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Information about the San Blas Islands before booking your excursion (Panama)
I’ve put together this information sheet based on my own experience, feedback from my clients, and reviews from travelers on various travel forums and social media.
I think it’s important to share the reality of these postcard-perfect little islands with their white sandy beaches and palm trees before you set off. That way, you can make the most of your trip to the San Blas Islands, know exactly what to expect, and decide if this destination is right for you.
The San Blas Islands are run by the indigenous Guna people. They have their own rules, and Panamanian law doesn’t really apply. Today, their main income comes from tourism, so please note that foreigners aren’t allowed to operate cabanas there. This means that as soon as you board their small boats, you’re in the hands of the Gunas, and it’ll be tough to complain about delays, logistical issues, or refunds. Wait times can be long, and the Gunas are pretty informal—at first glance, they might even seem unwelcoming. But you have to understand that their culture and way of life are simply different from yours.
You’ll find plenty of tour operators offering day trips or one- or two-night stays on the same islands at different prices. I think all these listings create confusion and uncertainty for travelers. You can book with operators who care about their clients and deal directly with them, while others act only as intermediaries or booking systems between travelers, the Gunas, and transport companies without providing any follow-up during your stay. Don’t forget that all the San Blas Islands are beautiful, and your choice shouldn’t be based on which of the 365 islands is the prettiest, but on the hospitality of the Guna family, the accommodation, and the service they provide. I also recommend avoiding San Blas on weekends and public holidays.
To explain the sometimes "low" level of service mentioned in traveler reviews, you need to understand that the San Blas Islands are very basic and rustic—that’s also the charm of the experience, which, for some of you, will push you out of your comfort zone. Not all huts have electricity, or even light. If you want to charge your phone, ask the island owner, who might charge you a small fee. Needless to say, WiFi isn’t available on all islands.
Not all Gunas working there have studied hospitality management, logistics, gastronomy, or tourism. There’s been a big "boom" in the last 10 years, and they haven’t been trained for it.
Regarding the 4x4 road transport, expect to be a bit cramped since the car can fit 6 passengers. Also, you might face delays, or the car might already be waiting for you because the pickup route can change, and sometimes other passengers are late, causing delays. To avoid this, I recommend paying extra for private transport—it’ll make your trip smoother and save you frustration before arriving in San Blas, as well as on your return to Panama City, which can sometimes be chaotic.
Stay flexible! Expect delays, lack of communication, waiting for someone or something without knowing why, rustic cabanas, no fish but pasta instead (yes! sometimes the fish season is low!), fried eggs and bread for breakfast—but in the end, everything works out if you can accept these little inconveniences. Just enjoy the adventure!
Finally, the San Blas Islands have a waste collection problem, so you might see trash on the islands, especially during the summer season due to strong currents. Most of the waste comes from the sea and the mainland. For the sake of the island, please take your trash with you.
I think it’s important to share the reality of these postcard-perfect little islands with their white sandy beaches and palm trees before you set off. That way, you can make the most of your trip to the San Blas Islands, know exactly what to expect, and decide if this destination is right for you.
The San Blas Islands are run by the indigenous Guna people. They have their own rules, and Panamanian law doesn’t really apply. Today, their main income comes from tourism, so please note that foreigners aren’t allowed to operate cabanas there. This means that as soon as you board their small boats, you’re in the hands of the Gunas, and it’ll be tough to complain about delays, logistical issues, or refunds. Wait times can be long, and the Gunas are pretty informal—at first glance, they might even seem unwelcoming. But you have to understand that their culture and way of life are simply different from yours.
You’ll find plenty of tour operators offering day trips or one- or two-night stays on the same islands at different prices. I think all these listings create confusion and uncertainty for travelers. You can book with operators who care about their clients and deal directly with them, while others act only as intermediaries or booking systems between travelers, the Gunas, and transport companies without providing any follow-up during your stay. Don’t forget that all the San Blas Islands are beautiful, and your choice shouldn’t be based on which of the 365 islands is the prettiest, but on the hospitality of the Guna family, the accommodation, and the service they provide. I also recommend avoiding San Blas on weekends and public holidays.
To explain the sometimes "low" level of service mentioned in traveler reviews, you need to understand that the San Blas Islands are very basic and rustic—that’s also the charm of the experience, which, for some of you, will push you out of your comfort zone. Not all huts have electricity, or even light. If you want to charge your phone, ask the island owner, who might charge you a small fee. Needless to say, WiFi isn’t available on all islands.
Not all Gunas working there have studied hospitality management, logistics, gastronomy, or tourism. There’s been a big "boom" in the last 10 years, and they haven’t been trained for it.
Regarding the 4x4 road transport, expect to be a bit cramped since the car can fit 6 passengers. Also, you might face delays, or the car might already be waiting for you because the pickup route can change, and sometimes other passengers are late, causing delays. To avoid this, I recommend paying extra for private transport—it’ll make your trip smoother and save you frustration before arriving in San Blas, as well as on your return to Panama City, which can sometimes be chaotic.
Stay flexible! Expect delays, lack of communication, waiting for someone or something without knowing why, rustic cabanas, no fish but pasta instead (yes! sometimes the fish season is low!), fried eggs and bread for breakfast—but in the end, everything works out if you can accept these little inconveniences. Just enjoy the adventure!
Finally, the San Blas Islands have a waste collection problem, so you might see trash on the islands, especially during the summer season due to strong currents. Most of the waste comes from the sea and the mainland. For the sake of the island, please take your trash with you.
Bruges to Amsterdam by bike - July 2025
Hi there!
I’m really keen to cycle from Bruges to Amsterdam. Has anyone here done it before? We’re a group of three—is it easy to find accommodation on the go, or should we book ahead? If we do a round trip and take our bikes, would it be simpler to plan two different routes?!
Thanks so much!
Laurence from Bayonne
21-Day Trip to La Gomera and La Palma
Travel Journal: 21 Days in La Gomera and La Palma
From February 6 to February 26, 2024
Tuesday, February 6 We left around 9 AM with our car, along with Pierre-Paul and Patricia, heading to the Bluepark parking lot in Bartenheim. As expected, we were awaited and left promptly for EuroAirport Basel. Took off at 12:25 PM for a 4-hour-15-minute flight under excellent conditions. Beautiful arrival in Tenerife with Teide in sight under a clear blue sky. Fifteen minutes later, we waited for bus No. 40 to Los Cristianos with quite a few other tourists, but we managed to find four seats. From the bus station, it was a 20-minute walk to our hotel. We checked into a lovely apartment for the four of us, complete with all the comforts. Outside, it was quite warm—at least 25°C! After dropping off our luggage, we went for a stroll. The immediate surroundings of the hotel held no interest for us: a modern, concrete area filled with hotels, bars, tourist agencies, and unappealing restaurants all offering the same bland international cuisine. Pat went to cool off at the pool, unfortunately overrun by loud, drunk English tourists. I took a walk to the paseo maritimo that leads to the port, skirting the seafront. The promenade was pleasant, but it could have been any seaside resort in the world—same old scene: a succession of bars with blaring music where many elderly people sipped cold beers waiting for the sunset, the backdrop a wall of resort-style hotels resembling rabbit hutches! Upon reaching the port, I scouted the route we’d take the next day to the Fred Olsen ferry. Back at the apartment, in the early evening, we looked for a non-touristy restaurant for dinner. Monique stopped a woman to ask her opinion! In this area, she told us, there’s no restaurant that serves Canarian or Spanish cuisine! The only place with decent restaurants is at the port. Off we went to the port, where we sat down at Al Bordo restaurant and ordered a seafood paella for four. Excellent, and at a very reasonable price (36 € for two). We returned to the hotel along the seafront.
Wednesday, February 7
Woke up at 6 AM. Had breakfast in the apartment with what we’d bought the day before at a supermarket. It was still dark when we left on foot toward the port, walking along the calm seafront at this early hour. Forty minutes later, we arrived and waited 10 minutes before the ferry docked. At 9:30 AM, we left the port of Los Cristianos for a 50-minute crossing on a calm sea under a beautiful blue sky. There were quite a few people on this large ferry, but many had no luggage, meaning they were visiting La Gomera for the day and would take the ferry back in the evening. Upon disembarking, we went straight to our rental car agency to pick up the car we’d booked online a few months earlier. It was a nice Peugeot 2008, spacious enough for the four of us and our luggage. We immediately took the beautiful road from San Sebastián that climbs directly into the mountains toward our rental in Vallehermoso. The road was in perfect condition—it seemed brand new, like all the others we’d take on this island later. This side of the island is very arid with little vegetation, and the terrain is particularly rugged, as it is throughout the island. We stopped at our first miradors, which would be followed by many more throughout our Canarian trip. Our first visit was to the small village of Agulo, perched on a promontory above the sea and at the foot of a high cliff. The village features typical Canarian houses with windows flush with the façade and black volcanic stone masonry on white or reddish-brown walls. The first recommended restaurant was already booked for a group, so we settled for the shaded terrace of the excellent El Alameda bar-restaurant. From Agulo, you can access the Abrante viewpoint via a winding road, where the view of Agulo, 600 meters below, is exceptional. A glass ledge over the void lets you test your fear of heights!
We drove to Vallehermoso to do our grocery shopping at the supermarket—a habit that would continue until the end of the trip. Our little house, "Casa rural El Encatadora," is located in a beautiful flower-filled valley a few kilometers west of Vallehermoso. Each of us had a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, plus a living room, kitchen, and a small terrace overlooking the quiet street at the valley’s end, which didn’t bother us at all.
Thursday, February 8 The good weather seemed to follow us since our arrival in the Canary Islands. This morning, we took the road—still as beautiful and new—toward Arure, high up to the west. The landscape was magnificent, with breathtaking glimpses of the sea far below. In Arure, we parked in front of Conchita’s bar, where a hike (Rother No. 30) starts toward two viewpoints: Alojera, which we reached after 45 minutes on a lovely path. Monique, tired from the first steep climb, stopped at the first viewpoint and hitchhiked back to Arure. Meanwhile, we continued toward the second viewpoint, Los Barranquillos, where the view of the surroundings was partially hidden by misty clouds rising from the sea. The entire mountain is sculpted by ancient, endless terraces climbing until the slope becomes too steep for construction—visible traces of the hard work of past inhabitants trying to survive in a harsh environment. We had a decent lunch at La Conchita bar, then drove to the small seaside town of Puerto la Caleta, sheltered by an immense cliff plunging into the sea. Black sand beach, rough sea—despite our encouragement, Pat didn’t dare to swim! As for the old village of Caleta, it’s perched on the mountainside, and visiting it requires climbing steep, stair-filled alleys to discover a few traditional houses. Back at the casa, dinner in, and card games...
Vallehermoso
Friday, February 9 This morning, the sky was overcast, and the peaks around us were shrouded in clouds. We took the same road as yesterday to hike Las Creces. Quickly gaining altitude, we entered a thick fog—visibility was very limited. We stopped at the Las Creces parking lot; visibility improved, and the sun wasn’t far off. The hike is entirely within a beautiful laurel forest, with the sun playing hide-and-seek, but it wasn’t cold despite the altitude. After finishing the loop trail, we decided to picnic—not there, as it was too chilly—but on Vallehermoso’s beach, where we found a nice picnic area sheltered by large black rocks. A short digestive walk on the surrounding hill to admire the little beach from above. Back in Vallehermoso, we did some grocery shopping, then tried to return to the casa—only to find ourselves locked out because we’d left the key in the lock inside! After several attempts and with the help of Yéli, a relative of the owner we called for help, we were finally able to get back in!
