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Nice accommodations at reasonable prices in Cotonou
by Waiza · 2026-05-02 · 2 replies
Hi everyone,

I’m planning a trip to Benin in July, and I saw there were a few recent discussions about this destination. Would you have any suggestions for nice places to stay in Cotonou that won’t break the bank, as well as in other cities (Porto-Novo, Ouidah, etc.)? Thanks sooo much for all your valuable tips!
Planning a 15-day trip to northern Morocco
by Attila · 2026-04-25 · 36 replies
Hi there, 🙂

This autumn’s trip should be in Morocco—barring any geopolitical issues between now and then.

After many trips to the south of Fès, I’m giving the north a try.

My plan is roughly to do a road trip loop from Rabat back to Rabat, passing through Asilah, Tangier, Tétouan, Chefchaouen, Akchour, Fès, Meknès, and Volubilis.

That’s a lot of cities. Probably a bit too many for our taste—we usually prefer more isolated spots...

So I’m looking for tips on little backroads, secluded beaches, half-day hikes, and offbeat places.

If you’ve also got recommendations for accommodation... (We’re open to splurging over 100 € if it’s a real favorite.)

Feel free to think outside the box—this is an open-ended plan! !😉

Thanks
Tips for a 20-day family itinerary in the American West in 2028
by Drazen · 2026-04-17 · 11 replies
Hello everyone,

After our first trip as a young couple to the West in 2007 (yes, that doesn’t make us any younger!), we’re planning to go back in 2028, but this time as a family of four! (We have two boys who’ll be 5½ and 13 years old in the summer of 2028.)

Our plan is to combine a few big cities (SF and LA, maybe San Diego) with national parks and state parks, mostly! Ideally, we’d like to leave at the end of June and head back to France around July 19–20, so we can enjoy the first week of the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Since we already did the "loop" in 2007, there are must-see places we absolutely want to revisit—and especially share with our kids: Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, and above all, the Grand Canyon, which is still the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen on Earth!

On the other hand, some places didn’t leave a big impression on us for various reasons, so we’re not making them a priority: Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, for example.

We’re planning ahead, but might as well be smart about it😏

Do you have any tips for a fun and doable itinerary over about 20–25 days with kids, without rushing?

Thanks in advance for your feedback😉
What to see in the southwest of São Paulo for 2 weeks?
by Oliv11100 · 2026-03-11 · 6 replies
Hi there, We’re spending 3 weeks in Brazil, arriving in São Paulo—a couple plus a teen—and we’ll have a rental car. We especially love nature: hiking, wildlife watching, birds, etc. We’re planning to wrap up with a week around Paraty and Ilha Grande. We’re not really into visiting big cities like São Paulo or Rio unless you think we’d be missing out big time.

So we’ve got 2 weeks to explore the south/southwest region of São Paulo. What do you recommend? National parks? Off-the-beaten-path nature spots? Iguazu Falls?

Thanks in advance for all your tips!
Costa Rica: The dry season isn't what it used to be!
by Ellobo · 2026-03-09 · 56 replies
Introduction: For years, I’ve heard about Costa Rica, which seems like a country "made for me"—nature, not cities. I almost went in 2019, but a family issue made me cancel. Initially, I wanted to spend at least three weeks there, planning to go in our summer despite it being the rainy season. Then I realized what I wanted to do could fit into two weeks, so I ended up going in February. Plus, January’s weather was so awful that some sunshine should do me good. I found a flight at a decent price, but with two downsides. The first is that it leaves from Paris CDG, and the second is that it’s with Air France—a airline I’d sworn off after my misadventures with them back in 2008. We’ll see how it goes!
What circuit to do from Monastir?
by Sinforosa · 2026-03-07 · 23 replies
Hi there,

I’m leaving for Tunisia in five weeks for a full 15-day trip. I’ll be arriving in Monastir and departing from there as well.

I’d like to do a route that’s a bit different from my first stay, which was more focused on cities and culture (Tunis, Sousse, Kairouan, El Jem).

I’ll be getting around by public transport.

