Results for "Airbnb"

Hi there, I’m heading to the Greek island of Ikaria for two months and I’m looking for any tips or advice—especially on budget-friendly accommodation options like a room to rent or staying with locals. Thanks!

Hi there, My girlfriend (23) and I (24) are heading to Japan for the first time from October 20th to November 6th. Here’s our itinerary:

6 nights in Tokyo 1 night in Hakone (ryokan already booked) 4 nights in Kyoto (hotel already booked) 2 nights in Osaka 4 nights back in Tokyo I’d like to book hotels for Tokyo (both stays) and Osaka, but I’ve gotten so many different recommendations.

I’ve read that Shinjuku is the place to be for its huge hub, accessibility, and things to do, but I’ve also heard about Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ueno. I’ve looked at hotels, and first off, I’m surprised by the prices compared to what I’ve seen on forums (I guess inflation’s hit here too… and maybe I’m late to the booking game?). I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the options.

For our first stay in Tokyo, I’d prefer a hotel (not a residence or Airbnb) since we’ll be arriving at night, and it’s our first time in Japan. It’d be great to have a place with a reception, staff who speak at least a little English, and can give us some guidance. For the second stay, we could consider other options if it’s better. Budget-wise, we can go up to 150–180 € per night, but if we can save some money to spend elsewhere, that’d be amazing!

I’m open to all recommendations, hotel suggestions, or any other tips for Tokyo (first stay), Osaka, and Tokyo (second stay).

Thanks so much!

Bonjour,

Je suis vraiment désolée de poster le énième poste de demande d'aide pour un itinéraire. Mais ce voyage me tient vraiment à coeur et cela fait déjà quelques mois que je l'organise. Je pars avec mon copain durant 18 jours. Ce sera notre tout premier voyage aussi loin. Je voudrais avoir vos avis sur mon itinéraire, j'ai réservé les hôtels et airbnbs, mais les hôtels peuvent être changés. Je n'ai pas (encore) organisé les visites de chaque jour:

10 mai : Arrivée Tokyo 11 mai : Tokyo 12 mai : Tokyo 13 mai : Tokyo => Sanja Matsuri 14 mai : Kyoto 15 mai : Kyoto => Aoi festival 16 mai : Kyoto 17 mai : Osaka 18 mai : Okayama ou Himeji 19 mai : Nara 20 mai : Kyoto 21 mai : Miyajima 22 mai : Hiroshima 23 mai : Tokyo (disney sea) 24 mai : Tokyo => Fuji Shizabakura 25 mai : Tokyo 26 mai : Tokyo 27 mai : Tokyo (départ)

Je pense prendre un jrpass pour 14 jours que nous activerions à partir du 13 mai. Qu'en pensez vous ? J'ai quelques doutes sur quelques points: voir un combat de sumo et aller au tsukiji market. Pouvez-vous me dire si cela se fait de louer un kimono juste pour faire quelques photos sur place ? Et où je pourrai le faire.

Merci de votre aide !

Hi there,

Does anyone know of a private transfer or taxi company that organizes transfers from the Sukhothai area to Chiang Mai? Our routes are Sukhothai-Lampang, Lampang-Chom Thong, and Chom Thong-Chiang Mai. My searches on Google Maps, 12Go, and others haven’t turned up much...

For our Bangkok-Sukhothai trips, I use a company I’ve already tried, but they don’t have a fleet available from Sukhothai and have to go through third-party companies—which, understandably, take their commission. This nearly doubles the prices...

There are four of us, and we’re not traveling light, so a minibus isn’t an option. ;-)

Thanks for your tips! DrSnuggle

We spent two weeks in the Seychelles at the end of March and beginning of April 2026. We split our stay as follows: 4 nights on La Digue, nights on Praslin (assuming you meant a specific number here—let me know if you'd like to correct it!), and 6 nights on Mahé. It’s a classic itinerary.

Inter-island transfers are done with the Cat Coco company. You can book the transfers online on their website, which also offers an airport-to-port shuttle when you arrive in Mahé. It takes about 50 minutes to go from Mahé to Praslin and 10 minutes between Praslin and La Digue.

La Digue is an island with very few cars (only taxis and a few official or business vehicles) and lots of bikes. You can rent them everywhere on the island—we rented ours from our landlady. Things to see and do on the island: a bike tour around the island, the Veuve Reserve (it’s a bird), Union Estate with a giant tortoise park, and especially Anse Source d’Argent (our favorite beach across all three islands) and all the other coves, including Grande Anse, Petite Anse, and Anse Sévère.

