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Visiting Koh Yao Noi during Ramadan
by YuliyaS · 2025-05-31 · 2 replies
Hi there, I’m planning our trip to Thailand in February–March 2026 during school holidays. We’ll be spending 3 nights on Koh Yao Noi, which is a Muslim island, and it’ll be Ramadan. Has anyone been there during this period? If so, can we eat at midday or will everything be closed? Thanks in advance!
Late arrival at Negombo Airport
by 83JL · 2025-05-27 · 6 replies
Hi everyone,

We’re planning our 3-week trip to Sri Lanka from July 31 to August 21, 2025. Our itinerary is coming together, but we could use some advice for our arrival. Our flight lands at 2:40 AM. What should we do? Book a hotel near the airport? Or in Negombo? Head straight to Colombo? What about currency exchange offices at 3 AM? And what about getting a SIM card?

Thanks in advance for your tips or firsthand experiences!

Have a great day.
Visiting Georgia Using Public Transport
by Sabareine · 2025-05-25 · 3 replies
Hi! If anyone has been to Georgia recently and could tell me if it's feasible to travel around the country using public transport. My itinerary would be Kutaisi (my arrival airport), Tbilisi, Mestia, Ushguli, Batumi, and back to Kutaisi (departure airport) in ten days. My flight arrives late at night, around 1 AM—would it be possible to take a taxi to get to the city center?

Any advice is welcome, and regarding the language, can you get by with English? Thanks in advance.
Going directly from Mahajanga to Morombe
by Etranger · 2025-05-25 · 7 replies
Hi everyone, Everything’s in the title: what are the options for getting from M. to M.? By *boutre* (traditional sailboat), I know, if you’re not in a hurry. Is there a coastal track between Mahajanga and the Tsingy? Meaning, can you reach Bekopaka by track without going back through Tana? Thanks.
Is it still possible to travel in Ecuador?
by Muriel02 · 2025-05-22 · 4 replies
Hi everyone, is it still possible to travel in Ecuador outside the Amazon region? If so, do you have a reliable agency to recommend? All your recent experiences from the past few months would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much
Hiking from Orléans to Tours: GR 3 or GR 655?
by Emma83000 · 2025-05-21 · 17 replies
Hi there, I’m planning a 6-day trip from Orléans to Tours. There are very few detailed maps to figure out the main stages and what you’ll find along the way. Even though I’ve downloaded the Miam Miam Dodo app, it’s pretty tedious (everything is split into small map sections). I’ve settled on the first leg: Orléans to Meung-sur-Loire, about 18 km. For the next one, I’m hesitating because I’d like to do around 20–25 km, but I see Beaugency is only about 10 km away, and Mer is almost 30 km. So, I’m stuck. On top of that, I’m torn between taking the GR 3 route or the GR 655 (south). If any of you know the area or have already done this hike/pilgrimage, I’d love to hear your tips for this section that goes through Blois and ends in Tours. For the last legs, I’ve planned Blois -> ? Chaumont (no accommodations) -> Amboise -> Tours, knowing the final stage is about 30 km.

Thanks in advance for your help! 😉
Traffic fine budget for Morocco
by Bkvoyage · 2025-05-21 · 13 replies
Hi there, if you're planning to rent a car to get around in Morocco, make sure to budget for "fines" even if you drive perfectly. For example, getting caught going 5 km/h over the speed limit 500 meters before you see the sign dropping the limit to 60 km/h—while being overtaken by a packed taxi with no seatbelts. Or, say, stopping at a stop sign for 3 seconds but not long enough, even though no helmetless motorcyclists were stopping either (yes, helmets are mandatory in Morocco)... Anyway, plan a "fine" budget for your Moroccan "vacation."
Visiting the Yucatán by train
by Rougebaule · 2025-05-17 · 5 replies
I'm heading to MEXICO IN NOVEMBER 2025. Since private guides and drivers are really expensive—over 300 € per day—I'm thinking of exploring the Yucatán by train. CAN YOU SHARE ANY INFO ON THIS? Thanks
Looking for participants for a Tanzania safari in early 2026
by Lopolopo38 · 2025-05-16 · 0 replies
Hello. I’m looking for participants for a safari in Tanzania in the first quarter of 2026. I’m in direct negotiations with a local guide. Below is the description (via a draft service contract). If you’re interested, reply to me. We’ll then communicate via private email.