Saturday, February 10
It rained last night, and the sky remained overcast. Monique decided to rest this morning. PP, Pat, and I set off on the hike that starts from the house toward the Marichal reservoir. The sun wasn’t far off, and by 11 AM, it was fully out. The pleasant hike passed by many flower-filled gardens and orchards—orange, lemon, and mandarin trees in fruit. The path climbed gently toward the reservoir, where the view of the Cano rock dominating the landscape was magnificent. The last part of the climb was a bit tough, overgrown with lush vegetation, and the trail was slippery from last night’s rain. We descended via a different, much more pleasant path and returned to the casa just in time for lunch, prepared by Monique. This valley is rich with its many farmers and market gardeners who’ve cultivated the entire valley, taking advantage of the water flowing down from the mountain, captured upstream and redistributed through countless pipes snaking along the paths. Numerous tanks also store water during dry periods. The houses are scattered across both sides of the valley, and these colorful little homes add a beautiful touch to the landscape. The many palm trees give this valley a distinctly tropical feel—you could almost imagine yourself in the Caribbean. Add to that some salsa music drifting from a hut where farmers were working, and the picture is complete. A well-chilled beer apéro capped off a lovely morning. The afternoon was dedicated to rest, relaxation, reading, and games.
Sunday, February 11 The blue sky returned, though a few clouds still capped the highest peaks. Today, we visited Garajonay National Park, which covers the highest central mountains. Up there, we were above the clouds, and the panoramas from the various viewpoints were stunning: first, Cherelepin, accessible from the Laguna Grande parking lot, then Alto de Garajonay, offering an exceptional view of Teide—over 3,000 meters high—emerging from the clouds on Tenerife, far in the distance. We continued to the Los Roques viewpoints, then stopped for lunch at the Degollada de Peraza restaurant, where the view of the barranco was impressive. We descended toward San Sebastián and checked into our new lodging, La Cabezada, located in the countryside about 3 km above San Sebastián. It’s a small apartment adjacent to the owner’s, with a lovely terrace overlooking the surrounding mountains and surrounded by a beautiful garden. Apéro, then dinner on our beautiful terrace.
Monday, February 12 This morning, we went down to visit San Sebastián de La Gomera: its old tower, main street with some beautiful traditional houses, and the Church of the Assumption. Back at the casa for lunch. In the afternoon, Pat, PP, and I set off on the short hike from San Sebastián beach to La Guancha beach. We drove down and parked on the beach. The path climbs along the hill overlooking San Sebastián, passes by the tall Christ statue dominating the landscape, and roughly follows the coast down to the isolated Guancha beach. A beautiful hike under a hot sun, and a swim was welcome, even if the beach and sea access weren’t very comfortable due to large pebbles and quickly deepening water. Apart from two nudist bathers, there was no one on this beach. We returned the same way.
Tuesday, February 13 Rest day. We went down to town to stroll and do some shopping. I took the opportunity to visit the parador, beautifully situated above the city in a lovely garden overlooking the port and town. Together, we went for a cuba libre at the "Cuba Libre" bar, then had lunch at Breñusca (mediocre paella!). Back at the casa, then we went back down to town to see a carnival parade, a "passacalles," which actually passed an hour earlier than scheduled. Oh well.
Wednesday, February 14 Each to their own program this morning. Pat went swimming at San Sebastián beach, Monique rested at the casa, and PP and I set off on the hike from Playa de Avalos to the Ermita de Guadalupe on Playa del Cangrejo. It wasn’t easy to find the right road or the parking spot, but we managed. The path seemed to have suffered landslides, according to a sign at the trailhead! We decided to check it out, ready to turn back if it seemed too dangerous. In the end, apart from one or two slightly tricky spots where we had to climb a pile of rocks, the trail remained passable, though a bit vertigo-inducing in places. The narrow path clings to very vertical cliffs nearly 300 meters above sea level! But what a magnificent view. At one point, the trail runs alongside a wall of basaltic pipes. We returned via the drivable track that parallels the trail a bit lower. Back at the house for lunch. In the late afternoon, we returned to town to attend the "Entierro de las Sardinas" (Burial of the Sardine), which closes the Canarian carnival festivities. While waiting, we strolled through the parador’s gardens and had mojitos in town. Around 9 PM, we heard the noise and cries of the mourners. The procession advanced, led by a large papier-mâché sardine on a float, surrounded by wailing mourners. The procession headed toward the sea, where the sardine was burned, and a mini fireworks display ended the procession. It was all very good-natured, and everyone had fun. We ended the evening with dinner at a good fish restaurant, El Pajar.
Entierro de la Sardina in San Sebastián de La Gomera
Thursday, February 15
Woke up at 5:15 AM. The only suitable ferry was at 7 AM, which would get us to La Palma by late morning rather than evening. We packed our bags, had breakfast, then headed to the port, left our rental car, and boarded the ferry to Tenerife, from where we’d continue to La Palma. Calm sea, beautiful sun—by 10:30 AM, we disembarked in La Palma. We picked up our car and immediately headed to our new apartment in Breña Alta. It’s a large apartment with a superb terrace facing the sea, fully equipped and very comfortable. The hosts recommended Casa Goyo restaurant, near the airport and close to us. It’s a restaurant with many small rooms, some of which can be reserved for families. The fish-based cuisine (chipirones, pulpo) was excellent, hearty, and reasonably priced. Since it’s in the airport’s flight path, we occasionally heard planes landing. Quick and efficient service. Afterward, we visited Santa Cruz de La Palma, which reminded us of the historic quarters of La Orotava in Tenerife or the capital of Gran Canaria.
Friday, February 16
Beautiful weather, blue sky. We headed to the San Bartolo viewpoint toward the northeast coast, then to the lovely village of San Andrés, which we explored. From there, we walked along the shore to the natural pools of Charco Azul, where we swam in the cool but "swimmable" sea. Back in San Andrés for lunch at the "San Andrés" restaurant on the beautiful church square. Very good fish-based meal. We got back in the car and continued along the north coast to the port of Espindola and the natural pools of Fajana near the Cumplida lighthouse. A fairly strong wind whipped up beautiful waves crashing onto the rocky coast in bursts of foam. Back in Santa Cruz, we stopped at the Mercadona supermarket to buy fresh shrimp for dinner.
San Andrés
Saturday, February 17
Uniform blue sky, even on the heights. We took the beautiful road that winds up to the summit of the Caldera de Taburiente. Several viewpoints offer 360° views of the entire island and beyond: you can make out La Gomera, El Hierro, and, of course, Tenerife with the perfect triangle of Teide. We parked at the Los Andes viewpoint parking lot and started our hike to Pico de la Cruz along a trail following the ridge, offering superb views into the caldera. We got back in the car and passed by the Roque de los Muchachos astronomical complex, composed of numerous observatories, some with very aesthetic mirror telescopes. We hiked from the Roque de los Muchachos parking lot to the various viewpoints, always as impressive. Picnic on site, then back to Santa Cruz. We stopped by our car dealer because the oil warning light came on—better safe than sorry. The representative reassured us but preferred to give us a Fiat Cross SUV instead.
The Caldera de Taburiente
Sunday, February 18 The weather was a bit mixed, with cloudy patches. We set off to hike the Barranco de la Cuba de Galga. Unfortunately, the Los Tilos trail had been closed for several months due to a major landslide. The parking lot by the road was already quite full, and indeed, we crossed paths with many hikers along the way—it’s an easy hike with little elevation gain, which is rare here in La Palma! The beautiful path winds through a very narrow, deep gorge covered in lush tropical vegetation—you’d think you were in a Southeast Asian forest, especially with the humidity in the gorge bringing out earthy and floral scents. Halfway through, Monique turned back while the rest of us continued to the Cuba de Galga. A light drizzle accompanied us on the return. For lunch, we went to Chipi Chipi restaurant in the heights of Santa Cruz. The cool air forced us to leave the lovely terrace for the slightly noisy dining room. The meal was very good and hearty. Afternoon spent resting at our house.
La Cuba de la Galga
Monday, February 19 A few clouds still clung to the nearby mountain peaks. We headed south to Los Canarios. We stopped in front of the small San Antonio Abad church, where a path leads to the viewpoint in 15 minutes. Then we visited the San Antonio Volcano Interpretation Center and climbed to the viewpoint via the trail along the crater’s edge, offering a plunging view into the crater. Then PP, Pat, and I headed toward the Teneguía volcano but turned back given the remaining distance and the intense heat bearing down on us! Plus, the landscape was rather arid and not very interesting. We got back in the car and drove down to the salt flats at the island’s southern tip. The ocean crashes here in large waves, exploding against the volcanic rocks and feeding a "blowhole" carved into the rock. We stopped for drinks at the salt flats restaurant, then headed home.
The salt flats in Fuencaliente
Tuesday, February 20 Beautiful weather with a few clouds clinging to the mountains, as usual. A relaxed morning since my parking reservation at La Cumbrecita didn’t start until 1 PM. It takes about 30 minutes from Santa Cruz to reach the valley floor via a beautiful but narrow road toward the end, though there’s very little traffic. Meanwhile, the clouds had disappeared, and the view from the La Cumbrecita viewpoint was superb. We recognized Pico de la Cruz in the distance, where we’d been a few days earlier. We then took the path leading to the Las Chozas viewpoint through a magnificent Canarian pine forest. We picnicked on site, then took the path to the Los Roques viewpoint. We returned the same way since the direct route was closed for construction. Back in Santa Cruz, we visited the Sanctuary of Las Nieves, with its beautiful golden Baroque altar.
Hike from La Cumbrecita
Wednesday, February 21 After packing our things and loading the car, we left Santa Cruz under a very blue sky for Los Llanos de Aridane, where we stopped to visit this lovely town. The Church of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios has a beautiful coffered ceiling and an original papier-mâché Christ statue from the 16th century. Around it, colorful old Canarian houses brighten the streets of the town center. We took the opportunity to stroll, do some shopping, and finally sat down at La Pergola restaurant for a mediocre lunch. We got back in the car to check into our new house in Arecida. On the way, we stopped at the Mirador del Time, which once again offered an impressive panorama, allowing us—for the first time—to see the damage caused by the Tajogaite volcano eruption in 2021. You can clearly see the still-smoking crater and the large black lava flow covering the landscape down to the sea. We really liked our new accommodation: a local house that’s been renovated on the heights of Arecida, not far from the Canarian pine forest. From several terraces, we have a 360° view of the sea and mountains. We even have a private pool! There are two beautiful, brand-new bedrooms, each with its own bathroom—the best. Plus, we’re on the GR 131 trail that runs along the Barranco de las Angustias toward the northeast.
Los Llanos de Aridane
Thursday, February 22 Once again, beautiful weather greeted us when we woke up. We started the GR 131 with the goal of reaching the Torre del Time viewpoint—about 400 meters of elevation gain. The path, quite steep at first, winds through a superb Canarian pine forest. A few viewpoints let you appreciate the sheer drop of the Barranco de las Angustias—watch out for vertigo! At the Torre del Time viewpoint, there’s a nearly 1,000-meter vertical drop. We returned via another path, the PLP1, which meanders first through this beautiful forest, then along lovely flower-filled gardens adjacent to beautiful properties that cascade from the forest down to the road serving these neighborhoods. This afternoon, we tried to get closer to the area devastated by the 2021 lava flows. Several roads are still closed or reserved for residents, while others—brand new—have been rebuilt to open up this densely populated and cultivated region. In some places, the lava flow slightly diverted, sparing some properties that logically should have disappeared. Now, they’re encircled by a massive cooled lava field. In other spots, twisted and charred metal scraps or greenhouse remains protrude from the lava—all that’s left of the former banana plantations. A little higher up, you can see the slightly smoking crater of Tajogaite, responsible for this disaster. Back to Casa Barreros.
View of Los Llanos and, in the background, the 2021 lava flow
Friday, February 23
Though the sky was still blue, the temperature had dropped due to a chilly wind. By midday, it still rose to 22°C. Today, we headed north, specifically to the town of Tijarafe, where a very narrow road descends to the small port, Porís de Candelaria. The 3.7-kilometer road drops 700 meters in elevation, with gradients up to 30%—it was going to be intense! Indeed, the descent was scary, with the void right next to the very narrow road where passing was impossible except at a few rare spots. Everything went well—there was little traffic at this early hour. From the parking lot at the bottom, a path leads to Porís de Candelaria. It’s surprising to see this small fishing hamlet nestled in the shelter of an immense cave opening onto the sea, which was quite rough today. The sun, at this time of year, would appear late in the cave, which remained in shadow for much of the day. We returned via the same road, strolled through the small town of Puntagorda, and had lunch at El Jardín de los Naranjos restaurant—excellent meal.
