Original post
bonjour je part en Février 2012 au Cambodge et j'hésite entre deux personnes , (chauffeur ) monsieur Measthoeun et monsieur AmNat j'attends des conseils récents merci d'avance .P.B
Hésitation entre deux chauffeurs de tuk tuk à Siem Reap (Cambodge)
by Patfrancoise
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
bonjour et merci pour votre réponse , j'ai donc suivi d'autres réponses sur le site et je vais passer un mail à un chauffeur de tuk tuk .merci P.F
Bonjour,
Nous avons voyagé avec Mr Am Nat pendant 3 jours à Siem Reap. Nous étions 3 (2 adultes et notre petite fille de 6 ans). Mr Am Nat est très bien. Il parle relativement bien le français et connait parfaitement la région. Il a sélectionné les temples en fonction de leur intérêt et à proposé le circuit dans le sens inverse des groupes de telle façon que nous n'avons jamais été envahi de touristes. Tous les temples vus avaient leurs particularités, mais il faut bien avouer qu'au bout de 3 jours de "vieilles pierres" nous avions envi de voir des gens. Grace à Mr Am Nat nous avons passé un excellent séjour à Siem Reap en étant débarrassé des contraintes matérielles. Je vous le recommande.
JF
JF
Bonjour,
bonjour et merci pour votre réponse , j'ai donc suivi d'autres réponses sur le site et je vais passer un mail à un chauffeur de tuk tuk .merci P.F
Et peut on savoir quel chauffeur tu as retenu ? 🙂
bonjour et merci pour votre réponse , j'ai donc suivi d'autres réponses sur le site et je vais passer un mail à un chauffeur de tuk tuk .merci P.F
Et peut on savoir quel chauffeur tu as retenu ? 🙂
Patrick.
Et peut on savoir quel chauffeur tu as retenu ? 🙂
Pour information, si c'est votre première visite à Siem Reap, il y a pléthore de conducteurs de tuk tuk. Vous n'aurez que l'ambarras du choix. Certains qui sont fréquemment mentionnés sur les forums ont toujours des clients, alors que d'autres doivent se battre pour pouvoir approcher un touriste et le conduire sur les sites.
Les conducteurs de tuk tuk ont des gilets officiels et vous approcheront dès votre arrivée. A vous de faire votre choix.😉
Pour information, si c'est votre première visite à Siem Reap, il y a pléthore de conducteurs de tuk tuk. Vous n'aurez que l'ambarras du choix. Certains qui sont fréquemment mentionnés sur les forums ont toujours des clients, alors que d'autres doivent se battre pour pouvoir approcher un touriste et le conduire sur les sites.
Les conducteurs de tuk tuk ont des gilets officiels et vous approcheront dès votre arrivée. A vous de faire votre choix.😉
Bonjour,
l y a pléthore de conducteurs de tuk tuk. Vous n'aurez que l'ambarras du choix.
Merci Clavdia, j'avais bien lu ton message précédent
Certains qui sont fréquemment mentionnés sur les forums ont toujours des clients, alors que d'autres doivent se battre pour pouvoir approcher un touriste et le conduire sur les sites.
Peut être que certains sont " meilleurs " que d'autres ? Ce qui est étonnant c'est que, comme tu le rappel, bien qu'il y ait pléthore de conducteurs, ce sont plus ou moins toujours les mêmes qui reviennent ici
l y a pléthore de conducteurs de tuk tuk. Vous n'aurez que l'ambarras du choix.
Merci Clavdia, j'avais bien lu ton message précédent
Certains qui sont fréquemment mentionnés sur les forums ont toujours des clients, alors que d'autres doivent se battre pour pouvoir approcher un touriste et le conduire sur les sites.
Peut être que certains sont " meilleurs " que d'autres ? Ce qui est étonnant c'est que, comme tu le rappel, bien qu'il y ait pléthore de conducteurs, ce sont plus ou moins toujours les mêmes qui reviennent ici
Patrick.
Parce que ceux-ci parlent français.