For food, there are several takeaways on the island and plenty of small shops for groceries—same goes for the other two islands.

On Praslin, we rented a car, but you can also use the bus network. There aren’t many destinations, the main one being the Vallée de Mai, a must-visit as the sanctuary of the coco de mer (the "butt nut"). It’s best to visit with a guide—they wait for a small group, and the ticket price can be split four ways. You *can* visit alone, but you’ll miss out on a lot of information. Another destination is Anse Georgette, in the north of the island near the airport and the golf course of a big resort. Have your accommodation notify the hotel when you’re heading there, and if you’re driving, park as soon as you see the first signs for the parking lot. Anse Lazio is famous, but much more touristy than Anse Georgette. We stayed in Anse Volbert Village at Côte d’Or, a stunning 3 km beach with shops, takeaways, and restaurants.

Mahé is the largest island. Like on Praslin, you can rent a car or use the buses—we rented one. The roads are good but sometimes narrow. Don’t forget the mountainous terrain in this part of the Seychelles, which makes some climbs very steep (same as on Praslin). Opt for small cars—they’re often automatic, and remember you drive on the left here!

Things to see on Mahé: the Jardin du Roi, a collection of everything that grows in the Seychelles—very interesting, with a great restaurant. Visit Anse Intendance, Anse Bazarca, and Police Bay in the south—three gorgeous beaches. Also check out Anse Royale. For souvenirs, head to the Craft Village, where you can find some unique items. If you’re a fan, visit the Takamaka distillery.

In conclusion, we should’ve added one or two more nights on La Digue—it’s really beautiful—and only stayed three nights on Praslin. We rented apartments through Booking and Airbnb. Don’t forget to get your tourist visa online. The Seychelles is a clean, safe, relaxed, and stress-free country

hi there

I’m planning to spend about twenty days in Réunion in November. I’d like to get around using the *car jaune* (2 € per ticket), but from what I’ve heard, it doesn’t cover the whole island. I’m not looking to head toward the ocean and the beautiful beaches—more toward the mountainous landscapes, even if I’ll just be admiring them from below. 😉 Maybe other buses go where I want to go. By the way, are there any relatively easy mountain hikes, and where?

But here’s the most important part: I don’t want to book anything in advance because I don’t know what my itinerary will look like—it’ll change depending on my mood. 3 days here, 5 days there, etc. On top of that, I’d like to arrange half-board stays with locals—not professionals—by approaching them and asking if they’d be willing to host me (overnight stay, breakfast, and dinner) for 30 € to 40 € per day.

What do you think? Does the price seem reasonable? And is it okay to take the initiative and ask Réunionnais directly?

The tourist office in Réunion told me that since November is peak tourist season, I should book without delay. 🤪

For four years in a row, I traveled across Canada for a month and a half each time, relying only on hitchhiking and half-board stays with Canadians who welcomed me (and refused to let me pay them).

If I’d listened to my family and friends, I never would’ve taken the leap—and that adventure remains one of the best experiences of my life.

Thanks for your input!

Hi everyone, from August 7th to 10th I’m renting an apartment right across from the WESTMOUNT library, next to the park of the same name. The landlord tells me that parking around the apartment is free. Does that cause any issues? I was planning to rent my car before leaving MONTREAL, but I might visit a friend who lives nearby—I’ll only know for sure at the last minute. Thanks in advance for the replies

After spending 15 days in Tenerife in February 2026, here are a few observations that might be useful for you: - Choosing Puerto de la Cruz turned out to be an excellent decision (compared to Santa Cruz, which is Lonely Planet’s pick, for example). Puerto de la Cruz has two large beaches just a 10-minute walk from the center. The atmosphere around the small port is lovely. It’s a human-scale town. The bus station makes it easy to get anywhere on the island. Carnival season is an exceptional time to visit! - Opting for the unlimited weekly bus pass for 50 € is economical (especially if you're traveling solo), eco-friendly, and practical (lots of departures and returns). The roads on major routes are often congested, and the bus network is improving—you can support this effort by traveling this way. - For hikes, I tested Teide National Park (arrival and departure by bus). Starting from El Portillo at the park entrance, the Arenas Negra circuit (2.5 to 3 hours) is stunning toward the end. You can add a section of Route 1 on the other side of the road (maps and great info at the tourist office). At the other end of the park, "Roques de Garcia" is a spectacular route—crowded but a must-see... - Tourist towns like La Orotava or La Laguna are worth the visit. Garachico has a certain charm too...

hi there

I’ve been to Rwanda twice before, in November 1991 and December 1993, mostly for solidarity work. I’m looking into going back this November or December for three weeks, but I’m a bit hesitant when I see the tourist offerings—it’s so far from how I like to travel...

