Results for "Loue+|+127"
33900 results found.
Traffic fine in Brazil
Hello,
I got a traffic fine for an offense in the state of SP, but I don’t remember why…
The receipt says: EST.VEI.NOS ACOST
I have no idea what that means—anyone know?
Thanks
I got a traffic fine for an offense in the state of SP, but I don’t remember why…
The receipt says: EST.VEI.NOS ACOST
I have no idea what that means—anyone know?
Thanks
Short trip to Mauritania (one week) then Morocco
Short stay in Mauritania (one week), then back to Morocco (Dakhla) for a few days before heading to Agadir and flying back to Brussels. Looking for great spots and sights to visit, as well as nice, moderately priced accommodation. What do you recommend? Thanks in advance
When should we book the rental car?
Hi there,
We’ve booked our flight and accommodations. Big question: should we reserve the rental car now? Are there any rental companies we should prioritize, or is using a comparison site okay? Thanks for your feedback!
We’ve booked our flight and accommodations. Big question: should we reserve the rental car now? Are there any rental companies we should prioritize, or is using a comparison site okay? Thanks for your feedback!
My 2-month motorhome trip in Morocco – feedback
I just spent December and January in Morocco with my motorhome. I took the ferry from Algeciras to Tangier, then stayed a week in Marrakech, followed by a week at Aglou Plage. After that, I headed up into the mountains to Tafraout for two weeks, then back to the ocean in Sidi Ifni for another week. Next, I spent a week in the mountains near Agadir at Aourir, followed by another week by the water at Sidi Kouaki near Essaouira. Then, a week in Safi, the pottery city, before stopping at Dar Bouazza near Casablanca. Unfortunately, I had to rush back to Spain, where I live 4–5 months a year near Valencia, just 10 km from the disaster on November 29, 2024—my rented house was burgled. I still had Rabat and Tangier left to visit, but luckily, I was at the end of my trip. Morocco is an amazing place to explore!
Since campsites are often far from cities, I got around by bike. It wasn’t always super safe, but the roads are now really well-maintained. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, my experience is fresh, so the tips are too!
Since campsites are often far from cities, I got around by bike. It wasn’t always super safe, but the roads are now really well-maintained. If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, my experience is fresh, so the tips are too!
Renting a car across multiple islands in Indonesia
Hi everyone,
When we travel abroad, we usually rent a car to be independent with our itinerary and free with our timing. But we get the feeling that it’s not so simple in Indonesia.
Is it feasible, for example, to drive from Bali to Komodo National Park by car? What are the roads like? Can you rent and return cars on these smaller islands?
Thanks for your replies.
Trip to Oaxaca & Pacific Coast: Transportation Tips and Activity Ideas
Hello!
I’ve just got two tickets for my partner and me to spend 18 days starting from Oaxaca. We arrive on the morning of 10/27 and leave on the afternoon of 11/13.
I’ve already booked a lodge for 7 nights about 20 km from Oaxaca. The idea is to be nearby, especially for Día de los Muertos, which my partner has been dreaming about.
I’ve got a few questions:
- First, do you think renting a car is essential, or are the local bus networks (around Oaxaca) dense and reliable enough? - Roughly how much do taxi rides cost? - After our stay in Oaxaca (where the schedule is still flexible), I plan to head to the Pacific coast around Mazunte, with a goal of visiting a lagoon at night to swim in the bioluminescent algae and possibly witness turtle hatchings. But so far, I haven’t noted much else. Any suggestions for things to do/see around Mazunte, or along the route between Oaxaca and the Pacific coast?
Thanks in advance for your advice—I’ll definitely be back with more questions! :)
I’ve just got two tickets for my partner and me to spend 18 days starting from Oaxaca. We arrive on the morning of 10/27 and leave on the afternoon of 11/13.
I’ve already booked a lodge for 7 nights about 20 km from Oaxaca. The idea is to be nearby, especially for Día de los Muertos, which my partner has been dreaming about.
I’ve got a few questions:
- First, do you think renting a car is essential, or are the local bus networks (around Oaxaca) dense and reliable enough? - Roughly how much do taxi rides cost? - After our stay in Oaxaca (where the schedule is still flexible), I plan to head to the Pacific coast around Mazunte, with a goal of visiting a lagoon at night to swim in the bioluminescent algae and possibly witness turtle hatchings. But so far, I haven’t noted much else. Any suggestions for things to do/see around Mazunte, or along the route between Oaxaca and the Pacific coast?
Thanks in advance for your advice—I’ll definitely be back with more questions! :)
One month in India in December 2025
Hi there,
I’m a traveler who’s really passionate about India, and I’m planning to go back for a month in December 2025. I know the country and its culture well.
I travel as a backpacker—light, staying in small guest houses, and getting around by bus and train.
This time, I’d love to explore Goa and the surrounding region, including some less touristy states nearby.
I’m looking for a female travel companion, max 45 years old (around my age), who’s used to backpacking, resourceful, and ideally already familiar with India (to avoid culture shock).
Feel free to reach out via private message.
See you soon!
I’m a traveler who’s really passionate about India, and I’m planning to go back for a month in December 2025. I know the country and its culture well.
I travel as a backpacker—light, staying in small guest houses, and getting around by bus and train.
This time, I’d love to explore Goa and the surrounding region, including some less touristy states nearby.
I’m looking for a female travel companion, max 45 years old (around my age), who’s used to backpacking, resourceful, and ideally already familiar with India (to avoid culture shock).
Feel free to reach out via private message.
See you soon!
8 days in Bulgaria: what to see and do for an amateur photographer?
Hi everyone,
So, I’m heading to Bulgaria this September. I’ll be based in Varna and plan to rent a car for a few days. I don’t know Bulgaria at all, so I’ve got everything to learn about this country.
