips on this, I’d really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance!
Since the DR is right next to Haiti, I was wondering if voodoo is also practiced there? And how can you attend these ceremonies?
a
a
Hi,
Some wholesalers are canceling trips to Cuba, but I still want to visit my favorite country. For those who went there in November, what’s the situation like at all-inclusive hotels?
Thanks
Some wholesalers are canceling trips to Cuba, but I still want to visit my favorite country. For those who went there in November, what’s the situation like at all-inclusive hotels?
Thanks




