En effet, aucune banque en accord avec la BNP ou avec Visa premier en Thailande. Tu auras toujours des frais plus environ 4 euros de taxes a chaque retrait quelque soit le montant du retrait.
la technique la plus économique est d’ouvrir un compte dans une banque thaï et de faire des virement mensuel ou trimestriel pour environ 25 euro
25 euros!!!🤪
Quand je fais un transfert de ma banque française(caisse d'epargne) à ma banque thaïe(bangkok bank), Je precise a ma banque en France que les frais seront payés par le beneficiaire et donc je ne paye des frais qu'en Thailande. 500 bahts soit environ 12,50 euros.
La TMB fait payer aussi 500 bahts.
Comme je l'ai dit plus haut, il faut demander a votre banque en France que les frais de transfert soit pris en charge par le beneficiaire.
La caisse d'epargne, ou je suis m'a meme remboursé une fois car elle n'avait pas suivi ma demande avec mail a l'appui...
J'ai vécu dans plusieurs pays europeens et j'ai toujours fait comme ça.
J'ai du parfois l'expliquer aux personnes travaillant aux guichets de banques qui ne sont pas habitués a faire des transferts internationaux et donc vous orientent mal...
Les meilleurs sont les banques anglaises, avec elles je n'ai jamais eu de soucis.
Je voyage toujours avec du liquide, mais sait on jamais, à la fin du séjour si l'argent commence à manquer on a pas le choix.
Merci à vous
Je te conseil des travelers cheque à la poste (toute petite commission), pas besoin d'espèces avec toi et s'il t'en reste à la fin de ton voyage pas de problèmes ils sont valable à vie (en cas de perte ou de vol ils t'en envoie de nouveaux gratuitement à ton hôtel). Retirer de l'argent que se soit en Thailand ou ailleurs coute toujours cher car si même tu n'avait pas de frais (impossible) le taux de change effectué par ta banque est très en dessous de celui que tu auras sur place. De plus, souvent un meilleur change avec des travelers que des espèces. Commissions des banques thai 30thb par travelers.
Bon séjour
Les travellers chèques à la Poste coûtent 1,5% du montant, soit 15 euros pour 1000 euros de chèques.
Par contre le taux de change appliqué est en général supérieur de 0.4% à celui des espèces, ce qui compense en partie les frais d'achat, et cela avec une sécurité absolue.
Les prendre en euros et en grosses coupures ( 100 euros par exemple ) afin de minimiser les frais lors de l'échange ( 30 bahts par chèque ).
Les travellers chèques à la Poste coûtent 1,5% du montant, soit 15 euros pour 1000 euros de chèques.
Par contre le taux de change appliqué est en général supérieur de 0.4% à celui des espèces, ce qui compense en partie les frais d'achat, et cela avec une sécurité absolue.
Les prendre en euros et en grosses coupures ( 100 euros par exemple ) afin de minimiser les frais lors de l'échange ( 30 bahts par chèque ).
+1 , et en cas de perte ou de vol ( ce qui est rare , mais ! ) des Traveller's Chèques on les remplace en moins de 48 heures ou que l'on soit , argent liquide en cas de perte reste plus que les yeux pour pleurer , la visa big problème pour ce la faire remplacer à l'étranger . Conclusion les Traveller's plus sécurisant .
@+ , 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, vous avez l'air de connaitre le systeme des traveller cheque, donc je me permet de vous solliciter!
Je compte partir 6mois en asie avec 6 000e.je pensais prendre 1 000en liquide pour avoir de l'argent sur moi, et ouvrir un compte thai, pour faire un virement swift (5 000€)de la societe generale a a la kasikorn sans doute! avec frais a payer par le destianataire(donc le compte thai 😉) j'ai bien suivi l'astuce avec le plafond a 500b . mais les travellers ca serait pas plus rentable? il faut les echanger et deposer le liquide a la banque ou directement le traveller a la banque? l'avantage du traveller c'est que si je vais au cambodge et au vietnam, je peux aussi m'en servir...
merci d'avance
" L'expérience, ce n'est pas ce qui arrive à quelqu'un, c'est ce que quelqu'un fait avec ce qui lui arrive."
