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Quel appareil-photo choisir? English translation pending
by Florie · 2003-10-29 · 4 replies
Salut à tous !

Voila je pars bientôt dans le pacifique et j'arrive pas à me décider entre mes 2 appareils photo :

Soit je prends mon numérik tout seul (pentax 330 rs 3.2 mp)

Soit je prends le numérik ET le réflex(minolta dynax 500si)

Le numérique est pratique,

Mais j'adore faire du noir et blanc avec mon minolta (aprés je fais les tirages en labo). Et pis ça a un charme que le numérique n'a pas, le numérique c'est mon p'ti gagdet, mais est ce que ça suffira en voyage ?

Vous me direz avec le numérique je peux aussi faire du noir et blanc et retoucher sur mon ordi et puis je me charge moins (en plus j'ai pas de sac pour le minolta faudrait en acheter un mais quoi ?).

Bref quel dilemme, avez vous une idée miraculeuse ?
Condition physique et âge maximum pour les Annapurna English translation pending
by Neoced · 2003-09-18 · 20 replies
Bonjour,

Je souhaiterai obtenir l'avis de plusieurs personnes voir quelques spécialistes car mon père est passionné de montagne et l'Himalaya. Il m'a donné gout à la rando et tous les été, il randonne dans les Alpes, souvent à proximité du massif du mont Blanc qu'il admire par tant de glaciers.....

Bref, il est sportif et l'a toujours été depuis qu'il est jeune, mais je n'arrive pas à le convaincre qu'il pourrait aller faire le tour des Annapurna, pas compliqué à ce que j'ai lu et ce qu'un collègue m'a dit.

Il craint de ne pas avoir assez de condition physique, et craint également le mal d'altitude, tant rabaché par certaines personnes ici en France. Il va avoir 55 ans la semaine prochaine et je me documente à fond pour le convaincre. DONNEZ MOI VOS CONSEILS SVP 🙂

INFO: randos cet été jusqu'à 7H de marche, entraine tj une equipe de foot de jeunes (13ans) et court avec eux. Capable de faire des footing 30' à 1H sans pb je pense.

Merci bcp.
Excursions a Riviera maya en octobre English translation pending
by Juboop · 2003-09-17 · 6 replies
Bonjour Je pars pour Riviera Maya en octobre. Suggestions d'hotels ou d'excursions ??? Merci, julie😉
Plage de Punta Cana... English translation pending
by Kim1 · 2003-09-12 · 33 replies
Salut Tous,

j'ai bcp entendu de mal des eaux de Punta Cana : océan atlantique, vents violents, algues, diificile de se baigner.

Ma question est simple : CE N'EST PAS L'OCEAN ATLANTIQUE DE CHEZ NOUS LES FRANCAIS ???

L'eau est-elle quand même bleue turquoise... ? Est-ce un paradis ???

merci
Plage de l'hotel Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus English translation pending
by Williamcou · 2003-08-12 · 2 replies
Bonjour à tous,

Nous allons partir en septembre 2003 pour la Republique Dominicaine. Nous hésitons encore entre Punta Cana et Bayahibe.

Nous voudrions savoir comment est la plage de l'hotel Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus, à savoir si c'est une plage de sable blanc et si les activités sont facilement accéssible.

Merci à Tous.
Hôtel en République dominicaine English translation pending
by Dingo · 2003-08-03 · 1 reply
Je suis à la recherche d'un hôtel pour la RD fin janvier 2004, alors si quelqu'un pouvais me filer des infos sur les hôtels dispo via le net, je suis preneur.

Nous sommes 4 futurs vacanciers recherchant le soleil, la plage de sable blanc, le all in, et une ambiance de fiesta.