I travel solo using public transport and stay in places like guesthouses (GH), or accommodations run by cooperatives, associations, or religious groups. I love villages, markets, hikes, and local crafts. So far, my searches for these kinds of lodging options haven’t turned up much.

For now, I’m considering visiting (in no particular order):

Butare: Kibeho, Bisesero, Nyanza Ngenda Akagera, Kibungo, Lake Muazi Dian Fossey’s tomb (with the possibility of seeing gorillas) Kibuye??? Is the political situation stable there? Or Cyangugu?

So here are my first questions: -Is French still widely spoken? -Are there lists of the types of accommodations I mentioned above, or places to find that info? -Is what I’m planning doable using public transport? From the towns, are moto-taxis still available to get to villages, sites, and—most importantly—back? -Is it possible to go hiking solo? -Which are the best markets and what days are they held?

I know that’s a lot of questions already, and I really appreciate any relevant answers you can share. Looking forward to exchanging more!

Hi, We’re a young couple planning to travel to South Africa after spending about three weeks in Namibia. We’ll arrive in Cape Town around mid-December, with no fixed travel duration (though our budget will eventually set a limit). After browsing through the forum, we’ve realized the country is packed with incredible spots, which makes choosing an itinerary tough. We’re looking for stunning landscapes, hikes, and so on. So, we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. When we arrive in Cape Town, we’d like to settle in and take it easy until New Year’s, exploring at a relaxed pace. We know this period coincides with South African holidays—does that make finding accommodations (availability/prices) more difficult? Do you think it’s possible to stay in a nice place for about 15 days without aiming for the most upscale neighborhoods? Maybe somewhere a bit outside Cape Town, like Fish Hoek, and just visit the city occasionally. After that, we’ll have plenty of time (about 2 to 2.5 months) to explore the country. We’d like to take our time. In your opinion, is it better to focus on the Cape Town region, or is it reasonable to consider more distant areas like the Drakensberg or Blyde River Canyon? Can everything be done by car if we take our time, or are domestic flights sometimes more practical? Budget-wise, how much do car rentals cost? For accommodations, we usually look at Airbnb—are they affordable in South Africa? What’s the average nightly rate outside the biggest cities? Are there other platforms you’d recommend for saving on lodging? Finally, regarding safety, are there any regions to avoid besides Johannesburg? We know this is a lot of questions, but we’re still in the early planning stages! Thanks in advance for your advice!

In 2026, traveling becomes a choice. While the same destinations are buckling under mass tourism, there are still preserved alternatives, often just a few hours away from the beaten path. This guide doesn’t ban any countries but suggests different practices and destinations that still breathe. Here are 8 experiences to reinvent for better travel this year.

1. Tanzania: Swap the jeep safari for a walking safari The classic: Setting off to see the "Big Five" and the vast savanna from a 4x4. Why rethink this: You don’t go to see wild animals just to end up in a traffic jam of Toyota Land Cruisers. The noise of engines and exhaust fumes stress the wildlife. Some observation points look like parking lots. The alternative: A walking safari in the Ngorongoro Highlands or the Serengeti, accompanied by Maasai guides. On foot, your senses sharpen: it’s an immersion that a car window blocks.

Practical tip: Opt for mobile bush camps rather than fixed lodges. Look into walking safaris that include bivouacs.

2. India: Skip Kerala’s houseboats for kayaking on secret lagoons The classic: Cruising the famous Backwaters in a houseboat. Why rethink this: Houseboats pollute and destroy the fragile ecosystem of the lagoons. Overcrowding in Alleppey drains the experience of its magic. Not to mention the noise of the engines. The alternative: Munroe Island or Valiyaparamba by canoe or kayak. These northern lagoons remain preserved. You can organize trips with local fishermen, spend a day with families from the area, and sleep in the heart of biodiversity instead of floating resorts.

Good to know: The famous Kettuvallams (houseboats) aren’t that old. Originally, they were rice transport barges. It was only in the 1990s that someone had the idea to add rooms. Authenticity is sometimes a marketing invention!

