Results for "Privas+|+127"

Hi there!

I’m heading to Morro de São Paulo in the first half of September.

I’ll spend a day in Bahia and then take the fast ferry to Morro from the Terminal Turístico Náutico. I’ve heard this ferry can be canceled depending on sea conditions. Locals from Bahia, can you tell me if cancellations are common in early September or if it’s usually not a big deal?

After Morro, I’ll spend a few days in Boipeba.

My question is about the return trip to Bahia to catch my flight home.

Is it better to go back through Morro to take the ferry in the opposite direction, or can I leave directly from Boipeba to Bahia?

I want to avoid long trips and bus rides.

If there’s no way around a road trip, I could take a taxi, Uber, or something similar.

Obrigado pela ajuda for helping me optimize my route: Bahia → Morro / Boipeba → Bahia! :)

Hi there. We’re heading to India at the end of December for a month. I planned an itinerary: Delhi, Nawalgarh, Sikar, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittaurgarh, Bundi, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and back to Delhi. Our driver told us it’s not possible because there are no roads. He’s suggesting the usual tourist circuit, which we don’t want to do. What do you think of my route? Any tips? Thanks, community!

Hi everyone, I’m back from my 10-day cruise to Japan and South Korea and wanted to share my experience. Before leaving, I searched the forums but found very few firsthand accounts of this kind of trip.

Just so you know, a cruise isn’t some slow, easy trip—every port stop is an adventure!

We flew from Marseille with Lufthansa via Frankfurt, with a short 1.5-hour layover that was just enough, though we still had to sprint to make our connection. We’d booked seats with extra legroom, which was great—we were next to premium economy, so we had a good spot. The airline hadn’t sold all the premium seats and kept making announcements to attract takers, but no discounts!

After about 12 hours, we arrived at Tokyo Haneda feeling pretty wiped since we hadn’t slept. The time difference is 7 hours, so we landed in late morning in Japan. We took the free rail shuttle to central Tokyo. The entry process went smoothly thanks to the Japan web app. For the subway, we’d registered our Suica card, but we hadn’t anticipated how tricky transfers could be when stations don’t always have elevators—bit of a hassle, but still cheap! Navigating the subway is super easy, though. We’d bought a SIM card on Amazon beforehand, so everything was smooth.

We’d booked a room at the Grand Hazelmon Hotel, which is near the Imperial Palace. It’s a quiet business district in the evenings and well-connected by subway.

I’d opted for a half-room, so I was worried about space, but it was fine—no smaller than a London or Paris hotel room! Breakfast was included and really good.

We even had dinner there one night—dishes were around 9 € at a 4- or 5-star hotel, so we didn’t hold back.

In the afternoon, we visited the Imperial Palace. You can’t go inside, but it’s a green oasis—surprisingly peaceful despite Tokyo’s 36 million people—and very secure.

I’ll share more of my adventures later!

Hi there,

I'm currently in Bangkok: How can I find a good doctor for a consultation? It's for a friend who'd like a second medical opinion compared to what they got in their country of residence. Any professionals you'd recommend? How much does it cost?

Thanks for your help

Hi there,

I’m heading to Kerala in December. I’ve been searching without luck for air-conditioned buses, minivans—basically anything that’s not a bus without AC or windows, since my route from Cochin to Munnar is gonna be a long one and I don’t wanna struggle.

I checked around, and it’s crazy—you can’t find the name of a single private company, just overpriced transfers!

From what I can tell, it seems like there’s nothing but local buses… yet I went to Sri Lanka two years ago and there were plenty of options.

Thanks in advance for any tips! Caroline

Hi everyone! 🙂

A little request for help from those who’ve stayed in Sedona—we’ll have almost 3 full days there. I’ve done some research on different sites, but I’m still confused.

It seems that some spots require, in addition to the America the Beautiful Pass (which we’ll already have from the start of our road trip), the Red Rock Day Pass since they’re within Red Rock State Park. This would be for park and parking lot maintenance.

Here are the hikes we’re eyeing: Boynton Canyon, Devil’s Bridge, Birthday Cave, Airport Mesa, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Crescent Moon Ranch.

We won’t be able to do all of them—we’ll have to choose 🤔 and cut some 😢.

