Je lis et relis des tas de messages sur ce forum et je suis perdue...je cherche des îles pas trop fréquentées, pas envie de Kosamui ou Phuket..etc
L'un de nos collègues du forum me conseille KO Chang, Kho Tao, Bulon Le et Lipe, entre autres... Je recherche de belles plages calmes, belles, ou mettre le masque et le tube et rêver ! Mais surtout pas la foule ni le beton !
salut!
En lisant vos message ca me rappelle bizarrezment les miens il y a quelques semaines seulement ... ;o)
Je reviens de 3 semaines là bas ... Donc Koh Samui le temps était pas génial, pas grand monde mais vraiment beaucoup de resort en construction partout !!! lamaï ca passe encore, pas trop attaqué et plage sympa pas bondé encore ...
Koh phangan .... franchement j'ai pas "trippé" ... ca sent une vielle odeur de "Cancun local"
En revanche même si je ne suis pas allé on m'a dit que du bien de koh tao... surtout des diving center et les plongeurs qui vont avec apparement mais c'est assez préservé !
Phuket ...Effectivement il faut passer vite et ne pas s'arrêter !!!! en revanche départ obligatoire de là bas pour koh phi phi ! et là attention les yeux ca pique tellement c'est beau !!!
Certe un petit peu de monde mais pas surpeuplé non plus encore (ca tient jusq'à fin Octobre) ... y'a de tout là bas des familles, des jeunes couples, des bagpakers solitaires, quelques kéké venus pour la bronzette aussi mais rien de méchant !! très très bonne ambiance le soir et dans la journée tout le monde prend des long tail boat pour aller barboter dans les criques magnifique qu'offre koh phi phi leh (dont la fameuse maya bay du film la plage .. mais y'en a plein des pure endroits ou en mettant un masque on nage comme dans un aquarium, croisant scalaires, poisson clown et autre petit némos et compagnie !! lol)
Un conseil pour le soir : le hippies bar !!!! très bonne ambiance, personnel aux ptis oignons ... que du bonheur !!
De là un conseil partir quelques jours sur Railey island (1h30 de phi hpi en speed boat) .. ile très calme, très bonne ambiance le soir, roches magnifiques qui changent de couleur avec le soleil, et pléîade d'iles magnifique complètement préservée du tourisme ... (chicken island, etcc..) et de là possibilité d'explorer d'autres iles de la province de krabi que je n'ai eu le temps de faire mais qui me pousse a y retourner au plus vite croyez moi !!!
Pour plus d'info et un "repère" visuel des différentes îles citées je vous convie sur mon site : http://thailande.grib.fr
salut Grib,
je n'arrive pas à ouvrir ton lien 😕 tant pas pour le rêve...
dis, comment est-ce pour la baignade, en cette saison à Koh Phi Phi?
As-tu pris un avion Bkk-Phuket (Cher ?) ? c'est long comme trajet ?
merci d'avance...
tu fais un copié collé, tu clique sur l'image qaui apparait (ok j'aurais du le noter !! lol) et hop t'as le menu !
Sinon contrairement a tout ce que j'ai pu lire j'ai eu beau temps à phiphi mais mauvais à samui alors que statistiquement c'est l'inverse .... comme quoi !!! pi mauvais est un bien grand mot, car c'est la luminosité qui semblait bizarre car le ciel était laiteux....
Pour la baignade sinon c'est trop dur !!! l'eau à 30 ° je m'y habituerais jamais !! lol
Sinon en fait j'ai fait bankk-samui puis samui-phuket et enfin krabi-bkk le tout en avion ...
Pour un bkk phuket compte ente 20 et 60 € suivant la compagnie (bangkok airways, thai airlines, nokair, onetoone, etc ...) tu réserves en ligne de n'importe quel cyber ou de france au préalable ... t'as plus qu'a présenter ton passport au guichet d'embarquement... c'est très facile de voyager en thailande de toute facon ....
"Koh phangan .... franchement j'ai pas "trippé" ... ca sent une vielle odeur de "Cancun local""
chacun voit les choses differement....mais sur cette ile, c'est tout noir tout blanc.
on peux ne rien voir pendant des lustres...quand on sait ou aller.
cette ile est tres loin de ca...
mais perso, si j'avais une idée d'ou aller dans une ile pas trop frequenté en thailande, la derniere chose que je ferai ce serai de mettre l'adresse ici 😛
c'est l'un des paradoxes du voyage et des guides (cyber ou papier)....
on veut de la libertée, pas de monde, des iles presque vierge, se sentir pionnier de la grande aventure ou d'en avoir l'impression...humain en somme...
mais on cherche là ou l'info circule, ou les passages abondent.
pour finir un jour par refuser d'y retourner parce que le coin sera deposseder de son authenticité d'antan.
on cherche la virginité pour y planter un drapeau...qui finira sans vous de polluer pour enfin sauter vers un autre.
profitons de ce qui est deja existant touristiquement parlant....et
gardons nos adresses le plus discretement possible.
sur koh phangan, on aime ou pas...mais ce n'est pas du tout à l'image de haad rin...🙂
koh tao est une merveille aussi...
c'est different, il y a du monde a des endroits, d'autre non...
c'est beau, c'est petit...
mais ne pas avoir peur des touristes.
et dans ce cas....peut etre mieux vaut ne pas aller en thailande😛
mais perso, si j'avais une idée d'ou aller dans une ile pas trop frequenté en thailande, la derniere chose que je ferai ce serai de mettre l'adresse ici 😛
mais on cherche là ou l'info circule, ou les passages abondent.
gardons nos adresses le plus discretement possible.
😛
pas trés esprit forum tout çà, loin de l'esprit zen !
l'aventurier Indiana Jones, il part tout seul, il essuie les platres, là il peu se garder son ile deserte,
mais a partir du moment ou tu viens chercher des infos, profiter de l'experience et du vécu des precurseurs,
il faut accepter de partager les tiennes,
on considerera cela pour de la fougue de jeunesse,
😛
(prends l'exemple d'antoine, lui il a tout compris depuis longtemps)
très joli poupette !
vraiment très poétique et en plus ca synthétise vraiment l'exclusivité que chacun recherche en demandant à tout le monde ! 😛
n'emp^che que sur koh phangan c'est le seul endroit où j'ai vu ou les capsules de heineken qui jonchait le sable ! et j'ai beau être client de toutes les teufs de france et de navarre y'a pas a dire et faut pas se voiler la face là bas ca sent bien le MDMA et les trips !!!
je crache pas dans la soupe mais niveau dépaysement, mis a part des plages et une faune que tu peux retrouver un peu partout en thailande, faut pas chercher à rencontrer des thaï là-bas !!