Fishing hamlet of Candelaria
Saturday, February 24 The air was still cool, but the sun was beautiful. While Monique stayed home to rest, the three of us headed to the village of Las Tricias to hike the Buracas Caves trail. We left the car parked on the LP1 road and took the small paved road down to the sign marking the trail’s start. The signage for all the trails we took here, as in La Gomera, was very well done. The path descended steadily, then more steeply toward the caves where the island’s first inhabitants lived—some petroglyphs are still visible in certain caves. The path then climbed back up, passing magnificent dragon trees and more or less elaborate huts occupied by Germans who’ve lived here for many years. Back at Casa Barreros for some rest.
Sunday, February 25 The weather once again blessed us with a beautiful day. This morning, we visited the local produce market held on weekends in Puntagorda. You’ll find agricultural products, crafts, and food to keep you going. A little further on, there’s a glass viewpoint overlooking the barranco plunging toward the sea, with a view of the thrill-seekers trying the zip line right next to it. Lunch at Naranjos—definitely a good spot—with their shrimp and spice tagliatelle. Back home for an afternoon of relaxation.
Monday, February 26 We left Arecida under a cloudy sky. Driving up from Los Llanos de Aridane toward the east, an enormous cascade of clouds poured from the mountain peaks into the Los Llanos plain—very impressive. Arriving in Santa Cruz, we went for a stroll, did some last-minute shopping, then had a final good-quality paella at La Chalana on the paseo maritimo. We left the car in the parking lot and took the 5 PM Olsen ferry to Tenerife on a slightly choppy sea, but the ferry didn’t rock too much. Arriving at 7:15 PM, we dropped off our things near the port in our reserved apartment and went for dinner at Abordo—rubbery chipirones. A digestive stroll among the ever-increasing number of tourists in Los Cristianos—restaurants were packed to the brim, the season is in full swing here. Gone is the calm of La Gomera and La Palma, and the laid-back tourism of German hikers among whom a few French were hiding!
Tuesday, February 27 To make our homemade breakfast more enjoyable, we went to buy pastries at the local bakery, then took one last walk on the paseo along the beaches, mingling with the many mobility scooters driven by elderly or disabled people, joggers, and tourists. Last apéro near the bus station, then off to the airport. After a smooth 4-hour-30-minute flight, we arrived in Basel-Mulhouse at 10:20 PM.
THE END
Conclusion A fantastic trip to two islands with magnificent and diverse nature, where landscapes range from desert-like to tropical depending on exposure to winds and clouds. Thanks to the many beautiful viewpoints, you can truly appreciate these exceptionally dynamic reliefs. A hiker’s paradise, the trails are all very well marked, though the choice of easy or moderate paths for "casual walkers" is quite limited. Another notable advantage, in our opinion, is that these islands are very lightly developed—you’ll hardly see any of those ugly hotel blocks that spoil the landscapes of some other Canary Islands. It’s true that the beaches on these two islands don’t meet traditional international tourism criteria: they’re small, with black sand, and often difficult to access. Special mention for the quality of the road network (except for a few small local roads), which seems brand new, well-paved, and well-signposted. We also enjoyed exceptional weather for February, with fewer than three days of gray or rainy weather out of 21.
Almost all the accommodations we chose met or exceeded our expectations, often at reasonable prices: an average of 98 € per night for an apartment or house with two bedrooms for four people.
All photos can be viewed by clicking this link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/G44pPk4g9PW1rNzg8
Tuesday, February 6 We left around 9 AM with our car, along with Pierre-Paul and Patricia, heading to the Bluepark parking lot in Bartenheim. As expected, we were awaited and left promptly for EuroAirport Basel. Took off at 12:25 PM for a 4-hour-15-minute flight under excellent conditions. Beautiful arrival in Tenerife with Teide in sight under a clear blue sky. Fifteen minutes later, we waited for bus No. 40 to Los Cristianos with quite a few other tourists, but we managed to find four seats. From the bus station, it was a 20-minute walk to our hotel. We checked into a lovely apartment for the four of us, complete with all the comforts. Outside, it was quite warm—at least 25°C! After dropping off our luggage, we went for a stroll. The immediate surroundings of the hotel held no interest for us: a modern, concrete area filled with hotels, bars, tourist agencies, and unappealing restaurants all offering the same bland international cuisine. Pat went to cool off at the pool, unfortunately overrun by loud, drunk English tourists. I took a walk to the paseo maritimo that leads to the port, skirting the seafront. The promenade was pleasant, but it could have been any seaside resort in the world—same old scene: a succession of bars with blaring music where many elderly people sipped cold beers waiting for the sunset, the backdrop a wall of resort-style hotels resembling rabbit hutches! Upon reaching the port, I scouted the route we’d take the next day to the Fred Olsen ferry. Back at the apartment, in the early evening, we looked for a non-touristy restaurant for dinner. Monique stopped a woman to ask her opinion! In this area, she told us, there’s no restaurant that serves Canarian or Spanish cuisine! The only place with decent restaurants is at the port. Off we went to the port, where we sat down at Al Bordo restaurant and ordered a seafood paella for four. Excellent, and at a very reasonable price (36 € for two). We returned to the hotel along the seafront.
Wednesday, February 7
Woke up at 6 AM. Had breakfast in the apartment with what we’d bought the day before at a supermarket. It was still dark when we left on foot toward the port, walking along the calm seafront at this early hour. Forty minutes later, we arrived and waited 10 minutes before the ferry docked. At 9:30 AM, we left the port of Los Cristianos for a 50-minute crossing on a calm sea under a beautiful blue sky. There were quite a few people on this large ferry, but many had no luggage, meaning they were visiting La Gomera for the day and would take the ferry back in the evening. Upon disembarking, we went straight to our rental car agency to pick up the car we’d booked online a few months earlier. It was a nice Peugeot 2008, spacious enough for the four of us and our luggage. We immediately took the beautiful road from San Sebastián that climbs directly into the mountains toward our rental in Vallehermoso. The road was in perfect condition—it seemed brand new, like all the others we’d take on this island later. This side of the island is very arid with little vegetation, and the terrain is particularly rugged, as it is throughout the island. We stopped at our first miradors, which would be followed by many more throughout our Canarian trip. Our first visit was to the small village of Agulo, perched on a promontory above the sea and at the foot of a high cliff. The village features typical Canarian houses with windows flush with the façade and black volcanic stone masonry on white or reddish-brown walls. The first recommended restaurant was already booked for a group, so we settled for the shaded terrace of the excellent El Alameda bar-restaurant. From Agulo, you can access the Abrante viewpoint via a winding road, where the view of Agulo, 600 meters below, is exceptional. A glass ledge over the void lets you test your fear of heights!
We drove to Vallehermoso to do our grocery shopping at the supermarket—a habit that would continue until the end of the trip. Our little house, "Casa rural El Encatadora," is located in a beautiful flower-filled valley a few kilometers west of Vallehermoso. Each of us had a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, plus a living room, kitchen, and a small terrace overlooking the quiet street at the valley’s end, which didn’t bother us at all.
Thursday, February 8 The good weather seemed to follow us since our arrival in the Canary Islands. This morning, we took the road—still as beautiful and new—toward Arure, high up to the west. The landscape was magnificent, with breathtaking glimpses of the sea far below. In Arure, we parked in front of Conchita’s bar, where a hike (Rother No. 30) starts toward two viewpoints: Alojera, which we reached after 45 minutes on a lovely path. Monique, tired from the first steep climb, stopped at the first viewpoint and hitchhiked back to Arure. Meanwhile, we continued toward the second viewpoint, Los Barranquillos, where the view of the surroundings was partially hidden by misty clouds rising from the sea. The entire mountain is sculpted by ancient, endless terraces climbing until the slope becomes too steep for construction—visible traces of the hard work of past inhabitants trying to survive in a harsh environment. We had a decent lunch at La Conchita bar, then drove to the small seaside town of Puerto la Caleta, sheltered by an immense cliff plunging into the sea. Black sand beach, rough sea—despite our encouragement, Pat didn’t dare to swim! As for the old village of Caleta, it’s perched on the mountainside, and visiting it requires climbing steep, stair-filled alleys to discover a few traditional houses. Back at the casa, dinner in, and card games...
VallehermosoFriday, February 9 This morning, the sky was overcast, and the peaks around us were shrouded in clouds. We took the same road as yesterday to hike Las Creces. Quickly gaining altitude, we entered a thick fog—visibility was very limited. We stopped at the Las Creces parking lot; visibility improved, and the sun wasn’t far off. The hike is entirely within a beautiful laurel forest, with the sun playing hide-and-seek, but it wasn’t cold despite the altitude. After finishing the loop trail, we decided to picnic—not there, as it was too chilly—but on Vallehermoso’s beach, where we found a nice picnic area sheltered by large black rocks. A short digestive walk on the surrounding hill to admire the little beach from above. Back in Vallehermoso, we did some grocery shopping, then tried to return to the casa—only to find ourselves locked out because we’d left the key in the lock inside! After several attempts and with the help of Yéli, a relative of the owner we called for help, we were finally able to get back in!
Saturday, February 10
It rained last night, and the sky remained overcast. Monique decided to rest this morning. PP, Pat, and I set off on the hike that starts from the house toward the Marichal reservoir. The sun wasn’t far off, and by 11 AM, it was fully out. The pleasant hike passed by many flower-filled gardens and orchards—orange, lemon, and mandarin trees in fruit. The path climbed gently toward the reservoir, where the view of the Cano rock dominating the landscape was magnificent. The last part of the climb was a bit tough, overgrown with lush vegetation, and the trail was slippery from last night’s rain. We descended via a different, much more pleasant path and returned to the casa just in time for lunch, prepared by Monique. This valley is rich with its many farmers and market gardeners who’ve cultivated the entire valley, taking advantage of the water flowing down from the mountain, captured upstream and redistributed through countless pipes snaking along the paths. Numerous tanks also store water during dry periods. The houses are scattered across both sides of the valley, and these colorful little homes add a beautiful touch to the landscape. The many palm trees give this valley a distinctly tropical feel—you could almost imagine yourself in the Caribbean. Add to that some salsa music drifting from a hut where farmers were working, and the picture is complete. A well-chilled beer apéro capped off a lovely morning. The afternoon was dedicated to rest, relaxation, reading, and games.
Sunday, February 11 The blue sky returned, though a few clouds still capped the highest peaks. Today, we visited Garajonay National Park, which covers the highest central mountains. Up there, we were above the clouds, and the panoramas from the various viewpoints were stunning: first, Cherelepin, accessible from the Laguna Grande parking lot, then Alto de Garajonay, offering an exceptional view of Teide—over 3,000 meters high—emerging from the clouds on Tenerife, far in the distance. We continued to the Los Roques viewpoints, then stopped for lunch at the Degollada de Peraza restaurant, where the view of the barranco was impressive. We descended toward San Sebastián and checked into our new lodging, La Cabezada, located in the countryside about 3 km above San Sebastián. It’s a small apartment adjacent to the owner’s, with a lovely terrace overlooking the surrounding mountains and surrounded by a beautiful garden. Apéro, then dinner on our beautiful terrace.
Monday, February 12 This morning, we went down to visit San Sebastián de La Gomera: its old tower, main street with some beautiful traditional houses, and the Church of the Assumption. Back at the casa for lunch. In the afternoon, Pat, PP, and I set off on the short hike from San Sebastián beach to La Guancha beach. We drove down and parked on the beach. The path climbs along the hill overlooking San Sebastián, passes by the tall Christ statue dominating the landscape, and roughly follows the coast down to the isolated Guancha beach. A beautiful hike under a hot sun, and a swim was welcome, even if the beach and sea access weren’t very comfortable due to large pebbles and quickly deepening water. Apart from two nudist bathers, there was no one on this beach. We returned the same way.
Tuesday, February 13 Rest day. We went down to town to stroll and do some shopping. I took the opportunity to visit the parador, beautifully situated above the city in a lovely garden overlooking the port and town. Together, we went for a cuba libre at the "Cuba Libre" bar, then had lunch at Breñusca (mediocre paella!). Back at the casa, then we went back down to town to see a carnival parade, a "passacalles," which actually passed an hour earlier than scheduled. Oh well.