I’m an amateur photographer, so I’d love to take some great landscape shots (sea or mountains) as well as photos of picturesque little villages... I’m open to all kinds of tips, and thanks in advance for reading!
Best regards, Patrice
So, I’m heading to Bulgaria this September. I’ll be based in Varna and plan to rent a car for a few days. I don’t know Bulgaria at all, so I’ve got everything to learn about this country.
I’m an amateur photographer, so I’d love to take some great landscape shots (sea or mountains) as well as photos of picturesque little villages... I’m open to all kinds of tips, and thanks in advance for reading!
Best regards, Patrice
Visiting collective granaries in Morocco
Hello everyone,
I’m currently planning our next trip to Morocco. We really enjoy visiting one or two collective granaries on each of our trips. We’ve seen some already, like the one in Aït Kine, or the one in Tasguent, and of course those in Amtoudi, as well as the cliffside granary of Ifri. There are still many left to explore. I’d love to hear which ones you’d recommend—preferably ones that aren’t too hard to access. I’m counting on you! Thanks
Oman for backpackers: trip report
So happy to be back with you all that I’m rushing to share my trip report!
We chose to stay exactly 14 days to avoid paying for a visa. As a result, we didn’t have time to explore the south—we’ll be back because Oman is a great destination in January. Temperatures were a perfect 25–27°C during the day. No rain for us, but it can happen.
We bought the *Évasion Oman* guidebook. We started with the Jebels (the mountains), abandoned villages, then the desert, wadis along the coast, and finished in the capital. For us, it was easier to go from cold (2,000 meters, after all) to hot before returning to our freezing Normandy in January.
The people were incredibly welcoming and lovely. We camped in natural camping areas where you can make a fire (free, no facilities or water). Easy to find—just search "camping" on Google Maps (an essential app). We traveled as a group of five and rented a 4x4 seven-seater from Europcar before leaving (price included our insurance): 800 euros for 14 days. Essential for getting everywhere, as there are lots of dirt tracks. We brought our camping gear from France since the baggage allowance is 30 kg. Oh, and also two liters of rum and a box of white wine—also essential.
Food was tricky if you don’t like spicy dishes or just chicken. You have to eat at international restaurants, which cost about the same as back home. We’d packed vacuum-sealed meat for the first three days and a few cans. For beaches, stick to the ones marked on Google for swimming—otherwise, they can be dirty and full of oil.
We arrived at 6:30 AM, bought a SIM card (make sure to remove yours before arriving and tape it to the back of your phone), exchanged money (not great rates at the airport—better in malls or souks; no exchanges in banks), and picked up the car. Then we headed to a Carrefour supermarket, but it was closed. We drove to Jebel Al Akhdar, the Sayq Plateau, where we found markets along the way. There are also bazaar shops where you can get gas bottles—they’re everywhere in mid-sized towns. There are even hypermarkets.
We hiked the well-marked old Sayq trail (red and white markings). Our return was improvised. We camped on the plateau and got cold—bring 0°C sleeping bags! The next day, we visited the abandoned villages of Wadi Bani Habib: juniper forests, canyon viewpoints. Then Birkat Al Maws on the way down—a beautiful palm grove. Next, Nizwa Hotel. The beds were really hard there—ask to see the rooms and test the beds before booking. There’s always availability, with prices starting at 35 euros for two.
On the third day, we went to Jebel Shams. Hiked along the canyon starting from Ghul, then descended. Camped on the road to Balha Fortress, which we visited the next morning (stunning!). Then we explored Nizwa before heading to the Wahiba Desert. Camped along the way, then drove to our accommodation: two days in the desert. We found the Thousand Nights Camp 40% cheaper a month before. Note: you have to leave by 1 PM in a convoy to reach the hotel.
On the sixth day, we hiked in the desert on our own because the activity prices were outrageous.
On the seventh day, we headed to a wadi, Bani Khalid, then to Sur, a seaside hotel. We booked just one room for five of us—hotel apartments are huge, and since we had our camping mattresses, it wasn’t a problem to set up in the living room. There’s even a kitchen. In cities, camping spots are poorly located—near intersections, etc.
Beach time and sightseeing on the eighth day, then we drove to the white sand beach in Fins, where we stayed for two nights (we left the tents set up but empty). This was our favorite campsite—go all the way to the end of the road, there’s a small cove and a stunning spot.
On the ninth day, we visited Wadi Shab and the Salma Plateau to find the tombs. The hike up from Fins was way too long—probably better to take the route suggested in the guidebook for a round trip. Meh, no one really enjoyed it.
On the tenth day, we went to Wadi Al Arbiyyin and drove to Seeb Al Mouj to book a diving trip. Stayed at Al Ferdous Hotel Apartments until the end—well-located for visiting Muscat and a great value. Just make sure to check the room first, as some beds are very hard and others aren’t.
Eleventh day: diving and beach time.
Twelfth day: visited the Grand Mosque (unlucky—first day it became paid, and not just a little: 8 OMR). Then explored the old city.
Thirteenth day: the Grand Opera and beach at The Village, where we found a great pizzeria: pizzawifi.com.
Fourteenth day: And that’s it—back home, thrilled to have discovered this magical country. We’ll be back!
We bought the *Évasion Oman* guidebook. We started with the Jebels (the mountains), abandoned villages, then the desert, wadis along the coast, and finished in the capital. For us, it was easier to go from cold (2,000 meters, after all) to hot before returning to our freezing Normandy in January.
The people were incredibly welcoming and lovely. We camped in natural camping areas where you can make a fire (free, no facilities or water). Easy to find—just search "camping" on Google Maps (an essential app). We traveled as a group of five and rented a 4x4 seven-seater from Europcar before leaving (price included our insurance): 800 euros for 14 days. Essential for getting everywhere, as there are lots of dirt tracks. We brought our camping gear from France since the baggage allowance is 30 kg. Oh, and also two liters of rum and a box of white wine—also essential.