On top of that, there are the two scenic drives: Red Rock Scenic Byway and Oak Creek Scenic Drive.

Does the America the Beautiful Pass cover everything, or do we also need the Red Rock Day Pass? And if we do, which hikes require it?

Thanks for your answers, and have a great afternoon! marcalamar 🙂

hi everyone, I just got back from 3 weeks in Paraguay. If you'd like any info, feel free to ask!

Hello,

We’re heading to Bali as a family (5 people) for about twenty days, from mid-August to early September. Since our English is pretty limited, we’d like to hire a French-speaking driver or guide to accompany us on certain days and show us around the island, picking us up directly from our various hotels.

That said, I imagine this kind of service is probably more expensive than taking a local taxi, right?

Also, which Uber-like app should we use there? And for bookings, which website should we look for accommodations on?

Thanks in advance for your replies.

Hi there, We're planning a trip to the Philippines but would love to spend 10 to 15 days in Vietnam to see what we missed due to bad weather a few years ago. Every simulation I've tried has turned out to be way too expensive... I know that for a departure around February 2026, it might be a bit early, but if anyone has a great tip.....? Thanks in advance

Hi there,

I'm trying to plan a little Greek getaway in early summer, and it's a tad complicated—connections from Sitia to Rhodes via Karpathos are only twice a week (and not on the days that work for me!). I gave up on the idea of Kastelorizo, which isn’t that easy to reach either, and replaced it with Symi, which has a daily connection—even several—to Rhodes, where I’d like to spend as little time as possible. I found a boat leaving Symi at 8:15 AM and arriving in Rhodes at 9:35 AM. The ferry to Karpathos leaves the same day at 11:00 AM. That’s 1 hour and 25 minutes to switch boats. It’s tempting because it’s a perfect sequence, but I’m wondering if it’s still a bit too tight.

Do Sebeco Lines’ speedboats arrive at the same port where Blue Star ferries depart? Are they punctual?

Catherine

Ah! New Zealand, the ultimate road trip destination. If you've been dreaming of trying out a campervan adventure, it's definitely one of the best places in the world to take the plunge. With its diverse landscapes—white sand beaches, volcanoes, glaciers, fjords, and glacial lakes—the country also boasts top-notch infrastructure for campers, making it ideal for campervan circuits, even for beginners!

Why is New Zealand the perfect country for your first campervan trip?

Safe and Scenic Roads

New Zealand offers a well-maintained road network, usually not too busy outside major cities. This is a huge plus if you're new to driving a campervan. The routes often feature spectacular viewpoints. You'll also find a vast network of campgrounds, and while freedom camping is regulated, there are still plenty of spots where you can sleep for free. Speed limits are reasonable, and the driving culture is pretty relaxed.



Adapted Infrastructure

There are plenty of campervan rental companies offering different models, from converted vans to large family motorhomes. You'll find rental depots in major cities (Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown), along with shuttle services between the airport and the depot. Campgrounds in New Zealand, whether private or managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), are easy to find and well-marked. Plus, since New Zealand is a country of campers, you'll often get helpful tips from the locals.

Diverse and Accessible Landscapes

Beaches, volcanoes, deep fjords, or subtropical forests—you can experience a completely different setting in just a few hours of driving. No need to be a 4x4 expert: most roads leading to these stunning sites are campervan-friendly. This variety of landscapes, combined with easy access, makes New Zealand a top choice for a first road trip experience.



The Most Beautiful Places to Discover in a Campervan

To give you an idea, here’s a selection of must-see spots to inspire your next adventure.

1. The Coromandel Peninsula (North Island)

Just a few hours from Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula is famous for its white sand beaches, hot springs, and lush vegetation. Hot Water Beach is a must-visit—dig your own "thermal bath" on the shore at low tide. You’ll easily find campgrounds by the ocean, perfect for your first taste of campervan life.

2. Rotorua and the Geothermal Wonders (North Island)

A little further south, Rotorua is the geothermal heart of New Zealand. Geysers, bubbling pools, and sulfur lakes with amazing colors—there’s no shortage of things to do. It’s also a major hub for Māori culture. Take the time to visit a traditional village or watch a haka performance. In the evening, relax at a campground with natural hot pools.