😉
Je déconseille la Tanzanie et le Kenya English translation pending
by Jacqueline60 · 2003-07-24 · 9 replies
bonjour tt le monde j'ai vécue pas mal d'années en tanzanie et kenya ainsi que dans d'autres pays d'afrique, je dois dire que ces deux pays m'ont bien décus. raciste à 100/100 on se fais avoir quand on investis faut tjr spayer en dessous de la table. quand la police vois que un blanc roule en voiture sur la soirée, ils vous arrete pour trouver qq compte erreur puis vous demande d el'argent pour vous laisser passé. si vous n'en donnez pas on vous jette en prison pieds nu, snas nourriture et eau, dans une tole avec +- 80 personnes qui urine, vomis, font leur besoin dans la cellule et vous devez dormir debout par manque d eplace. à l'immigration quand votre permis atteind la fin et que vous allé le renouveler, il vous demande le double, et bien sure un minimum de 500$ en dessous de la table pour faire vos papiers et cachet.quand un blanc se fai sarracher sa montre et que vous courez derrière, vous avez tt de suite une 50 d'africains qui vous menacent ou vous tape dessus et vous vole ce que vous avez sur vous(chaussure, bague porte feuille, vetements etc..) la polic en'y fais rien car vous etes blanc. quand vous attrapez un de votre personel qui vous volent, et que vous le conduisez à la police il faut payer pour qu'il sois punis sinon il ressor et reviens en bande vous dépuillez.le zimbawé est à déconseiller aussi vu qu'il font tout pourmettre les blancs hors du pays.nous avions un commerce en afrique avec usine et on vous vol sans arret et n'avez pa sle droit de le smettre dehors sinon vous avez l'immmigration, le city council à vos portesdonc obliger de les réengager et donc plus de vol dans la caisse. résultat pas de profit que de spertes.l'afrique du sud est beaucoup mieux et agréable plus propre aussi.la tanzanie est remplis de rars partout meme dans le srues, et dans le smaisons. à bon entendeur!
Où aller à Cuba? English translation pending
by Chuntelle33 · 2003-07-11 · 10 replies
Bonjour,

Nous sommes un groupe de 4 amis qui veulent aller passer une semaine de rêve à cuba cet hiver (Décembre). Nous voulons savoir quel est le meilleur endroit à cuba? Nous voulons un endroit où il y a une belle plage bleu turquoise, sable blanc, pas trop de gens, divertissements++, bonne nourriture, proche de la ville.

J'attens des suggestions.

Merci!

Chantal.

😎
République Dominicaine: les plus jolies plages? English translation pending
by Yhum · 2003-06-02 · 20 replies
Bonjour à tous,

Je suis en train de planifier un voyage en République Dominicaine, et je voudrais savoir ou se trouve les plus jolies plages ? Il parait qu'elles sont coté caraibes ???

Sable blanc, eaux turquoises et pas trop de monde !!!

Merci de vos réponses...

Yhum
What are your suggestions for sightseeing on a road trip with kids from Nice to Albania?
by Gautiersamia · 2026-05-13 · 4 replies
Hi there,

This summer, we’ve decided to do a 3-week road trip starting from Nice and heading down to Ksamil in Albania.

We’re leaving from Nice, and our route is already pretty much set: Nice - Verona (Italy) - Rijeka (Croatia) - Zadar - Split - Budva (Montenegro) - Shkodër (Albania) - Ksamil, then back through Italy via Bari.

The itinerary is packed! 🙂

Do you have any suggestions for things to see—visits, beaches, viewpoints, villages, or excursions—to make the most of our journey?

Thanks everyone!
Feedback on a Florida road trip
by Cup030680 · 2025-12-01 · 1 reply
Hi there,

I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense? Day 1: Orlando Day 2: Amelia Island Day 3: Amelia Island Day 4: Tallahassee Day 5: Panama City Beach Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin) Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way) Day 8: Crystal River Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater) Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete) Day 11: Anna Maria Day 12: Orlando Day 13: Orlando Day 14: Orlando Day 15: Departure

Thanks in advance for your tips!
Getting around with a trailer in Norway
by Gnafron1er · 2025-11-30 · 5 replies
Hi there,

Most of the time when I travel, I tow a trailer with an ATV for my local trips... I’d love to hear from anyone who’s traveled with a trailer and a second vehicle of any kind—especially the downsides of towing a trailer in Norway, aside from ferry costs.