Il y a des milliers de conducteurs de tuk-tuk, mais la plupart n'ont pas de connaissances particulières sur les lieux ou ils emmènent les touristes (voir carrément aucune)...parfois le contact n'est pas bon (ou, disons, rien de spécial), et un nombre important d'entre eux ne maîtrise pas l'anglais, ou très approximativement.
Par ailleurs, souvent la formule visite des temples, c'est la classique, avec Angkor Wat au coucher du soleil par exemple.
Quand on choisit un tuk-tuk, il vaut mieux s'assurer avec eux du parcours. Ceux qui travaillent pour ou avec les guesthouses choisiront toujours le parcours le plus simple, le plus facile, sans surprises. Et rechignent parfois à emmener les touristes sur des lieux ne figurant pas sur les habituels circuits. Ils ne le proposent de toute façon jamais. D’où l'utilité de bien tout programmer au préalable, tout en ne négligeant pas de vérifier si le parcours est respecté.
Ceux dont on parle sur le forum maîtrisent aussi, parfois, le sujet de la civilisation angkorienne etc...Kosal, par exemple, est devenu guide depuis peu. La visite des temples avec quelqu'un comme ça, c'est autre chose qu'avec un jeune venu de la campagne, ne parlant pas anglais ou français, et gagnant sa vie comme il peut. Ce qui par ailleurs est tout à fait respectable.
Autre chose, les guides au Cambodge, ça peut être le pire comme le meilleur. Certains jeunes sont absolument passionnés par les langues étrangères, relativement ouverts et dynamiques (chose plutôt rare en Thaïlande, par exemple)...d'autres s'improvisent guides d'un jour à l'autre (quoique ca existe même chez les officiels), et là ça peut être la catastrophe. Une membre du forum parlait il y a quelques temps de son expérience pas franchement positive avec un guide dans le parc de Virachey (Ratanakiri)...exemple révélateur. Le niveau de culture générale, de connaissances historiques et politiques, et de l'éducation plus généralement, est au Cambodge dramatiquement bas. Et les licences de guide s'achètent. De manière générale, il y a quand même beaucoup de très bons guides à Angkor. Preuve que tout ne fonctionne pas non plus si mal dans ce pays.
Il y a des milliers de conducteurs de tuk-tuk, mais la plupart n'ont pas de connaissances particulières sur les lieux ou ils emmènent les touristes (voir carrément aucune)...parfois le contact n'est pas bon (ou, disons, rien de spécial), et un nombre important d'entre eux ne maîtrise pas l'anglais, ou très approximativement.
Par ailleurs, souvent la formule visite des temples, c'est la classique, avec Angkor Wat au coucher du soleil par exemple.
Quand on choisit un tuk-tuk, il vaut mieux s'assurer avec eux du parcours. Ceux qui travaillent pour ou avec les guesthouses choisiront toujours le parcours le plus simple, le plus facile, sans surprises. Et rechignent parfois à emmener les touristes sur des lieux ne figurant pas sur les habituels circuits. Ils ne le proposent de toute façon jamais. D’où l'utilité de bien tout programmer au préalable, tout en ne négligeant pas de vérifier si le parcours est respecté.
Ceux dont on parle sur le forum maîtrisent aussi, parfois, le sujet de la civilisation angkorienne etc...Kosal, par exemple, est devenu guide depuis peu. La visite des temples avec quelqu'un comme ça, c'est autre chose qu'avec un jeune venu de la campagne, ne parlant pas anglais ou français, et gagnant sa vie comme il peut. Ce qui par ailleurs est tout à fait respectable.
Autre chose, les guides au Cambodge, ça peut être le pire comme le meilleur. Certains jeunes sont absolument passionnés par les langues étrangères, relativement ouverts et dynamiques (chose plutôt rare en Thaïlande, par exemple)...d'autres s'improvisent guides d'un jour à l'autre (quoique ca existe même chez les officiels), et là ça peut être la catastrophe. Une membre du forum parlait il y a quelques temps de son expérience pas franchement positive avec un guide dans le parc de Virachey (Ratanakiri)...exemple révélateur. Le niveau de culture générale, de connaissances historiques et politiques, et de l'éducation plus généralement, est au Cambodge dramatiquement bas. Et les licences de guide s'achètent. De manière générale, il y a quand même beaucoup de très bons guides à Angkor. Preuve que tout ne fonctionne pas non plus si mal dans ce pays.
c'est fait , j'ai pris réservation avec monsieur THOEUN je pense que mon choix c'est porté sur lui car il parle bien le Français , c'est surtout pour celà . lorsque je rentrerai je ferai un petit courrier pour donner mes impressions .P.B
Salut et merci de ta réponse
Parce que ceux-ci parlent français.