Wednesday, February 14 Each to their own program this morning. Pat went swimming at San Sebastián beach, Monique rested at the casa, and PP and I set off on the hike from Playa de Avalos to the Ermita de Guadalupe on Playa del Cangrejo. It wasn’t easy to find the right road or the parking spot, but we managed. The path seemed to have suffered landslides, according to a sign at the trailhead! We decided to check it out, ready to turn back if it seemed too dangerous. In the end, apart from one or two slightly tricky spots where we had to climb a pile of rocks, the trail remained passable, though a bit vertigo-inducing in places. The narrow path clings to very vertical cliffs nearly 300 meters above sea level! But what a magnificent view. At one point, the trail runs alongside a wall of basaltic pipes. We returned via the drivable track that parallels the trail a bit lower. Back at the house for lunch. In the late afternoon, we returned to town to attend the "Entierro de las Sardinas" (Burial of the Sardine), which closes the Canarian carnival festivities. While waiting, we strolled through the parador’s gardens and had mojitos in town. Around 9 PM, we heard the noise and cries of the mourners. The procession advanced, led by a large papier-mâché sardine on a float, surrounded by wailing mourners. The procession headed toward the sea, where the sardine was burned, and a mini fireworks display ended the procession. It was all very good-natured, and everyone had fun. We ended the evening with dinner at a good fish restaurant, El Pajar.
Entierro de la Sardina in San Sebastián de La GomeraThursday, February 15
Woke up at 5:15 AM. The only suitable ferry was at 7 AM, which would get us to La Palma by late morning rather than evening. We packed our bags, had breakfast, then headed to the port, left our rental car, and boarded the ferry to Tenerife, from where we’d continue to La Palma. Calm sea, beautiful sun—by 10:30 AM, we disembarked in La Palma. We picked up our car and immediately headed to our new apartment in Breña Alta. It’s a large apartment with a superb terrace facing the sea, fully equipped and very comfortable. The hosts recommended Casa Goyo restaurant, near the airport and close to us. It’s a restaurant with many small rooms, some of which can be reserved for families. The fish-based cuisine (chipirones, pulpo) was excellent, hearty, and reasonably priced. Since it’s in the airport’s flight path, we occasionally heard planes landing. Quick and efficient service. Afterward, we visited Santa Cruz de La Palma, which reminded us of the historic quarters of La Orotava in Tenerife or the capital of Gran Canaria.
Friday, February 16
Beautiful weather, blue sky. We headed to the San Bartolo viewpoint toward the northeast coast, then to the lovely village of San Andrés, which we explored. From there, we walked along the shore to the natural pools of Charco Azul, where we swam in the cool but "swimmable" sea. Back in San Andrés for lunch at the "San Andrés" restaurant on the beautiful church square. Very good fish-based meal. We got back in the car and continued along the north coast to the port of Espindola and the natural pools of Fajana near the Cumplida lighthouse. A fairly strong wind whipped up beautiful waves crashing onto the rocky coast in bursts of foam. Back in Santa Cruz, we stopped at the Mercadona supermarket to buy fresh shrimp for dinner.
San AndrésSaturday, February 17
Uniform blue sky, even on the heights. We took the beautiful road that winds up to the summit of the Caldera de Taburiente. Several viewpoints offer 360° views of the entire island and beyond: you can make out La Gomera, El Hierro, and, of course, Tenerife with the perfect triangle of Teide. We parked at the Los Andes viewpoint parking lot and started our hike to Pico de la Cruz along a trail following the ridge, offering superb views into the caldera. We got back in the car and passed by the Roque de los Muchachos astronomical complex, composed of numerous observatories, some with very aesthetic mirror telescopes. We hiked from the Roque de los Muchachos parking lot to the various viewpoints, always as impressive. Picnic on site, then back to Santa Cruz. We stopped by our car dealer because the oil warning light came on—better safe than sorry. The representative reassured us but preferred to give us a Fiat Cross SUV instead.
The Caldera de TaburienteSunday, February 18 The weather was a bit mixed, with cloudy patches. We set off to hike the Barranco de la Cuba de Galga. Unfortunately, the Los Tilos trail had been closed for several months due to a major landslide. The parking lot by the road was already quite full, and indeed, we crossed paths with many hikers along the way—it’s an easy hike with little elevation gain, which is rare here in La Palma! The beautiful path winds through a very narrow, deep gorge covered in lush tropical vegetation—you’d think you were in a Southeast Asian forest, especially with the humidity in the gorge bringing out earthy and floral scents. Halfway through, Monique turned back while the rest of us continued to the Cuba de Galga. A light drizzle accompanied us on the return. For lunch, we went to Chipi Chipi restaurant in the heights of Santa Cruz. The cool air forced us to leave the lovely terrace for the slightly noisy dining room. The meal was very good and hearty. Afternoon spent resting at our house.
La Cuba de la GalgaMonday, February 19 A few clouds still clung to the nearby mountain peaks. We headed south to Los Canarios. We stopped in front of the small San Antonio Abad church, where a path leads to the viewpoint in 15 minutes. Then we visited the San Antonio Volcano Interpretation Center and climbed to the viewpoint via the trail along the crater’s edge, offering a plunging view into the crater. Then PP, Pat, and I headed toward the Teneguía volcano but turned back given the remaining distance and the intense heat bearing down on us! Plus, the landscape was rather arid and not very interesting. We got back in the car and drove down to the salt flats at the island’s southern tip. The ocean crashes here in large waves, exploding against the volcanic rocks and feeding a "blowhole" carved into the rock. We stopped for drinks at the salt flats restaurant, then headed home.
The salt flats in FuencalienteTuesday, February 20 Beautiful weather with a few clouds clinging to the mountains, as usual. A relaxed morning since my parking reservation at La Cumbrecita didn’t start until 1 PM. It takes about 30 minutes from Santa Cruz to reach the valley floor via a beautiful but narrow road toward the end, though there’s very little traffic. Meanwhile, the clouds had disappeared, and the view from the La Cumbrecita viewpoint was superb. We recognized Pico de la Cruz in the distance, where we’d been a few days earlier. We then took the path leading to the Las Chozas viewpoint through a magnificent Canarian pine forest. We picnicked on site, then took the path to the Los Roques viewpoint. We returned the same way since the direct route was closed for construction. Back in Santa Cruz, we visited the Sanctuary of Las Nieves, with its beautiful golden Baroque altar.
Hike from La CumbrecitaWednesday, February 21 After packing our things and loading the car, we left Santa Cruz under a very blue sky for Los Llanos de Aridane, where we stopped to visit this lovely town. The Church of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios has a beautiful coffered ceiling and an original papier-mâché Christ statue from the 16th century. Around it, colorful old Canarian houses brighten the streets of the town center. We took the opportunity to stroll, do some shopping, and finally sat down at La Pergola restaurant for a mediocre lunch. We got back in the car to check into our new house in Arecida. On the way, we stopped at the Mirador del Time, which once again offered an impressive panorama, allowing us—for the first time—to see the damage caused by the Tajogaite volcano eruption in 2021. You can clearly see the still-smoking crater and the large black lava flow covering the landscape down to the sea. We really liked our new accommodation: a local house that’s been renovated on the heights of Arecida, not far from the Canarian pine forest. From several terraces, we have a 360° view of the sea and mountains. We even have a private pool! There are two beautiful, brand-new bedrooms, each with its own bathroom—the best. Plus, we’re on the GR 131 trail that runs along the Barranco de las Angustias toward the northeast.
Los Llanos de AridaneThursday, February 22 Once again, beautiful weather greeted us when we woke up. We started the GR 131 with the goal of reaching the Torre del Time viewpoint—about 400 meters of elevation gain. The path, quite steep at first, winds through a superb Canarian pine forest. A few viewpoints let you appreciate the sheer drop of the Barranco de las Angustias—watch out for vertigo! At the Torre del Time viewpoint, there’s a nearly 1,000-meter vertical drop. We returned via another path, the PLP1, which meanders first through this beautiful forest, then along lovely flower-filled gardens adjacent to beautiful properties that cascade from the forest down to the road serving these neighborhoods. This afternoon, we tried to get closer to the area devastated by the 2021 lava flows. Several roads are still closed or reserved for residents, while others—brand new—have been rebuilt to open up this densely populated and cultivated region. In some places, the lava flow slightly diverted, sparing some properties that logically should have disappeared. Now, they’re encircled by a massive cooled lava field. In other spots, twisted and charred metal scraps or greenhouse remains protrude from the lava—all that’s left of the former banana plantations. A little higher up, you can see the slightly smoking crater of Tajogaite, responsible for this disaster. Back to Casa Barreros.
View of Los Llanos and, in the background, the 2021 lava flowFriday, February 23
Though the sky was still blue, the temperature had dropped due to a chilly wind. By midday, it still rose to 22°C. Today, we headed north, specifically to the town of Tijarafe, where a very narrow road descends to the small port, Porís de Candelaria. The 3.7-kilometer road drops 700 meters in elevation, with gradients up to 30%—it was going to be intense! Indeed, the descent was scary, with the void right next to the very narrow road where passing was impossible except at a few rare spots. Everything went well—there was little traffic at this early hour. From the parking lot at the bottom, a path leads to Porís de Candelaria. It’s surprising to see this small fishing hamlet nestled in the shelter of an immense cave opening onto the sea, which was quite rough today. The sun, at this time of year, would appear late in the cave, which remained in shadow for much of the day. We returned via the same road, strolled through the small town of Puntagorda, and had lunch at El Jardín de los Naranjos restaurant—excellent meal.
Fishing hamlet of CandelariaSaturday, February 24 The air was still cool, but the sun was beautiful. While Monique stayed home to rest, the three of us headed to the village of Las Tricias to hike the Buracas Caves trail. We left the car parked on the LP1 road and took the small paved road down to the sign marking the trail’s start. The signage for all the trails we took here, as in La Gomera, was very well done. The path descended steadily, then more steeply toward the caves where the island’s first inhabitants lived—some petroglyphs are still visible in certain caves. The path then climbed back up, passing magnificent dragon trees and more or less elaborate huts occupied by Germans who’ve lived here for many years. Back at Casa Barreros for some rest.
Sunday, February 25 The weather once again blessed us with a beautiful day. This morning, we visited the local produce market held on weekends in Puntagorda. You’ll find agricultural products, crafts, and food to keep you going. A little further on, there’s a glass viewpoint overlooking the barranco plunging toward the sea, with a view of the thrill-seekers trying the zip line right next to it. Lunch at Naranjos—definitely a good spot—with their shrimp and spice tagliatelle. Back home for an afternoon of relaxation.
Monday, February 26 We left Arecida under a cloudy sky. Driving up from Los Llanos de Aridane toward the east, an enormous cascade of clouds poured from the mountain peaks into the Los Llanos plain—very impressive. Arriving in Santa Cruz, we went for a stroll, did some last-minute shopping, then had a final good-quality paella at La Chalana on the paseo maritimo. We left the car in the parking lot and took the 5 PM Olsen ferry to Tenerife on a slightly choppy sea, but the ferry didn’t rock too much. Arriving at 7:15 PM, we dropped off our things near the port in our reserved apartment and went for dinner at Abordo—rubbery chipirones. A digestive stroll among the ever-increasing number of tourists in Los Cristianos—restaurants were packed to the brim, the season is in full swing here. Gone is the calm of La Gomera and La Palma, and the laid-back tourism of German hikers among whom a few French were hiding!
Tuesday, February 27 To make our homemade breakfast more enjoyable, we went to buy pastries at the local bakery, then took one last walk on the paseo along the beaches, mingling with the many mobility scooters driven by elderly or disabled people, joggers, and tourists. Last apéro near the bus station, then off to the airport. After a smooth 4-hour-30-minute flight, we arrived in Basel-Mulhouse at 10:20 PM.