Les travellers s'échangent directement dans n'importe quelle banque ou dans un bureau de change ( la transaction y est beaucoup plus rapide...).Il faut présenter son passeport, donner une adresse ( n'importe quel hotel ), et contresigner le chèque devant l'employé, la signature devant être identique à celle apposée lors de l'achat.
Si c'est à la banque thaie où un compte est ouvert, l'argent sera versé directement sur le compte.
Une chose à savoir lors de l'achat en France, il faut payer en cash, les chèques ne sont pas acceptés.
Une chose à savoir lors de l'achat en France, il faut payer en cash, les chèques ne sont pas acceptés.
meme dans ma propre banque????c'est débile...ils peuvent pas faire un retrait sur le compte directement???j'irais les voir!mais ils n'ont pas l'air trop performant pour ce qui est de l'etranger !!!
je crois que le mieux sera un virement pour la thailande et des travellers cheques pour les pays limitrophe! le taux de l'€ sera plus avantageux que les baths je suppose..
" L'expérience, ce n'est pas ce qui arrive à quelqu'un, c'est ce que quelqu'un fait avec ce qui lui arrive."
tu paye 150b des fois quand tu va dans un ATM d une banque concurrente, et que cette ATM est très loin de ton agence
stil agence a Bangkok atm autre compagnie sur les iles
sur Bangkok il m'arrive fréquemment de payer 15-35b car ce n'est pas l'atm de ma banque
pas 150bahts, 20bahts de frais... gratuit uniquement dans les atm de l' agence dans la province (departement) ou tu as ouvert ton compte.
genre ouvert a la Siam commercial bank de bangkok . si tu l'utilise a phuket, tu auras des frais a chaque retrait, tout comme si tu retire dans un ATM d'une autre banque
A propos de traveller checks, il existe maintenant une carte, genre carte de crédit, sur laquelle est comptabilisé le montant à ta disposition. Ainsi plus besoin de se ballader avec des chèque papier. Prend peuu de place et très pratique à utiliser....😉
A propos de traveller checks, il existe maintenant une carte, genre carte de crédit, sur laquelle est comptabilisé le montant à ta disposition. Ainsi plus besoin de se ballader avec des chèque papier. Prend peuu de place et très pratique à utiliser....😉
Cette carte ne marche que pour nos amis Suisse en France comme d'hab on a une longueur de retard...Domage
A propos de traveller checks, il existe maintenant une carte, genre carte de crédit, sur laquelle est comptabilisé le montant à ta disposition. Ainsi plus besoin de se ballader avec des chèque papier. Prend peuu de place et très pratique à utiliser....😉
Cette carte ne marche que pour nos amis Suisse en France comme d'hab on a une longueur de retard...Domage
Pas grave on va se rattraper . 😏😏 ( je plaisante , quoique ? ) 😛
@+ , 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 .
connaitrais - tu par hasard le montant de ces frais? (carte atm thai pour des retraits aux cambodge laos vietnam? )
je pensais faire 3 mois en thailande avec visa thai, et 3 mois a me balader entre le cambodge le laos et le vietnam... donc 3 000€ pour ces 3pays, pour 3mois. les travellers cheque seraient plus avantageux selon toi? 30 travellers de 100€.. parce que y aller avec des baths je pense etre perdant...
" L'expérience, ce n'est pas ce qui arrive à quelqu'un, c'est ce que quelqu'un fait avec ce qui lui arrive."
On m'a dit qu'au Vietnam, il y a Agribank qui change les cheques de voyage sans frais. Malheureusement, je n'ai pu verifie encore. Je n'ai pas reussi a changer aucun cheque de voyage qui sont en dollars canadiens. C'est la premiere fois que cela m'arrive. Je ne pensais pas avoir une devise de republique de bananes...
Je sors donc de l'argent des guichets ATM. J'en ai trouve un qui n'avait pas de frais supplementaires par contre. Mais comme le maximun que l'on peut retirer ici est 2 millions de dongs (100$), ca fait beaucoup de frais (3,50$ de ma banque et les frais supplementaires quand il y en a).Alors cheques de voyage en Euros ou Dollars americains.
Je voyage toujours avec des travellers cheques american express en dollars américains. ça au moins c'est en général "accepté."
et ce n'est que du secours, car les travellers sont toujours un problème en voyage.
Il faut trouver une banque, et "la" banque. Il faut faire la queue ...