La population locale est pas si locale ..... et il faut reconnaitre que beaucoup d'expat. qui se posent là bas sont soit clients de la défonce ludique à grand coup de tech. et de hip hop, soit des gens qui ont trop regardé la plage et sont tellement grotesque qu'ils deviennent des caricatures d'eux même !!!!
et pourtant, si, je suis un peu d' accord avec Poupette, il faudrait faire un peu attention a ne pas aller clamer sur les toits ce qu' on a trouve de vraiment exceptionnel.
j' ai ete une fois a Koh Phangan, c' etait en 1981, avec un copain. comme autres etrangers nous avons vu..... peut-etre une demi douzaine d' autres voyageurs vers l' embarcadere, en tout et pour tout, en l' espace d' une semaine. passe une semaine de paradis sur la plage ou nous etions, petites huttes simples mais oh, si confortables!, il y en avait 5 ou 6 (1 suisse y sejournait aussi), il n' y avait qu' un robinet d' eau pour se laver, le soir nous mangions sur la terrasse de la famille thai-chinoise et jouions avec leurs enfants. et out le reste de l' ile etait dans le meme genre. c' etait beau et bon. je ne vous dis pas la misere que j' ai du payer a la fin....
mon choc quand j' ai appris ce que cette ile est devenue depuis 😠
il y a un paradoxe, mais peut-etre pas de dilemme: il faut simplement ne pas trop aller clamer sur les toits, il y a trop de monde avide "out there" et on ne sait jamais le genre de personnes qu' il ya dans l' audience..... les vrais voyageurs trouveront bien les perles par eux-memes?
mais perso, si j'avais une idée d'ou aller dans une ile pas trop frequenté en thailande, la derniere chose que je ferai ce serai de mettre l'adresse ici 😛
Exact Poupette surtout ne pas le mettre ici laissons ces îles tranquille comme ils sont .
@+ , Marco .
On aura jamais assez de temps pour tout ce qu'on veut découvrir et comprendre dans nos voyages qu'on se le dise , Amis voyageurs .
mais perso, si j'avais une idée d'ou aller dans une ile pas trop frequenté en thailande, la derniere chose que je ferai ce serai de mettre l'adresse ici 😛
des îles ou on ne vois pas un blanc, , et c'est une réserve pour les tortue de mer, ,
j'en dirais pas plus, , , , , aucun envie que le routard ou le LP soit au courant, , , , , ,
puis en bon égoïste que je suis si le farang débarque le terrain ne seras plus a ma portée,
ce n'est pas les îles qui manquent, ,
« Le voyage apprend la tolérance. »
Benjamin Disraeli
-
dire que mon esprit n'est pas tres "forum", non, egoiste: non plus.
c'est juste que j'ai conscience que l'influence du tourisme est parfois hypocrite meme si je suis obligée d'en profiter.
vous voudriez que tout le monde se voile la face, use et use des bonnes adresses jusqu'a leur exctinction pour la simple et bonne raison de ne "pas avoir l'air egoiste et de garder une belle etiquette de voyageur" ?
non.😕 je m'explique.
perso: j'essaye de trier.
j'ai deux trois petites adresses que je n'aime pas donner parce que je veux les preserver pour ce qu'elles ont tjr été, discrete, calme...
je les refile quand je peux.
mais sur un forum, je tri.
meme les auteurs (surtout les auteurs !!) des guides (lp; routard...) se font ce genre de reflexions et gardent des adresses. c'est une question d'echelle et d'affluence.
perso, cela ne me pose pas de probleme de refiler un bon plan quand il n'y a que 2 ou 4 oreilles. meme si l'infos finira tjr par circuler, ce sera toujours plus discret.
mais attention, cela n'a rien contre le forum
et bien sur, tout depend du "bon plan"...ce n'est certainement valable pour tout, mais seulement une petite poignée d'infos.
voila.
j'adore essayer de guider les gens avec ma jeune experience, je sais aussi qu'il y a des endroits que je voudrai preserver.
et georgesnl, tu as bien de la chance d'avoir vu koh phangan a cette epoque.
l'ile a bcp bcp changer, c'est certain...
je suis tjr la premiere a refiler mes adresses et si je suis inscrite ici depuis quelqus années, ce n'est pas pour rien....et c'est surement plus pour causer avec d'autre voyageurs que de profiter des "bons plans". meme si cela m'a été tres utile parfois....tres tres utile.
mais je ne suis pas stupide et ni hypocrite. je suis une voyageuse qui a conscience que le tourisme est une chose formidable mais qui peut aussi tres vite deborder et etouffer des endroits que l'on aurai voulu conserver.
pour la fougue jeunesse, voyageurasie, avec tous le respect que je te dois, non.
joe cummings lui meme me disait qu'il y avait un petit lot d'adresses qu'il ne donnerai pour rien aux monde dans une guide.
pourtant il n'a pas 20 ans. et pourtant il ecrit des guides....
apres c'est bien possible que je sache pas m'exprimer correctement et soit un peu....categorique dans le ton. ce n'est pas le cas en dehors de l'ecran et je m'en escuse.
c'est quand meme relativement paradoxale, d'aller en thailande, de vouloir une ile "pas trop frequenté, pas touristique" et de chercher l'info sur un forum.
je comprend la demarche, j'aurai surement fais la meme....
mais tout ceci m'amene a penser que c'est peut etre la chaine logique alimentaire du voyage....
on trouve, on s'installe, on s'etend, on "pollue" (c'est relatif hein), puis on repart ailleur....et on refait la meme chose.
le routard a presque toujours fonctionner comme ca...
nos passages dans chaque coin du monde ont leur dose d'influence, il ne faut surtout pas le nier.
ce n'est pas mauvais....mais il ne faut pas le nier.
je trouvais que c'etait un paradoxe interressant et peut etre inevitable quoique un peu deconcertant, puisque cela nous concerne tous.
anoine, oui...mais surement qu'il a son petit jardin secret. c'est toujours la meme chose 🙂
sauf que sur un dvd, on ne peux l'imaginer...