3. Tongariro National Park (North Island)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this volcanic park is a paradise for hikers, especially with the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Even if you're not an experienced hiker, you can enjoy stunning views from the roads or short marked trails. The campgrounds in the area will immerse you in a postcard-worthy setting.

4. Abel Tasman, Coastal Gem (South Island)

After taking the ferry from Wellington to Picton, head to Abel Tasman National Park. Its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coastal trails are perfect for unwinding. One of the perks of a campervan is exploring at your own pace, choosing spots near the beaches or deeper in the forest.



5. Punakaiki and the Pancake Rocks (South Island)

As you drive along the West Coast’s thick rainforests and wild beaches, stop at Punakaiki to see the Pancake Rocks—surprising rock formations that look like stacks of pancakes. A marked trail runs along the coast, letting you watch waves crash into the "blowholes" (marine geysers). Spending the night at a seaside campground, lulled by the sound of waves, is an experience not to be missed.

6. The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers (South Island)

Further south, the glacier region is a must for lovers of breathtaking landscapes. You can admire the icy giants from a distance on an easy trail or take a helicopter to fly over them—or even walk on them. The campgrounds in Franz Josef or Fox Glacier let you wake up in an alpine atmosphere, contrasting with the lush vegetation around you.

7. Queenstown and Wanaka (South Island)

Queenstown, on the shore of a sparkling lake surrounded by majestic peaks, is known as the adventure capital: bungee jumping, paragliding, rafting—anything’s possible. If you prefer a quieter vibe, Wanaka is just as charming, with its beautiful lake and accessible walks. The road between these two towns is stunning, with plenty of perfect spots for a picnic stop.

8. Te Anau and Milford Sound (South Island)

New Zealand’s fjords are world-famous. Te Anau is the gateway to exploring Milford Sound or, for something wilder, Doubtful Sound. A cruise through these deep fjords, surrounded by towering cliffs, is one of the highlights of any trip to New Zealand. Staying overnight in a campervan in Te Anau saves you a long round trip in a day and lets you set off at dawn for more adventures.

9. Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook (South Island)

In the heart of the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo charms with its unique turquoise color and its picturesque church by the water. The area is known for its starry skies (it’s an International Dark Sky Reserve). Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak, stands majestically in the background. Several campgrounds offer views of these mountains.

Practical Tips for a Successful Campervan Road Trip

Where to start? Between choosing the right vehicle, the best time to go, parking rules, and tips for where to sleep, here are our practical tips to plan your road trip stress-free.

Duration and Itinerary Choices

Less than 15 days: Focus on one island to avoid spending too much time on the road.

More than 15 days: Consider a North-South combo with a one-way trip (e.g., Auckland to Christchurch).

Book Early

In peak season (November to March), demand is high, especially for family-sized vehicles. Book your campervan ideally 6 to 8 months in advance.

Opt for full insurance to avoid high excess fees and hassles in case of issues. Standard bank insurance rarely covers campervans.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Watch out for campervans over 3 years old—they can be "tired" in terms of both equipment and driving. If your budget allows, go for a newer model for better reliability and comfort.

Check the depot’s opening hours for pick-up. If you arrive late or after a long trip, it’s better to spend the first night in accommodation rather than driving straight away.

Where to Spend the Night

Freedom camping: Allowed in some remote areas but heavily regulated. Fines for breaking the rules can reach $200. Use comprehensive apps to identify legal spots and avoid penalties!

Basic campsites / DOC: Basic facilities but often in idyllic settings. These are campgrounds managed by the Department of Conservation, perfect for getting close to nature.

Private campgrounds: More expensive but offer hot showers, electricity, playgrounds for kids, pools, and laundry. Ideal for recharging—both your campervan’s batteries and your own.

Respect Nature

New Zealand is known for its pristine landscapes. Manage your waste, use designated dumping areas, and follow local signage. New Zealanders care deeply about keeping their environment clean and warmly welcome responsible tourists. For support, consider a local French-speaking agency like Frogs, which can help with administrative steps, planning your itinerary, and of course, renting a campervan.

Hi there, I’d planned to visit Cathedral Valley, Goblin Valley, the Burr Trail/Northom loop, Factory Butte, and Moonscape Overlook, as well as the Capitol Reef scenic route over three days. The scenic Highway 12 would be for the following days.