3. Portugal: Forget Lisbon and the Algarve for the Alentejo The classic: The charm of Lisbon’s azulejos and the golden beaches of the Algarve. Why rethink this: Lisbon is suffocating under Airbnbs, and the Algarve has become a forest of umbrellas and tourist complexes. The Portuguese soul is fading under mass tourism. The alternative: The Alentejo region, between Lisbon and the Algarve. Stay in a *Herdade* (traditional farm), taste amphora wine, and explore wild beaches where cliffs replace concrete. This is Portugal at a slower pace—the one with white villages and endless plains.

Good to know: The Alentejo is the world’s largest cork producer. Cork oaks are harvested only once every 9 years. It’s a region that sets its own rhythm, slow and respectful of nature.

4. Indonesia: Less Bali, more Sulawesi, Java, or Lombok The classic: Spirituality, rice terraces, and Bali’s beaches. Why rethink this: Between water shortages, "spiritual" traffic jams in Ubud, and beaches turned into clubs, Bali needs a break. The island is suffocating. The alternative: Sulawesi for the ancestral rites of the Toraja people, Java for the lunar volcanoes of the East and lost temples, or Lombok for a quieter version of Bali. You’ll rediscover Indonesia’s wild origins.

Good to know: Bali is the only predominantly Hindu island in the world’s largest Muslim country. Exploring Java or Sulawesi reveals a cultural diversity that Bali’s tourist bubble often overshadows.

5. South Korea: Shorten Seoul for Gyeongju and Suncheon Bay The classic: Futuristic modernity and K-Culture in Seoul. Why rethink this: Seoul is experiencing the "Kyoto effect." Historic neighborhoods like Bukchon are closing streets to protect residents’ privacy from the influx of tourists in rented hanboks. The alternative: Gyeongju and Suncheon Bay in the authentic south. Between Gyeongju’s millennia-old temples (the ancient capital) and Suncheon’s biosphere reserve, you’ll discover the real Korea—without the lines.

Good to know: Gyeongju is often called "the museum without walls." You’ll find tumuli (royal tombs shaped like grassy hills) right in the middle of the modern city. Ancient history coexists with the present.

6. Thailand: Escape Bangkok and the southern islands for Isan The classic: Bangkok, then off to Phuket, Phi Phi, or Koh Samui. Why rethink this: The southern islands are suffocating: marine pollution, crowded beaches, authenticity diluted in standardized resorts. The experience feels more like Ibiza than traditional Thailand. The alternative: The Northeast (Isan), the unknown region. Forgotten Khmer temples, authentic villages, colorful local markets, and preserved nature in parks like Phu Kradueng. Few Westerners, lots of authenticity.

Good to know: Isan makes up a third of Thailand but receives less than 5% of tourists. Yet it’s the birthplace of authentic Thai cuisine and preserved traditions. Prices are also two to three times lower.

7. Peru: Skip Machu Picchu for Kuelap and northern Peru The classic: Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Why rethink this: Strict quotas, mandatory bookings months in advance, sky-high prices, and timed tourist flows. The experience has become administrative before it’s spiritual. The alternative: Northern Peru with Kuelap, the "Machu Picchu of the north" without the crowds. The Gocta Canyon, the Chachapoyas region, and lesser-known but equally fascinating pre-Inca cultures. The modern cable car makes access easy without the hordes.

Good to know: Kuelap is larger and older than Machu Picchu but receives 100 times fewer visitors. Its cyclopean walls reach 20 meters high, and the fortress remains shrouded in mystery.

8. Iceland: Ditch the Golden Circle for the northern fjords The classic: The Iceland tour via the Ring Road and the famous Golden Circle. Why rethink this: The Ring Road has become a single-file line of rental vans. Iconic sites (Golden Circle, Solheimasandur plane wreck, Reynisfjara Beach) are saturated, turning the quest for Icelandic solitude into a crowded parking lot experience. The alternative: The Tröllaskagi Peninsula and the northern fjords. Forget the clock to rediscover the Iceland of the sagas. This is the kingdom of mountains plunging into the sea, secret hot springs accessible only on foot, and fjords where silence reigns.

Good to know: In Iceland, you don’t "own" nature—you borrow it. Over 50% of Icelanders still believe in the existence of *Huldufólk* (the hidden people), elves who live in the rocks. To catch a glimpse of them, they say, you must leave the noise of Route 1’s engines and learn to listen to the silence of the fjords.