Food was tricky if you don’t like spicy dishes or just chicken. You have to eat at international restaurants, which cost about the same as back home. We’d packed vacuum-sealed meat for the first three days and a few cans. For beaches, stick to the ones marked on Google for swimming—otherwise, they can be dirty and full of oil.
We arrived at 6:30 AM, bought a SIM card (make sure to remove yours before arriving and tape it to the back of your phone), exchanged money (not great rates at the airport—better in malls or souks; no exchanges in banks), and picked up the car. Then we headed to a Carrefour supermarket, but it was closed. We drove to Jebel Al Akhdar, the Sayq Plateau, where we found markets along the way. There are also bazaar shops where you can get gas bottles—they’re everywhere in mid-sized towns. There are even hypermarkets.
We hiked the well-marked old Sayq trail (red and white markings). Our return was improvised. We camped on the plateau and got cold—bring 0°C sleeping bags! The next day, we visited the abandoned villages of Wadi Bani Habib: juniper forests, canyon viewpoints. Then Birkat Al Maws on the way down—a beautiful palm grove. Next, Nizwa Hotel. The beds were really hard there—ask to see the rooms and test the beds before booking. There’s always availability, with prices starting at 35 euros for two.
On the third day, we went to Jebel Shams. Hiked along the canyon starting from Ghul, then descended. Camped on the road to Balha Fortress, which we visited the next morning (stunning!). Then we explored Nizwa before heading to the Wahiba Desert. Camped along the way, then drove to our accommodation: two days in the desert. We found the Thousand Nights Camp 40% cheaper a month before. Note: you have to leave by 1 PM in a convoy to reach the hotel.
On the sixth day, we hiked in the desert on our own because the activity prices were outrageous.
On the seventh day, we headed to a wadi, Bani Khalid, then to Sur, a seaside hotel. We booked just one room for five of us—hotel apartments are huge, and since we had our camping mattresses, it wasn’t a problem to set up in the living room. There’s even a kitchen. In cities, camping spots are poorly located—near intersections, etc.
Beach time and sightseeing on the eighth day, then we drove to the white sand beach in Fins, where we stayed for two nights (we left the tents set up but empty). This was our favorite campsite—go all the way to the end of the road, there’s a small cove and a stunning spot.
On the ninth day, we visited Wadi Shab and the Salma Plateau to find the tombs. The hike up from Fins was way too long—probably better to take the route suggested in the guidebook for a round trip. Meh, no one really enjoyed it.
On the tenth day, we went to Wadi Al Arbiyyin and drove to Seeb Al Mouj to book a diving trip. Stayed at Al Ferdous Hotel Apartments until the end—well-located for visiting Muscat and a great value. Just make sure to check the room first, as some beds are very hard and others aren’t.
Eleventh day: diving and beach time.
Twelfth day: visited the Grand Mosque (unlucky—first day it became paid, and not just a little: 8 OMR). Then explored the old city.
Thirteenth day: the Grand Opera and beach at The Village, where we found a great pizzeria: pizzawifi.com.
Fourteenth day: And that’s it—back home, thrilled to have discovered this magical country. We’ll be back!
Mexico Trip Itinerary: Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Pacific Coast
Hi there,
We’re planning a 15-day family trip in February 2026 (with 3 teens). We’ll be visiting friends who live in Puebla. Initially, I was thinking of the Yucatán, but after reading up on it, I don’t think it’s the right fit for us (too crowded, too touristy). So, we’re leaning toward something like this: - Mexico City: 2 days (Teotihuacán + city) - Puebla: 3 days - Tehuacán: 2 days (to break up the trip—is this a good choice? Is there enough to do for 2 days?) - Oaxaca: 3 days (Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán, city/tours) - Pacific Coast: 4 days (snorkeling, excursions)
Does this seem balanced? We’d like to end on the coast for some relaxation, ocean time, and fun for the kids. I’ve seen lots of excursions offered along the coast but can’t decide where to stay. Puerto Escondido? Huatulco? The beaches seem better for snorkeling in Huatulco, but I’ve read mixed things, and it’s farther away. What do you think?
For transportation, is this doable by bus? I’m struggling to find a decent bus between Tehuacán and Oaxaca (overnight schedules), and I’m not sure how to get around the coast. Also, how do we handle luggage between cities? We usually rent a car.
Finally, I’d love feedback on the Pacific Coast excursions—I get the feeling some are worth it and others aren’t. Is bioluminescence really magical? Are dolphin-watching tours ethical and not too "factory-like"? (We skipped them in Quebec and just watched whales from shore.) Can you see sea turtles up close?
Thanks for your help!
We’re planning a 15-day family trip in February 2026 (with 3 teens). We’ll be visiting friends who live in Puebla. Initially, I was thinking of the Yucatán, but after reading up on it, I don’t think it’s the right fit for us (too crowded, too touristy). So, we’re leaning toward something like this: - Mexico City: 2 days (Teotihuacán + city) - Puebla: 3 days - Tehuacán: 2 days (to break up the trip—is this a good choice? Is there enough to do for 2 days?) - Oaxaca: 3 days (Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán, city/tours) - Pacific Coast: 4 days (snorkeling, excursions)
Does this seem balanced? We’d like to end on the coast for some relaxation, ocean time, and fun for the kids. I’ve seen lots of excursions offered along the coast but can’t decide where to stay. Puerto Escondido? Huatulco? The beaches seem better for snorkeling in Huatulco, but I’ve read mixed things, and it’s farther away. What do you think?
For transportation, is this doable by bus? I’m struggling to find a decent bus between Tehuacán and Oaxaca (overnight schedules), and I’m not sure how to get around the coast. Also, how do we handle luggage between cities? We usually rent a car.