Je ne compte pas sur mes travellers, c'est juste du secours en cas de perte de ma carte de crédit car se faire renvoyer une carte de crédit quand on est en voyage prend bien 15 jours et il faut avoir une adresse fixe, (ça c'est pour moi, ma banque est en France)
très contraignant quand on est en voyage itinérant ...
Je voyage en fonctionnant presque toujours par des retraits via ATM surtout en Asie, excepté le Laos où, là, vaut mieux avoir du cash à changer, sinon, gros frais bancaires, vu que la somme est très limitée. (expérience Laos de 2009)
Et en gardant toujours des devises, euros ou US, en cash pour les situations où il n'y a pas d'ATM, c'est très important d'avoir du cash.
je viens de vivre cette situation, énormément dans les îles du sud de la Thaïlande.
Je ne compte pas sur mes travellers, c'est juste du secours en cas de perte de ma carte de crédit car se faire renvoyer une carte de crédit quand on est en voyage prend bien 15 jours et il faut avoir une adresse fixe, (ça c'est pour moi, ma banque est en France)
très contraignant quand on est en voyage itinérant ...
Exact , tu as tout compris c'est ce que j'explique toujours à ce sujet . 😉
@+ , 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 .
Aux dernières nouvelles, mon voyage de janvier 2011, même l'Ayudhaya Bank (la jaune) qui ne prenait pas les 150 bahts de comm. un an plus tôt, a viré de bord.
Donc pour moi y en a aucune qui ne prend pas sa comm.
le max que je pouvais tirer est 20 000 bahts.
j'ai pu tirer une fois 25 000 bahts dans une banque où l'on m'a emmenée, mais je ne sais pas son nom.
sur ces 25000 bahts, je peux te dire que j'ai eu 15 euros de frais via la France + les 150 bahts pris par la Thailande.
Et le pire à considérer, c'est le problème d'absence d'ATM dans certaines îles du sud où je suis allée, et le cas s'est produit à quatre endroits pour moi. (dont Koh Lipe par exemple qui est pourtant très touristique, IL N'Y A PAS D'ATM ET PAS DE BANQUE).
(voyage de Janvier 2011)
je signale que dans ces îles :
on arrive à se dépanner
- dans les agences de voyages ou les grands hôtels qui, eux, prennent une commission supplémentaire à ce que prend le circuit Visa, et qui est de 3 à 5 % ... en plus !
- et que si on y change du cash (dollar ou euro) le taux est bien évidemment très inférieur.
par ex, pour moi en janvier ça a été 1 €= 38,4 et 38,5 au lieu de 39,2 à Bangkok
bon, le baht a augmenté à mon départ, on en était à 40.
Je pensais avoir suffisamment de cash en bahts, eh bien non. Donc, bien prévoir son coup.
Pour l'Ayudhaya Bank (la jaune donc), ca depend de ta banque ET de ta carte...
Avec une Visa Premier, je n'ai pas les 150 bahts de com. Un pote, avec une Materd Card Gold dans le meme distributeur les a eu...🤪
(PS: les travellers cheques, ca existe toujours ??? Ouhaouu... C'est dingue !!! 2011, c'est ca...???😮😐😛)
En asie que ce soit en Thailand, malaisie, singapore, indonésie et même Laos jamais eu de problèmes pour changer les travelers que se soit dans les banques 90% les acceptes (sauf indonésie) ou money changer 100% (sauf malaisie).
Ca n'a rien de la préhistoire et 100 fois plus sure qu'une carte de crédit et bien moins cher à tous le niveaux...
Je l'apprends.
Moi qui etais pesruade que toutes ces histoires sur les travellers cheques n'etaient rien d'autre que des souvenirs de vieux routards nostalgiques...😛
Enfin bon, apres tout pourquoi pas ?
Ca doit rendre le voyage encore plus exotique !!!
J'me dois d'essayer, au moins une fois, juste pour le fun !!! 😏😏
Ce n'est pas une question de fun 😏, mais vraiment bien pratique si tu ne veux pas te balader qu'avec du cash, mais seulement une CB et/ou une carte de crédit. Et puis, il y a des personnes qui ne veulent pas ou ne peuvent pas avoir de CB mais qui voyagent aussi, donc travelers en poche.
Les travelers ne sont utilisables que par leur propriétaire et en cas de perte et/ou de vol, te sont remplacés dans les 24 heures, sans frais, ce qui n'est pas le cas avec du liquide 😕 .