Thanks!
Feedback on a less touristy Thailand itinerary in February?
by Douwape · 2025-11-06 · 5 replies
Hi everyone, We’re heading to Thailand from February 3rd to 24th, as a couple (37 years old). We love local cuisine, street food, small restaurants, and quiet bars for a drink in the evening. We’re also big fans of turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Our planned itinerary looks like this:

Chiang Mai: 4 or 5 days to rediscover the city, temples, and markets. We already visited the Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces a few years ago and loved it, so we’re heading back for a few days there :)

Bangkok: 3 days, with a day trip to Ayutthaya.

Then heading down to Trat province to enjoy the islands of Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood.

We’ve read that the southern islands (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan, Koh Lipe, etc.) are often packed this time of year, so we’re looking for quieter islands but with some accommodations and restaurants/bars. For reference, we really enjoyed Koh Rong Samloem, Koh Rong, Phu Quoc, and the Philippine islands. 👍 Does this itinerary fit well with what we’re looking for? Or do you have other suggestions for routes or islands to prioritize during this period? Thanks in advance for your tips!
Feedback on a 20-day Quebec road trip plan
by Vince7545 · 2025-10-28 · 3 replies
Hi everyone, I’m planning a trip to Quebec at the end of June/beginning of July 2026 for 20 days. We’re a family of 4, with two kids aged 7 and 4 at that time. I’ve already started drafting our itinerary but I’m open to all suggestions and ideas. We plan to land in Montreal and stay a few days to recover from the trip. Here’s my first draft of the itinerary: -Day 1 to 4: Exploring Montreal: -Day 5: Sucrerie de la Montagne in Rigaud. -Day 6/7: Parc Omega (staying in Pods) -Day 8-10: Saint-Alexis-des-Monts (staying at Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc) -Day 9/10: Heading toward Lac Saint-Jean: I’m still looking for accommodation halfway to La Tuque. I’ve noticed Pourvoirie du Triton or Domaine Le Bostonnais. -Day 10/11: Zoo Sauvage de Saint-Félicien: I’m also looking for accommodation near the lake for this stop + visiting Village historique de Val-Jalbert? -Day 12-13-14: Stop in Sacré-Cœur at Ferme 5 Étoiles. (I also saw the Canopée Lit accommodations in the area—something to consider). -Day 15-16: Tadoussac: Whale-watching excursion. Should we do it by Zodiac given my kids’ ages? I’m also looking for accommodation in the area (Hotel Tadoussac is out of budget). On the way back from Tadoussac to Quebec City, I’m considering an intermediate stop if there’s a spot worth the detour (Malbaie??). -Day 17-18-19: Exploring Quebec City (Montmorency Falls / Old Town / Wendake). -Day 20-21: Return to Montreal and flight home. I’d love recommendations for activities for young kids along this route. Thanks
Traveling the Nile independently: Can you find feluccas on-site?
by Bluestorm · 2025-10-25 · 8 replies
hi fellow travelers, we’d like to go to EGYPT, but independently... is it possible to find spots on a felucca to sail up the Nile once we’re there? Thanks for your tips
Is there an overnight train from Krabi/Trang to Bangkok?
by 4ecofuel · 2025-10-08 · 2 replies
Hello,

Starting November 15th, I’ll be arriving in Thailand, and during my stay, I plan to visit the north, around the Chiang Mai area, then head south to the Krabi region. After Krabi, I’m planning to take an overnight train to Bangkok. I was wondering if there’s a train that leaves from Krabi or Trang, or if I absolutely have to go to Surat Thani? Also, which official website can I use to book my ticket?

Next, since I’ll be arriving at dawn in Bangkok, I’ve planned to spend 2 days in Kanchanaburi. What’s the most convenient way to get there—bus or train? And if you know any companies or websites, that’d be great.

Thanks for your tips!

