Results for "Casa+Concha+|+4+>+133"
18218 results found.
Visas Mauritanie-Mali-Burkina: sur place ou à emporter? English translation pending
Bonjour à tous
Nous partons fin Octobre au Mali et au Burkina par le Maroc et la Mauritanie, aller et retour pour 2 mois en 4X4,
Nous aimerions savoir si nous pouvons nous procurer les visas : pour le Mali en Mauritanie ( 2 entrées) pour le Burkina au Mali 1 entrée pour la Mauritanie pour le retour au Mali, car il nous semble quà Casa ils ne délivrent pas de visas 2 entrées pour la Mauritanie.
Ou faut-il partir de France avec les visas du Mali et du Burkina ?
Si qq'un à des infos à ce sujet : adresses, prix, délais ...
Merci d'avance pour tous les tuyaux.
Nous partons fin Octobre au Mali et au Burkina par le Maroc et la Mauritanie, aller et retour pour 2 mois en 4X4,
Nous aimerions savoir si nous pouvons nous procurer les visas : pour le Mali en Mauritanie ( 2 entrées) pour le Burkina au Mali 1 entrée pour la Mauritanie pour le retour au Mali, car il nous semble quà Casa ils ne délivrent pas de visas 2 entrées pour la Mauritanie.
Ou faut-il partir de France avec les visas du Mali et du Burkina ?
Si qq'un à des infos à ce sujet : adresses, prix, délais ...
Merci d'avance pour tous les tuyaux.
Routard à Cuba English translation pending
Bonjour,
Comme je suis routard francophone ne parlant pas du tout espagnol, je recheche infos sur Cuba, La Havane :
Une fois à l'aéroport comment joindre La Havane à un prix raisonnable (Je trouve que 20 uds voir plus c'est excessif pour un routard).
Connaissez-vous des Casa particulares avec adresse internet pour faite la réservation à La Havane à moins de 20 usd/nuit (sans commision) pour une personne seule ?
Merci d'avance
Entre côte pacifique du Mexique (P Angel, ...) et Cuba, laquelle choisir en sachant que la vie est relativement à Cuba par rapport au Mexique ?
Le voyage c'est la nourriture de l'esprit.
Comme je suis routard francophone ne parlant pas du tout espagnol, je recheche infos sur Cuba, La Havane :
Une fois à l'aéroport comment joindre La Havane à un prix raisonnable (Je trouve que 20 uds voir plus c'est excessif pour un routard).
Connaissez-vous des Casa particulares avec adresse internet pour faite la réservation à La Havane à moins de 20 usd/nuit (sans commision) pour une personne seule ?
Merci d'avance
Entre côte pacifique du Mexique (P Angel, ...) et Cuba, laquelle choisir en sachant que la vie est relativement à Cuba par rapport au Mexique ?
Le voyage c'est la nourriture de l'esprit.
Quel hôtel choisir avec enfant de 2 ans? English translation pending
Bonjour,
nous partons en RD le 21 aout avec notre fille de 2 ans et j 'hésite pour l hotel...entre Sunscape Casa Del Mar a Byahibe et 2 autres hotels a Punta Cana, le Villas Bavaro et le Bavaro golf&Casino.
Si vous pouviez-vous me guider dans mon choix si l un de vous connait un, 2 ou meme les 3 et me donner son avis. On ne recherche pas la super animation, je suis un peu axée sur la propreté et le confort des chambres vu que nous allons la partager avec ma mère et ma fille, un ebelle piscine pour buller et une mer assez belle pour nager en apnée et voir qqs poissons....bref des vacances reposantes sans prise de tete!
Merci d avance pour vos avis
nous partons en RD le 21 aout avec notre fille de 2 ans et j 'hésite pour l hotel...entre Sunscape Casa Del Mar a Byahibe et 2 autres hotels a Punta Cana, le Villas Bavaro et le Bavaro golf&Casino.