C'est comme une petite réserve bancaire à portée de main en cas de nécessité. En tout cas, en ce qui me concerne, j'en prends toujours avec moi et comme j'ai la chance d'être en Suisse, les chèques sont maintenant remplacés par une petite carte plastifiée, genre CB et oups, le tour est joué! Ce n'est vraiment pas obsolète du tout, mais toujours utilisé, malgré la multitude de cartes bancaires ou de crédit à disposition
... et en plus. y'a encore des gens qui les utilisent !?!?!...😮
Bon, sinon y'a le troc !!!
5 bouts de bambou contre un peu de riz.
Pas de com, mais pas tres pratique pour les longs deplacements...🏴☠️😕🤪
(ok, je degage !!! 😛)
Une plaisanterie de temps temps en temps c'est sympa mais aujourd'hui tu fais fort, ca deviens vraiment hors sujet et lourd!!!
C'est un forum pour aider les autres, pas se foutre de leur gueule.
Bravo pour ce bel esprit
Une plaisanterie de temps temps en temps c'est sympa mais aujourd'hui tu fais fort, ca deviens vraiment hors sujet et lourd!!!
C'est un forum pour aider les autres, pas se foutre de leur gueule.
Bravo pour ce bel esprit
Alors là, c'est dommage que tu n'aies pas le sens de l'humour 😊. De plus, c'est rigolo et je ne pense pas que le Poil de Yack se f...........😏
Ce n'est pas une question de fun 😏, mais vraiment bien pratique si tu ne veux pas te balader qu'avec du cash, mais seulement une CB et/ou une carte de crédit. Et puis, il y a des personnes qui ne veulent pas ou ne peuvent pas avoir de CB mais qui voyagent aussi, donc travelers en poche.
Les travelers ne sont utilisables que par leur propriétaire et en cas de perte et/ou de vol, te sont remplacés dans les 24 heures, sans frais, ce qui n'est pas le cas avec du liquide 😕 .
C'est comme une petite réserve bancaire à portée de main en cas de nécessité. En tout cas, en ce qui me concerne, j'en prends toujours avec moi et comme j'ai la chance d'être en Suisse, les chèques sont maintenant remplacés par une petite carte plastifiée, genre CB et oups, le tour est joué! Ce n'est vraiment pas obsolète du tout, mais toujours utilisé, malgré la multitude de cartes bancaires ou de crédit à disposition
Chat-lut,
Je ne voudrais pas semer le trouble dans vos certitudes, mais je me demande si vous ne rêvez pas un peu !
Pour la "perte", par exemple, si vous êtes sur une île genre Koh Lipe, çà m'étonnerait qu'on vous remplace
vos chèques "en 24H" (c'est comme les pizzas, on vous les offre à partir de la 25e heure ?).
Et en attendant, si vous êtes "sans un rond", vous serez regardée de travers ...
Pour "la petite carte plastifiée", c'est encore pire, êtes vous sûre qu'aucun frais ne sera prélevé de façon
péremptoire sur vos transactions ?
Philosophiquement, les chèques et cartes ont pour but de ramener le profit des banques "at home", dans
le pays d'origine du touriste en lieu et place du pays visité (vous en connaissez beaucoup des banquiers qui
bossent "à l'oeil" ?), et c'est en çà que je trouve çà dérangeant.
🙂
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
Terminés les retraits sans frais !
C'est maintenant 180 bahts par retrait, saut AEON et BANGKOK BANK qui ne prennent " que " 150 bahts.
ça sert à rien de revenir sur les archives!!!aeon ok pas de frais mais 20 personnes devant et qu'un mec qui sert de secure est là pour dire comment on se sert d'une carte, essayez aeon !!!vous verrez, , ssuper!!bulshit pour 2 euro de gagnés....ou 3😛
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Asie du Sud-Est › Thaïlande / Cambodge · 14 replies
Voilà, on est 2 femmes qui voyageons en sac à dos et nous ne voulons pas avoir trop d'argent sur nous (risque de vol ou de perte); aussi nous pensons partir…
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.
Hello,
After 1 night in Khao Sok, I’d like to find a 2 Days 1 Night package on the lake.
After reading a lot, I decided to "break the bank" and treat ourselves to a private tour—mainly to avoid the crowds.