Finally, I’d love feedback on the Pacific Coast excursions—I get the feeling some are worth it and others aren’t. Is bioluminescence really magical? Are dolphin-watching tours ethical and not too "factory-like"? (We skipped them in Quebec and just watched whales from shore.) Can you see sea turtles up close?
Thanks for your help!
Car rental in Patras-Araxos (northern Peloponnese)
Hi, could you recommend a local and reliable car rental agency, not one of the big international chains, at Patras-Araxos Airport in northern Peloponnese
or a bit further into town?
Thanks.
Which to choose: Bikaner or Jaisalmer (India)?
Hello and happy travels for 2025!
Reading through the discussions, I’m wondering what to pick between Bikaner and Jaisalmer for spending a few days in the desert without running into too many tour groups. Should I skip Jaisalmer? Rent a motorcycle and go solo? I’d love to hear any tips. Thanks
Hiking trip to Réunion February-March 2025
Hi there,
I’m heading back to Réunion 13 years after my first trip to this gorgeous island, from 02/25 to 03/12 because airfare prices are great for those dates with Air Austral—557.65 € with a checked bag and 100 € less without. Departing from Paris CDG on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 7:00 PM and returning to Paris on Tuesday, March 12, 2025, at 5:30 AM.
I know it’s not the ideal time to visit Réunion, but I’ve been there during the same season before and it went well. There are fewer tourists, the landscapes are even more stunning, and the only risk is a cyclone keeping us indoors for a few days. Otherwise, there’s always a spot on the island with sunshine, and rain usually arrives in the afternoon...
I’m looking for people who, like me, love hiking and (re)discovering a region to join me!
We’ll rent a car and hike across different parts of the island most days, plus some sightseeing and a bit of swimming in natural pools or at the beach. The detailed itinerary isn’t set yet, and I’m open to suggestions—though we’ll mostly go with the weather. I’m planning several accommodations to explore more easily and cut down on driving... Estimated costs: Train to Paris and RER: 100 € per person Flights: 558 € per person (or less if we share a checked bag for two) Car rental: 520 € + 100 € for gas, split among participants Accommodation: 500 € per person Food/restaurants: 450 € per person Total: 1,610 € plus 310 € for the car if there are 2 of us, or 210 € if there are 3... See you soon
We’ll rent a car and hike across different parts of the island most days, plus some sightseeing and a bit of swimming in natural pools or at the beach. The detailed itinerary isn’t set yet, and I’m open to suggestions—though we’ll mostly go with the weather. I’m planning several accommodations to explore more easily and cut down on driving... Estimated costs: Train to Paris and RER: 100 € per person Flights: 558 € per person (or less if we share a checked bag for two) Car rental: 520 € + 100 € for gas, split among participants Accommodation: 500 € per person Food/restaurants: 450 € per person Total: 1,610 € plus 310 € for the car if there are 2 of us, or 210 € if there are 3... See you soon
Northwest and Northeast Vietnam Circuit
Hello,
We’ll arrive in Hanoi on April 17, 2025, and plan to head to the Northwest (Sapa region) and Northeast starting on April 20. How many days do you recommend for this trip? We’re two couples and a 4-year-old child. Should we book through an agency in Hanoi and do the circuit by van, or can we manage with buses—like an overnight bus from Hanoi to Sapa, then 2–3 days in the Sapa region, followed by a bus from Sapa to Ha Giang for a 3-day loop?
Thanks in advance for your tips, itinerary ideas, accommodation suggestions, guesthouses, restaurants, and any great deals!
Where to go this summer on a tight budget?
Hi there! 😊
I’d love to take my two kids (12 and 14) away in July.
We’ve never traveled all three of us together before.
My son would like to go to Italy, but nothing’s set in stone… We’d like to go abroad, but I have two tricky conditions:
- Budget max 1000 € all-in, I’ve tried but I can’t save any more than that 😅
- I have some health issues, so… I can’t drive for more than 2-3 hours. No way we can go by car. Also, once we’re there, I can’t do long hikes or sports (short walks and swimming are fine).
Any ideas, please?
I’ve started looking at Airbnbs and the prices are reasonable, but as soon as I check flight tickets 😵💸🔥
Maybe it’s better to go for an all-inclusive place like Booking.com?
Thanks so much to anyone who can help! 😊
Any ideas, please?
I’ve started looking at Airbnbs and the prices are reasonable, but as soon as I check flight tickets 😵💸🔥
Maybe it’s better to go for an all-inclusive place like Booking.com?
Thanks so much to anyone who can help! 😊
Are walking poles allowed to reach Machu Picchu?
hi everyone,
I’m a bit confused:
we (3 adults in our sixties) are planning to do the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu on foot.
Many websites say that walking poles are banned, but the agency we’ve chosen to go with offers pole rental!
What’s the deal?
Are the allowed poles the ones with a tip protector?
Thanks for your answers!
Alain
Renting a vehicle in Costa Rica
Hi there,
We’re heading to Costa Rica in March 2025 for a road trip from north to south. What type of vehicle would be best? And, based on your experience, which rental company would you recommend doing business with?
Thanks!
Denis, from Quebec
3 weeks camping in the Azores, August 2024
Hi everyone,
So glad this forum is back up! Here’s a recap of our three little weeks in the Azores in August 2024, camping on Terceira, Flores/Corvo, and São Miguel, with a special focus on the camping side—something I struggled to find info on before we left.
As others have mentioned, a trip to the Azores isn’t something you can improvise last-minute, especially in August. The rental car fleet is limited, so prices go up as availability drops, and vacation rentals/hotels are scarce. Plus, inter-island flights and ferries aren’t exactly frequent. I picked our destination in mid-April, and there were already few rental car options left (some local companies had nothing), and no accommodations on Flores for our dates—or only very expensive ones requiring multiple location changes. Since we love camping, we decided to bring our gear without really knowing what to expect.