Between the undersigned:

Ms./Mr. (provide the provider’s name), representing the company (specify), whose registered office is located at (provide the address), Hereinafter referred to as The Provider

And,

Ms./Mr. (provide the client’s name and contact details), Hereinafter referred to as The Client

The following has been agreed:

I. Purpose This service contract covers the organization of a safari in Tanzania by The Provider for the benefit of The Client.

II. Duration This contract is concluded for a duration of (specify). It takes effect from day J1: (specify the date) and will end on (specify the date). Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties, this contract is not subject to any automatic renewal.

III. Execution Terms The Provider undertakes to carry out the tasks assigned by The Client with professionalism and rigor, in accordance with best practices. They also agree to comply with all applicable regulations and standards for their tasks. To fulfill their duties, The Provider will mobilize all necessary resources. The Client, for their part, agrees to collaborate with The Provider and provide all useful information for the smooth execution of the tasks. IV. Payment The Client will pay The Provider the sum of (specify), according to the following terms: (specify). In case of late payment, The Provider reserves the right to claim penalties in the amount of (specify). V. Confidentiality The Provider agrees not to disclose any information or documents provided by The Client. Upon completion of their task, they will destroy all documents in their possession. VI. Service Details Accommodation during the stay (excluding days 1, 2, and 9): participants will sleep in tents, with 2 people per tent. A sleeping bag and an inflatable mattress will be provided. They will have water for washing and access to toilets. Tents will be set up and taken down during each transfer. It will be possible to charge camera batteries. Day 1: ARRIVAL AND TRANSFER Welcome at Kilimanjaro Airport for transfer to Arusha and overnight at Green Mountain Hotel (breakfast included) -
https://greenmountainhotel.co.tz/ Day 2: HIKE ON THE TRAILS OF KILIMANJARO. Pick-up from your hotel in Arusha to the village of Moshi Materuni, at the foot of Kilimanjaro. You’ll begin a day of hiking toward the impressive waterfalls in one of the country’s highest regions, where crystal-clear glacial water cascades from 70 meters high. The beautiful trail leads to the Materuni waterfalls, located at 2,500 meters altitude. To reach these falls, you’ll cross valleys and hills covered in tropical forest, coffee, avocado, and banana plantations. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of Kibo, the highest peak of Kilimanjaro. You’ll also learn how to prepare and taste coffee. In the evening, you’ll be picked up in Arusha and spend the night at Green Mountain Hotel. Day 3: HIKE IN A MAASAI VILLAGE After breakfast around 8:30 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel for a walking hike in the wild nature of the village. You’ll visit local primary schools, meet traditional healers, and discover their techniques. You’ll also visit one of the local livestock markets. Dinner and overnight at the Maasai village house in Boma. Day 4: WILDLIFE IN 4X4 ALONG THE TARANGIRE RIVER Around 8 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Arusha and drive for 2 hours to Tarangire National Park for a day of wildlife viewing. The park is known for its dense wildlife along the Tarangire River. It’s home to a large number of elephants in the northern circuit and hosts 550 bird species. You’ll also observe herds of impalas, hartebeests, wildebeests, kudus, oryxes, gerenuks, zebras, buffaloes, and giraffes. Predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and massive African baobabs can also be spotted. Dinner and overnight at Lake Manyara Fig Tree Lodge. Day 5: LAKE MANYARA PARK - WILDLIFE VIEWING IN THE RIFT VALLEY Around 8 AM, departure from your camp to Lake Manyara Park (at the foot of a 600-meter escarpment in the Great Rift Valley) for a day of safaris. You’ll see giraffes, buffaloes, groups of baboons, tree-climbing lions, and many other animals. Dinner and overnight at Lake Manyara Fig Tree Lodge. Day 6: WILDLIFE IN SERENGETI In the morning, you’ll drive for 5 hours to the magnificent Serengeti National Park, passing through the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge. This park is arguably the world’s most famous wildlife reserve. It’s home to over 3 million large mammals, and you’ll quickly spot the "Big Five": buffaloes, elephants, black rhinos of the Moru Kopjes, lions, and leopards. Over 500 bird species have been recorded here. You’ll also witness the spectacular wildebeest migration in the western Serengeti. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Nyani campsite. Day 7: MAGNIFICENT WILDLIFE AT SUNRISE IN SERENGETI Stunning sunrise safaris in the golden savanna of the endless plains of Serengeti National Park, all day long, following the animals’ movements. You’ll spend the night at the campsite and share your exceptional experience so far at Serengeti Nyani campsite. Day 8: MAJESTIC EXCURSION IN THE SERENGETI PLAINS Wake-up at 6 AM, coffee at the campsite, then departure for a sunrise safari in the Serengeti. Our guide will take you to the best spots to admire the sunrise and observe predators, as most of them, like lions, are very active at this time of day. You’ll return to the campsite around 10 AM for brunch, then load your belongings into the jeep for a 2-hour safari on the way to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Dinner and overnight at Ngorongoro Simba Lodge. Day 9: SPECTACULAR EXCURSION TO NGORONGORO CRATER Shortly after breakfast, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a sunrise safari in the world’s largest uninterrupted caldera, surrounded by steep walls rising 610 meters from the crater floor. This natural wonder measures 19.2 km in diameter and covers 304 km². You’ll go on safaris and discover rare species like black rhinos, wildebeests, giraffes, ostriches, bustards, lions, cheetahs, and flamingos in the Soda Lake. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Arusha, arriving in the evening for your private activities. Accommodation in half-board (dinner, overnight, breakfast) Day 10: TRANSFER TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT Breakfast and transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport. VII- RATES: The package price is 2030 USD (approximately per person in a double room). VIII- THE PRICE INCLUDES: - Provision of sealed water bottles for participants - Park entry fees. - Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport. - Accommodation in Arusha (breakfast included). - Village development fees. - Accommodation in camps/lodges (breakfast, lunch, dinner). - Transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof in national parks. - Government taxes. - Activities detailed in the itinerary. - Safari guides. - Transfer from Arusha to Kilimanjaro Airport on day 10.