Fred
Thailand in March: What itinerary for the south?
by Gauvince · 2025-09-23 · 3 replies
Hi everyone,

So excited to be back on this forum of fellow travel enthusiasts to ask for advice about my upcoming two-week trip to Thailand in March 2026.

Given that it’ll be the start of the intense heat and burning season, I’m wondering about my itinerary, which would focus on the central/southern part of the country.

Ideally, I’d like a mix of relaxation in a nice setting, culture (temples or old palaces), and I’m keeping six days in Bangkok, which I love :)

I’m planning to get around by train, car (through an agency), or plane if it’s easier.

Option 1: HUA HIN – 3/4 days (day trips to PHETCHABURI + SAM ROI YOT + ARTISAN MARKETS) KANCHANABURI – 3/4 days NAKHON PATHOM – 1 day BANGKOK – 6 days

My doubts: -Will the sky be too hazy (from smoke) for good photos? -Will Kanchanaburi and its surroundings be less enchanting during this period (dry landscapes)?

Option 2: PHUKET (4 days): exploring the island + PHANG NGA Bay HUA HIN (3/4 days) BANGKOK (7 days)

My doubts: -How do I get from Phuket to Hua Hin? It seems like flying isn’t an option, and I’d have to take a long trip up the southern coast or return to Bangkok to catch the train. -Is Phuket even remotely pleasant during this ultra-touristy period? -Is Karon a good base for exploring Phuket?

Option 3: PHUKET KAO SOK SURAT THANI? BANGKOK

My doubts: -I’d like to add a destination with beautiful temples in this area, but maybe Surat Thani isn’t the best idea.

Option 4: SURAT THANI >> HUA HIN (6/7 days) BANGKOK

Doubts: -I’m worried this route might be too tiring if I have to move every two days.

I’m open to any tips—or even a completely different itinerary if you have other ideas.

Thanks so much / Khob Khun Krap :)
Where to stay on the Route des Crêtes hike?
by Saispasmoi · 2025-08-23 · 1 reply
Hi everyone, Here’s my dilemma: I’m planning a hike between Le Bonhomme and the Gîte des 3 Fours at the Col de la Schlucht. Between the two, I need a hostel, a gîte, or a farm inn for Wednesday, September 10th. My gîte at the pass is only open on Thursday, so I need a stop between Le Bonhomme and the pass. On Wednesday, everything’s closed—no half-board, nothing at all. Would you have any solutions? I’ve already called the tourist office, and they confirmed there’s no possibility. No tent—it’s too heavy for me at my age. Thanks for your ideas!
How do I add photos to a reply on VF?
by Nicom1946 · 2025-07-30 · 5 replies
Hi, I don’t know how to add photos to my reply
Must-See Spots in Vanoise National Park
by VoyageForum · 2025-07-09 · 0 replies
I’ve lived in Savoie long enough to tell you one thing: Vanoise National Park isn’t just a pretty postcard. Here, nature is vast, untamed, and incredibly alive. Whether you're visiting for a holiday or live in a nearby valley, here are my top picks you shouldn’t miss.

Sleeping in a mountain hut—the best way to experience the mountains

Hiking in Vanoise National Park is already magical, but spending a night in a refuge? That’s sacred. I recommend the glacier tour, a 4- to 7-day trek with stops at huts like L’Arpont, Dent Parrachée, or Leisse. The food’s great, you’ll meet other hikers, and in the early morning, when the sun lights up the peaks, I guarantee you won’t be thinking about your emails. Even a single night at Refuge du Fond d’Aussois or La Valette is enough to unplug.

High-altitude lakes: when the peaks reflect in the water

High-altitude lakes are a bit like my madeleine de Proust. I love climbing up early in the morning when everything’s still quiet. Lac Blanc, starting from Termignon, is a pretty accessible hike, often punctuated by the whistling of marmots. Wilder, Lac de la Glière near Champagny-en-Vanoise is one of my favorite spots for a picnic far from everything.