But after contacting several operators, they offer "private tours" that are very expensive (around 700 €), yet in the details, the boats can only leave from the pier at 10 AM like everyone else. (I was hoping to leave much earlier.) The morning program is the same for everyone too (private or not). They drop us off at noon at our floating hotel (I’d chosen Phupha Waree). Free afternoon (swimming or kayaking in front of the hotel). We head back by boat for a 1-hour sunset ride. And the next morning, we leave the hotel at 8 AM to be at the pier by 9:30 AM at the latest—end of the trip.
So basically, we’re paying a lot for a private tour just to do the same thing as everyone else at the same time.
Or maybe I just had bad luck in my search.
I contacted Panida Ladi, who’s very popular on forums. We’d agreed on a private tour that matched my request (departure from the pier at 8 AM, very personalized itinerary). We settled on the itinerary and price, she asked for a Wise transfer for a 30% deposit, confirmed receipt of the deposit. Then 30 minutes later, she messaged me to say she was canceling everything because it was impossible to do the requested tour—and promised a quick refund of my deposit.
So here’s my question: Who’s done a *real* private tour on this lake? Who can recommend a reliable agency? Is it even really possible to do a private tour here?
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
I’m searching for a real gem for my 3rd stay in Koh Lanta: a lovely, high-quality hotel right by an easily accessible beach in a lively spot.
If you know of anything that fits what I’m looking for and want to share, don’t hesitate!
Hi,
On September 1st, we're heading to Kalimantan for six weeks, probably from Pontianak to the Derawan Islands.
I've scoured this site, which is usually my go-to 😉, and others like VoyageForum, but recent info is pretty scarce.
I'd love any tips on places you've visited—our itinerary is still a work in progress.
We're two couples traveling with backpacks, using buses, boats, guesthouses, and homestays.
Thanks in advance!
Hi! I’d like to split my trip into two parts: 15 days in Phuket and 15 days in Krabi. Do you know if I can rent a car and drop it off in Krabi when I fly back to France?
Thanks for your feedback!
Have a great Sunday!
Martine
Hi, is anyone there in Flores right now? According to some websites, everything is closed and the situation is tough. But our guide says it's fine. Who should we believe? We're supposed to leave on September 2nd. Thanks to anyone in Flores at the moment!
Hi dear community,
I'm planning to visit Cambodia this winter, right after Christmas, for my first solo trip and my first trip to Asia. For two weeks (yes, I know it's short, but I really can't do more...). I have two main desires: Siem Reap and the countryside, the villages, the Mekong...
What do you think of this itinerary? Arrival in Siem Reap, departure from Phnom Penh.
SR: 5 days (1 day for arrival, 3 for the temples, 1 for the lake and its villages)
Kratie (stop on the way to Mondolkiri): 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days there)
Mondolkiri/Sen Monorom: 4 days (1 day of travel, 1 day there, 2 days of treks)
PP: 3 days (1 day of travel, 2 days of sightseeing)
I think I need to cut one day somewhere if I travel from Saturday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. In Kratie, maybe? Or in PP? And I'll miss the boat trip that everyone recommends (SR-Battambang), but I don't see where to fit it in. Unless I do a PP-PP loop starting in the east, skip Kratie or just stay one night, then SR, then PP.
In my timing, Mondolkiri seems closer than Ratanakiri, which also tempted me a lot! Will it be too complicated alone? I'm thinking of using local guides or a small local agency for a nature and village getaway.
I've read that Siem Reap is very crowded between Christmas and New Year's. I could also do the circuit in the opposite direction. But I thought it would be easier to get familiar with the country by arriving in a touristy area—I might be wrong...
Thanks for your advice and opinions!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices?
Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis?
What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc.
Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
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...
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
En Thaïlande, pas de frais aux banques ASEON et Ayudhaya Krungsri Bank. 
Ayudhaya Krungsri Bank j'ai payé plusieurs fois les 150thb en décembre.
De Angkor à Hong Kong, le grand écart asiatiqueFR
Quelle île thaïlandaise choisir quand on est avec un enfant?FR
Mes balades en ThaïlandeFR
La Thaïlande, une belle découverteFR
Another side of my trip to Thailand: Villages, nature, countryside, mountains...
From Bangkok to Krabi, Thailand by Car!
Thailand via Kuala Lumpur
