Original post
Bonjour!
Quelqu'un aurait il récemment fait le parcourt entre Siem Reap et Koh Chang?
Est ce faisable dans la journée? Précision: nous sommes un groupe de 8 personnes.
Merci à vous.
Trajet Siem Reap - Koh Chang: faisable dans la journée?
by Babylon5
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour
c'est faisable dans la journée a condition d'organiser cela en privé afin de ne pas perdre de temps de partir tot le matin d'Angkor afin d'etre a la frontière juste a l'ouvertur des bureaux de l'immigration et d'avoir le transport qui vous amènera jusqu'au quai ( le bon quai) d'embarquement du ferry pour essayer d'avoir l'un des derniers ferry de la journée
ca fait environ 300 km a partir de la frontière et du poste frontière d'AranyaPrathet (dont une partie de route de montagne) donc c’est jouable si vous passez la frontière tot , du coup vous aurez quand meme le temps de prévoir une pause déjeuner et café dans un des petits resorts de montagne de Khao Soi Dao
A 8 cela vaut vraiment la peine d’affréter un mini-van commuter 10 places , ( sous réserve qu'il n'y ait pas trop de bagages ) et en configuration 10 places si ce ne sont que des adultes ca sera un peu serré mais il faudra faire avec
vous ne précisez pas a quelle époque mais si c'est en été, il faut quand meme vérifier l'horaire des derniers ferry et voir quel ferry prendre en fonction de l'endroit ou vous allez sur KohChang
c'est faisable dans la journée a condition d'organiser cela en privé afin de ne pas perdre de temps de partir tot le matin d'Angkor afin d'etre a la frontière juste a l'ouvertur des bureaux de l'immigration et d'avoir le transport qui vous amènera jusqu'au quai ( le bon quai) d'embarquement du ferry pour essayer d'avoir l'un des derniers ferry de la journée
ca fait environ 300 km a partir de la frontière et du poste frontière d'AranyaPrathet (dont une partie de route de montagne) donc c’est jouable si vous passez la frontière tot , du coup vous aurez quand meme le temps de prévoir une pause déjeuner et café dans un des petits resorts de montagne de Khao Soi Dao
A 8 cela vaut vraiment la peine d’affréter un mini-van commuter 10 places , ( sous réserve qu'il n'y ait pas trop de bagages ) et en configuration 10 places si ce ne sont que des adultes ca sera un peu serré mais il faudra faire avec
vous ne précisez pas a quelle époque mais si c'est en été, il faut quand meme vérifier l'horaire des derniers ferry et voir quel ferry prendre en fonction de l'endroit ou vous allez sur KohChang
Merci pour ta réponse.
La réalité est en fait plus complexe, on est un groupe de 13 ( 3 familles) et à partir de Siem Reap on se sépare. Ma famille et moi (5) nous partons à Phnom Penh et les autres 4 adultes, 2 grands ados et 2 petits ados partent pour Koh Chang. Fin juillet plus précisemment.
6 adultes ou ados et 2 petits c'est donc le confort idéal avec un commuter 10 places et les bagages
pour les petits faire le trajet équivalent en bus public pas vraiment top : ensuite c’est une question de rapport coût / confort
fin juillet c'est donc la saison de mousson pour Koh Chang mer parfois agitée, surtout en fin d'apres-midi , et horaires de ferry en été raccourci par rapport a la saison d'hiver il est donc primordial d'arriver le plus tot possible au quai
pour les petits faire le trajet équivalent en bus public pas vraiment top : ensuite c’est une question de rapport coût / confort
fin juillet c'est donc la saison de mousson pour Koh Chang mer parfois agitée, surtout en fin d'apres-midi , et horaires de ferry en été raccourci par rapport a la saison d'hiver il est donc primordial d'arriver le plus tot possible au quai
En bus de SR, pas de probleme. Toutes les agences de la ville vendent des billets pour l'ile, trajet dans la journée.
Très cordialement
Maddy
Maddy
Il se trouve que je désire faire le même trajet à la même période.
Nous sommes 7..
Comment devons nous faire pour le visa vers le cambodge à partir de la thailande ?,
Vers quelle heure faut il partir de siem reap pour avoir le dernier ferry vers ko chang ??
on trouve facilement les tickets pour louer un mini van ??
Avez vous un moyen pour arriver à siem reap le plus rapidement possible en venant de Chang Mai ?
Merci
Bonsoir,
Trajet Battambang - Koh Chang en 3-4 jours début août.
Nous serons 4.
Est-ce praticable durant la mousson? Avez-vous des conseils concernant les étapes intéressantes, les moyens de transport, les logements, le passage de la frontière. On trouve assez peu d'infos à ce sujet dans les guides.
Permis de conduire: Notre fils a 17 ans. Il n'a pas encore de permis de conduire. Pourrait-il conduire seul une moto (Cambodge et Laos)?