Tu raisonnes bien et alors je fais appel à tes neurones.
Souvent, il y a des demandes de coins pas touristiques. S'il n'y a pas de touriste, c'est donc des plages complètement désertes, pas de commerce, pas d'hotels. Et il y a en qui s'ennuie mortellement.
D'un autre côté, il y a des demandes de coins bien animés, tout équipés et on refuse de cotoyer d'autres touristes.
Lucky that we have a home/Our Home is Nha May Man/Passing rain and dry seasons/In a full-of-love atmosphere/Besides my new family/I have brothers and sisters/The sun shines over the skies/Let's stay here, with all of us,
Oui, c'est sûr qu'il ne faut peut être pas faire de la pub pour quelques paradis de confettis trouvés ici ou là ...... mais en réfléchissant bien, si tu parles d'îles paradisiaques trouvées en Thailande, il est normal au vu de la fréquentation de ce pays et de la facilité que l'on a à se déplacer que tout le monde s'y précipite .....
Même phénomène pour les îles Gili au Nord Ouest de Lombok ..... même si moins facile d'accés, mais tellement proche de Bali surexploité touristiquement .....
Je parle souvent, sur d'autres forums, des paradis que sont les îles de mozambique et d'ibo au Mozambique, ou la Côte Nord au Nord de Trinidad à Trinidad et Tobago .... mais là ce sont des endroits peu fréquentés et qui le restent, car pour y accéder il faut vraiment le vouloir et ma foi ces paradis terrestres le restent de par leur éloignement, et rien ne m'empêche d'en parler, sans la peur d'y voir apparaître des hordes de touristes ...... et je suis sûr qu'il y a des tas d'autres exemples encore à l'abri pour quelques dizaines d'années de par leur difficulté d'accés ......
je voulais( pour faire bref) dire que de toute facon quand tu a un truc exeptionnel, c'est part principe difficile d'accés, et donc seul les vrais passionnés iront,
pour exemple les emissions genre ushuaia, ca n'a pas chambouller la donne .
🙂
ps : reponse un peu double emploi avec Alan qui a posté pendant que je rédigeait
😄
Ne pas confondre le manque "d'ésprit forum" et l'envie de préservation.
Nous sommes peut être l'une des dernières génération a pouvoir
encore voyager librement loin des chemins bétoné du tourisme
de masse.
Ce phénomène que nous critiquons tout les jours, ces iles qui
disaparaissent chaque années sous le poid des immeubles et le
bruit des moteurs... nous en sommes tous les premier fautif.
Le routard ouvre la route, le routard montre le chemin
suivi de très près par la valise a roulète.
Nous avons tous un coin sauvage en tête, un endroit
sublime et préserver et ne pas en parler ici ne serait pas un
manque "d'ésprit forum" mais plutot l'envie ou même
le devoir de la protéger...
Si on as pus trouver cette endroit alors d'autre pourront
a leur tour y parvenir sans notre aide.
Parceque apres tout les iles sauvage, les paysage a l'horizon
infini, sa ce mérite....
Nous sommes tous un peu résponsable de tout ces téritoires
essayons de les preserver encore un peu en n'étalant pas ici
nos coin secret... entre moteur de recherche et lecteur
bien moins interesser par le coté sauvage que par la shinga
et le jet ski nous ne risquerions de ne plus retrouver nos
plages et nos forêt au prochain voyages
alors conseil, aide bien sur, mais pour le reste chut
on est des grand garçons, de grandes filles on devrait
pouvoir trouver tout ce la tout(e)s seul(e)s
et sinon au passage essayez de profitter au maximum des terres
déja "coloniser" avant de vouloir jouer les robinson sur des iles
vierge... des plages très sympa et très calme sur koh phangan
des petits coin de paradis sur koh tao, des panorama presque
désert sur koh chang...
ce n'est pas parceque a deux kilomètre des touriste font la fête
qu'il faut rejeter toute une ile...
proffitons déja de ce qu'on as avant d'aller mettre
des générateur et des bungalow en dur sur des étendu
de sable "propre"
ceux qui voyageait il y a 20 ans verront de quoi je parle
"La malediction du touriste, plongé dans la quête effréné d'endroits "non-touristiques"
que sa seule présence contribue à discréditer, poussé ainsi à aller toujours plus loin
dans un projet que sa réalisation rend au fur et à mesure vaine."
ça te va?? ( les bungalows de kun siry sur kho chang ) sans telephone ni net, , rien que la nature du vieux bob marley ou dilan et ses moustiques, , 200 le bungalow,
« Le voyage apprend la tolérance. »
Benjamin Disraeli
-
c' est un bon exemple d' endroit pas encore trop pourri, comme disait Peterpanxxx il n' est pas si difficile de les trouver, sans avoir a aller au milieu des Moluques! mais combien de temps cela tiendra? la pression du fric.... plus d' infrastructure = acces encore plus facile et prix plus hauts = plus de revenus .... plus d' infrastructure = plus de beton (le plus souvent) .. et plus de frequentation et surtout plus la meme..... il y a beaucoup de gens (j' en connais!) qui hesitent serieusement a aller dans un endroit ou l' habitat est encore simple ("ou sont les magasins? ou sont les restaurants et les bars? et puis non, il fait trop chaud sans climatisation! quoi? il faut mettre les pieds dans l' eau pour debarquer?" etc.).
Je suis desole, mais je suis devenu pessimiste 🤪 et je n' attends qu' une chose, c' est que le prix du petrole monte a 200 ou 300 dollars pour mettre fin aux vols si bon marche... a l' invasion et a la destruction
pour kho chang, on va vers la fin, , il faut en profiter, ,
ma constatation est que ça se dégrade extrêmement vite si on compare avec 20 ans en arriere, ,
les endroits se dégradent pas trop vite, , mais maintenant c'est la course, , kho chang change tout les jours, ,
le nord de l'île n'est que un mur de béton vue sur mer, , le sud est encore ok mais pour combien de temps ??
mais bon, , il y a des îles en réserve, , l'a ou il n'y a rien, , il n'y a personne, ,
« Le voyage apprend la tolérance. »
Benjamin Disraeli
-
Au passage ne pas oublier les fameuse distorsion du téléphone "arabe"
on commence avec :
"Cette ile c'est sublime, paysage magnifique, plage déserte, la paradis"
et on as vite fait de finir avec :
"Cette ile elle déchire grave ! Ambiance trop cool, chill out mec !"
pourtant on parle de la même ile...
et de la viennent les bar, les seven eleven
ou pire... les mac do...
ps : Qui avec moi pour bruler mc do et starbuck
qui vont ouvrir sur koh phangan ? 😇
"La malediction du touriste, plongé dans la quête effréné d'endroits "non-touristiques"
que sa seule présence contribue à discréditer, poussé ainsi à aller toujours plus loin
dans un projet que sa réalisation rend au fur et à mesure vaine."