Ce qui, si on est pas à l'aise avec l'anglais peut se révéler un sacré + ! 😉
De manière générale, il y a quand même beaucoup de très bons guides à Angkor. Preuve que tout ne fonctionne pas non plus si mal dans ce pays.
Je n'en doute pas même si pour ma part je me contenterais d'un chauffeur
Parce que ceux-ci parlent français.
Ce qui, si on est pas à l'aise avec l'anglais peut se révéler un sacré + ! 😉
De manière générale, il y a quand même beaucoup de très bons guides à Angkor. Preuve que tout ne fonctionne pas non plus si mal dans ce pays.
Je n'en doute pas même si pour ma part je me contenterais d'un chauffeur
Patrick.
J'aimerais préciser que les conducteur de tuk tuk ne sont pas des guides, à quelques très rares exceptions. Par conséquent, ils n'ont pas le droit de se promener sur les sites avec les "clients". Ils les amènent aux abords et donne rendez-vous à une certaine heure à l'endroit où ils sont obligés d'attendre les touristes.
Maintenant, certains ont de bonne connaissance des lieux et font un petit topo avant de laisser le touriste se ballader sur les sites.
Personnellement, je connais un conducteur de tuk tuk qui parle bien anglais, mais qui n'a que très rarement du travail. Alors, toujours recommander les mêmes personnes au détriment d'autres, tout aussi expérimentés ?
Maintenant, certains ont de bonne connaissance des lieux et font un petit topo avant de laisser le touriste se ballader sur les sites.
Personnellement, je connais un conducteur de tuk tuk qui parle bien anglais, mais qui n'a que très rarement du travail. Alors, toujours recommander les mêmes personnes au détriment d'autres, tout aussi expérimentés ?
Oh moi je ne recommande personne.
Si j'y vais, je négocie avec le premier venu dont la tête me revient bien (hors guesthouse de préférence), et c'est moi qui décide du parcours.
Ceux que l'on conseille habituellement sur VF gèrent vite leur boulot comme un business...en faisant travailler les copains ou la famille (pour eux) etc...il y a beaucoup de bons avis, et quelques mauvais aussi liés à ces petites choses embêtantes qui sont le quotidien de villes extrêmement touristiques comme Siem Reap.
Si j'y vais, je négocie avec le premier venu dont la tête me revient bien (hors guesthouse de préférence), et c'est moi qui décide du parcours.
Ceux que l'on conseille habituellement sur VF gèrent vite leur boulot comme un business...en faisant travailler les copains ou la famille (pour eux) etc...il y a beaucoup de bons avis, et quelques mauvais aussi liés à ces petites choses embêtantes qui sont le quotidien de villes extrêmement touristiques comme Siem Reap.
Excuse-moi, je répondais en général, mais ton nom est apparu. Sans rancune, j'espère.
D'ailleurs, je fais comme toi, je vois sur place et je n'ai rencontré que des personnes intéressantes qui avaient d'excellentes idées pour des parcours non balisés et surtout en de-hors des groupes divers et variés...
D'ailleurs, je fais comme toi, je vois sur place et je n'ai rencontré que des personnes intéressantes qui avaient d'excellentes idées pour des parcours non balisés et surtout en de-hors des groupes divers et variés...
Mr Am nat est très bien, ses tours sont intelligents, et dans les guesthouses, on travaille les tours, contrairement à ce que vous avancez.
de toutes façons Am nat n'est pas rattaché à une guesthouse, et a ne bonne popularité car il parle bien français et est interessant.
Il y a pléthore de tuk tuk, certes, mais pas francophone, la reflexion est donc hors sujet... car il est difficile de trouver des tuk tuk driver francophones.