Merci beaucoup beaucoup🙂🙂🙂 Michèle
Trajet Battambang - Koh Chang en 3-4 jours début août.
Nous serons 4.
Est-ce praticable durant la mousson? Avez-vous des conseils concernant les étapes intéressantes, les moyens de transport, les logements, le passage de la frontière. On trouve assez peu d'infos à ce sujet dans les guides.
Permis de conduire: Notre fils a 17 ans. Il n'a pas encore de permis de conduire. Pourrait-il conduire seul une moto (Cambodge et Laos)?
Merci beaucoup beaucoup🙂🙂🙂 Michèle
Je vous retrouve Michèle ! Nous on fera Ko Chang -Siem Reap - Paké, l'inverse de votre circuit. Moi aussi, je me documente.
Attention pour la moto tout de même si votre fils n'a pas l'habitude d'en faire. Ce n'est pas le loueur qui vous dira le contraire, la moto se loue SANS assurance.
Jean
Attention pour la moto tout de même si votre fils n'a pas l'habitude d'en faire. Ce n'est pas le loueur qui vous dira le contraire, la moto se loue SANS assurance.
Jean
Bonsoir,
Merci pour vos réponses. Nous sommes aussi plus habitués à 2 jambes ou 4 roues , avec, en fin de compte, l'envie de rentrer ...
Je sens qu'il faudra voir sur place. La circulation en ville ou à la campagne doit être très différente. En ville, le danger ce sont les autres véhicules, en dehors des villes, cela semble être l'état des routes et les animaux, plus la pluie et l'état des bécanes.
Chaque fois que nous sommes partis hors des destinations limitrophes, nous pensions être loin de tout. En route, nous avons rencontré des tas de gens prêts à montrer que le périple est simple. Alors le voyage prend une tout autre couleur.
A distance, difficile de lâcher prise.
Merci pour vos réponses (et pour les futures) Michèle
Merci pour vos réponses. Nous sommes aussi plus habitués à 2 jambes ou 4 roues , avec, en fin de compte, l'envie de rentrer ...
Je sens qu'il faudra voir sur place. La circulation en ville ou à la campagne doit être très différente. En ville, le danger ce sont les autres véhicules, en dehors des villes, cela semble être l'état des routes et les animaux, plus la pluie et l'état des bécanes.
Chaque fois que nous sommes partis hors des destinations limitrophes, nous pensions être loin de tout. En route, nous avons rencontré des tas de gens prêts à montrer que le périple est simple. Alors le voyage prend une tout autre couleur.
A distance, difficile de lâcher prise.
Merci pour vos réponses (et pour les futures) Michèle
Je vous retrouve Michèle ! Nous on fera Ko Chang -Siem Reap - Paké, l'inverse de votre circuit. Moi aussi, je me documente.
Attention pour la moto tout de même si votre fils n'a pas l'habitude d'en faire. Ce n'est pas le loueur qui vous dira le contraire, la moto se loue SANS assurance.
Jean
Bonjour Jean, J'envisage de faire le trajet Ko Chang -Siem Reap moi aussi fin janvier. Pouvez-vous me dire comment vous avez fait ce transfert ? Bus, van, visas ? Prix ? Peut-etre un conseil de votre part ou d'autres forumeurs : Nous partons 3 mois en janvier. Je compte passer 5 jours à Bangkok, puis bus vers Ko Chang (une dizaine de nuits), puis Ko Mak (2 ou 3 nuits), puis Ko Kood (3 nuits ou plus...). De là, nous filerons vers le cambodge. Là, rien encore d'organisé. je voudrais faire Ko Kong (l'ile) et Siem Reap. Avec Siem Reap - Battambang en bateau. Je ne sais pas trop comment organiser la partie Cambodge. Le plus simple serait de commencer par l'ile de Ko Kong puisqu'elle est tout près de Ko Chang... Mais peut-on y aller directement depuis Ko Chang ? merci d'avance
Attention pour la moto tout de même si votre fils n'a pas l'habitude d'en faire. Ce n'est pas le loueur qui vous dira le contraire, la moto se loue SANS assurance.
Jean
Bonjour Jean, J'envisage de faire le trajet Ko Chang -Siem Reap moi aussi fin janvier. Pouvez-vous me dire comment vous avez fait ce transfert ? Bus, van, visas ? Prix ? Peut-etre un conseil de votre part ou d'autres forumeurs : Nous partons 3 mois en janvier. Je compte passer 5 jours à Bangkok, puis bus vers Ko Chang (une dizaine de nuits), puis Ko Mak (2 ou 3 nuits), puis Ko Kood (3 nuits ou plus...). De là, nous filerons vers le cambodge. Là, rien encore d'organisé. je voudrais faire Ko Kong (l'ile) et Siem Reap. Avec Siem Reap - Battambang en bateau. Je ne sais pas trop comment organiser la partie Cambodge. Le plus simple serait de commencer par l'ile de Ko Kong puisqu'elle est tout près de Ko Chang... Mais peut-on y aller directement depuis Ko Chang ? merci d'avance
Bonjour,
Une dizaine de jours à ko Chang et 2-3 nuits à ko kood me parait "beaucoup". Si vous êtes sûr d"aller au Cambodge, je conseille vivement de prendre le E-visa (par internet). De ko Chang à Siem Reap, vous pouvez acheter des billets pour le van à tous les agences de l'ile. Le prix comprend ko Chang - Poipet (frontière) - tentative arnaque aux visas + bus Poipet + tentative arnaque Guesthouse + bus pour Siem Reap.
Faites une recherche pour les Arnaques, vous obtiendrez plus de détail.
Ce que je vous conseille, c'est de payer votre ticket et arrivé à la frontière prenez la navette gratuite jusqu'à la gare routière puis un "taxi" pour Siem Reap (30$). Essayez de réserver Sala bai (Ecole hotelière gérée par une ONG), situé en plein quartier où des vrais gens y vivent.
Je regrette de ne pas pouvoir rester plus d'une semaine au Cambodge mais j'avais aussi le Sud du Laos programmé cette année là.
Bonne préparation.
Faites une recherche pour les Arnaques, vous obtiendrez plus de détail.
Ce que je vous conseille, c'est de payer votre ticket et arrivé à la frontière prenez la navette gratuite jusqu'à la gare routière puis un "taxi" pour Siem Reap (30$). Essayez de réserver Sala bai (Ecole hotelière gérée par une ONG), situé en plein quartier où des vrais gens y vivent.
Je regrette de ne pas pouvoir rester plus d'une semaine au Cambodge mais j'avais aussi le Sud du Laos programmé cette année là.
Bonne préparation.
Bonjour,
Une dizaine de jours à ko Chang et 2-3 nuits à ko kood me parait "beaucoup". Si vous êtes sûr d"aller au Cambodge, je conseille vivement de prendre le E-visa (par internet). De ko Chang à Siem Reap, vous pouvez acheter des billets pour le van à tous les agences de l'ile. Le prix comprend ko Chang - Poipet (frontière) - tentative arnaque aux visas + bus Poipet + tentative arnaque Guesthouse + bus pour Siem Reap.
Faites une recherche pour les Arnaques, vous obtiendrez plus de détail.
Ce que je vous conseille, c'est de payer votre ticket et arrivé à la frontière prenez la navette gratuite jusqu'à la gare routière puis un "taxi" pour Siem Reap (30$). Essayez de réserver Sala bai (Ecole hotelière gérée par une ONG), situé en plein quartier où des vrais gens y vivent.
Je regrette de ne pas pouvoir rester plus d'une semaine au Cambodge mais j'avais aussi le Sud du Laos programmé cette année là.
Bonne préparation.
Merci beaucoup, Je vais étudier ça de plus près. Le Sala Bai a l'air en effet super. Vous me conseillez de partir sur Siem Reap direct, alors. Meme si je veux faire Battamban - Siem Reap en bateau ? Il n'y a pas une autre frontière ? Si nous descendons jusqu'à Ko Kut comme je l'envisage, est-ce-que nous ne pouvons passer à un autre poste frontière plus près ?
En fait, nous partons à 2 couples d'amis pour le 1er mois, ensuite mon mari et moi continuerons seuls vers le Cambodge. C'est pour ça que j'envisage 10 jours à Ko Chang, pour qu'on se pose tous les 4, qu'on puisse faire un peu de détente, avec un peu d'animation quand meme;-) On aime bien sortir le soir au restau ou boire un verre. Vous croyez que ça peut le faire à Ko Chang ? On ne va pas s'ennuyer ? Autre question : J'ai bien compris qu'en achetant un evisa pour le cambodge, on me ficherait la paix à la frontière, mais croyez vous que cet evisa (pour le Cambodge) suffirait pour qu'on nous laisse embarquer en France sans problème sans visa pour la Thailande ? (Vu que nous partons pour 3 mois, il nous faudrait un visa pour embarquer...) Bonne soirée
Faites une recherche pour les Arnaques, vous obtiendrez plus de détail.
Ce que je vous conseille, c'est de payer votre ticket et arrivé à la frontière prenez la navette gratuite jusqu'à la gare routière puis un "taxi" pour Siem Reap (30$). Essayez de réserver Sala bai (Ecole hotelière gérée par une ONG), situé en plein quartier où des vrais gens y vivent.
Je regrette de ne pas pouvoir rester plus d'une semaine au Cambodge mais j'avais aussi le Sud du Laos programmé cette année là.
Bonne préparation.
Merci beaucoup, Je vais étudier ça de plus près. Le Sala Bai a l'air en effet super. Vous me conseillez de partir sur Siem Reap direct, alors. Meme si je veux faire Battamban - Siem Reap en bateau ? Il n'y a pas une autre frontière ? Si nous descendons jusqu'à Ko Kut comme je l'envisage, est-ce-que nous ne pouvons passer à un autre poste frontière plus près ?