I’d like to head south toward Tozeur, and I saw that you can take a *louage* from Monastir to Sbeitla (2h30). I imagine it’s not too complicated to get to Tozeur from there afterward? The issue is the return trip to Monastir and safety in Sbeitla.

If this route seems too complicated, I might opt for Djerba instead, which looks simpler.

Thanks in advance.
Java itinerary ideas (excluding Yogyakarta, Bromo, and Ijen)
by Ngj71 · 2026-03-05 · 18 replies
We’ve already explored Bali, eastern Java, and its volcanoes back in 2013, and we’d love to return to Java to discover other spots that aren’t so "mainstream." There’ll be three of us—a couple and our 25-year-old son. We love nature, small towns, villages, beautiful landscapes, and a bit of beach time... We’re used to backpacking around Southeast Asia. Any tips for exploring some great spots in Java in a coherent way, with 3 or 4 bases for a 3-week trip from late June to mid-July? We don’t want to revisit Bromo or Ijen (they seem way too crowded compared to 2013), and we might swing by Djogja but won’t redo Borobudur or Prambanan (same issue...). Looking forward to your tips! Thanks 🙂
Accommodation recommendations for Porto and Lisbon in May?
by Rero55 · 2026-02-13 · 4 replies
Hi everyone, Who might have a good apartment address for two people in Porto: arriving on 5/8, leaving on 5/10 Lisbon: arriving on 5/14, leaving on 5/17 Well-located/walkable in both cities With kitchen facilities 1 bedroom for 2 people with private bathroom Thanks in advance
My Travel-Related Blogs
by Hug0 · 2026-02-12 · 1 reply
Here are my two blogs dedicated to travel, especially in France.

If you have any topics you'd like me to cover, I'm all ears!

Villes.fr Top-Vacances.com

Thanks, and have a great day
3 weeks to 1 month in China. April or May
by Lecaptif · 2026-02-02 · 0 replies
Hi fellow travelers,

I’m looking for a travel companion—it’s always more fun and cheerful with two! I’m planning to head to China, specifically the Hunan, Guizhou, and Guangxi regions, exploring countryside, historic cities, beautiful landscapes, and of course, connecting with locals. I’ve traveled in China before, and the visa is still free this year. I use local transport like buses and trains. I travel light and can adapt easily. I can leave in April or May, depending on your availability and flight prices. There’s no obligation to share a double room or spend every day together—communication and respect for each other’s choices are key. If you’re interested, feel free to DM me to chat about how we’d travel, the itinerary, and our past experiences!

Parking in Florence: Which base to choose?
by Gauthierbang · 2026-01-29 · 4 replies
Hi there, This is my first time traveling to Italy, and I’m planning to go by car. From what I’ve read, parking is tough in cities like Florence. I’m looking for a small town not too far from Florence where I can stay and park my car, then take the train to visit Florence. Any ideas or suggestions? Thanks in advance
Nature hikes or urban walks in Taiwan
by Projecteur · 2026-01-29 · 1 reply
Hi everyone, I’m preparing for a one-month trip in October. I’m traveling solo and would love to explore the countryside, but I’m also wondering if there are any themed urban hikes or walks. In Japan, I did some themed city tours, especially by bike. Thanks for any tips you can share! Marie
Are there any boat connections between Mananara and Sambava?
by Nawewe · 2026-01-17 · 6 replies
Hi

Are there any boat connections between Mananara and Sambava in September 2026?

Thanks for your replies
Looking for travel companion for 4 weeks in late July/August 2026
by KikiJura · 2026-01-09 · 3 replies
Hello, East or West, North to South... the world has so much to offer. I’m 55 and looking for travel companions to share my upcoming summer vacation destination. I haven’t settled on a country yet—Costa Rica, Japan, China... and many more. I love culture, cities and their old stones, nature and hiking... I like to stay active during my trips, no room for lazing around (or just a little ;))... I want to see as much as possible. Calling all fellow travelers with the same interests as me. See you soon...
Accommodation and guide for Leyva and Barichara
by Mamouchka · 2025-12-24 · 4 replies
Hi there, Do you have any recommendations for comfortable accommodation in Leyva and Barichara? We're also looking for a guide to explore the areas around these two towns (parks, waterfalls, etc.). Thanks for your tips!
Motorcycle Companion for Road Trip in Spain and Portugal in April-May 2026
by Rem39 · 2025-12-23 · 5 replies
I'm looking for a fellow biker to join me for part of a motorcycle road trip from the Jura to the Basque Country, then northern Spain, down to southern Portugal, and back through central Spain. I want to avoid big cities as much as possible and stick to small roads.

I'm retired, so I've got all the time in the world—the length of the trip isn't set and doesn't matter. Ideally, it’d be another retiree like me so we can take it easy—no rush. Planned for the second half of April and May 2026. Hope to see you soon!
Questions about a New Zealand trip in a campervan
by Parapente45 · 2025-12-22 · 6 replies
Hi there, I’d love to hear your thoughts on a trip to New Zealand in a campervan. Is it a good idea to mix hotels and a car on the North Island and a campervan on the South Island? Or should I do the whole trip in a campervan—though visiting big cities seems trickier that way. Other questions: which companies do you recommend, and what are the least tiring or most sensible routes? 😄 Thanks for sharing your experiences and ideas!
Anyone in Japan in January/February/March 2026? :)
by Nicolas2122 · 2025-11-27 · 0 replies
Hi everyone,

I’m landing in Osaka on December 30th solo to explore Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Nagoya) for several weeks. If anyone’s interested in sharing some moments exploring these cities, I’d love that—send me a message!

Nicolas
Optimizing routes for a central and southeastern Kyushu itinerary
by Nathalie971 · 2025-11-21 · 9 replies
Hello,

I’m reaching out for your help because I’m struggling to figure out the best train and car route for a 25-night trip in Kyushu. Here are the cities I’d like to visit, along with my current itinerary, which doesn’t feel quite right. I’m also wondering where the best places to pick up and drop off the rental car would be. International flights from Osaka + the SL Hitoyoshi train ride are part of the plan.

Current (unsatisfactory) draft itinerary I’m trying to optimize: Day 1: Arrival in Osaka Day 2-3: 2 nights in Osaka Day 4: Osaka to Izumi (Kagoshima Prefecture) via overnight train to Izumi Day 5: Full day in Izumi, overnight in Izumi Day 6: Izumi to Hitoyoshi, stopping via Kumamoto (SL Hitoyoshi train) Day 7: Hitoyoshi Day 8: Ebino + overnight in Kobayashi or Takaharu Day 9: Cape Toi + overnight Day 10: Koshima + overnight near Obi or Miyazaki? Day 11: Nichinan Coast / Obi / Udo Jingu / Aoshima Day 12: Miyazaki Day 13: Aya + overnight in Miyazaki Day 14: Hyuga + overnight in Nobeoka Day 15: Around Nobeoka + overnight in Nobeoka Day 16: Shiiba + overnight in Shiiba Day 17: Shiiba + drive to Yamaga + overnight Day 18: Yamaga Day 19: Yamaga Day 20-22: Amakusa Day 23: Kumamoto Day 24: Kumamoto + overnight in Osaka Day 25: Departure for France

Does this seem balanced? Are there any ways to optimize travel times or the logical flow of the route? Where should I pick up and drop off the rental car?

Thanks in advance if anyone can help me think this through!
Choosing between Dubrovnik and Zadar
by Estak13 · 2025-11-16 · 2 replies
Hi everyone! 🙂 We’re planning a one-week trip to Croatia but can’t decide between Zadar and Dubrovnik, especially since we’ll be using public transport or trains to explore the surrounding areas. What are some relaxed, easy things to do around these cities? We don’t want to rush. Of course, we’re really drawn to Plitvice and its park, but Dubrovnik looks so beautiful... For those of you who know these destinations well, could you help us decide, please? Thanks so much!
Cycling in Poland: Which regions are worth seeing and are there bike paths?
by Bergotplou · 2025-11-09 · 9 replies
Good evening, We go on a cycling trip abroad every year for about twenty days. Obviously, we prefer small roads to discover a country. Is it possible to explore Poland mainly by taking small roads? Apart from the beautiful cities (Kraków, Warsaw, etc.), are there any regions worth discovering by bike? Thanks in advance for your replies. Jean-lucbergot
Travel buddy for Thailand trip December 2025
by Clubcancun · 2025-10-31 · 0 replies
Hey everyone :-) ,

I land in Thailand on 12/08 and stay until New Year’s.

