Pipes Output http://pipes.yahoo.com/pipes/pipe.info?_id=0ccb62180e0b6e6fc4591a7d8f00a8ec Thu, 01 Oct 2015 23:10:48 +0000 http://pipes.yahoo.com/pipes/ http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/philippines/23089_Visit-the-Philippines-or-Return-to-Vietnam-/0 Hi, I know that this is pretty open ended, but I thought I'd throw it out there. Each Spring my husband and I take a big trip and next year we're debating between visiting the Philippines for the first time or returning to Vietnam, which we absolutely loved two years ago. There's still much to uncover in Vietnam: Sapa, Central Highlands, MeKong Delta, etc. But, we might love the Philippines even more. On our trips we of course love gorgeous beaches, but more than that, we love to get to know a new culture by covering the cities and towns by foot. We adore going through the markets, eating at the stalls with the locals, and basically eat and drink our way through the country. Would love any advice you might have to offer. We're looking ... Sat, 21 Sep 2013 04:17:54 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/burma/23088_Opinions-Suggestions---Southern-Myanmar-Burma/0 Hi guys - you all helped me out immensely a few years ago with a Laos trip, so I was hoping someone might be able to give me some thoughts on a Myanmar trip I have roughly planned out. I've done ALOT of internet searching but it is all fairly inconclusive. I fly into Yangon at the beginning of December and have a flight out of Bangkok 16 days later. This'll be my second trip to Myanmar - I did the "big four" on my last (10 day) trip - LOVED Yangon and Bagan... the other two, less so, although that's not to say I didn't like either of them. This time I was hoping to see a bit of southern Myanmar & make use of the newly opened border at Mae Sot - so here's a rough idea of my plan so far - any thoughts? 1-Dec- ... Sat, 21 Sep 2013 02:14:16 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23087_Ubon-Rathathani-Train-Service-Suspended-Due-to-Flooding---/0 See: http://www.chiangraitimes.com/news/19160.html Sat, 21 Sep 2013 02:09:47 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23086_Good-3--stars-hotel-in-Ha-noi/0 You just cost about 20 USDS,You have chance to stay in a 3 stars standard guestroom for your long time tripat Times Hotel in Vietnam.Set in a prime location of Hanoi,Times Hotel puts everything the city hasto offer just outside your doorstep. Featuring a complete list of amenities,guests will find their stay at the property a comfortable one. All thenecessary facilities and useful services, including: - Liftand Air conditioner - 100% Wireless internet connection for all rooms - IDD telephone system - LCD Television - Well-stocked mini bar in room - Laundry service - Writing desk & reading lamp -Elegance wardrobe - Hair dryer - Coffemaker -Somekind of fastfood in room. - Fireprotection & smoke detector - Smoking rooms ... Fri, 20 Sep 2013 19:04:33 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23085_train-tickets-/0 Hi! I'm wondering if its better to buy train tickets in advance from a travel agent/website or just show up at the station the day of travel? I'll be traveling a popular route - Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Thanks for any info! Molly Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:42:11 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/23084_Jakarta-or-Bandung-to-Cianjur-/0 Hello All! I'm traveling to Cianjur in November where I'll stay for a week or two. Just want to know if it's easier to fly into Jakarta or Bandung. Then take a bus or a taxi to Cianjur? Any suggestions are helpful! Thanks, Molly Fri, 20 Sep 2013 14:25:30 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/23083_Living-in-Cambodia--I-need-your-advice-plse/0 We want to start a grassroots charity program, anywhere in Cambodia that should benefit a small village. We want to mainly transfer skills and provide little (if any) material handouts. We want to help people capitalize on the opportunities presented in their own community. I am not new to starting programs in developing worlds. Have lived and worked it for many years. Am very aware of well intentioned do-gooders doing more damage than good, and of ill-intentioned volunteers, of government apathy, etc. We really dont thave a lot of money. Am also very aware that outsiders, especially from developed countries, cannot see thewood for the trees. We simply dont know what the people really need, and what they would most benefit by. That is ... Fri, 20 Sep 2013 12:15:13 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/burma/23082_Ananda-Pahto-Temple-festival-2014--Bagan-/0 Someone can tell the dates of the Ananda