En fait, nous partons à 2 couples d'amis pour le 1er mois, ensuite mon mari et moi continuerons seuls vers le Cambodge. C'est pour ça que j'envisage 10 jours à Ko Chang, pour qu'on se pose tous les 4, qu'on puisse faire un peu de détente, avec un peu d'animation quand meme;-) On aime bien sortir le soir au restau ou boire un verre. Vous croyez que ça peut le faire à Ko Chang ? On ne va pas s'ennuyer ? Autre question : J'ai bien compris qu'en achetant un evisa pour le cambodge, on me ficherait la paix à la frontière, mais croyez vous que cet evisa (pour le Cambodge) suffirait pour qu'on nous laisse embarquer en France sans problème sans visa pour la Thailande ? (Vu que nous partons pour 3 mois, il nous faudrait un visa pour embarquer...) Bonne soirée
Restez 1 semaine à Ko Chang avec vos amis au lieu de 2 et essayez de les "convaincre" d'aller à Siem Reap avec vous. Je pense que deal est honnête, 1 semaine de plage contre une visite des Temples d'Angkor.
Je n'ai passé qu'une petite semaine au Cambodge (Siem Reap), je pense qu'il y a une autre frontière à part PoiPet mais peut être pas directement de Ko Kut. Vous serez obligé de repasser par Ko Chang pour quitter l'Ile.
Pour la Thailande, vous n'avez besoin de visa pour un séjour moins de 30 jours puisque vous arrivez par avion. Pour les autres entrées (retour du Cambodge), vous disposez de 15 jours sans visa si vous arrivez par voie terrestre ou bien 30 jours par avion.
il n'y a pas de contrôle au départ de France pour les visas.
jean
Je n'ai passé qu'une petite semaine au Cambodge (Siem Reap), je pense qu'il y a une autre frontière à part PoiPet mais peut être pas directement de Ko Kut. Vous serez obligé de repasser par Ko Chang pour quitter l'Ile.
Pour la Thailande, vous n'avez besoin de visa pour un séjour moins de 30 jours puisque vous arrivez par avion. Pour les autres entrées (retour du Cambodge), vous disposez de 15 jours sans visa si vous arrivez par voie terrestre ou bien 30 jours par avion.
il n'y a pas de contrôle au départ de France pour les visas.
jean
Bonjour et merci,
Mais si justement , il y aurait des controles de visa au départ de France, qui font que si vous partez avec une date de retour 3 mois après, la compagnie peut vous empecher de monter à bord sans visa.
D'où ma question. Si quelqu'un d'autre pouvait me confirmer cela.... ce serait gentil.
A très bientot
Bonjour,
J'ai bien compris qu'en achetant un evisa pour le cambodge, on me ficherait la paix à la frontière, mais croyez vous que cet evisa (pour le Cambodge) suffirait pour qu'on nous laisse embarquer en France sans problème sans visa pour la Thailande ? (Vu que nous partons pour 3 mois, il nous faudrait un visa pour embarquer...) Bonne soirée
Je confirme. Vous n'aurez aucun probleme et ne pourrez etre refoulé puisque vous avez une visa pour le Cambodge. Le visa obtenu pour le Cambodge est d'un mois. Il se reconduit ou pas sur place.
De la frontière à Poipet, prenez un taxi pour Battambang ( environ 30 dollars) et vous avez raison, faites le parcours en bateau jusqu'à Siem Reap. C'est encore plus vivant dans ce sens que dans l'autre.
J'ai bien compris qu'en achetant un evisa pour le cambodge, on me ficherait la paix à la frontière, mais croyez vous que cet evisa (pour le Cambodge) suffirait pour qu'on nous laisse embarquer en France sans problème sans visa pour la Thailande ? (Vu que nous partons pour 3 mois, il nous faudrait un visa pour embarquer...) Bonne soirée
Je confirme. Vous n'aurez aucun probleme et ne pourrez etre refoulé puisque vous avez une visa pour le Cambodge. Le visa obtenu pour le Cambodge est d'un mois. Il se reconduit ou pas sur place.
De la frontière à Poipet, prenez un taxi pour Battambang ( environ 30 dollars) et vous avez raison, faites le parcours en bateau jusqu'à Siem Reap. C'est encore plus vivant dans ce sens que dans l'autre.
Très cordialement
Maddy
Maddy
Bonjour,
Merci pour ta réponse Maddy01. J'ai beaucoup de mal à organiser la suite de notre voyage. Pourrais-tu m'aider SVP, toi, qui semble connaitre le cambodge (ou quelqu'un d'autre biensur). Sachant qu'après les iles Ko Chang et Ko Kut, j'envisage de faire :
Battambang - Siem Reap en bateau
Visite d'Angkor
Siem Reap - Tonlé Sap - Phnum Penh en bateau (est-ce interessant ?)