Haven’t decided on the cities yet. If you’re there during this time and up for a chill vibe—sightseeing, beaches, going out—hit me up! ;-)

See ya++
Van or accommodations for visiting the Côte Nord, Quebec?
by Chiffonnette · 2025-10-21 · 2 replies
Hi everyone, I’m planning to spend at least 3 weeks on the Côte Nord all the way to Natashquan to see the whales. I’m torn between renting a van or finding accommodations. For the van, it’s hard to find one in Quebec City—most rentals start in Montreal... plus the prices are pretty high. For accommodations, there aren’t many towns, so there aren’t a lot of options on Booking, for example. Do you have any leads, websites, or addresses to help me find some? Thanks for any info you can share! Isabelle
Exploring New Zealand December - January 2025-2026
by FrédXp · 2025-09-29 · 0 replies
I'm looking for a travel companion for New Zealand from December 13th to January 5th (give or take 3 days) for a mix of hikes and city discoveries, with room for spontaneity along the way and meeting new people. With a rental car or campervan. Nothing booked yet.

I love road trips and meeting people.
Rainy season in South Korea
by TisméDurable · 2025-09-16 · 2 replies
Hey everyone! 🙂 Just giving you the quick context: A group of friends and I are planning a trip to South Korea (Seoul/Busan) at the end of June/July next year. It falls right in the middle of the monsoon season, but we don’t really have other availability options.😕 I’d love to hear from people who’ve visited the country and these cities during this period—basically, is it not as bad as it sounds, or should we just cancel our tickets (we don’t mind the heat, it’s mostly the rain that scares us). I know there are plenty of indoor activities, but do you think we’ll still manage to get a few sunny days, or will it be torrential rain for our entire 2-week trip? The only other country we’ve visited during the rainy season is Brazil (in the northeast) around the same time, and honestly, aside from a few really annoying downpours, we had sunshine most of the time and it was awesome. That said, the climate is totally different, so I’m not sure how relevant the comparison is. Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to read or reply to this post! 🙂
Car and accommodation for a week in Tenerife
by Ruboisé · 2025-08-30 · 3 replies
Hi everyone,

I’m planning a trip to Tenerife this winter and have already booked my flight. I’d love any tips to help me prepare. My wife and I are into hiking and exploring all the interesting spots—countryside, villages, and towns. We usually get around by bus, but renting a car in Tenerife seems like a good idea to reach different sites. I’d appreciate any info on car rentals and accommodations. Thanks so much!
Summer Loop in Quebec with Family
by Victorfds · 2025-08-18 · 4 replies
Hi, Part of the family is Canadian, and we usually go there every two years. We’ve already visited quite a bit, but since the family is in New Brunswick, we’ve never really explored Quebec (aside from the two main cities). I’m starting to plan a new little loop for late July 2026 to finally enjoy Quebec a bit more. We’re aiming for about ten days before heading to NB.

Here’s a first draft: Montreal (1 night) Mauricie National Park (1 night) Lac Saint-Jean via Route 155 (2 nights for the zoo and the historic village) Saguenay Fjord National Park (1 night) Then two options to get down to Quebec City: A- Jacques-Cartier National Park via Route 175 B- Tadoussac, then down the St. Lawrence River

We have an 11-year-old and plan to do some hikes. Driving doesn’t bother us, but we also want to take the time to explore. The traditional whale-watching cruise in Tadoussac isn’t planned this time since we’ve already seen whales in Saint Andrews, NB, during our last trip.

Does the itinerary seem reasonable? Which option is nicer for getting down to Quebec City? Is there anything we shouldn’t miss on this loop?