Si vous pouviez-vous me guider dans mon choix si l un de vous connait un, 2 ou meme les 3 et me donner son avis. On ne recherche pas la super animation, je suis un peu axée sur la propreté et le confort des chambres vu que nous allons la partager avec ma mère et ma fille, un ebelle piscine pour buller et une mer assez belle pour nager en apnée et voir qqs poissons....bref des vacances reposantes sans prise de tete!
Merci d avance pour vos avis
Catalina ou Saona? English translation pending
Bonjour
Pour ceux qui ont fait ces 2 excursions laquelles preferez vous et pourquoi? A combien de temps de transport se trouve Catalina en partant de Punta Cana Merci d'avance pour vos réponses.
Pour ceux qui ont fait ces 2 excursions laquelles preferez vous et pourquoi? A combien de temps de transport se trouve Catalina en partant de Punta Cana Merci d'avance pour vos réponses.
Coût de l'excursion à l'île Saona à Bayahibe? English translation pending
A ceux qui ont déjà fait l'excursion de l'ile Saona à Bayahibe:
Coût de l'excursion?
Est-ce moins cher si on prend l'excursion au village des pêcheurs, près du Casa Del Mar?
Est-ce le même prix enfant ou adulte?
Merci beaucoup!
Coût de l'excursion?
Est-ce moins cher si on prend l'excursion au village des pêcheurs, près du Casa Del Mar?
Est-ce le même prix enfant ou adulte?
Merci beaucoup!
Hôtel el Guatapanal à Las Terrenas English translation pending
bonjour
difference entre las terrenas et las galeras?
qui connait ou rentre du guatapanal?
je n'arrive pas à trouver de commentaire sur cet hotel
qui pourrait m'aider
merci
difference entre las terrenas et las galeras?
qui connait ou rentre du guatapanal?
je n'arrive pas à trouver de commentaire sur cet hotel
qui pourrait m'aider
merci
Cuba ou Mexique au début mars? English translation pending
tout d'abord bonjour a toutes et a tous,
je compte partir avec une copine debut du mois de mars a cuba ou au mexique, pour une ou deux semaines, en fait nous recherchons hotel avec une plage superbe (genre casa del mar en rep dominicaine pour ceux qui connaissent) avec possibilité de voir du pays .
Je sais que bcp cherchent la meme chose mais je me suis dis qu'avec l'experience que vous avez vous pourrez nos donner de bons conseil
pour l'instant notre choix concerant cuba est le sol coral a varadero ou un hotel sur cayo coco (mais apparement on peut rien faire d'autre a part la plage) et pour le mexique on est encore en train d'etudier les catalogues
d'avance merci
bye
je compte partir avec une copine debut du mois de mars a cuba ou au mexique, pour une ou deux semaines, en fait nous recherchons hotel avec une plage superbe (genre casa del mar en rep dominicaine pour ceux qui connaissent) avec possibilité de voir du pays .
Je sais que bcp cherchent la meme chose mais je me suis dis qu'avec l'experience que vous avez vous pourrez nos donner de bons conseil
pour l'instant notre choix concerant cuba est le sol coral a varadero ou un hotel sur cayo coco (mais apparement on peut rien faire d'autre a part la plage) et pour le mexique on est encore en train d'etudier les catalogues
d'avance merci
bye
Occidental Grand Flamenco English translation pending
QQ connait il cet hôtel ? C'est le seul que j'ai pu trouver en 4 étoiles, pour un départ en février (congés scolaires) et sur la côte atlantique car sur la côte caraïbes, il n'y avait rien. Ceci par une agence etun départ depuis l'Allemagne.
Sur le web j'ai aussi trouvé le CASA DEL MAR mais là je n'ai vraiment aucun renseignement. Merci à tous et cela devient urgent car les places se font rares.
Las galeras ou Las terranas? English translation pending
nous reflechissons a notre prochain voyage
las terranas ou las galeras ?
merci pour vos commentaires
las terranas ou las galeras ?
merci pour vos commentaires
Bons plans à Samana (République Dominicaine) English translation pending
SALUT
POUVEZ VOUS ME DONNER DES "BONS PLANS" POUR VISITER LA PRESQUILE DE SAMANA??????