Since I rented an AWD SUV, I was planning to contact an outfitter for Cathedral Valley, but they suggested that instead of doing Cathedral Valley with them and the rest solo, they could take me to the four most relevant sites mentioned in the title. Their plan is to start at sunrise at either Temples of the Sun/Moon or Moonscape Overlook and then hit the other three afterward. What do you think? Thanks! Louis

Hi there, I can’t seem to find a car rental with a driver for several days in Chiang Mai to explore the surrounding areas, preferably in the countryside/mountains, villages, etc. Would anyone have a driver to recommend? Thanks

Hello there,



As mentioned in the title, this is a travel journal focused on St. Lucia and iSimangaliso ("this place is miraculous" in Zulu) over various trips spanning about twenty years.

The Elephant Coast stretches from Hluhluwe Umfolozi, through St. Lucia and iSimangaliso, all the way to the Mozambique border near Kosi Bay and Tembe. This region was conquered by the Zulus (for context, in the 19th century, the Zulus were just one Bantu group among many—it was a local Napoleon, Shaka, who was both cruel and inventive, conquering and subjugating all other groups to form the Zulu nation). The Tonga were the big losers in this area, and a certain "animosity" is still very noticeable... With our two guides (one Zulu and the other Tonga), we ran into some Tonga folks—definitely not a warm atmosphere. The Tonga were pushed back into the marshes. Fish traps are their main source of wealth. (iSimangaliso is a lagoon and marshland area with several interconnected lakes—it used to be called Vetland Park, and for good reason.) So, lakes, fishing with fish traps...





Traditionally done with raffia boats



Made from forest raffia



Where we spotted a particularly rare and endemic bird (whose name I can’t remember... and I can’t be bothered to dig through my notes)

Here, those are eagles

And they’re pretty brave because... they’re not far away...





Yet we still swim there... with supervision...



So, between St. Lucia and Mozambique, you’ll find marshes, lagoons, lakes, and coastline, with our Tonga friends, Zulu friends, and—just a bit further up—the Tembe... and their king. (I’m showing off a bit because I got to see a king up close, ate in the same room as him, and even talked to him!)

Originally, the Boers tried to farm there... including sugarcane...

But... between the hippos, snakes, crocs, and malaria-carrying mosquitoes... They lost count of the deaths and disappearances.

The story goes that when Madiba (Mandela) came to power, he passed through the area and convinced them to turn it into a natural space that would attract tourists—and that’s when the big change happened.

And it’s pretty incredible to see how this place has evolved, going from extreme poverty to a certain level of gentrification... How this once "chaotic" area saw shops, roads, and housing spring up (I’m mainly talking about Mtubatuba, the nearby Black town). In fact, in St. Lucia now, the homes that aren’t tourist accommodations can be counted on one hand.

St. Lucia has become a "seaside resort"... very busy during school holidays and certain weekends, increasingly cosmopolitan (20 years ago, speaking French was exotic—now it’s completely ordinary).

Hi there,

I’m reaching out not for myself for once😛, but for a family member who’s heading to Bali in a month and has a thousand questions. Since she doesn’t spend much time online and I don’t know this part of the world at all, I thought I’d ask for feedback here. Here’s what she’s planning:

Departure Arrival > UBUD UBUD UBUD UBUD UBUD - PEMUTERAN PEMUTERAN PEMUTERAN - MUNDUK MUNDUK MUNDUK - SIDEMEN SIDEMEN SIDEMEN - SEMINYAK SEMINYAK - DENPASAR - Flight to Komodo FLORES/KOMODO/RINCA FLORES/KOMODO/RINCA Flight to DENPASAR - SANUR Departure

She knows UBUD is very touristy but plans to stay there and take day trips from there. Her main question: is it worth going to Flores just for Komodo? Agencies apparently offer mini-cruises for 2-3 days... Type of trip: 2 adults, no kids. They like taking their time and don’t want to rush. I think they don’t mind touristy spots but still hope to find some authenticity. Thanks for your thoughts!

Hello,

I’m new to the forum (I live in Paris), though I’ve used it before during my past trips, a long time ago when I was young :). I’m now the venerable age of 49.