De plus, lorsqu'on demande à un tuk tuk dans la rue d'aller visiter Angkor, il va proposer les circuits les plus simples, les plus basiques, dans 99,9% des cas!
Pa s encore eu l'honneur de rencontrer mr thoeun, mais cela se fera d'ici peu.
Kosal est un guide depuis 3 ans, et s'il l'est devenu c'est grâce à son sens du service et sa popularité, sans oublier sa maitrise de la langue française et les études qui coûtent cher.
Autre chose, la grosse majorité des drivers connaissent les sites par coeur.
Ils veulent enmener les touristes voir le coucher de soleil sur Phnom bakeng la plupart du temps ( ce qui fait que maintenant, le site est limité à 300 personnes).
Une membre du forum parlait il y a quelques temps de son expérience pas franchement positive avec un guide dans le parc de Virachey (Ratanakiri)...exemple révélateur.
Vous confondez les guides d'Angkor qui ont obligatoirement recu une formation solide et qui sont étroitement controlés avec tous ceux qui dans le pays s'autoproclament guides.
Et Claudia a raison, un chauffeur de tuk n'est pas un guide, il ne peut penetrer dans l'enceinte des temples avec ses clients pour commenter la visite.
Vous confondez les guides d'Angkor qui ont obligatoirement recu une formation solide et qui sont étroitement controlés avec tous ceux qui dans le pays s'autoproclament guides.
Et Claudia a raison, un chauffeur de tuk n'est pas un guide, il ne peut penetrer dans l'enceinte des temples avec ses clients pour commenter la visite.
Très cordialement
Maddy
Maddy
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More discussions
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m planning a trip to Cambodia and was set on visiting the Ratanakiri region, which seemed to match what we love most in terms of landscapes: forests, jungle, greenery...
However, as I started looking into the area, I read that deforestation there is massive, and some of the info on the topic is years old—the situation hasn’t improved since, unfortunately.
So my question is: is Ratanakiri still worth visiting, and does it justify the long travel time and distance to get there?
I’ve seen that jungle treks are possible, but from experience, I know guides sometimes hesitate to venture deep into the forest and stick to shorter walks along the edges of parks.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
Hello, it’s been a while since I last asked for your help on this forum—I’ve really missed it! I hope you’re all doing well, whether you're new or returning members.
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight) · Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok) · Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x") · Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
I’m planning a trip from February 6 to 18, 2027, with my sister (we’re 47 and 50—time flies!). I’ve got my eye on a flight from Paris that lands in Bangkok on February 7 at 3 PM, with a return flight from Bangkok on February 18 at noon.
My sister has never been to this destination, and it’ll be her first time in Asia. Her priorities: beaches, sunshine, and cocktails by the shore. For me, I love that too, but I also enjoy exploring, nature, forests, and a bit of comfort (mixing guesthouses and higher-end hotels with pools). A little evening entertainment would be great, but not too much—good cocktails in a nice atmosphere rather than a rave party ;-). And I can’t help but dream of taking her on a little trek through a tropical forest (guaranteed memories and laughs, though she might curse me at the time) and showing her some karst landscapes.
I’ve been to Thailand before, but it was 15 years ago...
The idea is to give her a taste of Bangkok for 1 or 2 nights, a few days on an island (but which one...?), a tropical forest excursion with 1 or 2 nights on-site (Khao Sok?), and then back to Bangkok.
For the "main" island, even after reading the *Guide du Routard*, I’m still undecided. It’s hard to find a place that ticks all the boxes without feeling as crowded as the French Riviera in August: Koh Lanta? Khao Lak (though it’s not an island)? Koh Tao (I could maybe get my PADI certification, but I’m afraid she’d get bored, and it might be better to save that for a solo trip)? Koh Yao Yai (I worry we’d be bored in the evenings)? What a dilemma!
Thank you if you’ve read this far! Feel free to share any advice—it’ll all be warmly welcomed.
Here’s a rough outline of the itinerary (I’d rather skip a night in Bangkok if needed):
· Saturday, February 6, 2027: departure (overnight flight) · Sunday, February 7, 2027: arrival at 3 PM, probably at the hotel by 6 PM, evening in Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Monday, February 8, 2027: day in Bangkok (Wat Pho and a floating market?) (overnight in Bangkok) · Tuesday, February 9, 2027: travel to Koh Lanta or another island (flight to Phuket or Krabi?) (overnight on island "x") · Wednesday, February 10, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Thursday, February 11, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Friday, February 12, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Saturday, February 13, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Sunday, February 14, 2027: beach and walks (overnight on island "x") · Monday, February 15, 2027: travel to Khao Sok—nighttime excursion to Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Tuesday, February 16, 2027: exploration and hike in Khao Sok (overnight in Khao Sok) · Wednesday, February 17, 2027: return trip to Bangkok (overnight in Bangkok) · Thursday, February 18, 2027: return flight to Paris at noon
Hi there,
I’ve found so many tips and reviews on this forum, so it’s my turn to contribute a little.
We spent just over two weeks with our family, with the following itinerary:
- Hanoi: 5 days
- Halong Bay: 3 days and 2 nights
- Tam Coc: 3 days
- Mai Chau: 2 days
- Sapa: 3 days
We got around by bike, scooter, Grab, and bus.
Our main accommodations were homestays and hotels in Hanoi.
We visited lots of museums, temples, and neighborhoods in Hanoi.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Sapa with May, a Hmong local, without going through an agency.
A few small regrets: the weather was overcast, and we couldn’t make it to Fansipan, but nothing major 😅. We also couldn’t find transport to get from Sapa to Mu Cang Chai.
Other than that, this trip will stay in our memories for the kindness of the Vietnamese people, the connections we made, the food (street food, homestays...), the coffee 😋, the landscapes, and how easy it was to get around...
Our goal was to take our time and focus only on a small part of northern Vietnam.
If you need any tips or recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Cédric.
Hi there, we’re landing at Hanoi Airport and would like to head straight to Cao Bang without going into Hanoi. Does anyone know if there are buses that go directly from the airport to Cao Bang (especially in the early afternoon)? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
I’m currently working on a 30-day itinerary for May/June 2027.
10 days in eastern Java (Malang, Bromo, waterfalls, Meru Beriti Park, Banyuwangi, and Ijen), a short transit in Ubud for a few days, then Flores before heading back to Jakarta.
We’ll spend 15 days in Flores (the classic route: Moni, Bajawa, Riung, Ruteng, ending in Labuan Bajo).
I’d love some firsthand feedback on flights to Maumere or Ende from Bali Denpasar. I know there are no direct routes and that you have to connect through Labuan Bajo or Timor (I think), which isn’t an issue in itself.
But I’ve read here and there that flights to these destinations can be delayed—or worse, canceled—and that it’s better to fly in and out of Labuan Bajo, which isn’t exactly ideal...
Thanks for any tips or experiences you can share!
hi everyone,
I want to travel in the north for 3 weeks in September-October 2026 to meet ethnic minorities, photograph mountain rice terraces and their harvest, and revisit Halong Bay—but maybe Lan Ha Bay instead. Can you recommend one or more local agencies?
Thanks, and happy holidays!
Hello,
We’re a couple looking for a driver for 10 days to explore Northern Vietnam in April.
Best regards,
Hi there,
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
I need some expert advice on these two destinations for a 15-day trip. We land in KL and plan to stay for 2 days before heading to Borneo and finishing with an island for snorkeling. For those who’ve been, what are your must-sees? We were thinking of spending the last 3 days on the Perhentian Islands, unless you’ve got another island to recommend near Borneo. Thanks for your tips and help!
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.
I’d love to get some feedback on our itinerary—it’s probably pretty basic! This is our second trip to Asia and our first to Indonesia. We have three kids aged 20, 18, and 12. We land in Jakarta at 4 PM, spend 3 nights/2 days there, then take the train to Yogyakarta for 3 nights/2 days, followed by the train to Surabaya for 2 nights/1 day, then the train to Bromo for 1 day/1 night, a private driver to Ijen for 2 nights/2 days, then on to Bali (Ubud) for 4 nights/3 days, followed by Gili Air for 3 nights/2 days, Senggigi (Lombok) for 2 nights, and finally 5 nights in Kuta. I’m considering cutting the 2 nights in Senggigi to just keep Kuta and extend it to 7 nights. In Lombok, I’m not sure how to get around since I’m not comfortable with scooters... Your thoughts on all of this, and any advice, are more than welcome—don’t hesitate!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
For those wondering why cities like Jakarta and Surabaya: we don’t often get the chance to visit big Asian cities, so we wanted to include that discovery in our trip. The trains between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Probolinggo are booked. The return flight from Lombok to Jakarta is also set. Accommodations are booked but flexible (same for the trains).
Thanks!
Hi! I’m planning a 15-day trip to Malaysia. The idea is to visit KL for 2 or 3 days, then Borneo, and I’m wondering what to do with the rest of the time. I’d like to finish with the Perhentian Islands... What do you think? Any tips or advice would be great—I’d really appreciate it!
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for addresses for guesthouses or, even better, houseboats or rafting houses on the River Kwai, between Kanchanaburi and Sangkhlaburi, to spend a few weeks contemplating this beautiful river.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Premaria
Hi there,
we’re currently in Mai Chau and tomorrow we’re hitting the road back to Hanoi to head up toward Bac Ha and Sapa.
We haven’t really had a set plan since we arrived—we’ve already done the Halong Bay on land and by sea.
I’ve got 2 free days before heading to Bac Ha and Sapa.
Any tips?
Thanks, and looking forward to hearing from you.
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.
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.
Hello.
In 1996, we crossed Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi by motorbike—Minsk bikes we bought in Saigon. I haven’t been back since, and it seems like a lot has changed.
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
- We’re heading to the south (well, the north and center) with the family in July-August (3 people).
- Is the road network more developed now? Back then, there was only National Route 1 from south to north. I’m thinking of renting a car this time (no motorbike with the family—though in ’96, they had a Jawa sidecar for sale, and we hesitated… maybe it’s for the best).
- Is Halong Bay really something to avoid because of overtourism? Even back then, it was pretty crowded. Is there a less touristy alternative?
- We’ll be traveling from Hanoi down to Danang (the only city we didn’t stop in back in ’96). Even though it’s a bit overhyped in a Chinese-tourist kind of way (from what I’ve read), we’re only going for the beach—pure relaxation for 7 days. The beaches are stunning, and I know the South China Sea is warm like coffee.
- Then, we’ll visit Hoi An, where I stopped in ’96. It was already popular with backpackers back then, but no glowing boats or all the touristy fuss!
- After that, Hue, where I have great memories—it’s a beautiful city.
- And also the nature around Ninh Binh, followed by 2-3 days in Hanoi.
That’s the plan. I’d love to hear any tips to avoid mass tourism, and if anyone’s done this before: - Is it possible to rent a car in Danang and drop it off in Hanoi?
Thanks, and long live the Nam! !
Hey everyone,
I’m over in East Borneo in mid-July.
I’m struggling to wrap up the end of my itinerary, even though it’s pretty straightforward (long but simple).
Last year, we did Malaysia (KL and the mainland + around Kuching).
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Day 1 – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu early, stroll around town and hit the must-sees. Day 2 – Excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, snorkeling at 3 islands. Day 3 – Hike around Mount Kinabalu without summiting (450 per person, no way). Day 4 – Poring Hot Springs + evening flight to Sandakan. Day 5-6-7 – Kinabatangan River (still looking for the right guide). Day 8 – Sepilok for the orangutans, the Sun Bear Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre. Day 9 – Selingan, turtle island. Day 10 – Head to Semporna. Day 11-12-13-14 – Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai. Day 15 – Bohey Dulang. Day 16 to Day 25: I’M STUCK.
I looked into Danum Valley, but for 3 days/2 nights, they’re quoting 650 € per person—come on, that’s ridiculous. I checked out a detour into Indonesia (still East Borneo), but I’m having trouble deciding what would be amazing. I read about Sangalaki + Kakaban (2 islands, 1 base) / Mahakam Delta - Kutai (orangutans and river) / Sungai Boh (Dayak Kayan) – jungle & culture. But honestly, I’m struggling to finalize this itinerary. If we venture that way, we’d head back to KK from Balikpapan.