Flight with TAP (426 €): Outbound: Lyon → Lisbon → Terceira Return: São Miguel → Lisbon (9-hour stopover for a quick visit) → Lyon
Inter-island flights with SATA: Terceira → Flores (via Horta): 87 € Flores → São Miguel: 90 €
I rented all three cars from the same local company, Ilha Grande—they weren’t picky about the car’s condition. For a Clio (or similar): Terceira (4 days): 461 € Flores (5 days): 623 € São Miguel (8 days): 730 €
Weather: The first two weeks were gorgeous—blue skies, no rain, and even hotter than we expected, around 30°C (temperatures barely dropped at night). The last week of August brought more fine rain (mostly at night) and temps between 20 and 25°C (a light jacket was nice in the mornings and evenings).
TERCEIRA: A great introduction! When I looked at what each island had to offer, Terceira wasn’t at the top of my list, but flying into Terceira cut costs and fit our schedule well, so we spent 4 days there. It turned out to be a lovely start.
For camping, we stayed at Salga Campismo in Porto Judeu, 20 minutes from the airport. We discovered that the island’s campsites were packed with locals—extended families or groups of friends having big, festive gatherings with barbecues and long tables. They spend their summers camping instead of at home, and some even commute to work from there. They had huge tents for sleeping, plus tarps for cooking and relaxing—way more gear than the tourists. Since the week of August 15th is peak vacation time (like in France), we struggled to find a spot, and the nights were pretty noisy. This was the only campsite of the trip with numbered pitches. It’s right by the ocean, next to natural pools. Facilities were decent, with hot showers and picnic tables. Lots of shaded spots. Cost: 4 € per small tent + 2 € per person. Electrical outlets were free (20 € deposit). During our explorations, we passed by Cinco Ribeiras campsite (west coast), which seemed similar.
Camping gas: Always ask the campsite reception if any travelers left a gas canister before buying a new one! Before the trip, I emailed each island’s tourism office, and they gave me addresses for Campingaz bottles. On Terceira, No. 13 Rua João Vaz Corte Real in Angra do Heroísmo (an agricultural store in the industrial zone). CV300 cartridge: 10 €. Note: The tourism office gave me the name of the neighboring store, which didn’t carry that brand.
Fridge: No fridges at any campsite on any island. We had a foldable cooler and found bags of crushed ice in supermarkets’ fish sections.
Things to see: Key takeaway: Do the must-see spots early in your stay in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. We were lucky and saw all the viewpoints without clouds—apparently not always the case!
Our main visits/hikes on Terceira: Miradouro Serra do Cume (a must—*the* iconic Terceira photo)
Furnas do Enxofre (free): Few fumaroles, but a pretty 1 km walk through moss and endemic plants. Hike PRC01 TER – Misterios Negros (some acrobatic sections, but a very scenic path). Monte Brasil + Angra do Heroísmo: Lovely town. Hike PR02 TER – Baía da Agualva: Nice, but not much shade (along the coast). Quatro Ribeiras: Church and swimming in natural pools. Biscoitos natural pools: Too touristy (but still free).


FLORES: Our favorite! This was the island I *had* to visit, and we weren’t disappointed—no mass tourism, just stunning nature.
For camping, we chose Santa Cruz campsite. Unlike Terceira, it was only tourists here. Very little shade, but ocean views. Modern facilities with hot showers, clotheslines, and a charging station. A big area with picnic tables, each with a barbecue and sink, all sheltered. Right across from gorgeous natural pools. FREE (you can leave a tip for the caretaker).
For Campingaz, the campsite manager stores canisters and gear left by campers. Otherwise, you can find them at Movipesca.
During a hike, we passed by Fajã Grande campsite (campsites here double as picnic spots for everyone). It’s terraced, with no shade, but very clean facilities and a small bar/restaurant nearby. Natural pools across the street. When we stopped by midday, there were only a few tents. Fajã Grande felt even quieter than Santa Cruz, with just one supermarket.
We also picnicked at Ponta Delgada campsite in the north. Impeccable facilities, lots of picnic tables with barbecues. Empty when we were there. A bit out of the way.
Rental car or not on Flores? Given the high cost, I really debated whether we needed a car. In Santa Cruz, the port, airport, and supermarkets are walkable, and the most famous hikes are one-way, not loops. So I contacted a taxi (the tourism office emails a list of drivers—they don’t wait for customers; you have to call). Prices were around 20 € for Santa Cruz to Fajã Grande, for example. That means you could take several taxi trips before the rental car (over 100 €/day) pays off. But it does mean planning your route and schedule in advance, leaving little room for spontaneity. The taxi I contacted was already booked solid in July, so I decided to keep the car and adjust our hikes to make loops. (FYI, we’re in our 50s, two couples splitting costs—maybe a different calculation if we were 25!) No regrets—it gave us way more freedom.
Our main visits/hikes:
Hike (amazing): Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (the iconic waterfalls) → Fajã Grande → Poço do Bacalhau (swim in the waterfall) → Aldeia da Cuada → Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro. Hike PR04: Loop from Miradouro da Fajã de Lopo Vaz, then down to the beach via the trail. Return along the pebble beach before climbing back up. Worth it, but the descent and ascent are steep.
By car: Miradouro do Portal (great view of the coast to Fajã Grande) – Rocha dos Bordões (basalt columns) – Miradouro das Lagoas Rasa e Funda (a must) – Miradouro da Fajã do Conde.
Hike: Miradouro das Lagoas Funda e Comprida, Lagoa Negra, Seca e Branda, Lagoa Branca. A bit muddy and not as memorable as other hikes. The best part (a must) is the view from the starting miradouro.


By car: The north of the island.
CORVO: Stunning!!