Il me semble que la Reine porte un interet tout particulier à ces 3 îles...cela conjugué à la faible superficie de celles-ci et la présence d'un organisme pour le préservation des tortues de mer...ces îles ont de beux jours devant elles...enfin je l' espère...quand on y voit la bonne tenue du corail...c'est du pur bonheur 😇
" Tant de mains pour transformer ce monde...et si peu de regards pour le contempler...
"Le monde est dangereux non pas a cause de ceux qui font du mal, mais a cause de ceux qui regardent et laissent faire"
Phuket ...Effectivement il faut passer vite et ne pas s'arrêter !!!!
et allez!!!
decidement personne ne prend le temps de decouvrir Phuket!!!
on tombe a Patong et toute la reputation de l'ile est faite.
c'est dommage, Phuket c'est tellement pas ca.
c'est probablement l'une des plus belles iles de ce pays.
des routes de front de mer magnifiques, des plages quasi desertes (oui oui a Phuket), des plongees fantastiques.
Phuket est vraiment a reconsiderer.
pour en revenir au sujet ile deserte et cie, je constate que tout le monde veut le beurre et l'argent du beurre, facile d'acces, sur, etc..avec que MOI dessus.
la thailande est un pays facile et tout le monde s'y rend pour cette raison.
des iles desertes y'en a a la pelle en indonesie, et puis il y'a Nicobars, ou les iles birmanes. mais la ca devient du voyage et plus du tourisme.
mes iles preferees, Phuket, koh tao, koh lanta, koh si chang, koh phangan.
allez faire un tour chez les voisins...perenthians (malaysie), pulau weh (sumatra).
buon viaggio a tutti.😎
Absente quelques jours du net et je vois « l’effet philosophique » de ma question mais sans trop de réponses, snifff.....!!! Voilà: je pars en fevrier début mars, je voudrais passer 6 jours sur des îles avec mon gamin de 11 ans, nous initier à la plngée, rando, canoë, voir un peu de monde, discuter, échanger, puis visiter (en moto et/ou vélo), beaux paysages, nager, si possible sur des bungalows en 1ère ligne de plage, sable blanc, eau turquoise ....cool.
Merci d'avance pour les conseils sur sites, logements, et autres infos.
Salut!
Je ne rentrerai pas dans la discussion de savoir si l'on peut sur un site de voyage donner ou pas des plans sympas à d'autres voyageurs..................!!!
Toutefois, si je m'en tiens à l'avis de certains forumeurs refusant de "refiler" leurs bonnes adresses et qui villipendient en même temps les guides de voyages, je perçois comme un léger paradoxe......!
Pour te répondre plus directement, tu peux découvrir par toi-même de superbes petiters îles avec possibilité d'hébergement (mais sans le net!) en prenant ton temps, c'est à dire en naviguant par cabotage sur de petits bateaux d'un endroit à l'autre et en repartant vite si le lieu ne te plaît pas.
Sinon, c'est vrai qu'à Tao, Bulon et Lippe, tu pourras trouver ce que tu sembles rechercher.
Flamandbleu, je te remercie vraiement de ta réponse et tu viens confirmer ce que je pensais. C'est la 1ère fois que je vais en Thaïlande et avec mon gamin (d'ou mon inscription à ce forum, d'ou ma question.....) et c'est vrai que je ne voulais pas faire de "loupées" ou le moins possible et que je me demandais si aller sur les îles du coté est ou ouest. je ne pensais pas réserver sur le net et je pensais plut^^ot à me balader et découvrir par moi-même, mais c'est vrai que les conseils sont tjrs les beinvenus.
Merci encore.
Paula
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Hi there,
I’m planning a family trip (my wife and I, both 47, and our two sons, aged 5 and 12) to Malaysia for the last week of June and the first two weeks of July 2027.
We used to love road trips as a couple, then as a trio, but since our second child arrived, we’ve taken a break with "camping village" style trips.
Now feels like the right time to get back to our old habits, while adjusting the pace for the kids.
We’re craving Asia. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Thailand, Indonesia (Bali and Lombok), and Sri Lanka before.
Friends have raved about Malaysia, so we’re definitely tempted.
For those who know and love Malaysia, what would be a good itinerary starting from Kuala Lumpur, with a maximum of 3-4 stops? We’d like a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation (just to clarify, we’re not big beach fans). All of this without rushing, of course.
Hello,
We’re a family of four with two teens aged 16 and 18. We’re heading to Thailand this summer. We’ll arrive in Bangkok and plan to take a flight to Luang Prabang.
I’ve seen there are some great visits and excursions to do (temples, markets, waterfalls) and maybe even venture a bit north to places like Nong Khiaw, Muang Xay, Muang Ngoy, or Oudom Xay.
But I’ve also heard about the Bokeo region with the Gibbon Experience.
Since we won’t be able to do everything, I’d love to hear about your experiences, impressions, and advice on the two options I’m considering, especially since we’ll be meeting family in Chiang Mai, Thailand, afterward.
Option 1: A loop from Luang Prabang heading slightly north, then a flight from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai.
Option 2: A few days in Luang Prabang, exploring within a few dozen kilometers around, then heading to Bokeo province for the 2-day/1-night Gibbon Experience. For this option, I saw on Rome2Rio that it’s possible to book a ferry trip on the Mekong from Luang Prabang to Huay Xay—they mention about 8 hours. But is that realistic? What type of boat is it?
Then, to get to Chiang Mai, there aren’t many options—bus or minivan—but how does crossing the border work?
Finally, for those of you who’ve been to Laos in August, what was the weather like?
We’ve already visited Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia during the same period over the past four years and weren’t really bothered by bad weather.
I’m starting a discussion about guides in the Mekong Delta because we’ve just finished our trip in this region and had a hard time finding a French-speaking guide. We had Thanh—she speaks French really well and travels all over the delta region, including Ho Chi Minh City. She’s super friendly and flexible. I recommend her wholeheartedly. If it can help someone...