Glacial valleys—my breath of fresh air

I often go there to reconnect with the mountains, especially when I want a spectacular setting without hours of climbing. The Orgère valley, starting from Saint-André in Maurienne, is a gem. Easy to access, super wild, with its Swiss pine trees and singing streams... You’re instantly immersed in the alpine atmosphere. A little higher up, from Val Cenis/Termignon, I recommend the Cirque du Génépy. It’s an old glacial landscape just the way we love it: rocks smoothed by ice, near-total silence, and a real sense of the end of the world.

Glacier mountaineering at the heart of the ice

For the more athletic (and always with a guide, of course), climbing the Grande Casse, 3,855 m, remains a legendary goal. I’ve only done it once, but what a rush! You’ll need crampons, an ice axe, and good fitness, but the view up there is indescribable. There are also more accessible glacial routes around Pointe de la Réchasse or the Dôme de Chasseforêt.

Gateways to Vanoise National Park

Bonneval-sur-Arc... this little village perched at 1,835 meters, I never get tired of it. It’s kept its charm: stone houses, slate roofs, fountains... It’s simple, everything’s beautiful. It’s also a great base for hiking in the park. And then there’s Pralognan-la-Vanoise, my favorite gateway. It’s a mountain village just the way I like them—quiet streets, typical chalets, and above all, direct access to incredible landscapes.
The Cedar Forest and the Carpentras Canal
by Fanragnotti · 2025-04-11 · 1 reply
Good evening everyone,

Since the forum came back, it's been a bit quiet—no one's sharing their adventures yet. I know it's the start of the season, so let's hope it picks up!

Last Saturday, my buddy Jean Paul (who’ll be 84 next month) and I rode through the cedar forest between Cavaillon and Bonnieux—I highly recommend it! I already knew the area. We started from Pont Royal: me on my latest women’s FUN RIDE SOLO mountain bike (kept it as simple as possible), and him on a road bike with gravel tires. The road starting near Cheval Blanc, called the Vidauque route, is paved but completely wrecked—full of potholes, abandoned for ages, and technically off-limits to cars (though 4x4s still use it). The views over the Cavaillon plain are stunning, but we had to push our bikes a few times. After that, we did 10 km through the gorgeous cedar forest, followed by all downhill and flat terrain through the Lourmarin valley, then Cadenet, before heading toward La Roque-d'Anthéron. From there, we tackled the dirt paths of Provence by bike—beautiful trails—and made our way back to Mallemort and Pont Royal. A great loop: 81.51 km with 908 m of elevation gain. And Jean Paul? Fresh as a daisy at the finish—what an impressive guy!

Now, the real reason for this post: At the start, we followed the Carpentras Canal, which runs from Mallemort to Travaillan (69 km total). I’ve seen some photos on Komoot, and it looks amazing—apparently, there’s always a towpath.

**HAS ANYONE DONE THIS BY BIKE BEFORE? COULD YOU SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE? THANKS IN ADVANCE!** Serge
ETA for entering British territory
by Brodalie · 2025-03-06 · 12 replies
Hi there,

I’m planning to apply for my UK ETA soon and I’d like to know if I need to have a digital ID photo ready already or if the British government’s app takes a photo of us.

I read that the app will ask us to scan our face and take a photo, but on the official site, they just say to have a digital photo available.

So to avoid paying a photographer for nothing, has anyone already applied for their ETA using the app?

Thanks in advance
Beaches on the southeast coast of Thailand (from Hua Hin to Surat Thani)
by Alaia1994 · 2025-02-25 · 7 replies
Hi there, I’ve been visiting Thailand for about twenty years now. We’ve been there around 5-6 times, always spending 2-3 days in BKK and then heading to Koh Samui. This year, we wanted to explore the southeast coast of Thailand for a change—from Hua Hin down to Surat Thani. We were strongly advised against going any further south.