IX- THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE: - Alcoholic beverages. - International flights. - Personal items such as visas, laundry, etc. - Tips.

Done at Done at

Date: Date: Provider’s Signature: Client’s Signature:
Practical question about ferry crossings with a dog in Norway
by Ekatarina · 2025-05-15 · 1 reply
Hi everyone, I’m traveling through Norway with my dog. I’d love to take the Kystriksveien Coastal Route, but there are some ferry crossings that only take 10 minutes. I was wondering if, for these short trips, I can stay in my car with my dog? He’s sensitive, and I don’t want to leave him alone or take him out of the car because I think the ferry noise will stress him out. Thanks so much in advance if anyone can let me know how these short crossings work!
Is Kullu worth a stop?
by GeorgesOZ · 2025-05-12 · 3 replies
I'm planning a return trip to India next year, and this time I want to check out what's nice on the way up to Manali. Since the bus rides are really long coming from the plains (Chandigarh or even Delhi), I'm looking for a place to stop along the way (my partner and I). I’ve spotted Kullu, about an hour from Manali, but no matter how much I study the map, I can’t tell if there’s an actual town there. We really don’t want to end up in some isolated hotel that’s only convenient for people traveling with their own transport—definitely not our style. We prefer to drop our bags in a room, freshen up a bit, then wander around streets or alleys with at least a little life.

So, I’m wondering if we’d be better off just skipping Kullu altogether.

What do you think, folks who’ve been there before?
Route 66: Is it better to do it in an SUV or a camper van?
by Kate08000 · 2025-05-12 · 20 replies
Hi everyone,

We’re planning a road trip on Route 66 in 2027 with our two kids, who’ll be 7 and 4 years old.