POUVEZ VOUS ME DONNER DES "BONS PLANS" POUR VISITER LA PRESQUILE DE SAMANA??????
Mon paradis à la République Dominicaine English translation pending
Je recherche ce qui serais pour moi le paradis en RD!
Coté plage: Sable blanc, mer turquoise et transparente et poissons multicolor!
Coté hotel: Agréable et pas trop cher (-1500euros pour 15 jours) et sans surpopulation!
Cet endroits existe t'il ? merci pour toute l'aide que vous pourrez me donner.
Cet endroits existe t'il ? merci pour toute l'aide que vous pourrez me donner.
Arrivée à Andorre de nuit English translation pending
Salut à tous,
Est ce que quel'q'un peut m'aider ?
Les faits : En mars, je dois arriver à l'aeroport de toulouse vers 14h30. je voudrais me rendre à Pas de la casa en Andorre. Je suis avec ma femme et une petite fille de 6 ans.
Problêmes : 1 - Le prochain bus (NOVATEL ) est à 18 h 30 avec une arrivée à 21 heures. Ca fait un peu tard pour arriver dans un endroit inconnu surtout avec un gosse de 6 ans.
2 - Je suis a la Reunion, j'ai jamais vu de la neige et je n'ose pas louer une voiture de peur de me retrouver sur une route enneigée. En mars il parit que c'est possible. c'est vrai ?
3 - J'ai pas envie de faire du stop toujours a cause du gosse et d'une valise.
Alors comment faire pour y aller ?
Y a t'il d'autres bus avec des horaires plus souples, des taxis à l'aeroport ?
En tout cas, ca me semble mal desservi comme endroit.
Merci de votre aide.
Est ce que quel'q'un peut m'aider ?
Les faits : En mars, je dois arriver à l'aeroport de toulouse vers 14h30. je voudrais me rendre à Pas de la casa en Andorre. Je suis avec ma femme et une petite fille de 6 ans.
Problêmes : 1 - Le prochain bus (NOVATEL ) est à 18 h 30 avec une arrivée à 21 heures. Ca fait un peu tard pour arriver dans un endroit inconnu surtout avec un gosse de 6 ans.
2 - Je suis a la Reunion, j'ai jamais vu de la neige et je n'ose pas louer une voiture de peur de me retrouver sur une route enneigée. En mars il parit que c'est possible. c'est vrai ?
3 - J'ai pas envie de faire du stop toujours a cause du gosse et d'une valise.
Alors comment faire pour y aller ?
Y a t'il d'autres bus avec des horaires plus souples, des taxis à l'aeroport ?
En tout cas, ca me semble mal desservi comme endroit.
Merci de votre aide.
Cherche location de voiture au Maroc (Casablanca) English translation pending
quelqu'un a t'il des adresses de loueurs sérieux avec des voitures en bon état pour un séjour de 3 semaines au Maroc cette été (arrivée et départ de Casa)
merci
Bernard de Toulouse
merci
Bernard de Toulouse
Choix d'un hôtel English translation pending
😇 Bonjour,
je voudrai passer quelques jours en République Dominicaine,
pourriez-vous me conseiller un hôtel, dans lequel tous les soirs on peut dancer
la salsa et le merengue
merci
je voudrai passer quelques jours en République Dominicaine,
pourriez-vous me conseiller un hôtel, dans lequel tous les soirs on peut dancer
la salsa et le merengue
merci
Tips for family-friendly accommodations and visits near Florence and Siena
Hi there, we’re heading to Tuscany in the second half of August with two kids (8 and 6 years old).
We’ve zeroed in on the area around Siena and Florence for now.
I’m looking for recommendations on places to stay and things to see that are great for families.
Also, just to add, we’ll be traveling by train and plan to rent a car once we’re there—any tips on car rental companies?
Thanks!
Thanks!
Back from my first trip to Cuba
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
What about mosquitoes by the sea in Cuba?