What do you all think? Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
For a 4-month stay in Egypt, I had ENORMOUS problems. The regulations are very bureaucratic and extremely nitpicky there. For a 4-month stay in the Philippines, I was wondering if the procedures are just as complicated? I’m bringing my cell phone with an eSIM. Should I choose a plan from Canada for use in the Philippines, or should I get a plan only once I arrive? After 30 days, do I renew with the Canadian provider I chose before leaving, or do I switch to a local company? Do I need to register my phone with the authorities in the Philippines? (That was the case in Egypt.) For the 3rd and 4th months, will it be just as simple—renewing with a Canadian or local provider—or should I expect problems?
Thanks for your opinions/answers! Marc Lamarre
Hello,
I’ll be in Malaysia with my wife, mainly in Langkawi and Penang for Christmas and New Year’s at the end of 2026.
If you’ve had the experience—and since I’ve read (though it’s not very clear) that these two islands get quite crowded during this period—would you recommend booking accommodation well in advance, or is it easy to find something on the spot?
Hotels or Airbnb?
Do you have any great tips for accommodation or any practical info to share?
We’ll be staying 5 to 7 days on each island.
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!
Hi. Is it possible to take the train from Malacca to Ipoh? Thanks for your feedback.
Hi there,
We’re heading to Vietnam as a family on July 8th for a little over 3 weeks (north and center). We’ve only booked the first 3 nights in Hanoi, and nothing else after that. We like to decide things on the spot and go with the flow, without rushing everywhere. But I’m still a bit unsure: when heading down to the center (Hue), is it better to book the overnight trains in advance? We don’t want to take any flights while we’re there—just use the overnight train for the long trips. But I’m worried we won’t get seats if we buy the tickets on the spot, say, 2 days before. What do the experts here think? And which website can we use to book the tickets? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi everyone!
I’m heading back to Thailand in July 2026 with a stopover in Cambodia to visit the Angkor site.
After Angkor, I’ve booked a stay on Ko Chang island. Does anyone know if there are direct transport options from Cambodia to Ko Chang without having to go back through Bangkok? That would be amazing!!
I think there are, but I’d need more details!!
I went to Thailand in February 2025 and don’t remember having to apply for a visa—is that still the case now? And for Cambodia too?
Thanks so much!!!
Laurence from Bayonne
hi
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
I’ll be on a cruise on January 11, 2027. We’re stopping in Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My).
I’d love to see something other than the city—anyone have recommendations or a guide for 6-8 people with pickup at the port?
I’d really like to visit some rice paddies.
Hi there,
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I’m spending 4 days in Kuala Lumpur.
Could you let me know what’s absolutely worth visiting and what’s not really worth the effort?
Any suggested itinerary?
Apart from Batu Caves, I don’t have many ideas...
I’m traveling with my partner and our 16-year-old son.
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
Hi,
After our trip to China, we want to spend a week in the Philippines for some beach time and snorkeling.
We're looking for the best spot to settle in—nice beaches, great marine life, and short transfer times.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Hi there,
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...
For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...
There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)
Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle
Hello,
While traveling in Thailand, I’m looking for a Buddhist kumlai reed bracelet.
Does anyone know where I can find one?
In Bangkok, I visited a few temples but didn’t see any in the nearby shops.
If you have any ideas, I’d love to hear them! Have a great day! :-)
Hi there
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!
My trip’s coming up, and I’m having a bit of trouble with three bus/minivan routes. Usually, I find everything at this time of year, but this time—yikes!
Sandakan → Sepilok: No app for this one—you just hop on bus #14 at the local terminal (pay cash on board). But where do I catch it, and where’s the stop??
Sandakan → Semporna: From what I’ve heard, it’s the Sida Express company (great name, right? 😄). Can’t book online, but apparently, you *have* to because there’s only one bus at 8 AM. Where do I board, and where does it drop me off?
Semporna → Tawau: Found this via AI—is it legit? No online booking, as far as I can tell. Minivans leave from a stop in the Jalan Hospital area, near the Milimewa supermarket, supposedly???? And when you arrive, does it drop you at **Sabindo Square** in Tawau?????
Thanks for any tips—I’m stuck!