Puis descendre vers Sianoukville (est-ce joli ? Y a-t-il beaucoup à visiter ?) et Phu Quoc (encore quelques jours de plage !)
Puis passer au Vietnam par Ha Tien (est-ce possible ?) pour faire le delta (Can Tho, peut-etre Ho Chimin ? ... quoi d'autre ?)
Et puis après par où revenir en Thailande en avion à moindre cout (pour pouvoir bénéficier des 30 jours sans visa) et finir à Bangkok pour reprendre l'avion vers la France ? J'ai vu Le vol Ho Chimin - Bangkok à 62 € par Airasia. Il y a peut-etre mieux...
Peut-etre aussi y a-t-il mieux comme itinéraire ?... Y a-t-il des choses à ne pas manquer que je n'ai pas citées ?
Je sais ça fait beaucoup de questions ...
Cordialement
Bonjour,
En principe, le trajet est faisable en janvier. Le ticket s'achète sur les quais à Battambang. Il y a souvent du monde à cette époque donc l'acheter la veille.
Très cordialement
Maddy
Maddy
Siem Reap - Tonlé Sap - Phnum Penh en bateau (est-ce interessant ?)
Pas vraiment car le lac est très large et on ne voit que de l'eau à perte de vue. De plus le tarif est vraiment cher comparé au bus de Siem Reap à Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh mérite une bonne visite, c'est une ville intéressante et plein de choses à voir, en particulier son musée qui rassemble les plus belles pièces d'art khmer.
Dans la région de Sihanoukville, les paysages sont beaux sur cette côte, pousser vers Kampot et Kep et son parc national, prendre un bateau pour aller faire un saut sur l'île du lapin et aller manger en bord de mer de délicieux crabes et poisson au célèbre poivre noir de Kampot. Un régal !
Pas vraiment car le lac est très large et on ne voit que de l'eau à perte de vue. De plus le tarif est vraiment cher comparé au bus de Siem Reap à Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh mérite une bonne visite, c'est une ville intéressante et plein de choses à voir, en particulier son musée qui rassemble les plus belles pièces d'art khmer.
Dans la région de Sihanoukville, les paysages sont beaux sur cette côte, pousser vers Kampot et Kep et son parc national, prendre un bateau pour aller faire un saut sur l'île du lapin et aller manger en bord de mer de délicieux crabes et poisson au célèbre poivre noir de Kampot. Un régal !
Personnellement, je préfère de loin faire ce trajet en bateau qu'en bus. (noté, que les accidents / incidents de bus au Cambodge sont légions)
d'être au milieu de l'immensité du lac à son charme pour ensuite naviguer plus de la moitié du voyage sur le fleuve.
Pour info, le crabe au poivre de Kampot, c'est du poivre vert !! et à Kep il est recommandé d'aller au Restaurant Kimly.
Pour info, le crabe au poivre de Kampot, c'est du poivre vert !! et à Kep il est recommandé d'aller au Restaurant Kimly.
Personnellement, je préfère de loin faire ce trajet en bateau qu'en bus. (noté, que les accidents / incidents de bus au Cambodge sont légions)
d'être au milieu de l'immensité du lac à son charme pour ensuite naviguer plus de la moitié du voyage sur le fleuve.
Pour info, le crabe au poivre de Kampot, c'est du poivre vert !! et à Kep il est recommandé d'aller au Restaurant Kimly.
Effectivement, c'est très personnel ! Même si la sécurité routière au Cambodge est quelque peu particulière, la sécurité par contre est quasi inexistante sur ces bateaux (p.ex. pas assez de gilets de sauvetage). Mais bon, je n'ai jamais eu d'accident sur cette route que j'ai parcourue plusieurs fois et qui permet d'admirer la campagne et de faire un petit arrêt à Khompong Thom et ses vendeuses d'araignées velues frites 😮
Ah oui ! c'est vrai le poivre est vert ! Comme j'achète chaque fois que je passe par Kampot 2/3 kg de poivre noir, j'ai confondu. Sorry 😉 Quant au Kimly, c'est vraiment un super bon restaurant avec vue sur les pêcheuses de crabes qui les gardent dans des casiers dans la mer et qui vont les chercher pour les clients du restaurant.
Pour info, le crabe au poivre de Kampot, c'est du poivre vert !! et à Kep il est recommandé d'aller au Restaurant Kimly.
Effectivement, c'est très personnel ! Même si la sécurité routière au Cambodge est quelque peu particulière, la sécurité par contre est quasi inexistante sur ces bateaux (p.ex. pas assez de gilets de sauvetage). Mais bon, je n'ai jamais eu d'accident sur cette route que j'ai parcourue plusieurs fois et qui permet d'admirer la campagne et de faire un petit arrêt à Khompong Thom et ses vendeuses d'araignées velues frites 😮
Ah oui ! c'est vrai le poivre est vert ! Comme j'achète chaque fois que je passe par Kampot 2/3 kg de poivre noir, j'ai confondu. Sorry 😉 Quant au Kimly, c'est vraiment un super bon restaurant avec vue sur les pêcheuses de crabes qui les gardent dans des casiers dans la mer et qui vont les chercher pour les clients du restaurant.