However, we noticed that the beaches in Hua Hin aren’t exactly stunning, and the further south you go, the more beautiful they get—white, fine sand like in Samui. Do you have any recommendations for gorgeous beaches along this coast? Thanks!
MSC evening dress code
by Séraphine66 · 2025-02-24 · 4 replies
Hi everyone, It’s been 6 years since we last went on a cruise... We’re heading back to sea on April 26th on the Lirica (MSC). For those who’ve recently sailed with MSC, could you let me know if there are still dress codes for the evenings and, if so, what they are? Thanks in advance. Have a great day
Discover the 10 Must-See Spots in Sardinia
by VoyageForum · 2025-02-18 · 0 replies


If you're dreaming of idyllic beaches and picturesque villages, you're in the right place! Known for its crystal-clear waters, millennia-old traditions, and preserved nature, Sardinia captivates travelers seeking a change of scenery. Here, you can enjoy a spectacular coastline, but also discover the authentic heart of the island, with its wild mountains and history-laden towns. Visiting Sardinia means taking the time to let yourself be lulled by the song of cicadas and the scent of the maquis. Escape to Sardinia with an all-inclusive stay at a 5-star hotel, allowing you to get away from it all.

To help you plan your itinerary, here’s an overview of ten must-see spots and a few off-the-beaten-path escapes.

Cagliari, the vibrant capital

Often the first point of contact with the island, Cagliari charms with its historic center, dominated by the medieval Castello district. Stroll through the narrow streets to reach the Santa Maria Cathedral, then climb up to the Saint-Remy Bastion, where the view of the city and the sea is well worth the effort. Be sure to visit the San Benedetto market, where stalls of cheeses, cured meats, and fish reflect Sardinia’s culinary diversity.



Villasimius, fine sand and turquoise waters

Less than an hour’s drive from Cagliari, the Villasimius area is famous for its dreamy beaches, including Porto Giunco and Simius Beach. The white sand contrasts beautifully with the crystal-clear blue of the sea—a postcard-perfect setting. Diving enthusiasts will be delighted, while hikers can explore Capo Carbonara, a protected area home to pink flamingos.

Costa Smeralda, the glamorous side of the island

Renowned for its prestigious seaside resorts, the Costa Smeralda attracts yachts and lively evenings. Porto Cervo, its iconic port, draws travelers from around the world. Don’t worry—if you venture a little off the beaten path, you’ll find small, wild coves and trails lined with umbrella pines. A stop at a local wine bar to taste a glass of vermentino is highly recommended, if only to admire the view.

The La Maddalena Archipelago, a marine gem

In the northeast, this national marine park comprises several islands with stunning beaches. La Maddalena, the main island, charms with its colorful houses and lively port. Offshore, wonders like Spargi Island or the famous Pink Beach of Budelli await visitors. It’s best to dedicate a full day—or more—to exploring this paradise by boat.



Alghero, the Catalan city

On the northwest coast, Alghero reveals a historic center encircled by ramparts, where the Catalan influence is still strong. Walk along the fortifications to watch the sunset, then sample the local cuisine, focused on seafood and wine. A short drive away, Neptune’s Grotto is a spectacular site: you can reach it via a staircase of 654 steps carved into the cliff or by boat for a more romantic approach.

Bosa, a painting under the open sky

Heading south along the coast from Alghero, you’ll reach Bosa, one of Sardinia’s most charming villages. Its colorful houses line the Temo River, overlooked by the Serravalle Castle. Wander the streets, admiring the vibrant facades, then settle into a small restaurant to taste the famous bottarga. The atmosphere is peaceful—this is la dolce vita.

The Piscinas Dunes, a desert by the sea

Head southwest to discover Piscinas, a natural site where sand dunes evoke a desert. Between sparse vegetation and turquoise sea, the contrast is simply stunning. The beaches, rarely crowded, offer a soothing tranquility. A perfect spot for lovers of wild landscapes, far from the hustle and bustle of seaside resorts.



Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a prehistoric relic

You can’t truly understand Sardinian history without mentioning the nuraghes, mysterious stone towers left by the Nuragic civilization. In Barumini, you can explore Su Nuraxi, the most famous, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its millennia-old architecture and vast complex make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to delve into the island’s past.