As mentioned in the title, I’m looking for some great accommodation tips for myself and my two daughters, aged 10 and 12, that you may have recently tried during your travels in Japan.

Ideally, since I haven’t been back to Japan since 2008, I’d love to get some reliable recommendations for hotels or ryokan where you’ve stayed.

When I visited Japan several times in 2007 and 2008, I didn’t have kids, so I wasn’t as concerned about comfort. Even though my daughters are used to traveling with me, I’d still like to use the Japan Rail Pass as I did before—except back then, I didn’t book in advance. With kids, I’d prefer to plan ahead.

So if you have any great recommendations to share for these cities (priority), but I’m also interested in Nara, Matsuyama, Fukuoka/Hakata, and Hiroshima.

All your suggestions based on your past experiences will be much appreciated here.

I’d also be happy to chat with you about the differences between Japan nearly 20 years ago, when I first visited, and today. Have many things changed or evolved?

Thanks so much for your help.

Arnaud

Hi there, I’ve read that medication supplies shouldn’t exceed 30 days. How can I handle a two-month stay?

Thanks for your tips!

I’m proposing to team up for two weeks in Mauritania in February.

Round-trip flight Paris/Nouakchott with RAM is around 500 €. Departure around 28/01, return around 13/02.

On the ground, I’m organizing a grand tour of Mauritania with a guide I know who’s very reliable. We’ll be in a 4x4, alternating between bivouacs and small hostels. A really diverse itinerary. The circuit price is a maximum of 1200 €. Mauritanian visa: 55 €.

I already know Mauritania—it’s a low-tourism, safe, and friendly country. A chance to discover a real desert with real nomads! However, the ‘hotel’ services are basic! So I’m looking for adaptable travel companions, easy-going, and preferably with a good sense of humor.

I’m in the senior age range, but I’ve got nothing against younger folks 😊.

If you’d like to share this amazing adventure, get in touch with me.

Hi there,

I need help creating my IRCTC account. I tried to create an account via the website (not the app), but I’m not receiving any OTP at my email address. It asks me to verify my OTP to confirm registration, but I’ve tried multiple emails and checked spam, trash, etc.—nothing. I’m not getting any OTP at all.

What should I do now?

I want to take the train from Delhi to Agra Cantt. What are my options without an IRCTC account? I have a trip from New Delhi to Agra and another from Agra to Jaipur.

FYI: I’d prefer to avoid the bus since it doesn’t seem to stop, and I don’t feel comfortable jumping off a moving bus. Too risky for my taste.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Hello François, and the new team!

Like many others, I’m overjoyed to hear that VoyageForum is reopening! I’ve been waiting hopefully for this, and it’s wonderful that it’s finally happening!

I just couldn’t bring myself to actively participate in other French-language travel forums—their format and way of doing things never appealed to me as much. I really hope that VF’s structure, categories, and interface won’t change too much despite the handover, because I’m very attached to them. Through thick and thin, the site has held strong—it’s amazing!

In a previous message, François mentioned that there were positions to fill ahead of the reopening, including moderators...

I’ve been eagerly waiting for this and hoping to send in my CV.

Now, after reading the latest message, it seems like the team is already fully formed. But are there still a few spots left to fill?

I’ve been a VF member for 20 years (since 2004). I’d love to contribute to this wonderful adventure as a moderator if VF would trust me with the role. If the team is open to reviewing it, I’m ready to send my CV. Could you let me know the next steps?

Best regards, Marine/eversmile

Bonjour,

Notre dévolu se porte sur la Belgique cet été. Habitués de la France et de l'Espagne, ça va nous changer un peu d'aller dans le Nooooooooooord. 😏 Ce sera une première, perso j'y vais pour goûter aux frites légendaires.

Blagues à part, je cherche des campings sympas mais je ne trouve rien sur Gougueule qui me satisfasse plus que ça.

Camping-car 3 adultes et un chien.

C'est juste pour 2 ou 3 nuits entre Bruxelles et Mons. Ma fille (16 ans) veut rencontrer des amis (virtuels) faits sur Instagram.

Merci de votre aide amis belges.