Feel free to contact us for her number.
Hi everyone,
I couldn’t find any recent info on Kuching.
Can anyone recommend a hotel or guesthouse for under 100 RM that’s nice and affordable? No dorms, please.
Also, does it rain a lot in November, and is it still worth visiting Semenggoh or Bako?
We’ll be arriving in Phnom Penh this coming January and we’re thinking of starting our trip with a stop in Kampong Cham, then Kratie.
After Kratie, we’re considering heading toward Siem Reap with a stop in Kampong Thom.
That said, I’m not really sure how long the Kratie–Kampong Thom journey might take or how complicated it is.
Does this stop on the way to Siem Reap seem like a good idea to you?
If we don’t visit the Sambor Prei Kuk site, are there still any walks or sights worth checking out in Kampong Thom?
Silly question—backpack or hard-shell suitcase for the Sepilok, Kinabatangan, Tioman, KL trip?
I’m struggling to fit all my son’s and my stuff into the 70L backpack... and I’m thinking a suitcase would be easier, but I’m not sure if it’ll work for getting around.
Hi there,
I didn’t plan to return to Thailand this year, but my health conditions mean it’ll be the best place for me to stay between two trips to India. The tourism setup there is so well-organized that it’s the most "comfortable" country for a short visit. Thailand feels too sanitized for my taste, and there’s too much religion, Buddha, and the King, but it’s still the best option given how my health has been evolving. I’d considered two weeks in ThaTon for hiking, but I got too sick from the burn-offs during my trips to the mountains around Chiang Rai. So I’m not sure where to go this year. Definitely not the sea, touristy spots, or the mountains with burn-offs...
After a stay on Koh Phayam this coming November, I’d like to spend 2 or 3 days on Koh Phra Thong before heading further south.
Do you think it’s doable to leave Koh Phayam early enough to catch the 10 AM boat from Khura Buri to Koh Phra Thong? The next one isn’t until 4 PM, which would cost me a whole day.
I’m planning a trip to Indonesia, specifically Sulawesi and Java, in September for 10 days.
I don’t know this part of the world at all—any advice is welcome!
I’ll be traveling solo and would also love tips on meeting other travelers or locals.
Hello everyone,
Not long ago, I used to travel as a couple, but my husband has since passed away, and I’ve decided to set off again. The trip I took to Cambodia in January 2025 did me a world of good.
I’m now considering Thailand, a destination we never included in our plans because even 15 years ago, people said it was too touristy. Still, I’m thinking about the itinerary below, but I don’t feel up to arranging buses, trains, or guides on my own while I’m there. I’m looking for one or more drivers and have been in touch with an agency, but their offers are just copy-paste group tours that I don’t want.
So, if you have any contacts, experiences, or advice, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them with me. Here’s my rough plan:
Arrival in Bangkok
Ayutthaya (2 nights)
Kanchanaburi (2 or 3 nights)
Sangkhlaburi/Sai Yok (3 nights)
Sukhothai (2 nights)
Lampang (I’ve planned 3 nights, but that might be a bit much—it depends on what time I arrive in the city)
Chiang Mai
Chiang Dao
Pai
Chiang Rai
I was thinking about the Mae Hong Son loop—thoughts?
What do you think about staying overnight at the Golden Triangle?
When I look online, of course, I can find agencies that organize tours to national parks, etc.
I’m retired but in great physical shape. I’d rather go hiking than sit in hot springs with crowds of tourists who’ve all arranged meet-ups. I don’t want to spend a day at an elephant camp, and I don’t want to visit Karen villages.
I’d love to hear your advice.
Thank you all,
Hi,
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 everyone,
Could you share your thoughts on my 3-week itinerary?
We’re a small group (family + friends) of 12 people, planning to leave around January 21, 2027.
Here’s my itinerary:
3 nights in Bangkok
4 nights in Chiang Mai
3 nights on Koh Samui
3 nights on Koh Phangan
4 nights in Krabi
4 nights in Phuket
I’m also open to any great tips you might have...
Thanks, everyone! Alain.
Hi,
From Malacca to get to Jerantut, is it better to go back to KL and take a bus from there, or take a bus to Tampin and then a train? Any feedback on the "Jungle Train"? (duration, price, comfort, etc.). Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week family trip next summer with our three kids, who’ll be 8, 8, and 7 years old.
After some research, we’re leaning toward Malaysia to combine nature/forests and paradise beaches. The idea is to introduce our kids to the country’s culture, nature, and wildlife.
We want a great trip but without splurging on luxury options like high-end lodges and resorts. We’re looking for comfort with a touch of authenticity—basically, a good middle ground.
I’ve started putting together an itinerary and would love your expert advice and tips to help us build this amazing trip with our little ones.
Day 1: Departure from France
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
Stay at a hotel near the airport or KL Sentral.
Just one night.
Day 3: Morning flight to Sandakan (Borneo).
Stay in Sepilok
Day 4: Sepilok:
* Orangutan Center
* Malayan Sun Bear Center
* Rainforest Discovery Centre
Day 5: Depart for Kinabatangan.
Boat safari in the late afternoon.
Day 6: Sunrise safari.
Jungle walk.
Evening safari.
Day 7: Final safari.
Return to Sandakan.
Flight to Kuala Lumpur, then to Kota Bharu (or overnight transit depending on schedules).
Day 8: Transfer to the port.
Boat to the Perhentian Islands.
Days 9 to 13: Perhentian Besar
5 full days.
* Snorkeling
* Hiking
* Turtle watching
* Wild beaches
* Relaxation
Day 14: Return to the mainland.
Bus or private car to Taman Negara.
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to Flores and then Bali at the end of September.
We’ve already visited both but this time, once we’re in Labuan Bajo, we’d like to take a boat to the Komodo Islands to see the famous Komodo dragons.
I don’t want to sleep on the boat—just a day trip would be perfect.
Does anyone know a reliable and friendly provider to recommend?
Thanks in advance, and have a great summer!
Summer seems to be the best time weather-wise for Bali.
And since summer’s when we can take a long trip, let’s go for Bali... even though we know it’ll be *packed* with people!
So we’ll steer clear of the island’s south...