Orgosolo and the mountainous interior

To experience the deep soul of Sardinia, head to the Supramonte massif. Orgosolo, once a bandit hideout, is known for its mural paintings adorning house facades. These artworks tell the local history, social struggles, and Sardinian pride. The surrounding nature is breathtaking: forests, canyons, and panoramic views invite you to hike.

The Gulf of Orosei, dreamy coves

Finally, it’s hard to miss the beaches of the Gulf of Orosei. Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzé are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Accessible by boat or on foot, each reveals transparent waters perfect for diving. Time seems to stand still in these wild landscapes, immersing you in the charm of a preserved Sardinia. From its sandy beaches to its rugged mountains, the island offers a stunning array of scenery. Far beyond the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia is full of hidden corners where nature reigns supreme and traditions are still very much alive. Once there, let yourself be swept up by the Sardinian dolce vita, savor its generous cuisine, and soak in its legends.

Happy travels!
Oman for backpackers: trip report
by Soleda · 2025-01-25 · 3 replies
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!
Accommodation near the beach in Koh Samui
by Lipsy38 · 2025-01-23 · 23 replies
Hi there, We're thinking of spending 3 weeks in Koh Samui at the start of 2026. Where can we find accommodation close to a pretty beach that's not too touristy but not isolated either, near a small town or village? We've already been to Surin Beach on Phuket Island. We really liked that spot, but we've heard Koh Samui is great too. Thanks for your tips!
Discover Japan with the "Immersion in Japan" tour
by VoyageForum · 2025-01-21 · 0 replies
Set off on a journey to the heart of Japan with the "Immersion in Japan" tour. Over thirteen days, explore a country where tradition and modernity intertwine harmoniously. This trip will take you through dynamic metropolises, picturesque villages, majestic mountains, and spiritually charged places, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the many facets of this fascinating destination.

Your adventure begins in Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, famous for its lively atmosphere and gastronomy. The Dotonbori district, with its colorful neon lights, restaurants serving takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and karaoke bars, provides a vibrant first taste of contemporary Japan. On the second day, you head to Himeji, home to the famous White Heron Castle, a majestic and perfectly preserved fortress. This visit is a dive into feudal Japan.



Next, you reach Kyoto, the former imperial capital and a cultural gem. Every street corner breathes history and elegance. You stroll through the Arashiyama bamboo grove, visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), and participate in a tea ceremony, an experience steeped in serenity. A trip to Nara, where sacred deer roam freely in the parks, completes your exploration. The Great Buddha of Nara, housed in the Todai-ji temple, impresses with its size and splendor.

The journey continues in the Japanese Alps, in Takayama and Shirakawago. These picturesque villages, with their thatched-roof houses, seem frozen in time. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawago is a true treasure of authenticity. You spend a night in Gero Onsen, a renowned hot spring resort, where you can enjoy relaxing hot baths and savor refined Japanese cuisine served in a traditional ryokan.

Finally, Tokyo, the bustling capital, awaits with its many faces. From the futuristic Akihabara district, dedicated to geek culture enthusiasts, to the traditional charm of Asakusa and the Senso-ji temple, every moment is a discovery. A side trip to Kamakura, famous for its Great Buddha and temples, adds a spiritual dimension to your stay.

This trip wouldn’t be complete without immersive experiences. Learn to wield a katana in a samurai workshop, take a cooking class to master the art of sushi, or explore the world of manga with a drawing lesson. Each activity is designed to deepen your connection to the local culture.



The carefully selected accommodations blend modern comfort with Japanese charm. From contemporary hotels in Kyoto and Tokyo to traditional ryokans in the mountains, every night is an experience in itself. With a passionate local guide and free time to explore at your own pace, this tour offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

The "Immersion in Japan" tour is much more than just a trip. It’s an invitation to discover the soul of a country rich in contrasts, through diverse landscapes, living traditions, and fascinating modernity. Whether you're a culture lover, nature enthusiast, or simply in search of wonder, this journey promises a memorable and transformative experience.

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