Hi,
Several comments recommend bringing mosquito repellent. Got it. Are there a lot of them during the day? And by the seaside? Or are they more present (and voracious) in the evening? Thanks.
Itinerary and transportation in Santo Antão
Hi there, I’m planning a trip to Santo Antão with some hiking (for me) but not for my partner. I’d love some help figuring out if my plan is doable in terms of time and transportation:
- Day 1 – Arrival by boat from Mindelo, then aluguer to Cova (and overnight nearby)
- Day 2 – Hike to Paul / aluguer for my partner
- Day 3 – Aluguer to Ponta do Sol
- Days 4 & 5 – Ponta do Sol
- Day 6 – Hike to Cruzinha / aluguer for my partner (overnight in Cruzinha)
- Day 7 – Aluguer (or taxi) to Xoxo (overnight in Xoxo)
- Day 8 – Aluguer to Porto Novo + boat to Mindelo
Does this plan make sense with the local transport options? For accommodations, I’d love any suggestions you might have. Thanks so much for your help!
Does this plan make sense with the local transport options? For accommodations, I’d love any suggestions you might have. Thanks so much for your help!
Are Puerto Viejo and Bri Bri tourist traps?
Hi everyone,
I’m so happy 🙂 to be traveling again after 5 years without a trip. I’m heading back to Costa Rica for 18 days from December 12th to 30th with a friend. We’re doing San José-Sarapiquí (2 nights), then Sarapiquí-Tortuguero (3 nights), then from Tortuguero heading to the Cahuita and Puerto Viejo area. We’ll spend about ten days in that region, then make a 2-day stop somewhere before flying back out of San José.
From what I’ve read on this blog, Puerto Viejo seems like the "rasta," party-friendly spot, which is honestly the kind of place I tend to avoid—too touristy. I’m looking for places surrounded by beautiful nature. I’ve already spent several weeks in Drake Bay (in 2019 and 10 years before that) and loved it. My friend also wants to visit the Bri Bri.
Could you recommend some authentic spots in this southern Caribbean area? Your favorite places—whether it’s sights to see, accommodations, or even your favorite little restaurants 😛?
What’s the most authentic way to visit the Bri Bri? What’s your take on that?
And finally, what beautiful stop would you recommend before heading back to San José?
A huge thank you to everyone!
Have a great day,
Zineb
Back from Havana and the surrounding area
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
France-Morocco by bike
Hi everyone, I’d love to bike from Lyon to Marrakech or Agadir. I’m looking for someone around my age (23) to join me. I’m also after some tips on routes, things to know, etc. This road trip is planned for September 2026. Looking forward to your replies and advice!
Bus from Cusco Airport to the city center
Hi,
Does anyone know how late the buses run from Cusco Airport to the city center? I land at 9:30 PM, plus time to clear customs, pick up my luggage, and exchange some money—figure an extra 30 to 45 minutes. Though, come to think of it, I still have 5 sols from last time—maybe that’ll be enough for the bus?
Thanks.
Brigitte
Visiting Rabat or Casablanca with a camper van?
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Morocco in our camper van for September/October, and I’m torn between visiting Rabat or Casablanca (we don’t want to spend too much time in big cities). Could you share your thoughts, as well as a campsite or secure parking spot where we could spend the night?
Thanks
Shuttle or bus from the cruise port to Casablanca train station
Hi there,
I’m going on a cruise with a stop in Casablanca. I’d like to know if there’s a shuttle or bus from the ship to the train station? How far is it on foot otherwise?
Thanks for your help!
Mamysosso
Tips for visiting around Casablanca
Hi there!
I’m heading to Casablanca for 15 days in October 2025—what do you recommend?
Rabat sounds interesting—what about Rabat? Fez?
I’m also really into nature—what are the closest gorges?
Is train travel easy?
I’ll be staying with a friend but I’d love to explore solo. I’m 61, blonde with blue eyes—is that an issue?
Thanks!
Laurence from Bayonne
Best route to get to Casablanca from Bayonne
Hi there,
For the upcoming All Saints' holidays in 2025, I’m heading to Casablanca to join a friend who’ll be working there for a year. I’m based in Bayonne—what’s the most convenient flight option? Should I depart from Bordeaux or Bilbao?
Is it worth flying to Rabat first and then taking the train to Casablanca?
Thanks for your insights! Laurence from Bayonne
Is it worth flying to Rabat first and then taking the train to Casablanca?
Thanks for your insights! Laurence from Bayonne
18 days in Cape Verde in January 2025
Hello,
We’ve just returned (2 senior couples) from 18 days in Cape Verde (21/01 to 7/02) that we really enjoyed. The temperature was great—20° to 27°—admittedly a bit windy at times, but the friendliness of the Cape Verdeans made up for it.
Paris Orly, direct flight with Transavia (cheap if you book in advance). We landed in São Vicente, with a 12 € city transfer. We had a fantastic 2-bedroom apartment in downtown Mindelo—Av. Fernando Ferreira Fortes, "Casa So Morabeza"—for 58 € per night. The owner lives in France and communicates instantly via WhatsApp.
We spent 2 days exploring the (beautiful) city of Mindelo and its port activity, plus a private taxi tour of the island (6000 CVE for the day).
Then we took the Armas ferry (recommended company—1500 CVE) to Santo Antão.
From there, a collectivo (450 CVE per person) took us to Ribeira Grande, a central base for hikes.
We stayed in a brand-new, modern, and well-equipped 2-bedroom apartment—*Apartamentos Modernos*—for 6770 CVE per night, staying 6 nights. I highly recommend it for its location in town and proximity to *aluguers* and *collectivos* for hiking.
The hikes were stunning:
- The coastal trail from Fontainhas to Cruzinha (taxi for 1500 CVE)
- The route from Corda to Coculi (taxi for 2000 CVE + 100 CVE per person for the return)
- The trail from Cova to Cidade de Pombas (taxi for 2000 CVE + 100 CVE per person for the return)
- The hike from Miradouro to Ribeira Grande (taxi for 2000 CVE)
- The coastal road from Ribeira Grande to Ponta do Sol (visit and lunch at *Mini Familiar* in the city center—excellent and affordable) for the round trip.
Ribeira Grande has plenty of restaurants, but avoid *5 de Julho*—it’s loud and slow.
We loved: *Bellcanto*, *Cantinho da Amizade*, and *Boca-Fina Churrasqueria*.
Meals with drinks cost around 800–1000 CVE.
Back to São Vicente by ferry (1500 CVE), then an airport transfer (12 €) and a flight (99 €) to Santiago’s Praia. The airport-to-city transfer was 15 €.
We stayed at *Kelly’s* in Plato, Praia, which was disappointing—not ideal for two couples—but well-located.
One day was spent visiting the massive *Suspicia* market, then a collectivo to Cidade Velha (2 x 200 CVE round trip per person). We hiked up to the fort, explored *Rua Banana*, and had lunch at *Praça do Mar* by the beach.
We rented a car for 6 days (29000 CVE) from *Slimpycar* in Praia.
On Saturday, we visited the huge *Assomada* market—don’t miss it!—then hiked to *Boa Entrada* and *Poilon*, the largest and most impressive tree we’ve ever seen.
We stayed for 2 nights (138 €) in a beautiful valley in *Picos*—a spacious, lovely house with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a large living area, surrounded by nature and animals.
Lina, the charming neighbor, prepared dinner (8.50 €) and breakfast (4.50 €) for us.
Next, we headed to *Tarrafal*, stopping to visit the concentration camp (500 CVE)—a must-see—before arriving.
We spent 3 nights (184 €) in a fantastic house called *"Maison Familiale"*—huge, with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 kitchens, 5 toilets, and a large terrace with sea views. It was absolutely stunning and very close to the beach and numerous restaurants.
We did a beautiful 3.8 km hike to the *Farol da Ponta Preta* lighthouse.