Bonjour
Merci pour cette info. Nous ne savons pas encore si nous ferons Banghkok/Siem Reap/Koh Chang (pour ce dernier par voie fluviale et terrestre) ou l'inverse. Si inverse, nous partirons de Koh Chang par une agence pour nous organiser le trajet jusqu'à Battambang (est ce faisable?) puis Battambang/Siem Reap (par voie fluviale) , je suppose qu'il nous faudra rester dormir 1 nuit à Battambang pour prendre le bateau tôt le matin ou est ce possible de faire Koh Chang/Siem Reap (dont la partie en bateau) en 1 journée? Pour le visa d'entrée au Cambodge en venant de Koh Chang, comment doit on procéder? Et inversement passage Cambodge/Thaïlande (Koh Chang)? Doit on le prendre à l'avance sur le net ou cela se fait il sur place à l'instant T? Merci
Merci pour cette info. Nous ne savons pas encore si nous ferons Banghkok/Siem Reap/Koh Chang (pour ce dernier par voie fluviale et terrestre) ou l'inverse. Si inverse, nous partirons de Koh Chang par une agence pour nous organiser le trajet jusqu'à Battambang (est ce faisable?) puis Battambang/Siem Reap (par voie fluviale) , je suppose qu'il nous faudra rester dormir 1 nuit à Battambang pour prendre le bateau tôt le matin ou est ce possible de faire Koh Chang/Siem Reap (dont la partie en bateau) en 1 journée? Pour le visa d'entrée au Cambodge en venant de Koh Chang, comment doit on procéder? Et inversement passage Cambodge/Thaïlande (Koh Chang)? Doit on le prendre à l'avance sur le net ou cela se fait il sur place à l'instant T? Merci
Personnellement, je préfère de loin faire ce trajet en bateau qu'en bus. (noté, que les accidents / incidents de bus au Cambodge sont légions)
d'être au milieu de l'immensité du lac à son charme pour ensuite naviguer plus de la moitié du voyage sur le fleuve.
Pour info, le crabe au poivre de Kampot, c'est du poivre vert !! et à Kep il est recommandé d'aller au Restaurant Kimly.
Effectivement, c'est très personnel ! Même si la sécurité routière au Cambodge est quelque peu particulière, la sécurité par contre est quasi inexistante sur ces bateaux (p.ex. pas assez de gilets de sauvetage). Mais bon, je n'ai jamais eu d'accident sur cette route que j'ai parcourue plusieurs fois et qui permet d'admirer la campagne et de faire un petit arrêt à Khompong Thom et ses vendeuses d'araignées velues frites 😮
Ah oui ! c'est vrai le poivre est vert ! Comme j'achète chaque fois que je passe par Kampot 2/3 kg de poivre noir, j'ai confondu. Sorry 😉 Quant au Kimly, c'est vraiment un super bon restaurant avec vue sur les pêcheuses de crabes qui les gardent dans des casiers dans la mer et qui vont les chercher pour les clients du restaurant.
Haaaaaaaaa On rentre dans le vif du sujet ! des crabes, des araignées frites !! J'ai hate d'y etre ! Merci pour toutes ces infos. Et le bus fait cet arret automatiquement pour une pause ravitaillement ( et autre) ou bien tu dois demander à descendre et prendre le bus suivant ?
Pour info, le crabe au poivre de Kampot, c'est du poivre vert !! et à Kep il est recommandé d'aller au Restaurant Kimly.
Effectivement, c'est très personnel ! Même si la sécurité routière au Cambodge est quelque peu particulière, la sécurité par contre est quasi inexistante sur ces bateaux (p.ex. pas assez de gilets de sauvetage). Mais bon, je n'ai jamais eu d'accident sur cette route que j'ai parcourue plusieurs fois et qui permet d'admirer la campagne et de faire un petit arrêt à Khompong Thom et ses vendeuses d'araignées velues frites 😮
Ah oui ! c'est vrai le poivre est vert ! Comme j'achète chaque fois que je passe par Kampot 2/3 kg de poivre noir, j'ai confondu. Sorry 😉 Quant au Kimly, c'est vraiment un super bon restaurant avec vue sur les pêcheuses de crabes qui les gardent dans des casiers dans la mer et qui vont les chercher pour les clients du restaurant.
Haaaaaaaaa On rentre dans le vif du sujet ! des crabes, des araignées frites !! J'ai hate d'y etre ! Merci pour toutes ces infos. Et le bus fait cet arret automatiquement pour une pause ravitaillement ( et autre) ou bien tu dois demander à descendre et prendre le bus suivant ?
Haaaaaaaaa
On rentre dans le vif du sujet ! des crabes, des araignées frites !! J'ai hate d'y etre !