No spots left on the ferry (12 seats), so we took a tourist zodiac (booked a few weeks ahead by email, but there were still spots the day of—several boats make the trip). On the way out, we cruised along Flores’ coast to see waterfalls and caves. On the return, they looked for dolphins (we saw some! 🙂 ). Boat price: 35 € per person. At Corvo, minibuses shuttle between the port and the top of the caldera (10 € round-trip per person). Lots of people just stop at the viewpoint when the shuttle arrives, so we weren’t too crowded on the caldera hike. But it’s too tight on time to walk back down to the port. If you really want to, I think you’d need to stay overnight. All boats spend the same amount of time on the island.

SÃO MIGUEL: Back to civilization—but not just that! São Miguel is way more touristy than the other islands (though still nothing compared to other destinations), but it’s worth it for all the natural sites.
For camping, to avoid long drives, we started at Sete Cidades campsite on the west side. A big, free, terraced campsite with some shade. We were there the last week of August, when crowds start thinning, so there was space—a mix of tourists and locals. A few picnic tables with barbecues. For facilities, one side for men, one for women, each with one toilet (cleaned regularly) and three outdoor cold showers (swimsuits recommended). You can charge your phone in the caretaker’s hut.
After exploring the west, we moved to Furnas for the rest of the trip. We arrived on a Friday night, and the campsite was packed with locals spending the weekend. It emptied out Sunday afternoon. A large, shady campsite with several bathroom blocks (hot showers). There’s a restaurant, but only two picnic tables. Cost: 3.5 € per small tent + 3.5 € per person.
Campingaz: We bought canisters at Decathlon in Ponta Delgada (next to Decathlon, there’s a big shopping center for groceries). Didn’t ask at Sete Cidades, but at Furnas, there was a closet full of gas bottles of all sizes left by campers.
Main visits/hikes: Sete Cidades and the surrounding lakes (lots of viewpoints and short hikes): Beautiful.

Swimming in the hot springs at Ponta da Ferraria (west side of the island).

Furnas: The lake, fumaroles, and parks (like Terra Nostra).

Lagoa do Fogo (gorgeous).

Gorreana tea factory (nice hike through the tea fields + guided tour), Ribeira Grande, Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz. The east coast and Ribeira dos Caldeirões park. Ponta Delgada.
Final thoughts: The Azores are a fantastic discovery for nature lovers—lakes, waterfalls, and tranquility. Almost all sites are accessible without hiking (though it’s a shame not to). The “miradouros” (viewpoints) have parking, often with toilets and picnic tables (always very clean), which helps protect nature. Camping is totally doable and really enjoyable! Our only disappointment: Not finding good fruits and veggies (except for São Miguel’s delicious but expensive pineapples).
If you have any questions, I’d be happy to help! Christine
So glad this forum is back up! Here’s a recap of our three little weeks in the Azores in August 2024, camping on Terceira, Flores/Corvo, and São Miguel, with a special focus on the camping side—something I struggled to find info on before we left.
As others have mentioned, a trip to the Azores isn’t something you can improvise last-minute, especially in August. The rental car fleet is limited, so prices go up as availability drops, and vacation rentals/hotels are scarce. Plus, inter-island flights and ferries aren’t exactly frequent. I picked our destination in mid-April, and there were already few rental car options left (some local companies had nothing), and no accommodations on Flores for our dates—or only very expensive ones requiring multiple location changes. Since we love camping, we decided to bring our gear without really knowing what to expect.
Flight with TAP (426 €): Outbound: Lyon → Lisbon → Terceira Return: São Miguel → Lisbon (9-hour stopover for a quick visit) → Lyon
Inter-island flights with SATA: Terceira → Flores (via Horta): 87 € Flores → São Miguel: 90 €
I rented all three cars from the same local company, Ilha Grande—they weren’t picky about the car’s condition. For a Clio (or similar): Terceira (4 days): 461 € Flores (5 days): 623 € São Miguel (8 days): 730 €
Weather: The first two weeks were gorgeous—blue skies, no rain, and even hotter than we expected, around 30°C (temperatures barely dropped at night). The last week of August brought more fine rain (mostly at night) and temps between 20 and 25°C (a light jacket was nice in the mornings and evenings).
TERCEIRA: A great introduction! When I looked at what each island had to offer, Terceira wasn’t at the top of my list, but flying into Terceira cut costs and fit our schedule well, so we spent 4 days there. It turned out to be a lovely start.
For camping, we stayed at Salga Campismo in Porto Judeu, 20 minutes from the airport. We discovered that the island’s campsites were packed with locals—extended families or groups of friends having big, festive gatherings with barbecues and long tables. They spend their summers camping instead of at home, and some even commute to work from there. They had huge tents for sleeping, plus tarps for cooking and relaxing—way more gear than the tourists. Since the week of August 15th is peak vacation time (like in France), we struggled to find a spot, and the nights were pretty noisy. This was the only campsite of the trip with numbered pitches. It’s right by the ocean, next to natural pools. Facilities were decent, with hot showers and picnic tables. Lots of shaded spots. Cost: 4 € per small tent + 2 € per person. Electrical outlets were free (20 € deposit). During our explorations, we passed by Cinco Ribeiras campsite (west coast), which seemed similar.
Camping gas: Always ask the campsite reception if any travelers left a gas canister before buying a new one! Before the trip, I emailed each island’s tourism office, and they gave me addresses for Campingaz bottles. On Terceira, No. 13 Rua João Vaz Corte Real in Angra do Heroísmo (an agricultural store in the industrial zone). CV300 cartridge: 10 €. Note: The tourism office gave me the name of the neighboring store, which didn’t carry that brand.
Fridge: No fridges at any campsite on any island. We had a foldable cooler and found bags of crushed ice in supermarkets’ fish sections.