Tarrafal’s beach is lively and pleasant, with bars, restaurants, and even acrobats!
We also explored *Ribeira da Prata* to see the *Piscina Natural de Cuba* (not easy to find).
We loved discovering isolated villages like *Ponta Furna*, *Ponta Labrão*, and *Fazenda*.
For food, I recommend *Mira Mar* at *Mama’s*.
On the way back to Praia, we took the east coast route via *Calheta de São Miguel*, *Pedra Badejo*, and *Praia Baixo*—nothing extraordinary, just a rugged, wild coastline with beaches that seemed a bit tricky to access.
Our last evening in Praia was nice. The seaside esplanade was lively, and many Cape Verdeans were swimming at *Prainha* beach, which seemed very accessible and safe.
If you’d like more info—addresses, etc.—feel free to message me privately. I’ll respond.
Jacquesler.
5 weeks in Guatemala in November 2024
A fantastic trip, dominated by the Altiplano, volcanoes, and especially the Mayan people!
Our route: Antigua – San Lucas de Toliman (Lake Atitlán) – Chichicastenango – Sayaxché – El Remate – Flores – Río Dulce – Livingston – Antigua I won’t describe our trip in detail but will highlight a few points that go beyond the usual routes and really won us over. In Antigua, it’s easy to take a chicken bus from the bus station next to the central market in the eastern part of the city to visit nearby villages. We went to Santa María de Jesús on a Sunday without seeing any other Westerners. We got lost in its colorful market, ate at a *comedor* with local dishes we didn’t find anywhere else, and were surrounded by incredibly welcoming Mayans. Several villages around Lake Atitlán are well-covered by travelers and guides like *Routard* and *Lonely Planet*, but if you want to stay somewhere more authentic, I recommend San Lucas de Toliman (we stayed at *Casa Qatzil*—great place!). It’s in the southeast of the lake, with a market on Tuesdays and Fridays, a central square full of locals (more of those super-friendly Mayans!), and the option to visit other villages by *lancha* (boat) for the day. A walk toward the lake lets you pass by the washhouses, and there are hikes accessible by *pick-up* (shared transport), like the twin volcanoes Tolimán and Atitlán or Cerro del Oro (less challenging!). We loved visiting Santa Catarina Palopó—get lost in its maze of steep alleys, admiring the blue facades with their characteristic paintings. There are direct *chicken bus* connections to Chichicastenango in 1.5 hours. Cheap and convenient, though a bit bumpy! Chichicastenango is famous for its market, described as the largest in Central America, on Thursdays and Sundays. A flood of tourists arrives between 10 AM and 1 PM, shuttled in by organized buses from Lake Atitlán and Antigua. But if you have time, stay overnight the day before and enjoy the market before 10 AM or in the afternoon. This little town (more of those welcoming Mayans!) is worth lingering in for a day or two to visit the cemetery, extraordinarily colorful and a site of Mayan rituals. Also take time to go to *Plaza Baktun*, a site considered sacred in Mayan culture where religious ceremonies take place around seven sculptures several meters tall. The ruins of Aguateca are barely excavated (most structures are still covered in vegetation) and are only accessible by boat, traveling up a tributary of the Río de la Pasión to the sound of howler monkeys and birdsong (1.5 hours from Sayaxché). We felt like we got a sense of daily life in the ancient city—not just its religious dimension—with its ravine for sheltering women and children during attacks, its cliff, and defensive walls. Alone with our *lancha* driver, who acted as our guide in the barely cleared jungle, this site doesn’t overlap with Tikal at all—the vibe is completely different. We stayed in El Remate instead of Flores to visit Yaxhá and Tikal, at *Posada Ixchel* (great place!). This quiet little town lets you stroll along the lake and hike in *Cerro Cahui*, a protected biotope leading to a viewpoint. Plus, it’s on the way to the sites, saving 45 minutes per trip.