Merci pour toutes ces infos. Et le bus fait cet arrêt automatiquement pour une pause ravitaillement ( et autre) ou bien tu dois demander à descendre et prendre le bus suivant ?
Oui, le bus s'arrête pour nous permettre de boire un coup ou manger ou faire pipi et c'est un moment très agréable. Puis klaxon et tout le monde remonte dans son bus avec des mangues vertes coupées en tranches fines agrémentées de sucre et de piment, miammm, des petites bananes et pour les courageux un petit sac d'araignées frites ..... un petit moment de bonheur qui vous fait bien sentir qu'on est au Cambodge
Oui, le bus s'arrête pour nous permettre de boire un coup ou manger ou faire pipi et c'est un moment très agréable. Puis klaxon et tout le monde remonte dans son bus avec des mangues vertes coupées en tranches fines agrémentées de sucre et de piment, miammm, des petites bananes et pour les courageux un petit sac d'araignées frites ..... un petit moment de bonheur qui vous fait bien sentir qu'on est au Cambodge
Je suis convaincue : je prendrai ce bus là !
D'autant qu'après Battamban- Siem Reap en bateau... ça devrait le faire.
Le bus ? Est-ce que c'est le Giant Ibis (qui a été cité sur un forum) ?
<si il y en a de plusieurs compagnies, quel est celui qui s'arrete à Khompong Thom ?
Le bus ? Est-ce que c'est le Giant Ibis (qui a été cité sur un forum) ?
<si il y en a de plusieurs compagnies, quel est celui qui s'arrete à Khompong Thom ?
Il a plusieurs compagnies et elles s'arrêtent toutes à Kompong Thom. Votre GH a PP vous indiquera quelle compagnie prendre et pourra même se charger d'acheter vos billets. Autrement, diverses agences se trouvent sur le quai Sisowath où vous pourrez aussi le faire par vous-même.
Il a plusieurs compagnies et elles s'arrêtent toutes à Kompong Thom. Votre GH a PP vous indiquera quelle compagnie prendre et pourra même se charger d'acheter vos billets. Autrement, diverses agences se trouvent sur le quai Sisowath où vous pourrez aussi le faire par vous-même.
Merci Adonya,
Mes recherches vont bon train et j'avance petit à petit dans mon projet.
D'après mes calculs actuels, nous devrions quitter Battambang (où je pense passer 2 jours : est-ce vraiment interessant ?) en bateau pour Siem Reap (ça c'est sur) le 30 janvier 2014.
Ne risquons nous pas d'avoir des problèmes à cause de la fete du Tet ? Pour ce qui est du transport et puis une fois à Angkor ? Nous allons débarquer en pleine fete. Est-ce que nous pourrons visiter Angkor à loisir ? est-ce que ce sera ouvert ?
Battambang est une vraie petite ville agréable, avec peu de touristes, une magnifique campagne où il fait bon se balader, quelques sites khmers de moyenne importance, oui ça vaut la peine de s'y arrêter et prendre ensuite le bateau pour rejoindre Siem Reap.
Le 30/31 janvier, nouvel an chinois - fête du Têt pour les Vietnamiens - fêté aussi bien au Laos qu'au Cambodge, il y aura du monde, mais les sites d'Angkor sont ouverts et il risque d'y avoir énormément de touristes asiatiques 🙁 Voir pour réservation d'hôtels à cette période.
Le 30/31 janvier, nouvel an chinois - fête du Têt pour les Vietnamiens - fêté aussi bien au Laos qu'au Cambodge, il y aura du monde, mais les sites d'Angkor sont ouverts et il risque d'y avoir énormément de touristes asiatiques 🙁 Voir pour réservation d'hôtels à cette période.
Ok merci.
J'aurai surement d'autres questions d'ici peu !
Bonne soirée.
Bonjour,
D'après mes recherches :
départ :7h30
Acheter les billets la veille
prix environ 25 dollars
durée du trajet à cette époque là : 7h.
Et voili !
Bonjour,
Avez vous fait votre trip ? Pouvez vous m, aider svp ?
Je suis a koh kood et le 27 je quitterai ko chang pour aller a battamban. De lä je prendrai le bateau pour siem reap.
Je crois que vous deviez faire ça mi janvier.
Je voudrais passer par pailin, mais les 2 agences de voyage que j'ai consultées a ko chang veulent me faire passer parpoipet. C'est plus long, plus sujet a arnaques....
Puis je faire koh chang pailin ou pas ? Je n'ai pas de visa.
Merci d'avance
Merci d'avance
Vous avez encore du temps pour le Evisa. L'arnaque s'opère entre les agences et les transporteurs. Si vous avez un visa, ils vous laissent tranquille.
Vous avez encore du temps pour le Evisa. L'arnaque s'opère entre les agences et les transporteurs. Si vous avez un visa, ils vous laissent tranquille.
Mais a pailin, les evisas ne sont pas acceptes apparement. C 'est pour ca que je ne l'ai pas achete depuis le france. Puis je passer par pailin ? Trouverai-je un transport de pailin a battamban ? Sans me ruiner biensur. Cordialement
Mais a pailin, les evisas ne sont pas acceptes apparement. C 'est pour ca que je ne l'ai pas achete depuis le france. Puis je passer par pailin ? Trouverai-je un transport de pailin a battamban ? Sans me ruiner biensur. Cordialement
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More discussions
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?
Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
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?
Thanks, PS: My trip is planned for November
Hi,
I wanted to get some info about the cable car and the bridge—I see lots of different options...
How much time should we allow for these two activities? If we arrive around 4 PM, will we have enough time to visit without rushing?
Thanks
Hi everyone, I’m back on the forum.
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!
Thanks so much!
Marsyork
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!
Thanks so much!
Marsyork
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!
Hello,
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
I’m planning a trip to Laos in early 2027. Does anyone know the dates for the Vat Phou festival in Champasak? Thanks!
Hi everyone.
I’m planning my trip, and based on all the posts I’ve read, this country is amazing.
Of course, I’ve got a ton of questions for you.
Here’s a possible itinerary: Vientiane - Vang Vieng - Phonsavan - Sam Neua - Nong Khiaw + villages - Phongsali - Luang Namtha and the area - Udomxai - Huay Xai - Luang Prabang and back to Vientiane.
What do you think?
We’re planning to prioritize local transport—is it possible to do this loop?
We’d also love to go kayaking, but I’m not sure if the season’s right or where the best spot is.
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices? Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis? What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc. Thanks again
For trekking—I read that Phongsali is the most authentic spot to visit villages and see wildlife. Do you know of a reliable agency and a guesthouse with reasonable prices? Is it worth taking a slow boat for a stretch on the Mekong, and if so, which route?
For accommodations, is it better to book through Booking.com and Agoda or look when we arrive?
Are mosquitoes bad in Laos, and should we take malaria prophylaxis? What’s the average daily budget (accommodation, food, visits)?
Is renting scooters a good option for exploring towns, and if so, which ones?
From what I’ve read, it’s best to carry cash—euros or dollars? Is it risky to walk around with that much cash?
I’ve still got tons of questions. Thanks to anyone who can help, and I’m open to all tips, info, etc. Thanks again
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Vietnam in February, specifically Da Nang and Hoi An.
Does anyone know a French-speaking guide in the area?
Thanks for your help
Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it? Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like? We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it? Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like? We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
Thanks for your feedback! Best regards, Aurélien
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
Hi there,
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you? If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Hey everyone,
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip? I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Thanks! 🙂
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip? I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Thanks, friends, if you’ve got any suggestions.
Hi everyone,
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
Thanks
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
Thanks
Hi,
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days. I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome! I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Thanks
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days. I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome! I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Thanks
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral. Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo). Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok: * Orangutan Center * Malayan Sun Bear Center * Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan. Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari. Jungle walk. Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari. Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port. Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar 5 full days. * Snorkeling * Hiking * Turtle watching * Wild beaches * Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland. Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral. Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo). Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok: * Orangutan Center * Malayan Sun Bear Center * Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan. Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari. Jungle walk. Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari. Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port. Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar 5 full days. * Snorkeling * Hiking * Turtle watching * Wild beaches * Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland. Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Days 15 and 16: Taman Negara.
Day 17: Return to Kuala Lumpur.
Day 18: Visit the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves
Day 19: Free day.
Day 20: Return flight.
Thanks in advance, everyone!
Baptiste
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Time to hit the road again!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali. And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people! So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops): - 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud 2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa) 1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...) - 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces) - 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai - 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed) - 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island) - 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan) - 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels. Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?) Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?) Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali. And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people! So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops): - 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud 2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa) 1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...) - 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces) - 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai - 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed) - 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island) - 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan) - 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels. Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?) Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?) Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
Hello,
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027: - Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham - Kratie - Siem Reap - Battambang - Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights. Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above. Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027: - Phnom Penh - Kampong Cham - Kratie - Siem Reap - Battambang - Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights. Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above. Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
- Battambang (round trip) - Siem Reap / Angkor - Kratie - Kampong Cham - Phnom Penh - Kampot (round trip)
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
What do you think?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a great Sunday
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
Hello everyone,
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations: We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights: The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1: We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2: This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3: With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4: Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings. We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops. In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5: Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6: This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8: Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10: On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12: We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines. Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment. We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15: From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP). We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning. We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise. Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16: We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town. It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view. We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise. In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911. On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city. We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17: Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning. Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in. The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances: In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary: Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional. Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations: We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights: The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1: We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2: This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3: With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4: Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings. We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops. In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5: Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6: This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8: Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10: On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12: We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines. Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment. We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15: From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP). We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning. We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise. Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16: We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town. It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view. We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise. In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911. On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city. We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17: Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning. Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in. The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances: In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary: Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional. Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.