THE END
Conclusion A fantastic trip to two islands with magnificent and diverse nature, where landscapes range from desert-like to tropical depending on exposure to winds and clouds. Thanks to the many beautiful viewpoints, you can truly appreciate these exceptionally dynamic reliefs. A hiker’s paradise, the trails are all very well marked, though the choice of easy or moderate paths for "casual walkers" is quite limited. Another notable advantage, in our opinion, is that these islands are very lightly developed—you’ll hardly see any of those ugly hotel blocks that spoil the landscapes of some other Canary Islands. It’s true that the beaches on these two islands don’t meet traditional international tourism criteria: they’re small, with black sand, and often difficult to access. Special mention for the quality of the road network (except for a few small local roads), which seems brand new, well-paved, and well-signposted. We also enjoyed exceptional weather for February, with fewer than three days of gray or rainy weather out of 21.
Almost all the accommodations we chose met or exceeded our expectations, often at reasonable prices: an average of 98 € per night for an apartment or house with two bedrooms for four people.
All photos can be viewed by clicking this link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/G44pPk4g9PW1rNzg8
Harley Road Trip in the American West with West Forever
Hi there,
I’m planning a road trip in the American West in July 2025 with West Forever, which was highly recommended to me.
Has anyone done this route recently and could tell me a bit more about:
- the stages (easy or not/the stops)
- hotels
- restaurants to recommend
- things to prepare for
- must-see spots
This will be my first time in the U.S. and my first group road trip, so I have tons of questions, and your advice would be invaluable.
Thanks in advance!
Southwest! 8 weeks with the family, Denver-to-Denver loop, 1st part...
Hey there, VoyageForum!!!
I’ve combed through this site up, down, and sideways to plan our two-month road trip across the American Southwest during the summer of 2022, so it only feels right to give back and revive the USA travel journal section—helping others prep, travel, or relive their own memories! 😏
A quick intro to the stars of this trip is coming soon... in an upcoming post!
Table of Contents:
Road trip introduction Day 1 & 2: the days we double-checked all our papers... Day 3 & 3 bis: The day we discovered Denver... Day 4: The day of the race, the carriage, and the little one’s cough... Day 5: the day the road trip truly began... Day 6 & 6 bis: the day of Nature’s first wonders... Day 7: the day the sky fell on our heads... Day 8 & 8 bis: the day we saw ghosts... Day 9: the day we climbed the mountain... Day 10: the day the theme song from "The Last Picture Show" played on loop in my head... Day 11: the day we lived like Native Americans... Day 12: the day we left civilization behind... Day 13 & 13 bis: the day we explored another planet... Day 14 & 14 bis: the day Caro reunited with HER rocks... Day 15 & 15 bis: the day of the fantastic ride... Day 16: the day we cooled off in Lake Powell... Day 17: the day the Colorado River’s meanders were all ours... Day 18: the day we dipped our feet in the Colorado... Day 19: the day the guys discovered true vastness... Day 20 & 20 bis: the day we covered a few acres of Route 66 before sunset... Day 21: the day the credit card said stop... right before the STRIP... Day 22: the day we finally discovered Cirque du Soleil... Day 23: the day we returned to calm... well, almost... Day 24: the day we reached our home base for 6 nights: Saint George Day 25: the day we should’ve explored Yant Flat... Day 26: the day it was 13°C at Cedar Breaks... Day 27: the day we explored The Narrows in Zion NP... Day 28: the day we discovered Snow Canyon... Day 29: the day we hiked to the "SUBWAY"... Day 30: the day we encountered the abyss—from the north this time... Day 31: the day we arrived in a place where dreams begin... Kanab... Day 32: the day we discovered the first treasures along House Rock Valley... 2nd part: the second part of the journey... Day 33: the day we discovered a magical place... Edmaier's Secret... Day 34: the day Cottonwood Road didn’t open up to us... Day 35: the day of the classic Queen’s Garden + Navajo Loop—and another event that became a classic... Day 36: the second day in Bryce... pure bliss!!! Day 37: the day we swam at the foot of Calf Creek Falls... Day 38: the day we took the Burr Trail, even with storms lurking... Day 39: The day of the goblins... Day 40: the day we enjoyed the peaceful Capitol Reef NP... Day 41: the day of the Rim Overlook and another letdown... Day 42: the day we arrived in... Moab... Day 43: the first day in Arches National Park... Day 44: the day of the Fisher Towers... Day 45: the day of Bow Tie & Corona Arches... Day 46: The day of Shafer Trail + Potash Road... Day 47: The second day in Arches NP... Day 48: the day we discovered Colorado NM in a flash... Day 49: the day of Black Canyon... Day 50: the day we passed through Durango before falling for Silverton... Day 51: the day we went through Ouray and ended up in Gunnison... Day 52: the day of Kebler Pass and arriving at the hot springs... Day 53: the day of hot springs II, then the road back to Denver... Day 54: the last day... Day 55: back home and the RECAP...
I’ve combed through this site up, down, and sideways to plan our two-month road trip across the American Southwest during the summer of 2022, so it only feels right to give back and revive the USA travel journal section—helping others prep, travel, or relive their own memories! 😏
A quick intro to the stars of this trip is coming soon... in an upcoming post!
Table of Contents:
Road trip introduction Day 1 & 2: the days we double-checked all our papers... Day 3 & 3 bis: The day we discovered Denver... Day 4: The day of the race, the carriage, and the little one’s cough... Day 5: the day the road trip truly began... Day 6 & 6 bis: the day of Nature’s first wonders... Day 7: the day the sky fell on our heads... Day 8 & 8 bis: the day we saw ghosts... Day 9: the day we climbed the mountain... Day 10: the day the theme song from "The Last Picture Show" played on loop in my head... Day 11: the day we lived like Native Americans... Day 12: the day we left civilization behind... Day 13 & 13 bis: the day we explored another planet... Day 14 & 14 bis: the day Caro reunited with HER rocks... Day 15 & 15 bis: the day of the fantastic ride... Day 16: the day we cooled off in Lake Powell... Day 17: the day the Colorado River’s meanders were all ours... Day 18: the day we dipped our feet in the Colorado... Day 19: the day the guys discovered true vastness... Day 20 & 20 bis: the day we covered a few acres of Route 66 before sunset... Day 21: the day the credit card said stop... right before the STRIP... Day 22: the day we finally discovered Cirque du Soleil... Day 23: the day we returned to calm... well, almost... Day 24: the day we reached our home base for 6 nights: Saint George Day 25: the day we should’ve explored Yant Flat... Day 26: the day it was 13°C at Cedar Breaks... Day 27: the day we explored The Narrows in Zion NP... Day 28: the day we discovered Snow Canyon... Day 29: the day we hiked to the "SUBWAY"... Day 30: the day we encountered the abyss—from the north this time... Day 31: the day we arrived in a place where dreams begin... Kanab... Day 32: the day we discovered the first treasures along House Rock Valley... 2nd part: the second part of the journey... Day 33: the day we discovered a magical place... Edmaier's Secret... Day 34: the day Cottonwood Road didn’t open up to us... Day 35: the day of the classic Queen’s Garden + Navajo Loop—and another event that became a classic... Day 36: the second day in Bryce... pure bliss!!! Day 37: the day we swam at the foot of Calf Creek Falls... Day 38: the day we took the Burr Trail, even with storms lurking... Day 39: The day of the goblins... Day 40: the day we enjoyed the peaceful Capitol Reef NP... Day 41: the day of the Rim Overlook and another letdown... Day 42: the day we arrived in... Moab... Day 43: the first day in Arches National Park... Day 44: the day of the Fisher Towers... Day 45: the day of Bow Tie & Corona Arches... Day 46: The day of Shafer Trail + Potash Road... Day 47: The second day in Arches NP... Day 48: the day we discovered Colorado NM in a flash... Day 49: the day of Black Canyon... Day 50: the day we passed through Durango before falling for Silverton... Day 51: the day we went through Ouray and ended up in Gunnison... Day 52: the day of Kebler Pass and arriving at the hot springs... Day 53: the day of hot springs II, then the road back to Denver... Day 54: the last day... Day 55: back home and the RECAP...
8-day road trip starting from Agadir
Hi everyone!
I’m heading to Morocco for a full 8 days in early November—it’s my first time visiting. I’m traveling solo and arrive in Agadir on Sunday at 10 PM.
I plan to rent a car to get around.
I’m reaching out to get your advice so I can plan my trip as well as possible...
Here are my questions:
1 - Given my late arrival, is it better to stay overnight in Agadir for the first night? If so, do you have any hotel recommendations, and is transportation easy to arrange at that hour?
2 - Do you have any trusted rental car companies to recommend in Agadir?
3 - For 7 days, here’s the route I’ve planned: Agadir → Taroudant → Taliouine → Tafraoute → Tiznit → Agadir. Does this route seem good (not too short, not too long, any spots worth adding?), considering I enjoy driving?
4 - Should I book my accommodations in advance?
Thanks in advance for your recommendations! I hope these questions aren’t too repetitive compared to what’s already been asked on the forum.
Sébastien
Road trip en famille au Danemark et en Suède English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
Nous désirons partir en Aout 2021 pour un road-trip au Danemark et en Suède. Nous partons du sud-ouest de la France en voiture et sommes une famille de trois (papa, maman et un petit garçon de 5ans). Je souhaiterai avoir vos avis concernant notre planning… il est encore en construction, bien sur :-)
J+1 : départ de notre maison pour la lorraine (famille) J+2 : Trajet vers Hambourg - nuit sur place J+3 : trajet vers Naestved - Arrêt à Odense pour visite - Nuit à Naestved J+4 : Campadventure avec la tour forest à Ronnede + balade au alentour - Nuit à Naestved J+5 : Trajet vers copenhague en passant par Roskilde - Nuit Copenhague J+6 : Copenhague J+7 : Copenhague J+8 : Riviera Danoise - Nuit Copenhague J+9 : Trajet vers goteberg visite - nuit à Kungsbacka J+10 : Fjallbacka + tanum + balade cote J+11 : excursion sur une des iles de Goteberg J+12 : Jour off - en réflexion - une journée tranquille ... J+13 : Trajet vers Mols Bjerge via ferry - Nuit Mols Bjerge J+14 : Aarhus visite - nuit Mols Bjerge J+15 : Trajet vers Ribe - sur le chemin, journée à Legoland J+16 et J+17 : Farniente + plage + balade cote J+18 : retour vers Hanovre J+19 : retour en lorraine
Qu'en pensez-vous ? est-ce trop intense ? Notre fils supporte très bien les longs trajets et aime la nature, la plage et les jeux :-)
Dans l'attente de vos remarques et suggestions, n'hésitez surtout pas si nos choix ne vous semble pas judicieux ou si nous ratons des lieux essentiels!! Concernant nos étapes si vous avez des bonnes adresses de choses à faire avec un enfant, je pense notamment à Copenhague ou Aarhus... nous sommes preneurs ;).
D'avance Merci, Cordialement,
Nous désirons partir en Aout 2021 pour un road-trip au Danemark et en Suède. Nous partons du sud-ouest de la France en voiture et sommes une famille de trois (papa, maman et un petit garçon de 5ans). Je souhaiterai avoir vos avis concernant notre planning… il est encore en construction, bien sur :-)
J+1 : départ de notre maison pour la lorraine (famille) J+2 : Trajet vers Hambourg - nuit sur place J+3 : trajet vers Naestved - Arrêt à Odense pour visite - Nuit à Naestved J+4 : Campadventure avec la tour forest à Ronnede + balade au alentour - Nuit à Naestved J+5 : Trajet vers copenhague en passant par Roskilde - Nuit Copenhague J+6 : Copenhague J+7 : Copenhague J+8 : Riviera Danoise - Nuit Copenhague J+9 : Trajet vers goteberg visite - nuit à Kungsbacka J+10 : Fjallbacka + tanum + balade cote J+11 : excursion sur une des iles de Goteberg J+12 : Jour off - en réflexion - une journée tranquille ... J+13 : Trajet vers Mols Bjerge via ferry - Nuit Mols Bjerge J+14 : Aarhus visite - nuit Mols Bjerge J+15 : Trajet vers Ribe - sur le chemin, journée à Legoland J+16 et J+17 : Farniente + plage + balade cote J+18 : retour vers Hanovre J+19 : retour en lorraine
Qu'en pensez-vous ? est-ce trop intense ? Notre fils supporte très bien les longs trajets et aime la nature, la plage et les jeux :-)
Dans l'attente de vos remarques et suggestions, n'hésitez surtout pas si nos choix ne vous semble pas judicieux ou si nous ratons des lieux essentiels!! Concernant nos étapes si vous avez des bonnes adresses de choses à faire avec un enfant, je pense notamment à Copenhague ou Aarhus... nous sommes preneurs ;).