Hi everyone,

I’m thinking about planning several short trips in France outside peak tourist seasons, especially in spring and autumn.

The idea would be to prioritize:

- fewer crowds at tourist sites - more affordable accommodation prices - a more local atmosphere

However, I also have some concerns about:

- attractions or restaurants sometimes being closed - more unpredictable weather depending on the region - less frequent transportation in certain areas

For those of you who’ve traveled in France off-season before, what do you think were the main pros and cons? Are there any regions or specific times that are particularly worth prioritizing?

Thanks in advance for your experiences! 😊

Hi there,

In 2024, I spent two months solo in El Salvador. While I’m still putting together my travel journal on Myatlas, here’s a quick recap. It’s a country where it’s really easy to travel without a guide or agency.

SAFETY:

For a long time, the country was considered one of the most dangerous in the world because of the "maras," ultra-violent gangs. But today, I think it’s the safest country in Latin America.

BUDGET:

For French tourists, the country is very affordable, especially in the less touristy regions.

TRANSPORT:

I got around everywhere by local bus.

Local buses go everywhere and run all the time. For me, it’s the best way to travel in El Salvador—you’re fully immersed, moving at the pace of the locals, and interacting with Salvadorans who are eager to connect with travelers.

I saw all sorts of things on those buses—I’ve got dozens of stories!

PEOPLE:

I’m used to traveling all over Latin America, and for me, Salvadorans are the warmest and most welcoming. Everywhere you go, people say, "Welcome to El Salvador!" The connections and long conversations with locals were my favorite part of the trip.

TOURIST CROWDS:

The country isn’t well-known among European tourists, but Americans and Quebecers visit. Overall, it’s still pretty low-key, especially compared to other Central American countries. That said, tourism has been growing since security improved significantly.

WHAT I LOVED ❤️

-Suchitoto, one of the most beautiful colonial towns in Central America.

-The volcanoes—there are so many! Santa Ana is the most touristy.

-The lakes—also plentiful. Coatepeque is the most famous, but there are lots of lagoons too.

-The mountainous regions, where the cooler weather is a nice break: La Palma, Perquín, Cerro El Pital, etc.

-The charming villages along the Ruta de las Flores, especially Nahuizalco with its nighttime atmosphere and food stalls. Juayúa and others are great too.

-The conversations with people who lived through the horrors of the civil war in Perquín and Cinquera. I met one of them by chance while waiting for a bus.

For surfers, El Salvador is a paradise, with world-famous beaches.

WHAT I LIKED LESS:

I loved almost everything, but I found the archaeological sites a bit underwhelming. Joyabaj de Cerén is billed as the "Pompeii of El Salvador," which is a stretch (though it *is* a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical value).

Hi, I’m planning the Switzerland-Paris hike for 2026. If any of you know a route where I can stay with locals or in other lodging (no camping), I’d really appreciate your tips. Thanks! M Brunner

We’re a couple in our sixties and spent four weeks in Indonesia during October 2025.

First, we got all the necessary documents—Indonesian visa, Bali-specific visa, and customs forms—from specialized Indonesian websites. You *can* get them on arrival, but it takes a lot of time.

Unfortunately, we chose to spend the first six days of our trip in Ubud and Amed, on Bali, which we bitterly regretted. You can arrive in Indonesia without going through Bali—this island is overcrowded with tourists, cars, and scooters, and it’s home to 4,400,000 people despite being smaller than Corsica. The locals are very kind, helpful, and friendly, and the food is good, but everything is geared toward tourists—nothing feels truly authentic. At least in the parts of Bali we visited: Sanur in the south (where we spent three days before flying back to France), Ubud, and Amed. The north of the island might be more interesting, but we didn’t go there.

After Bali, we headed to Yogyakarta, on Java, to explore the city and, most importantly, visit the temples of Borobudur and Prambanan.

It’s like going from a hyper-touristy universe to a world with almost no tourists. When you walk around the city, you barely see any tourists—the people are very approachable and happy to chat. As for Borobudur and Prambanan, they’re an absolute must on this trip. You *can* visit both temples in one day, including seeing Borobudur at sunrise. We split the visits over two days. We booked Borobudur the day before on the official site, which offers specific visiting times. For Prambanan, we bought the ticket and hired a guide on-site.