Pahto Templefestival 2014 in Bagan (as I can not find the exact dates)? You think it's worth visiting? I have to makereservations in advance? Thanks answering, Harry Fri, 20 Sep 2013 06:39:47 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23078_thailand-to-australia-then-to-newzealand-and-cook-island--/0 hi everyone! planning a 2 month trip in late February 2014 which would start in the US to Thailand, visit cambodia for a weekend then bangkok to Australia, New Zealand and Cook Islands (as much as i can) I am looking more a culture/nature/food/adventure trip (that wont blow my bank account!) I know that it is cheap to fly from Thailand to Australia, however, I'm not sure where to go from there. I need help on which route to take- and I really dont want to be moving every day. I initially wanted to break down my trip in 2-week increments (because friends may be meeting up with me wherever i end up in!) any help would be greatly appreciated! I am overwhelmed with lonelyplanet book guide and i figure ill start here first, since travel ... Thu, 19 Sep 2013 18:26:14 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23076_Main-prangs-at-Wat-Arun-closing-to-visitors-starting-Sept--24/0 Just got word from a group of professional Thai tour guides that the main prangs at Bangkok's Wat Arun will be closing to visitors starting Sept. 24 due to a large scale restoration. Apparently the giant brick base is 'eroding', and there are concerns that the prang could eventually topple if nothing if done. This is a major undertaking -- they're saying up to three years before it reopens. Visitors will still be able to peep the prangs from a distance; they just can't climb up them. The ubosot and other buildings should remain open. So... If you're keen on climbing one of Bangkok's best known landmarks, you'd better do it soon. Thu, 19 Sep 2013 13:04:36 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/23075_Meet-up-with-other-travellers/0 Hi guys was just interested in seeing if anyone else travelling or backpacking in the Saigon area are interested in meeting up for a day or more lex and I are heading to nah trang on the 27th and would love to meet other backpackers we are two Australian males 20 and 21 Thanks ! Thu, 19 Sep 2013 01:18:03 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23071_Odd-story-about-Thailand-s-Full-Moon-Party/0 Australian newspaper The Age has a quite peculiar story today regarding the safety of foreign tourists at Thailand's Full Moon Parties. While we agree that people should at least try to remain in control at these events, there is one quote from an outgoing Australian honorary consul that really jumped out at us: "What do you do if you are out of it from taking this stuff and you are dragged away in the night and raped by a pack of Thai guys?" It seems extremely irresponsible to narrow this down to Thai guys -- especially considering the vast majority of victims tend to know their assailant. While I don't doubt there are Thais there raping and robbing people, taking a "us and them" attitude is not wise as there are ... Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:48:35 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/23070_Travel-buddy-to-Thailand/0 I am middle eastern 34 years I will travel solo to Thailand 3-13of October I am easygoing I booked hotel I need travel buddy my Emil manss177@yahoo.com Wed, 18 Sep 2013 07:00:55 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/23069_34-M-TRAVELING-SOLO-TO-THAILAND-3-13-OCTOBER-LOOKING-FOR-TRAVEL-BUDDY/0 I Will travel to Thailand from 3-13 October Would you like to join me and start traveling in Thailand Wed, 18 Sep 2013 06:39:21 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23062_3-weeks-in-Thailand-and-Malaysia/0 Hi all, Myself and my Daughter will be traveling to SE Asia in Febuary, the trip plans go like this; BKK, 2 nights in dusit district then go north west 150km to a home stay for 4 nights. Back to BKK take the night train to Koh Phangan for 5 nights. Take the night train from Surat Thani to Butterworth ( time of ferry to get the 01;26 train ??) Penang for 5 nights and take in the Thaipusam there. Train to KL for 2 nights and fly home from there. Any Thoughts anyone?? Wed, 18 Sep 2013 04:42:01 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/idlebanter/23061_What-would-you-do-/0 Hi, Long time reader of this site, first time poster. I am currently in a kind of a dilemma and would like to ask the question, what would you do? I am a 39yr old male, single with no kids that has his own home and has a full time job. Recently the option to take a redundancy from work (been their 14yrs) has come up with a payout that would enable me too travel for a year or two, all the things i have ever dreamed of doing, as such as the trans mongolian train, traveling through se asia a lot more and just seeing where it would all take me. I of course would not use all the money on traveling and keep a chunk of it behind for when i get back, if ever i do, who knows? I would also be able to rent my house out so there would be a bit ... Wed, 18 Sep 2013 04:37:48 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23060_Vietnam-Cracking-Down-on-Illegal-Motorcycle-Use/0 Daawgon just posted this in another thread but I figured it was worth putting in its own thread since it affects quite a few people. Everyone knows the hassle of having to get a Vietnamese license but now it seems like they might be cracking down more on the tourists that choose to ignore the laws. Hopefully as the article states they will figure out an easier way to allow tourists to legally ride motorcycles as it is a nice way to see parts of the country. http://www.thanhniennews.com/index/pages/20130916-no-more-free-rides.aspx Anyone over in Vietnam noticing an actual increase in enforcement or is this article largely a scare tactic? Wed, 18 Sep 2013 04:08:41 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/23059_What-is-happening-in-Phnom-Penh-/0 I am due to arrive October 3rd - the starting point of 2-3 months in SEA. As far as I can tell the political situation appears to be less volitile. I've been reading a few other travel forums and searching the net as best as I can. I am hoping there are a few people that live in Phnom Penh or some who are presently travelling Cambodia that can give me some accurate information regarding the political situation. Are more demonstrations planned? Wed, 18 Sep 2013 03:25:36 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/philippines/23058_Ati-Atihan-and-Sinulog-2014/0 On my trip to the Phillipines (2014) I would like to visit the Ati Atihan (Kalibo) and Sinulog festival (Cebu City) but the highlights of both festivals seem to be in the same weekend, although I found some different information about the dates of the Ati Atihan. For the Ati Atihan I found 10-19 january but also 20-26 january (and starting the 3rd monday in january). The Sinulog weekend seems to be on january 18 and 19. About this a few questions: 1. Can someone tell the exact days of both festivals and tell which dates are the highlights of both festivals? 2. If the highlights are on the same dates, which would you choose to visit and would it be an alternative to visit the other festival before or afterwards? 3. Are there stands, ... Wed, 18 Sep 2013 01:53:56 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23057_Hoi-An-flooding/0 If you've got Hoi An in your travel plans over the next few days, perhaps slow down or reconsider. Courtesy of a tropical storm and some big tides the town is flooding. Here is our flooding advisory from this time last year. Also keep an eye on our Facebook page, where Burton Wheeler (a traveller I kicked around with recently in southern Thailand) is stranded and posting pics of the ever rising river. We'll also be updating the page with news reports and updates from our Hoi An writer (who we hope isn't too busy sandbagging). Wed, 18 Sep 2013 01:20:46 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/motorbikeasia/23056_border-crossing-problems/0 hey guys, so me and a friend have been riding around the north for a bit over a north and having a great time, but the other day we hoped to cross in into laos near dien bien phu. they wouldn't even let us get through the vietnamese side, just said flatly "no". they told us that we needed a international transport permit for the bikes to cross. i had a friend do it a couple years ago with no permit. right now we are riding south to try at the na meo crossing and hoping for better luck there. anybody have any info? better border crossing for bikes? how to get a transport permit? we have a 3 month multi entry vietnam visa. thanks in advance for the brainstorming Tue, 17 Sep 2013 21:14:10 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/burma/23054_Heading-North--finishing-in-Mandalay--Bagan-or-Inle-Lake-first-/0 Hi me and my wife are currently in Yangon We're going to head to Moulmein, Hpa-an and Golden Rock But then when we head north we're not sure if we should go to Bagan or Inle Lake/Kalaw first As we fly out of Mandalay it makes sense for us to head to that area last (including Hsipaw, Mingun etc) Time is not really an issue. We were thinking of stopping in Pyay so that would be more on the way to Bagan i think, but its not essential that we go there. Do you think its better to go Bagan - Kalaw/Inle - Mandalay. Or Kalaw/Inle - Bagan - