Discussions VoyageForum took part in

The last travel journal about Turkmenistan was from 2019. So here’s a quick update on this vast desert country, which is now a bit easier to visit than before. In 5 days, I saw 2 Hongkongers, a few Germans, and a Chilean at the crater, 10 Chinese people in a capital bazaar, and that’s it!

After visiting Hungary, Slovenia, Romania, and Poland in recent years, I’ve fallen in love with Eastern European countries. I adore the Slavic soul, its Austro-Hungarian villages, the gentle landscapes, the Carpathian mountains, and that slightly mysterious atmosphere. Slovakia evokes a certain imagination with its deep forests, medieval castles, and cobbled villages.

I’d already spent 3 days in Tokyo a few years ago on a business trip, which left me with a great impression. Y, my Thai partner, had never been there. That’s why we opted for a pretty classic itinerary, including a few castles and Kyoto among other things.

In the summer of 2026, we packed our backpacks again to wander around Jotunheimen National Park in Norway. We hadn’t heard of this park just a few months earlier—we discovered it by following threads online. Described as the most mountainous in the country, it really appealed to us after scrapping our initial plan further north.

When talking about the Caribbean island of Saint-Martin, it’s customary to praise its coastline and dreamy beaches—they truly deserve it. But in this story, I’d like to highlight other memories, aspects, and impressions for a slightly different kind of change of scenery.

My first trip to Morocco was in the early 90s. Four more followed... I had never been further north than Casablanca, Volubilis, or Fez—it was time to fix that oversight!

In the end, we wanted to go to Flores for its lush nature (and also because it’s reputed to be the most breathtaking), to São Jorge for its natural/rural vibe, and to Terceira for its cultural side and its *impérios*.

Hi there, I’m planning my trip for May. Here’s my itinerary for 4.5 days in Seoul: May 5: afternoon at Mangwon Market, Mangridan-gil, Han River May 6: Gyeongbokgung, Tongin Market & Seochon, Bukchon, Insadong, Jogyesa Temple, and Ikseon-dong May 7: Namdaemun Market, Deoksugung Palace, stroll along Cheonggyecheon, Seoullo 7017, Hongdae May 8:Changdeokgung + Changgyeonggung, Gwangjang Market, Jongmyo Shrine, Jongno Boulevard for the big parade May 9:Morning in Gangnam, Bongeunsa, Namsangol Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower Plaza

What do you think of this itinerary? Is there anything I should add, remove, or swap out? I tried to keep travel time to a minimum, but I might be missing something. I’d love to hear all your thoughts—thanks! Philippe

Hi there, I’m planning a 16-day itinerary: Ouarzazate, Aït Ben Haddou, Skoura, Valley of the Roses, Dades Valley and Gorges, Todra Gorges, Tinghir, Erfoud, Rissani, Merzouga, Tamegroute, Draa Valley, Nkob, Djebel Saghro, Boulmane Dades, and back to Ouarzazate. I’m debating whether to add the Ziz Gorges and then Telouet. Are the Ziz Gorges really worth the trip? Is the Telouet site (which is in ruins) really worth the detour? Thanks for your tips!

Hi there, I'm looking for a friendly person who knows about the capabilities of donkeys/mules and horses for long-term, round-the-clock travel. (I already do this, but with a donkey that's far from indestructible)

I struggle to assess the potential of some equines, so I'd like someone at least somewhat competent in this area whom I can contact from time to time to share photos of animals I'm considering buying.

I'm not in France, I don't plan to return, and I often come across charlatans who'd sell their animals to anyone for a few good bills... But that's not my case—I'm primarily looking for a female donkey or a mule (my sweetheart isn’t a big fan of horses), and as a last resort, a mare strong and enduring enough to carry me in the mountains, meaning a constant load of about 80kg: - Me: 60/65kg - Saddle: 2/4kg - 8/10L of water - A rope: 800g

Based on what I've read online and advice from people, I understand the load should represent a maximum of 15/20% of the animal's weight or at least 1.40m at the withers? Mules would be ideal for me, but they sell out VERY quickly, so I never get a chance to find one... (I always leave a safety margin with the equines I meet to ensure their spine doesn’t get damaged over time)

Anyway, advice won’t be much help because I don’t want to make this decision ALONE when buying this female, to ensure I choose a relatively indestructible creature.

I’ve been visiting long and short ears for a year now, but I still haven’t found the right fit out of concern for her, which is why someone who stays in my contacts to help me make the final decision would be more than welcome :)

Thanks for your attention, hope to hear from you soon!

Dreaming of exploring Argentina? For a departure on January 17, 2027, the specialist AmériGo still has 3 spots available on its guided tour "Land of Contrasts," with an exclusive 200 € discount per person reserved for VoyageForum readers.

Dreaming of discovering Argentina? For a departure on January 17, 2027, the specialist AmériGo still has 3 spots left on its guided tour "Land of Contrasts," with an exclusive discount of 200 € per person reserved for VoyageForum readers.

In 14 days, this small-group trip lets you explore radically different landscapes, from the glaciers of Patagonia to the Iguazú Falls, passing through the mountains of northwestern Argentina and Buenos Aires.

From Tierra del Fuego to the glaciers of Patagonia The tour starts in Ushuaia, at the southern tip of the American continent. On the agenda: exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park and sailing on the Beagle Channel, between mountains, islets teeming with birds, and sea lions. Next up is El Calafate to discover one of Argentina’s most impressive natural sites: the Perito Moreno Glacier. The trip also includes a boat ride on Lake Argentino to admire other glaciers, as well as an evening at a traditional Patagonian *estancia*, complete with a grilled lamb *asado*.

From Iguazú Falls to the colorful mountains of Salta A dramatic change of scenery in Iguazú, where the tropical forest is home to nearly 275 waterfalls. The itinerary lets you see the falls from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, offering two complementary views of this incredible natural site. Further west, in the Salta region, the landscapes turn Andean. Travelers cross the Quebrada de las Conchas and its reddish rock formations, discover the Seven Colors Mountain in Purmamarca, and visit the vineyards of Cafayate, with a tasting of local wines. The trip wraps up in Buenos Aires, with a tour of its iconic neighborhoods, from La Boca to San Telmo, and an evening dedicated to tango.

A guided small-group tour

This 14-day, 12-night tour is limited to a maximum of 16 participants. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore several key regions of Argentina in one trip without having to organize all the necessary travel themselves. The package includes international and domestic flights, accommodations, local transportation, scheduled visits, and many meals. AmériGo, a specialist in Latin America for over 20 years, handles the trip’s organization and all the tour stages.

3 last spots and a 200 € discount for VoyageForum readers

The next departure is set for January 17, 2027, right in the middle of the southern summer. There are currently only 3 spots left for this tour, priced at 7,295 € per person. For this occasion, AmériGo is offering a 200 € discount per person to VoyageForum readers, valid until October 17, 2027. To take advantage of it:

Check out the program on AmériGo’s website. Click on "Book." Enter the code in the "Advantage Code" field.

Discover the tour and take advantage of the offer for VoyageForum readers →

Offer valid until October 17, 2026, for the January 17, 2027 departure, subject to availability and AmériGo’s terms. Article created in partnership with AmériGo.

Hello everyone,

I’m currently planning several trips to Morocco (Marrakech, Draa Valley, Merzouga) and I’m wondering about the reliability of data connections outside major urban centers.

Here’s what I’ve observed on the ground so far: - In cities (Marrakech, Agadir, Fez), 4G is excellent, including in the medina riads. - On the Tizi n'Tichka road and toward Ouarzazate, coverage remains decent, with a few dead spots here and there. - In Saharan areas (Merzouga, Chegaga), the connection becomes patchy: some camps get great reception, others none at all.

My specific questions: 1) On your recent trips, which operator (Maroc Telecom, inwi, Orange) gave you the best coverage in the Atlas and Sahara? 2) Have international eSIMs seemed as reliable as a local Moroccan SIM, or have you noticed a difference in speed in rural areas? 3) While trekking or driving a 4x4 in the desert, have you come across completely dead zones despite theoretical coverage?

I’m happy to share my own coverage notes if it helps, and I’ll gladly answer any questions about Morocco—I know it well.

Thanks in advance for your feedback!

Best regards, Dennis

Having your own car to escape for a weekend in Marseille offers unbeatable freedom. You can already picture driving along the magnificent Corniche Kennedy, admiring the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, or enjoying a wild getaway to the Calanques. However, Marseille’s traffic and its reputation for traffic jams might make visitors think twice.

I don’t know about you, but I’m a huge fan of markets. No matter where I go, in every country or city I visit, I won’t leave without having seen one. I’m mostly talking about food markets. I love the smells, the colors, and watching people from all walks of life stroll around. It’s like a mirror of a country’s culture, and I love soaking it all in.

Thai markets are particularly appealing to me. In my province, there are so many. Maybe more than elsewhere—I’m not sure—but every day, you can find a "Talat Nat." These are traveling markets that set up in specific places on specific days. They only stay open for a few hours. Some attract more shoppers than others because they have more stalls and a wider variety of products. Sometimes, they’re set up in pretty unusual spots: temples, roadside, even on train tracks...

On top of these, there are also markets in the city that stay open all day.

I’d love for you to share your photos of markets, local product stalls, and why not, let’s talk about gastronomy and cuisine too!