We spent four days on Java before flying to Sulawesi, also called Celebes. Makassar, the island’s capital, was just a stopover between flights, but we had time to admire the beautiful new mosque at sunset. Then, we spent four days in Toraja country, another highlight of the trip, visiting cemeteries and attending a funeral ceremony with around 600 people near Rantepao. We experienced truly unique and extraordinary moments. Above Toraja country, a few hours’ drive away, lies the Bada Valley and its megaliths—the tallest is 4.8 meters high, and there are about fifteen scattered across the rice fields. We saw five of them. There were a few tourists in Toraja, but in Bada, we were alone. Unforgettable memories, stunning landscapes, and always-smiling, kind, approachable people.

To wrap up the trip, we spent five nights in the Togian Islands, north of the Bada Valley, alone in a resort with three bungalows. The view was a white-sand beach and the nearby coral reef, complete with colorful fish, turtles, dolphins, and sharks.

After eleven nights in Sulawesi, we returned to Bali. Our last nights were in Sanur, a beach town with all-inclusive hotels (we stayed in an Airbnb), restaurants serving beef bourguignon, and tourists who don’t really go to Indonesia—they just go to Bali.

Practical tip: download Grab, the local Uber—it’s super handy. This year, we opted for an eSIM, which is also very convenient. You can buy it in France and activate it when you arrive at the airport.

I’m happy to answer any questions!

PS: Despite my mixed feelings about Bali, it *can* still be a travel destination—but Indonesia has so much more to offer! Marc

I'd love some destination suggestions for a road trip from Nice to Livorno by car, including the routes, tolls to cross, distance, and estimated travel time. We're planning a 5-day trip, with 2 nights near Nice, 1 night along the way, and finally 2 nights in Livorno. There are 4 of us in a rental car, and we'd like to stay in either an apartment, a mobile home near the sea, or a campsite. Our budget isn't too extravagant!!!! We want to visit the Promenade des Anglais, and I've heard Menton is really interesting. Once we reach Livorno, we'll take the ferry to Corsica for 12 days with the same rental car. We're planning to leave the last week of May and the first two weeks of June 2026, so around 17-18 days total. Thanks

Hello everyone,

I’m not really a regular contributor to VoyageForum, but every time Kate and I travel, she encourages me to write a travel journal and publish it. And I must admit, it’s a very enjoyable intellectual exercise, though not always easy. As a VF contributor whose journals I’ve read once said, this retrospective work not only helps preserve memories but also provides a fruitful moment of introspection by bringing back emotions and feelings.

Kate and I spent a week in Istanbul. For her, who had already visited, it was a return; for me, it was a discovery.

As we’ve now made a habit of, I write the texts, and she posts her photos. We hope this illustrated story, crafted together, will revive beautiful sensations for those who know the city and inspire others to discover it. Here we go!

Hello! We’re planning a motorcycle trip that will include a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau in June 2026. We’re unsure (still debating) whether we should stay at a hotel on-site and get to the memorial with an Uber (leaving our bikes at the hotel) and book a guided tour, or base ourselves in Kraków and take a tour that includes transport. One thing’s for sure—we’d prefer a guide in French since we don’t speak English 😅.

Could you share your experiences or advice? I understand we need to book online rather than on-site. Thanks in advance for your replies!

Hi everyone, Accepting the rules everywhere has become the norm, and customer service keeps getting worse and worse. Who’s to blame? All those who comply without a fuss, even though you’re paying full price everywhere. What used to be normal (good service) has now become the exception. Example: Hotels and their overly strict rules (rules that, personally, I successfully bend almost every time) 😄. We pay for a room for 24 hours, not 12-15 hours. How many times have I arrived at my hotel around noon after exhausting flights, asked for my reserved room, and been told that rooms are only available from 3 or 4 PM? Unacceptable (especially since we often have to check out by 10-11 AM—just as unacceptable). “Miss, I’m really tired from my trip. Could you make a small effort? I’m sure several rooms are ready by now.” The response? “It’s the rule. Come back at 4 PM.” 😒 Of course, I get that the front-desk clerk is just blindly following orders (or overdoing it). I stay calm and ask her to fetch her supervisor (who shows up right away, probably afraid of a scene). I explain with my best "puppy-dog eyes," and—bingo—10 minutes later, I’ve got my room (I’ll spare you the comments from my fellow travelers calling me a rude, uneducated nightmare). I’m thrilled because they’ll be waiting around for 4 hours 😏. It’s the same everywhere—restaurants (especially in France), where you arrive at 9:05 PM and are told they’re no longer serving because the chef has finished and turned off the ovens. (Do you really need an oven and 2 hours to make an English breakfast or a cheese platter with good wine?) And then some restaurant owners complain about not meeting their targets—pfft. The list goes on, and I don’t have all the complaints about service providers fresh in my mind (feel free to add yours if you agree). Otherwise, keep bowing your heads—I won’t change the world, but I’ll never accept being told I’m too demanding. It’s the people who let things slide (the majority) who have no standards left, to the detriment of service quality for everyone 😏.