My husband would prefer to do it in an SUV, while I’d rather go in a camper van.

What are the pros and cons of each option?

Thanks for your input!
3 weeks in Colombia (August 2023)
by Ellobo · 2025-05-12 · 26 replies
Why Colombia? It's quite simple. For the past few years, my daughter has been living with a Colombian from Bogotá. The idea was to discover his country, meet his family, and do part of the trip all four of us together. We’re heading out first as scouts, then they’ll join us to continue the journey. The itinerary was shared in another post—now it’s time for the impressions. No photos, as for me, it’s video and nothing more!

Day 1: The big departure What was planned: A flight from Lyon Saint-Exupéry late morning heading to Frankfurt. Two hours of waiting in Frankfurt (just enough time to eat a pretzel!!) and then off to Bogotá for an arrival around 7 PM local time. I hadn’t done the Check-Mig (to be done 72 hours before the flight). I did it on my phone, giving a fake arrival date in Colombia, and the attendant told me there wouldn’t be any issues in Bogotá. Actually, two hours of delay at departure in Lyon because a sick passenger was on the plane—they had to evacuate him, and the ambulance that was supposed to be there didn’t have permission to come near the plane. Ah, French administrative formalities!!!!! Flight to Frankfurt with Lufthansa went smoothly. A sprint through the airport—very well organized. Connection secured, so we boarded the plane, and two hours later than scheduled, we took off for an 11-hour flight! Arrival in Bogotá, and the immigration process took over an hour and a half because of the crowds. However, no issues with the Check-Mig—they barely glanced at it. Our daughter’s father-in-law ended up waiting over 3 hours at the airport because of this!!! Surprise: No luggage. Luckily, we had packed essentials in our carry-ons! Quick administrative paperwork, and Lufthansa informed me our bags would be on the next flight, so no big deal. Off to our hotel in La Candelaria and a good night’s rest.

The plus: We’re in Bogotá! The minus: Flight delays are becoming more and more common.
Combining cruises refused: an incomprehensible disappointment with CFC
by Peyregoue · 2025-05-06 · 7 replies
I just got a mind-blowing response. I wanted to book 2 back-to-back cruises in the French West Indies on the Renaissance—arriving in Guadeloupe on December 23, 2025, and returning from Martinique (the end-of-cruise city) on January 13, 2026.

And guess what? It’s impossible because they’re pre-packaged deals. The only solution is to book just one cruise—not two in a row. It’s UNBELIEVABLE.

CFC, the French cruise company—well, no. It’s actually CAC, an English cruise company with "civil servants" wearing blinders.

I’ve never seen anything like this. I’ve often combined two back-to-back cruises without any issues, but those were on "bare" ships. All they had to do was get me to Guadeloupe with the first cruise and have me depart with the second cruise’s start. It’s easy to book plane seats!

For the record, last year I did two back-to-back cruises in the Mediterranean, spending Christmas and New Year’s on the same ship.

Handing control over to the English wasn’t a good solution.

Oh well, I’ll find somewhere else with more open-minded people.
Looking for a travel companion in Bali from 05/21 to 06/02/2025
by Karlovo · 2025-05-04 · 0 replies
Hello, This post is for those who’ll be there at those dates! I’m a 72-year-old woman who’s traveled a lot and still loves it. I’ve already visited several countries in Asia.

I’m heading to Bali solo from 05/21 to 06/02. The trip is completely booked. I’ll be staying 5 nights in Ubud, 2 nights in Munduk, and 4 nights in Sidemen. I’ve found a French-speaking driver-guide (60 € per day + lunch included).

If anyone’s around and wants to join me for a visit, a walk, see a dance performance, grab a drink, or have dinner together, I’d love the company.

Traveling with a man is no problem for me, but there must be no ambiguity.

Best regards,
Request for info: ferry route Turkey/Israel
by 4massifs · 2025-05-02 · 15 replies
hi, is there (still) a ferry route between southern Turkey (Iskenderun) and Haifa? direct or not?
Khao Sok - Hiking guide and lake tour
by Marmite · 2025-04-18 · 7 replies
Hi everyone,

So happy to discover by chance that VoyageForum is back! We’re leaving in a few days for Thailand with our two kids, aged 12 and 15. We’re considering stopping by Khao Sok but don’t want to do a typical 2D/1N or 3D/2N excursion with an overnight stay on the lake—it’s way out of our budget 🤪. Still, the place seems worth the detour. We’ve planned to spend 2 nights there (arriving in the late afternoon on the first day) and I’d love to do a full-day private boat tour on the lake and a hike (half-day or full-day). Do you think it’s doable to book on the spot if we arrive a bit late on the first day? Or is it better to book in advance? None of the websites for booking these services inspire confidence—I get the feeling it’s a real lottery afterward for getting an interesting and friendly guide. But I’m worried it’ll be the same on-site since everything seems so standardized. Do you have any firsthand experience? Maybe even a Facebook contact or something for a guide? Are the prices still really that expensive if we don’t stay overnight on the lake? I’ll admit I’m not sure if we should even stop there anymore...

Thanks in advance!

Marmite
Marbella to Beja route: which one to choose?
by Lactualite · 2025-04-15 · 4 replies
Hi, I’m planning a wine trip in the Alentejo by car. Starting from Marbella, I can either follow the coast and stop over near Huelva, or head north and stop over near Aracena. I’m wondering which route is more enjoyable and which village is the most interesting for an overnight stop. Thanks
Albania end of May - early June 2025: 10 days, is that enough for a first-time visit?
by Francis86 · 2025-04-15 · 5 replies
Hi, We’re thinking of going to Albania at the end of May, early June 2025. We’re a bit hesitant because the timeline feels tight for planning this trip. We’re considering about ten days there. Does that seem like enough time for a first-time visit? Thanks.
What ceremony takes place at Oslo City Hall on April 6th?
by Evajules · 2025-04-12 · 3 replies
Hi everyone,

I just got back from a little cruise that took me to Oslo, among other places. Pure coincidence had it that on April 6th, the City Hall was open for visits, and I found myself surrounded by Norwegians—men, women, and even very young children—all dressed in traditional outfits. Clearly, there was some kind of special ceremony going on, because they all went upstairs for... something? A woman told me it wasn’t religious (which I suspected), but then what was that moment all about? Thanks—I don’t like being left in the dark! Have a great day, everyone!
Questions about boarding and stops with the MSC Poesia
by Jany95 · 2025-04-09 · 2 replies
Hello! We’re heading out on a cruise from Copenhagen soon, and I’d love to know how to get from the central train station to the MSC Poesia’s embarkation port using public transport. How do we get from the ship to downtown Oslo? What’s there to do in Eidfjord? I’ll admit I visited Copenhagen and Oslo a long time ago, so I’m guessing the ships might’ve changed their docking spots by now 😅
Transport questions in Colombia (buses and taxis)
by Bableux · 2025-04-08 · 12 replies
Hi there, We’re planning a month-long (or longer) trip to Colombia next February. We’re thinking of getting around by bus or taxi. For part of the trip, we’ve decided to start in Bogotá, then head to Villa de Leyva, then Barichara and the Chicamocha Canyon, and finally arrive in Bucaramanga to catch a flight to Medellín. If bus routes aren’t available, is it easy to find taxis in the villages or at hotels? Thanks for your tips!
Dadès-Toghra via the pass: the M'semrir-Tamtatoucht link is now paved
by Hiboudoux · 2025-04-07 · 10 replies
February 2025: The M'semrir-Tamtatoucht link via P7104 is now fully paved, making it possible to do the Dadès-Toghra loop via the pass.
Warning about Adobe Rent-a-Car in Costa Rica
by Keops · 2025-04-06 · 2 replies
Hello, We just spent nearly 3 weeks in Costa Rica and had rented a car from ADOBE RENT-A-CAR. For the occasion, I had provided a document from my bank confirming that my VISA Premier card (gold card) covered—by far—the additional CDW insurance that this rental company strongly recommends. On-site, when it came time to pay the mandatory third-party insurance, my card was declined (luckily, we had another basic debit card that worked without any issues). The reason given by the rental company: my card was invalid or I had a banking problem. The same result and comments occurred at a second ADOBE agency. After contacting my bank and their customer service, they confirmed there was no issue! What’s more, throughout the trip, we used this same card to pay for various purchases (gas, restaurants, attractions, etc.) without any problems... After expressing my dissatisfaction to this rental company on Trustpilot (you can check the site), ADOBE refused to address the issue but admitted that this mandatory insurance is required... In reality, it’s clear that this rental company refuses this card so that tourists will purchase their additional insurance. The travel agency we booked through has requested a meeting with ADOBE for clarification. I’m waiting for their conclusions. Additionally, I noticed on certain sites like tripadvisor.ca or itinego.com/fr/costarica/guide/43/location-voiture-suv-4x4 that this card is no longer accepted...