D'avance Merci, Cordialement,
Voyage en famille aux Amériques English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
Avec mon épouse et mes 3 garçons nous envisageons un très long voyage aux Amériques. Notre objectif est d'arriver au canada et de descendre jusqu'au sud sud. Pour cela et pour l'instant nous envisageons de descendre en hymer S660 de 84. Pour ceux qui ont déjà passé ces frontières, quels sont les problèmes que nous pouvons rencontrer au douanes. Par exemple, les permis de conduire B (francais et international) sont ils ok pour conduire des cc la bas? Le poids du véhicule est il problématiques (risque de surcharge).
Une autre option que nous envisageons est d'acheter un CC la bas directement. Mais j'ai peur que les problèmes de frontières soient plus importantes avec un CC canadien en amérique du sud.
Avez vous des expériences à partager ? Tous vos conseils sont les bienvenues.
Avec mon épouse et mes 3 garçons nous envisageons un très long voyage aux Amériques. Notre objectif est d'arriver au canada et de descendre jusqu'au sud sud. Pour cela et pour l'instant nous envisageons de descendre en hymer S660 de 84. Pour ceux qui ont déjà passé ces frontières, quels sont les problèmes que nous pouvons rencontrer au douanes. Par exemple, les permis de conduire B (francais et international) sont ils ok pour conduire des cc la bas? Le poids du véhicule est il problématiques (risque de surcharge).
Une autre option que nous envisageons est d'acheter un CC la bas directement. Mais j'ai peur que les problèmes de frontières soient plus importantes avec un CC canadien en amérique du sud.
Avez vous des expériences à partager ? Tous vos conseils sont les bienvenues.
Camping ou woofing en Martinique English translation pending
Bonjour,
Avec une amie, nous nous rendons en Martinique du 2 novembre au 17 décembre environ. Nous souhaiterions avoir quelques infos sur les campings:
- Est-ce qu'ils existent des campings "longue-durée" où nous pourrions avoir un prix au mois et non à la nuit? - Quels coins nous conseillez-nous? - La voiture est-elle nécessaire où existe-t'il un système de bus pour aller dans différents endroits de l'île?
Aussi, dans l'idéal, nous recherchons plutôt à faire du woofing dans des endroits de permacultures ou éco-construction où nous pourrions planter la tente. Nous avons quelques expériences en métropole et souhaiterions avoir une même expérience en Martinique.
- Connaissez-vous ce genre d'endroits là-bas?
Je vous remercie,
Leïla et Sarah
Avec une amie, nous nous rendons en Martinique du 2 novembre au 17 décembre environ. Nous souhaiterions avoir quelques infos sur les campings:
- Est-ce qu'ils existent des campings "longue-durée" où nous pourrions avoir un prix au mois et non à la nuit? - Quels coins nous conseillez-nous? - La voiture est-elle nécessaire où existe-t'il un système de bus pour aller dans différents endroits de l'île?
Aussi, dans l'idéal, nous recherchons plutôt à faire du woofing dans des endroits de permacultures ou éco-construction où nous pourrions planter la tente. Nous avons quelques expériences en métropole et souhaiterions avoir une même expérience en Martinique.
- Connaissez-vous ce genre d'endroits là-bas?
Je vous remercie,
Leïla et Sarah
Vos bons plans pour 20 jours à Bali/Malaisie avec enfant English translation pending
Bonjour
Je compte passer les vacances de l'été prochain à partir du 25 juillet 2021 entre Bali et La Malaisie accompagné de ma femme et mon enfant de 2 ans.
Je cherche des bons plans à Bali pour un budget de 35 à 50 euros par jour.
Merci d'avance
Optimiser un circuit Cinq Terres, Venise et côte almafitaine (en train) English translation pending
Bonjour !
Je compte prendre un vol de Paris, m'envoler pour l'Italie et une fois sur place m'y déplacer en train. Je pensais atterrir à Venise , rejoindre les Cinq Terres puis terminer par la côte (retour par avion de Naples) mais il semblerait que le trajet Venise<-->Cinq Terres ne soit pas de tout repos en train (plusieurs changement). Est-ce que ceux qui ont une bonne connaissance du réseau ferroviaire italien peuvent me dire s'il est préférable de faire un V soit:
atterrir au nord (Cinq Terres ou Venise ?) descendre sur la côte almafitaine puis remonter vers la région qui n'aura pas été faite en 1 (le billet d'avion du retour dépendant bien sûr de cette dernière) ?
Sachant que quelque soit le tronçon envisagé, il y en a pour +5h, peut-être qu'il y a moyen d'optimiser le circuit en remplaçant le train par un vol interne sur l'un des parcours sans trop faire exploser le budget ?
Merci d'avance à tous ceux qui me feront part de leurs lumières ! TM
Je compte prendre un vol de Paris, m'envoler pour l'Italie et une fois sur place m'y déplacer en train. Je pensais atterrir à Venise , rejoindre les Cinq Terres puis terminer par la côte (retour par avion de Naples) mais il semblerait que le trajet Venise<-->Cinq Terres ne soit pas de tout repos en train (plusieurs changement). Est-ce que ceux qui ont une bonne connaissance du réseau ferroviaire italien peuvent me dire s'il est préférable de faire un V soit:
atterrir au nord (Cinq Terres ou Venise ?) descendre sur la côte almafitaine puis remonter vers la région qui n'aura pas été faite en 1 (le billet d'avion du retour dépendant bien sûr de cette dernière) ?
Sachant que quelque soit le tronçon envisagé, il y en a pour +5h, peut-être qu'il y a moyen d'optimiser le circuit en remplaçant le train par un vol interne sur l'un des parcours sans trop faire exploser le budget ?
Merci d'avance à tous ceux qui me feront part de leurs lumières ! TM
Dans quelle ville belge ne faut-il pas (encore?) porter le masque partout? English translation pending
Bonjour ,
Tout est dans le titre . Porter le masque dans les transports publics, dans les commerces et les endroits où il y a beaucoup de monde , d'accord . Mais l'obligation de le porter dans tout l'espace public à Bruxelles me dégoûte . Là c'est franchement trop . ....Pouvez-vous me dire dans quelles villes beges ce n'est-ce pas (encore ?) ainsi , histoire de marcher quelque part , sans devoir supporter un masque trempé de sueur sur le visage , ni devoir respirer l'air au travers de ce même masque ?
Tout est dans le titre . Porter le masque dans les transports publics, dans les commerces et les endroits où il y a beaucoup de monde , d'accord . Mais l'obligation de le porter dans tout l'espace public à Bruxelles me dégoûte . Là c'est franchement trop . ....Pouvez-vous me dire dans quelles villes beges ce n'est-ce pas (encore ?) ainsi , histoire de marcher quelque part , sans devoir supporter un masque trempé de sueur sur le visage , ni devoir respirer l'air au travers de ce même masque ?
Getting to Khartoum (Sudan) and then traveling down the Nile to Luxor (Egypt)
Hi there,
I’m planning—when it becomes possible again—to head to Khartoum and then travel down the Nile to Luxor.
I have a few questions:
For the Sudanese visa, it says I need proof of accommodation bookings for the entire stay. Is there another way to get it, because I really don’t want to book everything in advance.
About how long (just transport time, not sightseeing) does it take to get between these two cities?
Are all the connections manageable by public transport?
Thanks.
I’m planning—when it becomes possible again—to head to Khartoum and then travel down the Nile to Luxor.
I have a few questions:
For the Sudanese visa, it says I need proof of accommodation bookings for the entire stay. Is there another way to get it, because I really don’t want to book everything in advance.
About how long (just transport time, not sightseeing) does it take to get between these two cities?
Are all the connections manageable by public transport?
Thanks.
Carte des lignes de bus et horaires en Estonie English translation pending
bonjour
je suis (désespérément) à la recherche d'une carte, d'un plan, où apparaitraient les différentes lignes de bus qui desservent le pays au départ de Tallinn, et surtout: des horaires.
il est souvent dit sur les différents sites que j'ai consultés que le pays est très bien organisé à ce sujet, qu'au-moins une ligne passe dans tous les villages, mais je ne trouve quasiment rien pour certains endroits ( je pense particulièrement à Lahemaa Rahvuspark où l'on dirait qu'il n'y a parfois qu'un car par jour ??? ) sur le fameux site tpilet.ee, je ne trouve pas gd chose.
sur le site de l'ambassade, il n'y a rien non plus. à moins que je cherche vraiment très mal.... et au sujet de l'ambassade, peut-elle fournir ce genre de renseignements par mail ?
jusqu'à présent, lorsque je suis allé à l'étranger, je n'ai jamais eu de problèmes pour trouver ce type de renseignements par moi-même donc là, je suis un peu surpris.
merci d'avance à ceux qui pourront m'aider !
Itinéraire 10 jours à la découverte des paysages autrichiens! English translation pending
Bonjour tout le monde ! 🙂
Vu la situation sanitaire actuelle, je n'avais pas prévu de partir ce été mais finalement, j'en ressens quand même le besoin et prévois donc d'organiser "à la dernière minute" un voyage en Autriche (+ un peu de la Bavière).
Pourquoi l'Autriche ? Car je suis à la recherche de paysages grandioses, sauvages et que c'est un pays qui m'a toujours attiré. La Suisse étant plus chère, l'Autriche m'ira très bien ! 😎
Je compte donc partir 1 semaine-10 jours en Autriche, en axant mon voyage sur les paysages et la nature plutôt que les villes.
J'habite la Belgique et je m'y rendrai avec mon véhicule.
Ne connaissant encore rien à ce pays, je viens vers vous pour des conseils d'itinéraires. J'ai déjà une vague idée après mes quelques recherches mais vos conseils seront les bienvenus.
Grosso modo, je diviserais le voyage en trois parties : 1) Innsbruk et ses alentours, 2) Grossglockner/Route 107 et alentours, 3) Salzbourg et alentours.
Pour rendre le trajet aller moins pénible, j'envisage de m'arrêter à Munich et d'y dormir.
J1 : trajet Belgique-Munich (nuit à Munich) - visite de la ville J2 : de Munich au château de Neuschwanstein - visite du château - nuit dans la région J3 : de Munich à Alpspitze : visite de Alpspitze et Zugspitze - nuit dans la région J4 : de Alpspitze à Innsbruk : passage à Blindsee et autres points d'intérêt, viste d'Innsbruk - nuit à Innsbruk J5 : de Innsbruk à Solden : passage à Piburgersee, visite Solden - nuit à ? J6 : journée supplémentaire dans la région d'Innsbruk et alentours (est-ce nécessaire ?) J7 : de Innsbruk à Zemm am See - nuit à Zemm am See (ou autre) J8 : Grossglockner / Route 107 - nuit à Zemm am See (ou autre) J9 : de Zemm am See à Hallstatt - nuit à Hallstat (ou autre) J10 : de Hallstatt à Salzbourg - nuit à Salzbourg J11 : de Salzbourg à Berchtesgaden - visite du nid d'aigle - nuit à Berchtesgaden J12 : retour en Belgique
Est-ce que cet itinéraire vous paraît cohérent et faisable ? Le but étant encore une fois de profiter un maximum des paysages, de voir pas mal de choses sans pour autant courir non stop. On adore la photo donc on aimerait pouvoir profiter de chaque endroit, dans la mesure du possible.
Je ne connais rien au pays donc n'hésitez pas à me dire si je dois prévoir plus ou moins de temps à tel ou tel endroit.
Merci d'avance pour vos avis éclairés ! 🙂
Bonne fin de journée,
Jonafly
Vu la situation sanitaire actuelle, je n'avais pas prévu de partir ce été mais finalement, j'en ressens quand même le besoin et prévois donc d'organiser "à la dernière minute" un voyage en Autriche (+ un peu de la Bavière).
Pourquoi l'Autriche ? Car je suis à la recherche de paysages grandioses, sauvages et que c'est un pays qui m'a toujours attiré. La Suisse étant plus chère, l'Autriche m'ira très bien ! 😎
Je compte donc partir 1 semaine-10 jours en Autriche, en axant mon voyage sur les paysages et la nature plutôt que les villes.