Thanks for your tips! Victor
Another side of my trip to Thailand: Villages, nature, countryside, mountains...
by Marien33 · 2025-08-08 · 232 replies
February 9th is a pivotal day during my trip to Thailand. Up until this date, my focus had been on cities, temples, and other urban landmarks. Starting February 10th, I’ll finally leave the city behind for the outskirts—one town, one life, farther from tourism, more real, more authentic... Then comes the bucolic surroundings of Chiang Mai, nature, the countryside, the mountains.

This morning, I head to visit the ethnographic museum. I’d been told about another one, but it’s permanently closed. I wonder if it’s the same one that might have changed its name and location.

I thoroughly enjoy visiting this museum. At first, I’m a bit annoyed because the place is packed with noisy school groups blocking the display cases without even showing the slightest interest. But soon, their chaperones manage to lead them into another room, giving me some peace. They maintain this distance throughout the tour, allowing me to explore the museum in complete tranquility. I really appreciate their tact.

I’m amazed by the absolutely stunning fabric displays and the countless everyday objects, especially the very old pottery. There’s so much beautiful basketry and intricately carved wood. The statues are also incredible... After seeing all of them, I no longer feel like buying any from the shops.

On my way back, not far from my hotel, I discover a rather unique place that only serves one drink, which they’ve made their specialty: egg coffee! A pretty surprising novelty. I have to try it.



At the bottom of the cup, they pour a layer of milk, topped with a layer of liquid coffee, followed by a layer of egg yolk, and finally a top layer that turns out to be a mix of coffee and cocoa powder. It’s a cold drink that, in the end, doesn’t have much flavor, and the price is pretty steep for such a small cup. You’re paying for the exclusivity!

Later in the day, I venture once again into small alleys, something I love doing when exploring a new city—no specific goal, just wandering east of the city, outside the walls.



I encounter very few tourists there and discover unsuspected little shops overflowing with lovely items, much cheaper than what you find in the heart of the tourist district. Then I wander through the floors of Warorot Market. I discover another kind of temple there: the temple of good deals. I love finding clothes that are really original for locals, not the flood of shirts and pants that tourists love but no Thai would ever buy, which invade the shops in the "Historic Square." I stop in my tracks in front of a stall with beautiful shirts featuring stunning geometric patterns in elegant color combinations and very short sleeves. Hmm, these would be perfect for showing off my biceps, one of which is adorned with the magnificent Ganesh tattoo I got last year in Bali. "When you’ve got nice things, you’ve got to show them off!" he said. 😜🙏💪 I pick out two for 380 baht and negotiate them down to 300. But the seller won’t go any lower. I understand I’ve reached the limit of her commercial possibilities. Just as I’m leaving the shop, happy with my purchase, my ever-helpful inner voice, Petite Voix, suggests: - You didn’t try them on because you were too lazy to take off the one you’re wearing and also because of the sweat, but you could just put one on over the one you’re wearing. It’s light enough that it won’t bother you.

I go back to the two sellers, who burst out laughing when I ask to try them on. - Oh no, it’s way too small for you! It’s a women’s shirt! - But they don’t look particularly feminine in style! And I chose XXL... I put the shirt on, and of course, it won’t close. Then I notice the buttons are on the wrong side. That’s why the sleeves seemed so short!!! They put the shirts back on the rack and refund me without any fuss, commenting amid total hilarity: - Well, thank goodness you tried it on just as you were leaving the shop!

Since I don’t want to walk too much before tomorrow’s first Big Outing with the driver, I end my stroll with a visit to two very pretty temples recommended by Joël.



I’d rather not post more temple photos. But these ones smell like village and countryside...







I’ve never seen anything like Wat Ket Karam, so extravagant...





And I end my day with two other lesser-known temples: Wat Noung Kham, simple and finally free of gold and glitter,



and Wat Dap Phai, where an intimate ceremony is taking place at the end of the day.
Tips for visits and agency recommendations for a Rajasthan tour
by Fantomette44 · 2025-07-23 · 3 replies
Hi there, my husband and I are planning to visit the maharajas' palaces in Rajasthan in 2026. We're looking for a fairly long tour (10 days or more). Do you have any tips on which palaces to visit, cities and places to discover, the best tour operators, and the best time to go? Thanks in advance for your advice and recommendations!

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