So, BE CAREFUL: Before leaving, make sure to check with the rental company you’re using to confirm that your card is accepted Always have another bank card as a backup

Best regards
Passport renewal: which number to use for airlines?
by Goldfeld · 2025-04-06 · 5 replies
Hi there🙂, I’ve applied to renew my Austrian passport but I have to wait 3 weeks. I found some really interesting flights to Fès, but unfortunately I don’t have a passport number because I assume the old one isn’t valid anymore?

Is it possible to book with the old number and provide the new one later? Or any other solution? The airlines are Air Arabia Maroc and Ryanair. Thanks for your help!
Getting to Pegli from Genoa and other nearby places to visit
by Moemma · 2025-04-01 · 3 replies
Hi, I saw that you can take the navebus to Pegli. Could you tell me where to catch it, and are there other ways to get there? Also, which is better to visit: Pegli, Bocadasse, Nervi, or Camogli... if you're spending 6 full days in Genoa and have a bit of time to dedicate to one or more nearby spots? Thanks in advance for your answers.
South Africa entry fees: new regulation or scam?
by Gallup · 2025-03-27 · 11 replies
Hi there, I’m filling out my South Africa entry declaration and just found out it costs $53. We’ve traveled to South Africa regularly, the last trip was in 2024, and I’ve never paid anything to enter South African territory before. Is this a new measure, or am I on a dodgy site? Thanks for your replies! Christine
Name issue on a child's flight ticket
by Jdjdjfkk · 2025-03-25 · 5 replies
Hi, I have to leave for Bali and I’ve got a problem. We’re traveling as a family, but when my partner filled out our daughter’s ticket, they only put one last name, even though she has both—mine and her dad’s—on her passport. I tried to fix it to make sure everything’s correct, but the airline won’t do anything about it. Do you think this will be an issue at boarding?
Communication difficulties with Sanparks
by SaveCheetah · 2025-03-20 · 8 replies
Hi there, I made my bungalow reservations in Kruger Park through Sanparks. I’ve sent several emails but never gotten a response from them. It’s not possible to reach them via WhatsApp, and calling them costs an arm and a leg 😱. Have you had the same experience with Sanparks? Their website is pretty well done—they boast about giving the best care to questions people ask them, but when it comes to email responses... it’s a ghost town 😕
Crossing Africa from Namibia to Mozambique
by Djackx67 · 2025-03-19 · 10 replies
Hi there, here’s the first draft of the itinerary I’m considering for Africa, leaving in late/mid-October 2025 for a duration of 5 months.

The idea is to cross Africa from the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean. Just to clarify, I don’t have a driver’s license, but I’m used to traveling by hitchhiking, carpooling, or any other type of transport. My must-sees, which I really want to visit, are the Namib and Kalahari deserts, the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, and the sandbanks of Vilankulos.

So if anyone has already done this route, more or less, I’d love to hear all your practical tips, especially for getting around within these areas.

Travel style: no problem with big contrasts—whether it’s sleeping in a tent/hammock or a fancy hotel. Budget: flexible (I think).

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