Things to see: Key takeaway: Do the must-see spots early in your stay in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. We were lucky and saw all the viewpoints without clouds—apparently not always the case!
Our main visits/hikes on Terceira: Miradouro Serra do Cume (a must—*the* iconic Terceira photo)
Furnas do Enxofre (free): Few fumaroles, but a pretty 1 km walk through moss and endemic plants. Hike PRC01 TER – Misterios Negros (some acrobatic sections, but a very scenic path). Monte Brasil + Angra do Heroísmo: Lovely town. Hike PR02 TER – Baía da Agualva: Nice, but not much shade (along the coast). Quatro Ribeiras: Church and swimming in natural pools. Biscoitos natural pools: Too touristy (but still free).


FLORES: Our favorite! This was the island I *had* to visit, and we weren’t disappointed—no mass tourism, just stunning nature.
For camping, we chose Santa Cruz campsite. Unlike Terceira, it was only tourists here. Very little shade, but ocean views. Modern facilities with hot showers, clotheslines, and a charging station. A big area with picnic tables, each with a barbecue and sink, all sheltered. Right across from gorgeous natural pools. FREE (you can leave a tip for the caretaker).
For Campingaz, the campsite manager stores canisters and gear left by campers. Otherwise, you can find them at Movipesca.
During a hike, we passed by Fajã Grande campsite (campsites here double as picnic spots for everyone). It’s terraced, with no shade, but very clean facilities and a small bar/restaurant nearby. Natural pools across the street. When we stopped by midday, there were only a few tents. Fajã Grande felt even quieter than Santa Cruz, with just one supermarket.
We also picnicked at Ponta Delgada campsite in the north. Impeccable facilities, lots of picnic tables with barbecues. Empty when we were there. A bit out of the way.
Rental car or not on Flores? Given the high cost, I really debated whether we needed a car. In Santa Cruz, the port, airport, and supermarkets are walkable, and the most famous hikes are one-way, not loops. So I contacted a taxi (the tourism office emails a list of drivers—they don’t wait for customers; you have to call). Prices were around 20 € for Santa Cruz to Fajã Grande, for example. That means you could take several taxi trips before the rental car (over 100 €/day) pays off. But it does mean planning your route and schedule in advance, leaving little room for spontaneity. The taxi I contacted was already booked solid in July, so I decided to keep the car and adjust our hikes to make loops. (FYI, we’re in our 50s, two couples splitting costs—maybe a different calculation if we were 25!) No regrets—it gave us way more freedom.
Our main visits/hikes:
Hike (amazing): Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro (the iconic waterfalls) → Fajã Grande → Poço do Bacalhau (swim in the waterfall) → Aldeia da Cuada → Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro. Hike PR04: Loop from Miradouro da Fajã de Lopo Vaz, then down to the beach via the trail. Return along the pebble beach before climbing back up. Worth it, but the descent and ascent are steep.
By car: Miradouro do Portal (great view of the coast to Fajã Grande) – Rocha dos Bordões (basalt columns) – Miradouro das Lagoas Rasa e Funda (a must) – Miradouro da Fajã do Conde.
Hike: Miradouro das Lagoas Funda e Comprida, Lagoa Negra, Seca e Branda, Lagoa Branca. A bit muddy and not as memorable as other hikes. The best part (a must) is the view from the starting miradouro.

By car: The north of the island.
CORVO: Stunning!!
No spots left on the ferry (12 seats), so we took a tourist zodiac (booked a few weeks ahead by email, but there were still spots the day of—several boats make the trip). On the way out, we cruised along Flores’ coast to see waterfalls and caves. On the return, they looked for dolphins (we saw some! 🙂 ). Boat price: 35 € per person. At Corvo, minibuses shuttle between the port and the top of the caldera (10 € round-trip per person). Lots of people just stop at the viewpoint when the shuttle arrives, so we weren’t too crowded on the caldera hike. But it’s too tight on time to walk back down to the port. If you really want to, I think you’d need to stay overnight. All boats spend the same amount of time on the island.

SÃO MIGUEL: Back to civilization—but not just that! São Miguel is way more touristy than the other islands (though still nothing compared to other destinations), but it’s worth it for all the natural sites.
For camping, to avoid long drives, we started at Sete Cidades campsite on the west side. A big, free, terraced campsite with some shade. We were there the last week of August, when crowds start thinning, so there was space—a mix of tourists and locals. A few picnic tables with barbecues. For facilities, one side for men, one for women, each with one toilet (cleaned regularly) and three outdoor cold showers (swimsuits recommended). You can charge your phone in the caretaker’s hut.
After exploring the west, we moved to Furnas for the rest of the trip. We arrived on a Friday night, and the campsite was packed with locals spending the weekend. It emptied out Sunday afternoon. A large, shady campsite with several bathroom blocks (hot showers). There’s a restaurant, but only two picnic tables. Cost: 3.5 € per small tent + 3.5 € per person.
Campingaz: We bought canisters at Decathlon in Ponta Delgada (next to Decathlon, there’s a big shopping center for groceries). Didn’t ask at Sete Cidades, but at Furnas, there was a closet full of gas bottles of all sizes left by campers.
Main visits/hikes: Sete Cidades and the surrounding lakes (lots of viewpoints and short hikes): Beautiful.

Swimming in the hot springs at Ponta da Ferraria (west side of the island).

Furnas: The lake, fumaroles, and parks (like Terra Nostra).

Lagoa do Fogo (gorgeous).

Gorreana tea factory (nice hike through the tea fields + guided tour), Ribeira Grande, Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Paz. The east coast and Ribeira dos Caldeirões park. Ponta Delgada.