I’ll start with my favorite market—it’s 8 kilometers from my place and happens every Tuesday from 2 PM to 5 PM. I never miss a Tuesday unless there’s a downpour... 😉 It’s located in the countryside, in a village famous for its coffee (ThamSing), and inside the grounds of a slightly unusual temple. It’s easy to get to—over the past 10 years, the roads have been paved, which wasn’t the case before and made the trip a bit risky when it rained...

In the first two photos, you’ll see the temple courtyard on a normal day, without the market.

Having your own car to escape for a weekend in Marseille offers unbeatable freedom. You can already picture driving along the stunning Corniche Kennedy, admiring the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, or enjoying a wild getaway to the Calanques. However, Marseille’s traffic and its reputation for traffic jams might make visitors hesitate. Don’t worry—the Mediterranean city is easy to navigate by car when you plan your trip with a little strategy. With a bit of anticipation and the right digital tools, your stay can become a smooth and 100% enjoyable experience.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Traffic Headaches

Getting around a big city requires a small strategy, especially during rush hours. To avoid wasting precious time stuck in traffic on Avenue du Prado or around the Vieux-Port, opt for off-peak hours. Arriving early on Friday morning or in the early afternoon will help you steer clear of the office rush. To drive with peace of mind from the very first kilometers, here are some useful habits:

• Use a real-time GPS app: essential for bypassing unexpected roadworks and quickly spotting clear routes; • Identify pedestrian zones: the historic center has several areas closed to vehicles, so it’s best to know this to adjust your route; • Drive smoothly: anticipate lane changes and stay relaxed—the Southern driving rhythm just takes a little getting used to.

Book Your Parking: The Key to a Relaxing and Budget-Friendly Stay

Once you arrive in the city, the biggest challenge is often finding a place to leave your vehicle. Circling narrow streets in search of a free spot quickly ruins the magic of the trip. Plus, parking meter rates in popular areas can heavily impact your vacation budget. To avoid disappointments and keep costs under control, booking in advance is your best ally. Using intuitive platforms like Parclick, you can quickly compare rates for covered and monitored garages in the city. This lets you reserve a parking spot in Marseille at the best price, ideally located just steps from your hotel or the neighborhood you want to explore. You’ll secure a guaranteed spot before even hitting the road, with no surprises upon arrival.

Combine Car and Soft Mobility to Explore the Historic Heart The best way to soak up the unique atmosphere of Marseille is to mix transportation modes. Once your car is parked in a secure spot for the weekend, let yourself wander through the charming streets of the city. Iconic neighborhoods like Le Panier, Cours Julien, or the Vieux-Port are infinitely more enjoyable on foot. To reach the Mucem or cross the harbor in peace, the public transport network and maritime shuttles add a delightful, picturesque touch. You’ll save on fuel, avoid the hassle of finding parking in the city center, and fully enjoy the Mediterranean landscape. Hitting the road to discover Marseille is a great way to travel independently. By combining a well-thought-out itinerary, handy digital tools, and reserved parking, your Marseille getaway will go off without a hitch. All that’s left is to pack your bags and enjoy the sunshine.

hello we're heading to Marrakech with a 5-year-old and would love to give them a memorable experience. Any suggestions for something simple and definitely not too "luxury"? Thanks so much

Hi, I need your advice. I’m heading to Drancy in the Paris region this Friday, on Auguste Blanqui Street—apparently it’s next to a police station. I’d like to get from there to the Musée Grévin, but I’m not sure how: should I take the bus, RER, tram, or metro? If a kind soul could point me in the right direction and explain what type of transport ticket I need, I’d really appreciate it. I’m new to getting around Paris—I’m from the north and not used to it. Thanks in advance!

I’m reporting to VF that my message count dropped from around 5,160 to 5,090 over the last three days.

Is there now an issue with the message count, an unintended disappearance, or some kind of pruning?

I’m asking because I haven’t received any info about this.

Hello everyone, This is my first time traveling to Italy For a short cultural trip From October 8th to 17th Solo as a senior woman I booked my one-way ticket with FlixBus From Lille Europe On October 8th at 11:55 PM I arrive at Porte de Maillot (Paris Pershing) At 3:05 AM And I’d like to get to Palermo, Italy Starting October 9th I’ve checked tickets—prices are sky-high everywhere, and there are even scams Can you advise me on how to get to this city Affordably By train, plane, or bus I need to arrive by October 9th For my hostel room Which is located at Address provided 5.4K followers • 426 following Travel, meet, be surprised, and fall in love with Palermo Book at: www.acasadiamici.com Via Dante 57, Palermo | +39 091 7654650 Palermo acasadiamicihostel +39 328 317 2205 A Casa di Amici, a place to live!

And from Palermo, how do I get to the hostel where I’ve booked? I’m counting on your support and understanding To make things easier before I arrive And to recommend the best ways to get there Safely Can I count on you? Thanks for your trust. Looking forward to your advice, best regards.