J'habite la Belgique et je m'y rendrai avec mon véhicule.
Ne connaissant encore rien à ce pays, je viens vers vous pour des conseils d'itinéraires. J'ai déjà une vague idée après mes quelques recherches mais vos conseils seront les bienvenus.
Grosso modo, je diviserais le voyage en trois parties : 1) Innsbruk et ses alentours, 2) Grossglockner/Route 107 et alentours, 3) Salzbourg et alentours.
Pour rendre le trajet aller moins pénible, j'envisage de m'arrêter à Munich et d'y dormir.
J1 : trajet Belgique-Munich (nuit à Munich) - visite de la ville J2 : de Munich au château de Neuschwanstein - visite du château - nuit dans la région J3 : de Munich à Alpspitze : visite de Alpspitze et Zugspitze - nuit dans la région J4 : de Alpspitze à Innsbruk : passage à Blindsee et autres points d'intérêt, viste d'Innsbruk - nuit à Innsbruk J5 : de Innsbruk à Solden : passage à Piburgersee, visite Solden - nuit à ? J6 : journée supplémentaire dans la région d'Innsbruk et alentours (est-ce nécessaire ?) J7 : de Innsbruk à Zemm am See - nuit à Zemm am See (ou autre) J8 : Grossglockner / Route 107 - nuit à Zemm am See (ou autre) J9 : de Zemm am See à Hallstatt - nuit à Hallstat (ou autre) J10 : de Hallstatt à Salzbourg - nuit à Salzbourg J11 : de Salzbourg à Berchtesgaden - visite du nid d'aigle - nuit à Berchtesgaden J12 : retour en Belgique
Est-ce que cet itinéraire vous paraît cohérent et faisable ? Le but étant encore une fois de profiter un maximum des paysages, de voir pas mal de choses sans pour autant courir non stop. On adore la photo donc on aimerait pouvoir profiter de chaque endroit, dans la mesure du possible.
Je ne connais rien au pays donc n'hésitez pas à me dire si je dois prévoir plus ou moins de temps à tel ou tel endroit.
Merci d'avance pour vos avis éclairés ! 🙂
Bonne fin de journée,
Jonafly
Trois jours dans les gorges du Verdon English translation pending
Bonjour.
Je veux partir 3 jours fin août dans les gorges du verdon. Avez vous des conseils de camping /randonnée / bons plans à faire la bas
Projet de tour du monde à pied English translation pending
Bonjour,
Annonce très en avance :
J’ai un grand rêve, celui de faire le tour du monde à pied, au départ de Paris.
Au début, mon intention était de partir seul et de faire des rencontres sur le chemin… Je me suis ensuite ravisé, notamment pour des questions de sécurité à tous les niveaux : risques liés aux mauvaises rencontres, stabilité sociale, repère affectif etc.
Je cherche donc dans l’idéal un.une coéquiper.e, ou pourquoi pas un groupe.
Je dois avouer que je n’aime pas beaucoup l’idée d’un trop grand groupe, car c’est imposant pour ceux que l’on rencontre, et contraignant lorsqu’il faut prendre des décisions.
C’est un projet sérieux que je prévois d’effectuer d’ici 3 à 5 ans, le temps de se documenter et de tout penser au mieux : matériellement , financièrement, administrativement, humainement…
C’est un projet de vie, qui va durer plus ou moins 10ans.
Les pays que je souhaiterais traverser :
La Grèce La Turquie La Géorgie L’Iran Le plateau tibétain (?) La Chine
Le Japon représenterait la moitié du chemin pour rendre visite à ma sœur et son mari.
⇒ Traversée du Pacifique : faire une île du pacifique
Le Canada Le long de la Cote Ouest des USA L’Amérique Centrale L’Amérique du Sud
⇒ Traversée de l’Atlantique : arrivé au Cap-Vert (?)
Arrivé en au Sénégal Pour ensuite remonter au Maroc, L’Espagne Puis retour en France.
Je cherche des camarades capables d’être autonomes sur le plan matériel et financier au cas où l’on déciderait de se séparer (de manière définitive ou non).
Je suis bilingue anglais/français. J’ai quelques notions d’allemand, d’italien, de flamand. J’ai surtout une bonne base en Chinois. Si vous avez des notions de russe et/ou d’espagnole, ça serait le top.
En ce qui concerne les transports (vélo, voiture, bus, train, bateau, avion), je suis prêt à en prendre dans 4 conditions :
- Lorsque la réalité du terrain l’impose (exemple : traverser de l’océan). - Lorsque le transport en question est une expérience inédite en soi (exemple : le transsibérien). - Lorsque les conditions physiques l’imposent (exemple : blessures ou maladie en cours de guérison) - Lorsqu’il est nécessaire de « sauter par-dessus » un pays (exemple : le Turkménistan, la Corée du Nord, pays en guerre...)
Hormis ces conditions, je souhaite vivement que la pratique de la marche reste l’expérience centrale de ce projet.
N’hésitez pas à m’écrire pour toutes remarques /questions, ou plus si intéressé...
Au plaisir de vous lire,
Emmanuel
Annonce très en avance :
J’ai un grand rêve, celui de faire le tour du monde à pied, au départ de Paris.
Au début, mon intention était de partir seul et de faire des rencontres sur le chemin… Je me suis ensuite ravisé, notamment pour des questions de sécurité à tous les niveaux : risques liés aux mauvaises rencontres, stabilité sociale, repère affectif etc.
Je cherche donc dans l’idéal un.une coéquiper.e, ou pourquoi pas un groupe.
Je dois avouer que je n’aime pas beaucoup l’idée d’un trop grand groupe, car c’est imposant pour ceux que l’on rencontre, et contraignant lorsqu’il faut prendre des décisions.
C’est un projet sérieux que je prévois d’effectuer d’ici 3 à 5 ans, le temps de se documenter et de tout penser au mieux : matériellement , financièrement, administrativement, humainement…
C’est un projet de vie, qui va durer plus ou moins 10ans.
Les pays que je souhaiterais traverser :
La Grèce La Turquie La Géorgie L’Iran Le plateau tibétain (?) La Chine
Le Japon représenterait la moitié du chemin pour rendre visite à ma sœur et son mari.
⇒ Traversée du Pacifique : faire une île du pacifique
Le Canada Le long de la Cote Ouest des USA L’Amérique Centrale L’Amérique du Sud
⇒ Traversée de l’Atlantique : arrivé au Cap-Vert (?)
Arrivé en au Sénégal Pour ensuite remonter au Maroc, L’Espagne Puis retour en France.
Je cherche des camarades capables d’être autonomes sur le plan matériel et financier au cas où l’on déciderait de se séparer (de manière définitive ou non).
Je suis bilingue anglais/français. J’ai quelques notions d’allemand, d’italien, de flamand. J’ai surtout une bonne base en Chinois. Si vous avez des notions de russe et/ou d’espagnole, ça serait le top.
En ce qui concerne les transports (vélo, voiture, bus, train, bateau, avion), je suis prêt à en prendre dans 4 conditions :
- Lorsque la réalité du terrain l’impose (exemple : traverser de l’océan). - Lorsque le transport en question est une expérience inédite en soi (exemple : le transsibérien). - Lorsque les conditions physiques l’imposent (exemple : blessures ou maladie en cours de guérison) - Lorsqu’il est nécessaire de « sauter par-dessus » un pays (exemple : le Turkménistan, la Corée du Nord, pays en guerre...)
Hormis ces conditions, je souhaite vivement que la pratique de la marche reste l’expérience centrale de ce projet.
N’hésitez pas à m’écrire pour toutes remarques /questions, ou plus si intéressé...
Au plaisir de vous lire,
Emmanuel
Gorges de la Zrmanja et Novigradsko more avec 1 ado et 1 bébé d'un an (Croatie) English translation pending
Bonjour,
Je suis entrain d'improviser un tour de 5 jours entre Crikvenica et Split avec 1 ado et 1 bébé d'un an et demi qui n'aime pas la voiture.
J'ai parcouru le forum et pense donc passer par le lac de Novigrad et les gorges de la Zrmanja en suivant l'itinéraire gentiment proposé.
Ma question : comme nous aurons déjà fait 2h de voiture pour y arriver, les enfants n'auront que faire d'admirer de beaux paysages par la fenêtre. Plus qu'un road trip, le but est surtout de pouvoir faire l'une ou l'autre balade et se baigner.
J'ai déjà noté le restaurant recommandé et j'ai vu qu'il se trouve proche de chutes d'eau.
Quels sont les autres endroits le long du circuit qui méritent de descendre de voiture pour un plongeon ou une boucle de balade ?
Je pensais terminer la journée à Nin, y dormir, et faire un tour rapide à Zadar avant de descendre vers les environs de Sibenik (plan A). Est-ce que ça vaut la peine de passer la fin de la journée (coucher de soleil ?) et le la soirée à Nin ou si on n'y fait pas une journée de plage autant aller directement à Zadar et repartir directement le matin (plan B) ou encore de rester dormir près du lac et de passer par Zadar le matin en allant à Sibenik (plan C)? Merci d'avance pour ces précieuses informations.
Je pensais terminer la journée à Nin, y dormir, et faire un tour rapide à Zadar avant de descendre vers les environs de Sibenik (plan A). Est-ce que ça vaut la peine de passer la fin de la journée (coucher de soleil ?) et le la soirée à Nin ou si on n'y fait pas une journée de plage autant aller directement à Zadar et repartir directement le matin (plan B) ou encore de rester dormir près du lac et de passer par Zadar le matin en allant à Sibenik (plan C)? Merci d'avance pour ces précieuses informations.
Road trip de 14 jours en Crète en août English translation pending
Bonjour,
nous partons vendredi prochain et voici mon parcours, merci de me donner vos avis...
Jour 1 atterrissage à Héraklion fin de matinée on récupère la voiture (pas encore louée) et on part à ZAROS pour profiter de la piscine de notre hôtel.
Jour 2
Direction Matala et red beach le matin, on déjeune sur place et on part à Agia Galini
Hotel Agia Galini
Jour 3
Direction Spili puis passage vers Kourtaliotiko, descente vers Frangoskastello et on dort dans un petit village près de Loutro qui s'appelle LYKOS.
Jour 4
Loutro que l'on fera depuis notre auberge.
et là j'hésite soit on fait les gorges se Samaria en prenant un ferry de Loutro à Agia Roumeli
soit on repart vers Georgiopoulis et le las de Kournas.
Donc si on prend le ferry on peut prendre la voiture avec nous d'après ec que j'ai compris du coup on dormirait à Agia Roumeli puis le lendemain referry pour Sougia...et là on remonte vers Falasarna, Elafonissi Balos La canée, en trouvant 2 hébergements...
Sinon on remaonte vers Georgiopouli, la canée balos Elafonissi et Falasarna...
On termine par une journée à Héraklion et environ pour faire Knossos.
Merci de vos avis...
On termine par une journée à Héraklion et environ pour faire Knossos.
Merci de vos avis...
Voyagerez-vous avec appréhension? English translation pending
un gros avion est fait pour voler tout le temps. Ca pose tout un tas de problemes de maintenance pour le garder en état. Ne risque t'il pas d'y avoir des soucis sur les premiers vols commerciaux ?
une fois sur place reste les stigmates de la pandemie et il se peut que les autochtones regardent d un mauvais oeil. et qui sait, une rencontre avec une chauve souris ou un animal tropical un peu malade.
donc vous risquerez vous à voyager des que ca sera possible ou laisserez vous passer du temps afin de courir moins de risques et de subir moins d inconvenients ?
une fois sur place reste les stigmates de la pandemie et il se peut que les autochtones regardent d un mauvais oeil. et qui sait, une rencontre avec une chauve souris ou un animal tropical un peu malade.
donc vous risquerez vous à voyager des que ca sera possible ou laisserez vous passer du temps afin de courir moins de risques et de subir moins d inconvenients ?
Manger à l'hôtel ou pas en Thaïlande? English translation pending
Salut la communauté,
Le rêve de mon épouse est de passer Noël et nouvel an au soleil...