Our current plan (19 days on the ground, 7 stops):
- 4 Nights (3 days) in Ubud
2 days for rice terraces / activities (Tegallalang, Campuhan Ridge, Monkey Forest, Bird Park, coffee plantation, market (?), dance "pestacle," cooking class and/or spa)
1 day with a driver for the Temples (Pura Gunung Kawi, Tirta Empul Spring, Pura Mengening, Goa Gajah...)
- 2 nights in Sidemen (1 day for Pura Kehen + Batur Caldera + Pura Besakih and 1 day to relax in the rice terraces)
- 3 nights on Gili Meno (Rest and beaches) from Padangbai
- 2 nights in Amed (1 day from Padangbai with the Abang rice terrace and Tirta Gangga baths, and the next day a boat tour in Amed)
- 4 nights in Pemuteran (1 day for transfer and rest, 1 day to visit Kawah Ijen, and 2 days of snorkeling at Menjangan Island)
- 2 nights in Munduk (1 day with the Dayang rice terrace and the 3-waterfall hike, 1 day at Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
- 2 nights in Jatiluwih (1 day in the rice terraces, and on the last day, we’ll stop by Pura Taman Ayun in Mengwi and Pura Tanah Lot before catching our red-eye flight).
Accommodations in homestays or hotels.
Transportation to be arranged on-site with the lodgings (?)
Boat to Gili Meno to book in advance (?)
Kawah Ijen excursion to plan ahead (?)—check with the homestay (?)
Thanks for your thoughts/comments to help us explore this destination...
After reading and researching, we're planning the following stops in Cambodia in January 2027:
- Phnom Penh
- Kampong Cham
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Battambang
- Kampot (round trip)
I'm wondering about the direction of these stops, which could also influence our international flights.
Either a round trip from Phnom Penh in the order above.
Or landing in Siem Reap with the following order:
This second option would save us the Battambang - PP - Kampot trip but means doing a round trip to Battambang from Siem Reap and placing the "highlight of the trip" (Angkor) at the beginning of our stay.
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.
However, I’m not quite 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 some walks and/or things to see in Kampong Thom?
Hi there,
We’re planning to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang next November.
We’d like to take a slow boat from Chiang Khong—or rather from Huay Xai in Laos—with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
Could you let us know if the boat still leaves Huay Xai in the late morning? If so, what time roughly, and what’s the price for the trip?
Thanks for your help!
Alod
We (3 adults: 68, 65, and 25 years old) are just back from a short trip to the Philippines, and I’d like to share a little summary of our journey. First of all, I’d like to thank everyone who contributes to this forum about this destination and answers the questions of those who aren’t familiar with it. I should also mention that my comments are personal and don’t reflect anyone else’s opinions. Since I don’t have any literary or photographic talent, I’ll stick to the facts and share a few details about the sights, hotels, and restaurants.
Preparations:
We chose this destination in December and quickly booked our flight tickets (540 € with Turkish Airlines) for a departure on February 16 and return on March 5, 2019. We then contacted two French-speaking tour operators based in Manila, asking them to put together an itinerary based on our wishes (places to visit, type of accommodation) and our budget. We wanted to see the rice terraces in northern Luzon, the hanging coffins in Sagada, before flying to the Visayas (Bohol, Siquijor, etc.), and the Taal Volcano, while limiting our nights in Manila as much as possible. In the end, we opted for Alize, whose itinerary and quote matched our request almost perfectly. Our exchanges helped us refine our circuit.
International flights:
The round-trip flights went smoothly. Turkish Airlines, while not at the level of Asian or Gulf airlines, does the job just fine.
Day 1:
We landed on time (6:15 PM) on Monday, February 16, at Terminal 3. We exchanged our euros (near the car rental counters), and I can confirm the exchange rate was very good. On the way to the St. Giles Hotel (decent and affordable for a transit night), we got our first glimpse of Manila’s dense traffic. The Makati district, where our hotel was located, offers a wide choice of restaurants, so we grabbed a quick bite to recover from the trip.
Day 2:
This day was dedicated to transferring to Banaue. Fortunately, we had a comfortable van and an excellent driver for this journey, which took all day (8 to 9 hours with stops). We got a taste of driving in the Philippines—and it’s terrifying. You wouldn’t want to drive on these roads. The first thing that struck us was the relatively good condition of the roads and the cleanliness (a change from other Southeast Asian countries). This impression lasted throughout our trip. Around 6 PM, we checked into our room at the Banaue Hotel (large, charm-free, but with a beautiful view of the rice terraces).
Day 3:
With the help of a local guide, we took a jeepney to Batad. And then—wow! The rice terraces form an amphitheater overlooking the small village. Under the sun, it’s simply spectacular and breathtaking! Even though we’re familiar with rice terraces (Sapa, Bali, Thailand, etc.), we were dazzled by so much beauty. We spent the day walking along the terrace walls. This place is timeless and fully deserves its UNESCO World Heritage status. However, we returned to the hotel exhausted (due to our ages and lack of exercise). We had dinner with our driver at the Las Vegas restaurant in the center of Banaue. The meal was decent, cheap, and the Filipino owner played the guitar to accompany our dinner.
Day 4:
Today, our driver took us to Sagada. The mountain road offered spectacular landscapes (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Along the way, we stopped in Bontoc to visit the small but interesting anthropological museum. It features old photos and various objects from the Ifugao tribes, as well as a reconstruction of primitive dwellings.
We then went on a short hike in Sagada with a very friendly local guide who explained the region’s funeral rites. The walk started at the communal cemetery before reaching “Echo Valley,” where we saw the first coffins hanging on the cliff. We continued to the “Underground River” and a small waterfall, ending our journey in the “Lumiang Cave” burial cave. All in all, this day was very interesting. On the way back, we made a few photo stops.
In the evening, on our driver’s recommendation, we ate at the “Bistro,” a French enclave in the center of Banaue (good pizza, roasted quail, homemade fries).
Day 5:
Today was a transfer day. To limit fatigue and nights in Manila, our tour operator arranged a flight from Clark to Tagbilaran (Bohol), saving us 2 to 3 hours of driving. But to catch our flight, we had to leave very early: 5:30 AM. Our kind driver dropped us off on time at the airport. To use it, we had to pay a 150 PHP tax per person. The Philippine Airlines flight (15 minutes) left early and was far from full. Upon arrival, we were taken to the Loboc River Hotel, on the banks of the river of the same name. A very charming lodge lost in a tropical garden. We stayed in a stilt cottage overlooking the river. We relaxed a bit in the lovely pool. This place is really great—the staff is charming, and the food is excellent for a reasonable price.