Nous revoici. Cette fois, c’est le département de l'Indre-et-Loire qui est à l’honneur. La même joyeuse équipe, le même état d’esprit. J’ai de nouvelles sacoches sur ma monture. Tout un ensemble orange "Globtrotter". Du coup, j’ai même pu laissé ma sacoche de selle. Mathieu me l’avait offerte il y a quelques années, mais avec mes précédentes sacoches, ça ne passait pas.

Comme vous pouvez le remarquer, si vous me suivez, nous avons sauté une année. Rien de grave, mais un empêchement nous y a contraints. C’est donc avec fébrilité que nous attendions ce moment de retrouvailles joyeuses.

Je suis arrivé à Paris samedi, dimanche nous avons préparé les vélos et les bagages et nous sommes partis lundi, après avoir fait quelques courses. Comme c’est ma première utilisation de mes sacoches, nous avons dû opérer les réglages des attaches, puis répartir le chargement entre elles. Nouvelle organisation.

Voici notre voyage en quelques chiffres.

Durée : 5 jours

Distance : ~ 470 km

Dénivelé : ~ 2800 m D+

Quid de d'août 2020 et de la possibilité ou non de partir à Singapour et en Malaisie ?

J'ai bien conscience que personne n'a encore réellement de réponse mais si, comme moi, vous avez vos billets d'avion en poche depuis longtemps, préparez votre périple depuis longtemps, réservez vos hôtels depuis longtemps, vous devez sans doute être dans l'attente des annonces officielles des différents gouvernements.

Me concernant, à l'heure actuelle, je me dis que la possibilité de partir est proche de 1%, que tout bouge très vite. Je n'ai donc rien annulé, je ferai cela au dernier moment (en juillet). Je me dis aussi que Singapour et la Malaisie sont des pays développés capable de répondre rapidement à la menace du Covid-19, idem pour la France.

Genting, la puissante compagnie de croisière basée à Hong Kong vient de publier ses nouvelles normes d'exploitation tirant les conséquences de la crise provoquée par le coronavirus. Elles annoncent certainement ce qui devra être fait également ailleurs.

Genting prévoit des contrôles de température à l'embarquement, exigera des certificats de bonne santé pour les passagers de plus de 70 ans et amplifiera le check in en ligne.

Des mesures d'hygiène draconiennes seront mises en oeuvre : nettoyage systématiques des ascenseurs toutes les deux heures, des rambardes et objets fréquemment touchés toutes les heures, nettoyage bi quotidien des cabines, fumigation des cabines entre deux occupants.

Une des mesures les plus importantes est la suppression des self services, tous les repas devant désormais être servis à table par des serveurs masqués.

Autre mesure importante : tous les bateaux seront utilisés à mi capacité, cette mesure s'étendant aux bus des excursions !!

Genting s'engage également à revoir complètement les systèmes de ventilation et à y renforcer les filtres.

Ces mesures préfigurent celles qui devront être adoptées par l'ensemble des compagnies et vont bouleverser l'économie de la croisière, car on n'imagine pas que le surcoût induit par ces mesures ne soient pas répercutés aux clients! Source : Cruise Critic

Bonjour J'ai une réservation pour mon véhicule et moi même pour le mois de mai sur la ligne de ferry smyrilline ( danemark/islande ). Le voyage est compromis à cause du covid. J'aimerais annuler et me faire rembourser.Est ce que quelqu'un a été dans cette situation en mars ou avril et comment s'est passé le remboursement avec Smyrilline ? Merci de vos conseils.

Hey everyone, I went to Budapest in 2019 and I’m here to help with what you need to know if you're young, on a tight budget, and want to party while sightseeing.

Preparing your trip 1/ Accommodation

There were four of us, and we booked a pretty comfortable place in the center of Buda (on a well-known online booking site). We stayed in the Jewish Quarter, which is pretty lively (ruin bars, fast food, etc.).

I recommend booking in advance—we did it 6 months ahead.

So, we paid 300 € for 4 nights.

My tip: don’t stay in hotels—try to live in the city to experience life to the fullest.

2/ Currency exchange

I don’t need to tell you not to exchange money at the airport... My friend exchanged 300 € into forints (1 € = 365 forints) and only got the equivalent of 250 € in forints—so 50 € in fees! My advice: exchange just 20-30 € at the airport for the taxi to the center. After that, I recommend exchange bureaus or the small machines on the street—they scam you less than the airport.