Je pense que 40 ans , c'est le moment ;-).
Nous sommes des habitués des clubs mexicains, cubains etc en all in.
Je remarque que a Khao lak, Patong, et autres , les hôtels sont uniquement logement petit dej .
Je suppose que ma question trouvera peut-être difficilement réponse mais manger midi et soir à l'hôtel est il fort onéreux ? Ou alors faut il trouver un hotel proche de restaurants et bars de rue ?
J'ai peur de me retrouver avec 2000€ de note en boissons et repas a la fin du séjour.
Je me doute que ma question est vague mais merci malgré tout des vos infos et du temps consacré à me répondre
Je me doute que ma question est vague mais merci malgré tout des vos infos et du temps consacré à me répondre
Organisation de mon circuit en Roumanie en septembre English translation pending
Bonjour. Je prévois un circuit de trois semaines au mois de septembre.
Je suis seule et pas trop envie de conduire une voiture tellement je conduis mal... J'ai déjà visité toute la Transylvanie ainsi que le delta du Danube. Donc mon circuit serait centré sur la Bucovine et le Maramures (voire la Moldavie côté roumain).
Pourriez-vous me dire si à partir de Bucarest avec un retour sur Bucarest, il est possible de tout faire avec les transports en commun (je suppose que pour les visites des petits villages, ça ne va pas le faire).
Sinon, existe t'il la possibilité de louer une voiture avec chauffeur? et à quel prix?
Ou encore, utiliser les taxis au jour le jour mais sont-ils présents partout? j'en doute.
Quel serait en gros les villes à relier pour faire la bouche?
Merci d'avance de m'aider à planifier mon itinéraire.
marie
Quelles plages sur la côte atlantique de l'Argentine? English translation pending
Bonjour,
Mon amie et moi avons pour projet de faire la côte atlantique de l'Argentine du Nord au Sud. Nous prévoyons ce voyage pour janvier/février 2021.
Notre but est de faire un itinéraire "only beach", de passer de plage en plages, mais pas n'importe lesquelles. Nous aimerions découvrir des plages "tranquilles", mais de qualité. Les plages dans les villes ne nous intéressent pas trop car on pense qu'elles sont surement trop bondées.
Avez-vous des idées de plages ? en connaissez-vous qui répondraient à nos critère ?
Merci pour vos infos et suggestions. Cela nous permettra d'avancer dans la constitution de notre itinéraire.
😎😎
Mon amie et moi avons pour projet de faire la côte atlantique de l'Argentine du Nord au Sud. Nous prévoyons ce voyage pour janvier/février 2021.
Notre but est de faire un itinéraire "only beach", de passer de plage en plages, mais pas n'importe lesquelles. Nous aimerions découvrir des plages "tranquilles", mais de qualité. Les plages dans les villes ne nous intéressent pas trop car on pense qu'elles sont surement trop bondées.
Avez-vous des idées de plages ? en connaissez-vous qui répondraient à nos critère ?
Merci pour vos infos et suggestions. Cela nous permettra d'avancer dans la constitution de notre itinéraire.
😎😎
La crème miracle c'est vraiment le pied? English translation pending
Bonjour,
Comme beaucoup ici mon passeport restera donc dans son tiroir cet été. Mon vélo, lui, restera dans le garage et c'est en France, et à pied, que je vais voyager. Départ de Calais dans la semaine prochaine. L'idée est de rejoindre Hendaye, en 3 mois environ. J'ai déjà traversé la France en marchant il y a une dizaine d'années ( de Saint-Malo à Menton ). Je crois que j'ai réuni tout mon matériel ( je vais bivouaquer le plus clair du temps, donc le sac sera plutôt lourd ). Je vais étrenner mes Meindl en cuir toutes neuves pour l'occasion, donc je prends des kilomètres de sparadrap pour éteindre mes ampoules 🙂. Par contre je me demandais s'il existait une crème qui détend muscles et/ou tendons en fin d'étape ? Quotidiennement je pédale beaucoup mais je n'ai pas beaucoup marché ces derniers temps et j'ai peur des jambes-piquets du petit matin, surtout au début...
L.
Comme beaucoup ici mon passeport restera donc dans son tiroir cet été. Mon vélo, lui, restera dans le garage et c'est en France, et à pied, que je vais voyager. Départ de Calais dans la semaine prochaine. L'idée est de rejoindre Hendaye, en 3 mois environ. J'ai déjà traversé la France en marchant il y a une dizaine d'années ( de Saint-Malo à Menton ). Je crois que j'ai réuni tout mon matériel ( je vais bivouaquer le plus clair du temps, donc le sac sera plutôt lourd ). Je vais étrenner mes Meindl en cuir toutes neuves pour l'occasion, donc je prends des kilomètres de sparadrap pour éteindre mes ampoules 🙂. Par contre je me demandais s'il existait une crème qui détend muscles et/ou tendons en fin d'étape ? Quotidiennement je pédale beaucoup mais je n'ai pas beaucoup marché ces derniers temps et j'ai peur des jambes-piquets du petit matin, surtout au début...
L.
Entrer aux USA avec un visa Waiver (Esta) depuis l'étranger? English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
Nous sommes actuellement à l'étranger dans un pays qui n'est pas concerné par les restrictions d'entrées aux US (ni chine, ni shengen, ...)
Nous n'avons pas de visa spécial juste un esta validé.
Nous devrons passer par les US pour retourner en France avec quelques jours sur place, pas uniquement un transit.
Est-ce que d'autres personnes se sont retrouvées dans le même cas et est-ce qu'il y a eu des soucis ou des choses particulières à prévoir ?
Merci d'avance !
Nous sommes actuellement à l'étranger dans un pays qui n'est pas concerné par les restrictions d'entrées aux US (ni chine, ni shengen, ...)
Nous n'avons pas de visa spécial juste un esta validé.
Nous devrons passer par les US pour retourner en France avec quelques jours sur place, pas uniquement un transit.
Est-ce que d'autres personnes se sont retrouvées dans le même cas et est-ce qu'il y a eu des soucis ou des choses particulières à prévoir ?
Merci d'avance !
Brazil 2020: Amazon, Northeast, Chapada, and Boipeba – a winning combo!
Hello everyone.
Preamble:
Sooner or later, you’ve got to take the plunge! I thought lockdown would be the perfect time to start this travel journal, but between working from home and gardening, I just didn’t have the time (or the motivation). Plus, long-haul trips weren’t really on the cards back then... But then I stumbled upon my photos and thought, "I’ve got to share my latest adventure in Brazil—you guessed it!"
First, a little flashback: some of you (yes, really, in DMs!) pointed out the big gaps in my travel journals—India in 2019, Vietnam in 2018, so many missed opportunities!
Truth is, for India, I traveled with a private guide and honestly didn’t have much to add to the tons of well-documented journals already out there. Plus, I still haven’t decided if I love or hate India... So, how do you share your feelings when you’re not even sure yourself? As for Vietnam, I had plenty to say—even though the itinerary was pretty classic—but I’ll admit the vibe on this part of the forum at the time kinda put me off for a while... And time flies, and memories fade... Anyway, just wanted to clear that up for my (many or few) readers. *Tudo bem*, let’s get started!!
Preamble:
Sooner or later, you’ve got to take the plunge! I thought lockdown would be the perfect time to start this travel journal, but between working from home and gardening, I just didn’t have the time (or the motivation). Plus, long-haul trips weren’t really on the cards back then... But then I stumbled upon my photos and thought, "I’ve got to share my latest adventure in Brazil—you guessed it!"
First, a little flashback: some of you (yes, really, in DMs!) pointed out the big gaps in my travel journals—India in 2019, Vietnam in 2018, so many missed opportunities!
Truth is, for India, I traveled with a private guide and honestly didn’t have much to add to the tons of well-documented journals already out there. Plus, I still haven’t decided if I love or hate India... So, how do you share your feelings when you’re not even sure yourself? As for Vietnam, I had plenty to say—even though the itinerary was pretty classic—but I’ll admit the vibe on this part of the forum at the time kinda put me off for a while... And time flies, and memories fade... Anyway, just wanted to clear that up for my (many or few) readers. *Tudo bem*, let’s get started!!
Botswana avril 2021... faut bien rêver English translation pending
Hello Tous,
J'hésite entre deux circuits, d'une durée de 14 jours chacun.
L'un faisant Kasane - Nata - Khubu Island - CKGR : Leopard Pan, Piper Pan, Xaxa Camp, Bape Camp - Kutse 5Molose et Moreswe) - Khama Rhino Sanctuary - Francistown - Nata - Kasane.
L'autre: Kasane - Gweta - Ghanzi - Kaa Secteur (Swartpan, Gnus Gnus, Zushwa) - CKGR (Xade - Piper Pan Leopard Pan) - Khubu Island - Kasane
Qu'en pensez-vous ? Ca fait beaucoup de route mais j'aimerais retour dans le Kalahari et la voiture est basée à Kasane.
Dans l'attente de vos commentaires, beaux rêves 🙂
J'hésite entre deux circuits, d'une durée de 14 jours chacun.
L'un faisant Kasane - Nata - Khubu Island - CKGR : Leopard Pan, Piper Pan, Xaxa Camp, Bape Camp - Kutse 5Molose et Moreswe) - Khama Rhino Sanctuary - Francistown - Nata - Kasane.
L'autre: Kasane - Gweta - Ghanzi - Kaa Secteur (Swartpan, Gnus Gnus, Zushwa) - CKGR (Xade - Piper Pan Leopard Pan) - Khubu Island - Kasane
Qu'en pensez-vous ? Ca fait beaucoup de route mais j'aimerais retour dans le Kalahari et la voiture est basée à Kasane.
Dans l'attente de vos commentaires, beaux rêves 🙂
Lagune de Dakhla: un coin de paradis English translation pending
Bonjour les amis,
je vous propose une ballade autour de Dakhla : oiseaux par milliers, pécheurs de l'extrême, sports de glisse: la lagune est un lieu magique où on se sent au bout du monde.
J'y suis resté trois semaines pour profiter de cet environnement préservé, au rythme des marées. Puis je suis remonté par la côte où m'attendaient d'autres moments marquants.
J'espère que ces images vous permettront de partager ce que j'ai ressenti ! https://youtu.be/gVA80KC-YlA
A bientôt!
je vous propose une ballade autour de Dakhla : oiseaux par milliers, pécheurs de l'extrême, sports de glisse: la lagune est un lieu magique où on se sent au bout du monde.
J'y suis resté trois semaines pour profiter de cet environnement préservé, au rythme des marées. Puis je suis remonté par la côte où m'attendaient d'autres moments marquants.
J'espère que ces images vous permettront de partager ce que j'ai ressenti ! https://youtu.be/gVA80KC-YlA
A bientôt!
Festival des éléphants en Thaïlande English translation pending
Salut tout le monde just partage d'une petite video sur la thailande, c'est tellement un beau pays, Mais vous pensez quoi des elephants la bas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlbo0_rpKM0
Vaut-il mieux conduire en Irlande/Grande-Bretagne avec son véhicule ou en louer un? English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
L'essentiel de mon interrogation est contenue dans le titre de ce fil : est-il plus aisé de conduire son propre véhicule en Irlande et en Grande-Bretagne ou vaut-il mieux en louer un une fois sur place ? Je pensais que circuler avec ma voiture serait plus commode mais je lis par-ci par-là qu'il est bien plus confortable (même pour nous) d'être au volant d'un véhicule adapté à la conduite à gauche et qu'on s'y habitue très vite. Par ailleurs, quid de la conduite à gauche ? Je suis preneuse de retours d'expériences, merci. 🙂
L'essentiel de mon interrogation est contenue dans le titre de ce fil : est-il plus aisé de conduire son propre véhicule en Irlande et en Grande-Bretagne ou vaut-il mieux en louer un une fois sur place ? Je pensais que circuler avec ma voiture serait plus commode mais je lis par-ci par-là qu'il est bien plus confortable (même pour nous) d'être au volant d'un véhicule adapté à la conduite à gauche et qu'on s'y habitue très vite. Par ailleurs, quid de la conduite à gauche ? Je suis preneuse de retours d'expériences, merci. 🙂