Feel free to ask me questions about the places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
Our route: Antigua – San Lucas de Toliman (Lake Atitlán) – Chichicastenango – Sayaxché – El Remate – Flores – Río Dulce – Livingston – Antigua I won’t describe our trip in detail but will highlight a few points that go beyond the usual routes and really won us over. In Antigua, it’s easy to take a chicken bus from the bus station next to the central market in the eastern part of the city to visit nearby villages. We went to Santa María de Jesús on a Sunday without seeing any other Westerners. We got lost in its colorful market, ate at a *comedor* with local dishes we didn’t find anywhere else, and were surrounded by incredibly welcoming Mayans. Several villages around Lake Atitlán are well-covered by travelers and guides like *Routard* and *Lonely Planet*, but if you want to stay somewhere more authentic, I recommend San Lucas de Toliman (we stayed at *Casa Qatzil*—great place!). It’s in the southeast of the lake, with a market on Tuesdays and Fridays, a central square full of locals (more of those super-friendly Mayans!), and the option to visit other villages by *lancha* (boat) for the day. A walk toward the lake lets you pass by the washhouses, and there are hikes accessible by *pick-up* (shared transport), like the twin volcanoes Tolimán and Atitlán or Cerro del Oro (less challenging!). We loved visiting Santa Catarina Palopó—get lost in its maze of steep alleys, admiring the blue facades with their characteristic paintings. There are direct *chicken bus* connections to Chichicastenango in 1.5 hours. Cheap and convenient, though a bit bumpy! Chichicastenango is famous for its market, described as the largest in Central America, on Thursdays and Sundays. A flood of tourists arrives between 10 AM and 1 PM, shuttled in by organized buses from Lake Atitlán and Antigua. But if you have time, stay overnight the day before and enjoy the market before 10 AM or in the afternoon. This little town (more of those welcoming Mayans!) is worth lingering in for a day or two to visit the cemetery, extraordinarily colorful and a site of Mayan rituals. Also take time to go to *Plaza Baktun*, a site considered sacred in Mayan culture where religious ceremonies take place around seven sculptures several meters tall. The ruins of Aguateca are barely excavated (most structures are still covered in vegetation) and are only accessible by boat, traveling up a tributary of the Río de la Pasión to the sound of howler monkeys and birdsong (1.5 hours from Sayaxché). We felt like we got a sense of daily life in the ancient city—not just its religious dimension—with its ravine for sheltering women and children during attacks, its cliff, and defensive walls. Alone with our *lancha* driver, who acted as our guide in the barely cleared jungle, this site doesn’t overlap with Tikal at all—the vibe is completely different. We stayed in El Remate instead of Flores to visit Yaxhá and Tikal, at *Posada Ixchel* (great place!). This quiet little town lets you stroll along the lake and hike in *Cerro Cahui*, a protected biotope leading to a viewpoint. Plus, it’s on the way to the sites, saving 45 minutes per trip.
Feel free to ask me questions about the places, accommodations, etc.—I’d be happy to answer!
Holiday in Santo Antão, Cape Verde
Hi there,
We’ve just returned from 15 days in Cape Verde, including 8 days of hiking in Santo Antão. It was a fantastic trip with great weather and heat that stayed manageable. Everything was organized by a highly competent local agency that really listened to our requests. I’m happy to share more details about the hikes, hotels, etc. if you’d like!
Because of a miscalculation on extra costs (non-hotel expenses and transfers), I’ve got 18,000 escudos left—I’d be more than happy to exchange them for a more widely used currency!
We’ve just returned from 15 days in Cape Verde, including 8 days of hiking in Santo Antão. It was a fantastic trip with great weather and heat that stayed manageable. Everything was organized by a highly competent local agency that really listened to our requests. I’m happy to share more details about the hikes, hotels, etc. if you’d like!
Because of a miscalculation on extra costs (non-hotel expenses and transfers), I’ve got 18,000 escudos left—I’d be more than happy to exchange them for a more widely used currency!
Transports à Cuba en mode sac à dos English translation pending
Bonjour , est il possible et facile de parcourir Cuba en mode sac à dos ?