Day 6:
This day was dedicated to exploring Bohol. The program was classic, starting with the tarsier sanctuary. We saw a few specimens in a small garden, each pointed out by a staff member. It was both good and disappointing because the animals were in pseudo-freedom in a small enclosure. Then we went to the “Chocolate Hills” and climbed 240 steps to admire the panoramic view of the hills—but by 10 AM, it was crowded. On the way back, we stopped at the butterfly garden, which was uninteresting: tiny, with few butterflies. We consoled ourselves by photographing beautiful flowers. To please our teen, we stopped at the Loboc Eco Tourism Adventure Park and crossed the river lying down, suspended from a steel cable (300 PHP). Finally, we had the traditional lunch-cruise on the Loboc River. It was a factory-like experience, and the meal was unremarkable. The only good thing was the singer on each boat and the lush vegetation. Afterward, we visited colonial churches and the cathedral, remnants of the Spanish presence, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved dip in the pool. Note that for those interested, there’s an arena near the hotel where cockfights are held every Sunday—something Filipinos are passionate (if not obsessed) about.
Day 8:
Very early departure for the port. We boarded a *banca* in search of dolphins. After about an hour of sailing, we were lucky enough to spot around a hundred dolphins. Our boat then headed to the small and charming island of Pamilacan. After a walk through the little village, we came across locals traditionally building a boat. They told us it takes about a month to finish their outrigger boat. Then we had to choose our snorkeling spot between the coral garden, the fish park, and the turtle enclosure. Note that a fee is charged for each spot: 150 PHP per place and per person. It felt a bit like we were being ripped off, especially since the spots weren’t amazing—we’d see much better on Apo for much less. We had lunch on the island at one of the many small eateries (350 PHP per person).
Days 9 and 10:
On our return, we were taken to the Bohol Sea Resort on Panglao Island, where we stayed for 2 nights. It’s a small, recent establishment in a quiet corner of the island. It’s relaxing—maybe a bit too much. It has a nice pool and access to Danao Beach, but the view is blocked by a flotilla of boats. We didn’t try their diving school. The meals were good. If we had to do it again, we’d skip this stop to spend more time in Negros.
Days 11 and 12:
We took a fast ferry (Ocean Jet) from Tagbilaran port to Dumaguete and were taken to the Thalatta Resort, about 20 km away near Zamboanguita. We stayed there for 2 nights. Let’s just say it was our favorite. It’s a small place facing Apo Island. The rooms are simple, and the pool, nestled in a magnificent tropical garden, is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the meals are very good. The hotel has its own diving center (snorkeling gear provided) and its own boats. We booked the Apo Island excursion: 1,350 PHP per person, including lunch. It was incredible: magnificent corals, colorful fish, and turtles of all sizes. The crew was endlessly kind and didn’t hesitate to dive to guide us to the best spots. In short, a perfect day. This site is ranked among the top 5 diving spots in the Philippines.
Since we were lucky enough to be there on a Wednesday morning, we explored the surprising Malapay Market, a 10-minute walk from our hotel. You’ll find numerous stalls selling vegetables, fruits, live or dried fish, and handicrafts. Enclosures are set up for selling livestock (calves, zebu, pigs). There are also restaurants. We were lucky to see two pigs roasted traditionally on a spit. There are few Europeans, and the people are warm. A great moment.
We left this beautiful place with regret because we didn’t have time to visit the island or go swimming with whale sharks.
Days 12 to 15:
From Dumaguete port, we took a short crossing (1 hour with Ocean Jet) to Siquijor Island to reach the Coco Grove Beach Resort. A beautiful hotel nestled in a spacious tropical garden. Several restaurants and bars, 4 pools. Despite the size of the place, it remains intimate. You can snorkel (corals and fish) right in front of the beautiful beach. We stayed in a very pleasant duplex suite. For those interested, there’s a spa and a diving center. You can also take the Apo Island excursion (offered at 1,950 PHP).
We spent our days relaxing between the pool and the beach. In the evening, the sunsets over Negros and Apo were stunning.
We booked an island tour with a comfortable tricycle from the hotel (1,500 PHP). The circuit was classic and allowed us to go around the island. We discovered beaches, the famous 400-year-old ficus tree with its enormous roots, and its equally famous foot bath with its cleaning fish. Then we visited the St. Isidore Convent before heading to the Cambugahay waterfalls and their four pools. The setting is idyllic, and the water is surprisingly good—we had a lot of fun swimming. We had dinner at a restaurant overlooking the island, where you can see Apo, Cebu, and Negros. In the end, Siquijor turned out to be a real little tropical paradise.
Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we dined at nearby establishments: Fuego (clean, good—excellent raw fish—and quiet), Chekesch (louder), and the very pleasant Baha Bar, which brews its own beer and offers more refined cuisine.
Days 15 to 16:
We left at dawn to return to Dumaguete and its airport by ferry. We had breakfast at the Coco Grande Hotel, an annex of the previous one. The Philippine Airlines flight went smoothly. A driver took us to the town of Taal. We stayed at Paradores Del Castillo, right in the heart of the old town. It’s a charming old house with only 6 rooms. The various rooms are decorated with antiques—a real little museum. The garden is pleasant and opens onto the town.
It’s an old early 19th-century house converted into a hotel, beautifully arranged with 6 rooms in the heart of the city. The restaurant in the garden is very pleasant and offers a panoramic view.
We visited an old Spanish house before heading to the beautiful Basilica of St. Martin of Tours, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Philippines. A mass was in progress, allowing us to gauge the Filipinos’ fervor before we could visit. When we left, it was dark, and we could admire the illuminated building. We ended our evening by exploring the night market with its many fruit and skewer stalls. A nice surprise.
In the morning, we were taken to the shores of Taal Lake, an ancient caldera where a second volcano has formed in the middle of the lake, which in turn contains another lake. We boarded a *banca* to reach the island in the middle of the lake. This was followed by an uphill walk, made difficult by the high temperature (36°C) and the dust on the path. The dust was worsened by the many horses carrying (or bringing back) the less courageous. To illustrate the difficulty of the climb, the trail is marked by the Stations of the Cross and its 14 stations. We were panting while our guide trotted far ahead. Our effort was rewarded when we reached the summit and its viewpoints over the inner lake and the surroundings. The wisps of smoke seen here and there confirmed we were on an active volcano. Inside the lake, there are supposedly 45 small volcanoes, one of which emerged during its last eruption in 1911.