Hello, We’re planning our first trip to Brazil from October 10 to November 7, 2025. We’re a couple traveling with light backpacks using local transport. Here’s our planned route: Arrival in Rio de Janeiro, 5 days, Tiradentes, Ouro Preto, Belo Horizonte, 7 days, Flight from Belo Horizonte to Recife, Recife, Olinda, 4 days, Maceió, Penedo, 3 days, Aracaju, 3 days, Salvador de Bahia and surrounding areas, 5 days Departure from Salvador de Bahia to Paris

Thanks in advance for any feedback you can share!

Of course, everything is flexible except for our arrival in Rio and departure from Salvador de Bahia.

Could you also recommend a neighborhood to stay in Rio? Alod

We were invited to a friend’s wedding in this beautiful part of Brittany, so we took the opportunity to spend a few days there—first on the Pink Granite Coast and then in Cornwall. Our friends, who are from the Trégor region, had found us a really nice little gîte in Tonquédec, just a stone’s throw from the coast. It was the perfect base for exploring the area’s iconic sites. We stayed in a lovely little house that combined authenticity, comfort, elegance, and tranquility.

Our first trip to the coast was to Ploumanac’h, a small village we discovered thanks to Stéphane Bern’s show. It’s an adorable little fishing port where we parked the car before continuing on foot along the sea. It’s charming—more than that, it’s magical!



Our first walk, our first hike along the coastal path, and our first photos of these massive rocks bathed in light.





The views change with every turn, and so do the surprises—especially the view of the Château de Costaérès.

The path through the woods leads us to the Chapel of Saint Guirec, which overlooks the beach.





This pretty little beach is famous for its oratory, which sits in the middle of the sand and houses the statue of St. Guirec. In the past, young women hoping to marry within the year would often pray to him—they’d stick a needle into his nose! Today, the statue is made of stone, but back then, it was wooden, which must’ve made it easier.





It’s really charming, well-sheltered, and the water is crystal clear. We noticed that everywhere we went!

Hi there,

My husband, our 1-year-old son, and I have decided to head to southern France in mid-September.

We don’t know the region at all—it’ll be our first time.

We only have 9 days, and we’re really torn between Provence for its gorgeous villages, its "slow" vibe, Provençal markets, flavors, and colors, and the famous French Riviera for its beaches, ports, and because it’s intrigued us for so long.

I found a beautiful place to stay in a *mas*, but it’s not in the region at all (it’s in the Gard).

My husband found a place he really likes in Saint-Aygulf, but before booking, I’m hesitating and wanted to get some advice.

Obviously, with only 9 days, we clearly have to choose. I thought about splitting the trip in two, but that seems like a bad idea for two reasons: first, we’re traveling with a little one, and second, if we spread ourselves too thin, we risk not seeing anything properly.

Since we don’t know the area at all, I’m worried the coastline might be too built-up with big buildings, etc., like Lloret de Mar (no offense to anyone who loves it—it’s just not what we’re looking for).

Anyway… what would you recommend for a first 9-day trip to the south?

Thanks so much!

Hello,

I’ve heard a lot about WISE for low-cost money transfers (booking/paying for safari services). I’m looking for feedback from people who’ve actually used WISE to pay at a restaurant or withdraw local cash from an ATM.

Could you share what you consider the "pros" and "cons" of the WISE debit card compared to a traditional bank card? Also, do you think there are any risks? If so, what are they? Thanks in advance for shedding some light on this—I’m only interested in firsthand experiences.

Thanks!

...

Hi there,

Back in 2002, we spent two weeks in Playa del Carmen. We did day trips to Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Xcaret.

We’re heading back at Christmas with our two daughters, aged 15 and 19. I’m sure it’s changed a lot with the booming tourism.