3/ Phone plan

Check with your carrier to see if your plan works outside France and what the terms are.

4/ Banking

Call your bank to let them know you’re traveling and might use your card. Otherwise, they might think it’s fraud and block your account (it’s silly, but it can happen).

5/ Flight ticket

Same as accommodation—book in advance to pay less. I got mine for 80 € round-trip.

Once you're there If you’re staying less than a week, all of this should be more than enough.

1/ What to visit

The historic sites, of course—the Parliament, the palace, the synagogue (20 € entry), and a little walk along the Danube. The must-do for me was the Budapest Thermal Baths (20 € for the day). !!! Important !!! It’s better to go in the morning to make the most of the day. Don’t fall for overpriced private bath or massage offers.

2/ What to eat

Honestly, finding a traditional restaurant in the center is pretty tough—there are some, but I didn’t try them. Generally, it’s cheaper, but fast food is about the same price as in France. Except maybe kebabs (4 €).

3/ Nightlife

If you have a French ID, you can get into most places—sometimes they don’t even check your age. I really felt like it was a free pass to everything! But I wouldn’t be honest if I said we didn’t get turned away from one club (too fancy for us). We skipped the dress shoes and suits, haha.

The must-do for me is the RUIN BARS (probably my biggest highlight of the trip). I loved the affordable beer and food, lots of young people, lots of energy, and, well, lots of hangovers.

For clubs, I’ve got two to recommend—one is a must (I don’t remember the name, but it’s an open-air club in Budapest). Great vibe, Prague-style, and alcohol.

Alcohol is expensive! !!! Important !!! Service fees on bottles—the menu doesn’t show it, but add 30% to every bottle you order. Also, service fees in restaurants.

The second club is Peach and Cream. If you like electro and R&B, this is for you. Pretty mixed crowd, nice waitresses. I recommend it!

A week is enough.

What you need to know

Prices

Cigarettes: 4-5 € a pack (you’ve got to like the taste) Beer: 3 € (a pint) Groceries (supermarket): same as France Club entry: 8-10 € (try to get in with a bottle directly from the bouncers if you speak a little English) Fast food: 5-6 € Taxi: 15-20 € total for airport-to-center transport (about 30 minutes)

Mistakes to avoid

-Toilets are almost always pay-to-use (200-300 ft). You can tip extra if you want.

-French people don’t have the best reputation.

-Tipping is different from France, but it’s better to do it—1-2 € is enough. -Don’t throw trash on the ground, especially cigarette butts (it’s really frowned upon)—the city is super clean.

-Hungarians aren’t very welcoming—I’d even say tourists bother them, even though it’s us who bring them money. I had a problem in a fast-food place with a Hungarian who supposedly thought I wanted an 8,000-forint burger! I obviously refused and stood my ground. Make sure you’re understood, even if you have to repeat yourself and look like an idiot.

Our neighbors knocked on our door 3 times in 5 days (okay, we asked for it), but they like their peace and quiet.

We got insulted ("fucking tourist") a few times—again, we asked for it, coming back from a club at 6 AM, and I’ll spare you the details.

For the rest, just follow basic manners, and you’ll fit right in. The city is pretty safe (police presence).

Other things about the trip

The city is absolutely stunning!

The nightlife is really great there (I’m sad to hear that French music there is limited to Aya Nakamura and Maître Gims).

You’ll meet lots of nationalities if you’re sociable (for me: Americans, Brits, Germans, Saudis, Poles, and, of course, Hungarians).

As for French "hunters," in Hungary, if you’ve got a decent look, you won’t have trouble, but I challenge anyone to bring girls back to their place, haha. By the way, I’ve never seen so many beautiful girls in one city—this Eastern European stereotype holds 100% true. French girls better watch out, haha.

Budget-wise, without depriving myself of anything (bottles in clubs, cigarettes, food), I spent a total of 600 €.

Hope this helps for your trip—I’ve condensed it a bit (since a week is short), but the budget is reasonable. Sorry for the spelling mistakes—I’m really bad at that, haha.

See you soon—I’m off to Prague this summer.