On the way back, we had lunch by the lake before returning to Manila and the Bayleaf Hotel, whose main merit is its location in the Intramuros district. In the late afternoon, we walked along the walls of the old city.
We had dinner on the hotel’s panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the bay.
Day 17:
Last day! Our tour operator joined us for a tour of the Intramuros district. He enriched the visit with comments on the history, geopolitics, and economy of the Philippines. We visited the Manila Cathedral, destroyed 7 times in the past (6 earthquakes and the 1945 bombing). It’s beautiful, and its stained glass is magnificent. We couldn’t enter the San Agustin Church, the oldest Catholic building in Manila. We passed by the memorial to the Battle of Manila, which claimed over 100,000 lives. We visited the area around Casa Manila, which was closed on Monday, and had a drink at Barbara’s cabaret, located in a historic house. A very enriching morning.
Then we went to the Mall of Asia, the world’s largest shopping mall, to buy some souvenirs (Kultura store) before being taken to the airport. We exchanged our last pesos at the buying rate right after check-in.
The return flight went smoothly. We regretted not being able to use the facilities of Istanbul’s new airport, as its opening was delayed by another month.
Finances:
In the end, we spent 1,640 € for the international flights, 4,200 € for the stay (hotels, visits, various transports) with the agency (whose professionalism we can only praise), and about 700 € for meals, tips, and souvenirs.
Summary:
Luckily, we had beautiful weather throughout our stay, with temperatures between 26 and 35°C. Discovering the Philippines was a wonderful experience. The diversity of the landscapes, the kindness of the Filipinos, the cleanliness, and the truly delicious fruits (especially pineapples and mangoes). We were never harassed, unlike in many touristy countries. On the other hand, the food, though generally cheap, wasn’t exceptional.
Since this country is so vast, we might return in the near future.
Though I’m not a specialist on this destination, I’m happy to answer your questions based on my experience.
So, my flight tickets have just been booked for a trip to Cambodia from November 4th to 27th, 2025.
I’ll be traveling solo and want to explore this amazing country while getting a bit off the beaten path.
I’m arriving in Phnom Penh and also departing from Phnom Penh.
My goal is to travel as much as possible by bus and scooter.
What itinerary would you recommend?
What are the must-do things?
I’m open to all tips and info.
Thanks in advance for your help and responses.
We got back enchanted from a 6-week trip to Cambodia!
Our itinerary: Kampot - Kampong Chhnang - Battambang - Siem Reap - Kampong Cham - Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri) - Banlung (Ratanakiri) - Kratie - Kampong Thom - Phnom Penh.
We traveled by bus, minivan, boat (between Battambang and Siem Reap), overnight bus, scooter, tuk-tuk, and rickshaw for shorter distances. We stayed in guesthouses, homestays, and even in the jungle during a trek.
While the Angkor temples are fabulous, it’s the people you should visit Cambodia for—the "Land of Smiles" truly lives up to its nickname! Tourists gather in Angkor but are quite rare elsewhere, even though the country is easy to travel around.
I won’t describe our trip in detail but instead highlight a few favorite moments.
From Kampot, don’t hesitate to head out around 6 AM to see the fishermen return and their wives selling their catch (just 10 minutes away by the coast). Guaranteed picturesque!
In Battambang, known for its food scene, we discovered a cooking class with Smokin’ Pot (authentic Khmer cooking class). They pick you up from your guesthouse to shop for ingredients (we made fish amok and beef lok lak) at their village market, then cook and eat together. A private class—just the two of us! They also send the recipes via WhatsApp as a PDF. +855 12 821 400
In Siem Reap, I can recommend a francophone tuk-tuk driver who was very attentive to our wishes. We visited tourist spots but also more remote villages and local grilled-pork restaurants with him. He’s a wealth of information about local life, and chatting with him was a real pleasure—we left with regret! You can reach him on WhatsApp: Vung Hem, +855 96 614 0146.
We did a 2-day, 1-night trek in Mondulkiri. Don’t expect a super dense jungle—it looks more like a forest similar to ours. But Nara, our Bunong ethnic guide, made the experience adventurous and ultimately very immersive! WhatsApp +855 86 630 489
Bee Bee’s Chalets homestay: If you pass through Banlung in Ratanakiri, we *loved* this family and their budget-friendly bungalows. Playing Uno, enjoying Nita’s cooking (ask for her fish amok—amazing!), it was a true homestay experience! Contact Nita on WhatsApp: +855 88 818 5525.
In Kratie, rent a scooter and follow the Mekong north for 40 km at your own pace. Being so close to the locals was a treat! Same goes for heading south if you have time.
Kampong Thom: Head 25 km out to visit the pre-Angkorian temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Around a hundred monuments spread across three sites… and hardly anyone there!
A few practical tips:
Though prices are often listed in dollars, you can always pay in riels (1 USD = 4000 riels), which is what we preferred.
PassApp: An app to book tuk-tuks or rickshaws (and most importantly, know the price upfront).
Virak Buntham: A bus company connecting several cities, bookable online.
Feel free to ask me questions about places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
We’re planning our second trip to Thailand (2 weeks on-site, late April/early May) as a family with our 5- and 7-year-olds.
On our first trip, we visited Bangkok, Ayutthaya, the River Kwai, Koh Lipe, Koh Phi Phi, and Khao Lak. We especially loved Koh Phi Phi for its limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, as well as Koh Lipe for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.
This time, I’m thinking of spending 7 days on the islands. I was considering Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. We’d like some scenery, snorkeling right from the beach, and a bit of atmosphere—but not too much (just enough to grab dinner in the evening).
For the other part of the trip, we’re torn between Chiang Mai and Khao Sok. One or the other… or both? We don’t want to rush, but we’re really nature-focused, so we won’t be hitting too many temples…
Hi there, I’ll be on vacation in Malaysia in November and plan to spend 5 days in Penang. After that, I’d like to visit some temples and places in Butterworth or nearby, and also explore the city. Since I usually get around on foot, which neighborhood would be best for me—meaning within a 30-minute walk of attractions, street food stalls, bus lines, etc.? Thanks in advance for your help!
Françoise