Final thoughts: The Azores are a fantastic discovery for nature lovers—lakes, waterfalls, and tranquility. Almost all sites are accessible without hiking (though it’s a shame not to). The “miradouros” (viewpoints) have parking, often with toilets and picnic tables (always very clean), which helps protect nature. Camping is totally doable and really enjoyable! Our only disappointment: Not finding good fruits and veggies (except for São Miguel’s delicious but expensive pineapples).
If you have any questions, I’d be happy to help! Christine
First time renting a car on the Panoramic Route from Hoedspruit to Nelspruit
Hi everyone,
I’m planning my trip to South Africa for February. I’m a woman traveling solo. I have a flight to Nelspruit where I plan to rent a car to visit Kruger Park, then drive the Panoramic Route (starting from Hoedspruit and returning to Nelspruit to drop off the car). The issue is, this will be my first time renting a car, and it’s stressing me out! I travel alone a lot but always manage with public transport. This time, I don’t really have a choice but to rent, but I’m uneasy about driving a car that isn’t mine—especially since it’s left-hand drive... I figure driving in Kruger Park should be manageable since speeds are limited. But I’m worried about the Panorama Road, the mountain pass, etc. Is the road very winding and dangerous? I’m afraid of ending up on narrow, rough roads with the void (Blyde Canyon) right next to me... I know I need to watch out for potholes. But do you think it’s manageable, or is it really too risky for someone who isn’t very comfortable behind the wheel?
And regarding safety (crime), do you know if there are any issues on this route? Thanks for your advice!
And regarding safety (crime), do you know if there are any issues on this route? Thanks for your advice!
Back from a trip to Sumba (Indonesia)
Hello!
So glad to see the forum back up and running!
We just got back from a trip to Sumba in early November—spent a little over a week exploring this lesser-known island from east to west.
It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape overtourism.
Feel free to ask any questions—everything’s still fresh in my mind, so I’d be happy to help if I can.
My itinerary: - Arrival in Tambolaka - The lagoon, beaches, villages, and stunning waterfalls…
Happy to share more! Check out my photos on my Flickr
My itinerary: - Arrival in Tambolaka - The lagoon, beaches, villages, and stunning waterfalls…
Happy to share more! Check out my photos on my Flickr
Inter-island car rental in the Azores
Hi,
I’m trying to plan our trip to the Azores.
I’m running into a problem: can you rent a car on one island and take it to two other islands? We’d like to pick it up on São Jorge, then go to Pico, and finally Terceira, but the only price I’m seeing is 28,000 € for a week in August! If you know any rental companies that do this, I’d love to hear about them. Thanks!
Aurore
Back from 4 weeks in Mozambique
hi everyone, we’re just back from 4 weeks in Mozambique. If you need any info—even though the situation’s getting more and more chaotic—just ask!
Discovering Sicily
Hi there,
I’ve been wanting to explore Sicily for a long time.
From an all-inclusive hotel so I don’t have to change accommodation every night, and getting around by rental car. About ten days.
Which spot would be best to stay so I can explore without excessive driving?
What are the must-see sites, knowing that Mount Etna is already my top pick?
What are the key things to know about renting and driving a car (laws, speed limits, requirements in certain cities, parking, etc.)?
Authentic places in Sardinia
I'm planning a trip to Sardinia in May 2025, visiting historical sites and the deep countryside: what are the most authentic places?
Costa Rica with 2 kids without renting a car
hi, I have two kids aged 12 and 7, and we’d love to visit Costa Rica, especially to explore the national parks and see the wildlife.
I was thinking of going during the spring break in 2025.
All-inclusive trips are *super* expensive, so I was wondering if it’s doable to plan this independently, even though I don’t drive.
Has anyone had experience with this kind of trip?
Does it seem realistic to get around using local transport? And what about safety?
I’ve traveled alone with my kids before, but only in European countries close to France.
Thanks so much for your insights! !
Choosing a phone operator/eSIM in East Asia
Hi everyone,
So great to see our forum back up and running. What a nice surprise to see some familiar faces again!
Anyway, today’s topic: I’m heading to Japan and South Korea for three weeks. I’m looking for the best way to stay connected (I have a recent iPhone, eSIM compatible). I’ve read that Holafly is a good option, but I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks, everyone, and long live VoyageForum!
So great to see our forum back up and running. What a nice surprise to see some familiar faces again!
Anyway, today’s topic: I’m heading to Japan and South Korea for three weeks. I’m looking for the best way to stay connected (I have a recent iPhone, eSIM compatible). I’ve read that Holafly is a good option, but I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks, everyone, and long live VoyageForum!
Is an international driving permit required to rent a car in Oman?
Hi everyone!
I’m giving this a shot, hoping to get some answers that can help clear things up.
We’re planning a trip to Oman in February and want to rent a car.
The catch is we probably won’t have received our international driving permits in time.
After some research, we still can’t figure out if there are any rental companies that only require a French license...
or possibly a certified translation of it.
Given that the French license is recognized in Oman, we’re hoping for some advice.
Any tips would be hugely appreciated, and thanks in advance to those who can help!
Best regards,
Olyana
Riding the Transamazonian by motorcycle: road conditions?
Hi there,
I’m planning to ride from Manaus to Lábrea via Humaitá and then continue along the Transamazonian from Lábrea to João Pessoa by motorcycle. I’m looking for recent info on the condition of this route (paved sections, dirt tracks, etc.). Thanks for any tips you can share!
I’m planning to ride from Manaus to Lábrea via Humaitá and then continue along the Transamazonian from Lábrea to João Pessoa by motorcycle. I’m looking for recent info on the condition of this route (paved sections, dirt tracks, etc.). Thanks for any tips you can share!
15-Day Louisiana Road Trip
We’re two couples planning a 15-day road trip in Louisiana. Do you think 15 days is too long? I’ve seen on some sites that a week is enough.
Can we extend our trip to include Texas, or is that unrealistic?
Thanks for your help!😊