Flights are booked: Paris-Cancún on 19/12 (arriving at 8:20 PM) and Cancún-Paris on 01/01 at 1:30 PM. We’re still finalizing the itinerary because we want to explore but don’t want to switch hotels too often. We’ll be there for 13 nights and 12 days, so we’re choosing among: - Playa del Carmen - Cozumel - Holbox - Valladolid - Tulum - Mahahual

We won’t do everything, so any tips would be great! I’m also unsure if renting a car is the best option.

Thanks in advance!

Stéphane

Hi, I'm looking for info on Tuscany with the idea of taking a family vacation at the end of August, but we're not into cities or crowds. We're more into wild nature, beaches, and hiking... I've heard about southern Tuscany—is it too urbanized? Where else should we look? Thanks so much

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, okay, here’s the scoop: I’ve been dealing with a pretty serious illness, but I’m determined to recover by the end of this year. I want to take my partner and my two little ones (7 and 4 years old) for a ten-day vacation in February 2026 or April 2026. The goal? To help them forget this tough year—let’s be honest—and give us all (and yes, I deserve it too 😉) some fantastic holidays.

Considering the budget for round-trip flights, cost of living on-site (hotel with pool and beach, all-inclusive or half-board meals), and food quality, which would you choose between Mauritius, Cuba, or the Dominican Republic? Heads up—I’ve been a globetrotter in another life, and all-inclusive hotels aren’t usually my thing, but this time, it’s different: I need REST and a family-friendly vacation. Of course, we’ll still do some excursions and sightseeing, so the scenery matters, but I’m really looking for the best value for money between flights, hotels, and a change of scenery :) Is Cuba too Americanized / full of junk food in the hotels?

Any family-focused travel agencies you’d recommend?

Thanks for sharing your experiences—I know this is a long message, but hopefully, it’ll keep the advice focused 😎 And thanks for this forum 😇

Hi everyone,

Let me introduce myself—I’m Christophe. I’m taking the plunge and planning my first trip to Japan for late February 2026. There’ll be five of us: my wife and I, and our three daughters, aged 12 and 15. Between the internet, travel agencies, and social media, there’s info coming from all directions, but it’s tough to find clear, objective, and relevant answers. I’d like this first trip to follow a classic route: 4/5 days in Tokyo 4 days in Kyoto (Nara) 2 days in Osaka (maybe Universal Studios) I’ve got a few questions—could you share your thoughts? 1. Is it better to return to Tokyo to catch our flight home, or is flying out directly from Osaka a better option? 2. For accommodation, would you recommend a hotel or an Airbnb? Since there are five of us, I think we’d like a small kitchen and a bit of space. 3. The famous JR Pass: is it worth it, or should we just buy tickets for each trip? I’ve read that the JR Pass has gotten more expensive and isn’t the ideal solution anymore, especially if you’re staying in the same cities for several days. 4. We’d like to have two phones—do you recommend eSIMs or a pocket Wi-Fi?

That’s it—I hope you can help shed some light on this. Thanks! Christophe

Hello, I’ve got a little doubt about our arrival in Johannesburg and would love your advice. We’re landing at 2:20 PM with Rwandair from Kigali on Sunday, July 27th. We need to pick up our rental car and head toward the Drakensberg. I’ve booked accommodation about an hour from Johannesburg Airport in Heidelberg. It seemed doable to drive for an hour, but considering customs, baggage claim, picking up the car, potential traffic jams (?), and the early sunset at that time of year, I’m worried about driving at night. What do you think? Should we stick with the plan or book a place closer to the airport and hit the road the next morning? Thanks so much in advance for your help.

Hi there,

This year, we booked a rental in Colonno, Italy, by Lake Como.

Everything was going well until my wife wanted to see Milan... Out of 11 days, why not spend a day there, even though I’m not really a "city" person? Then I discovered ZTLs (Zona a Traffico Limitato)...

A 90 € fine if you’re unlucky enough to drive into one, and another 90 € if you drive out... While I was looking for info on where to park without risking a fine in Milan (any tips?), I found out that Como also has a ZTL. (Any parking advice there too?)

My question is: is there a map showing all the cities with ZTLs? Because if it means getting hit with hundreds of euros in fines 9 months later... 😕

The more I look for info, the more I come across unsettling stories... Like people who pass a ZTL sign, turn around immediately, and still get hit with two 90 € fines in 3 minutes... I don’t want to ruin the vacation over a small mistake...

Thanks in advance,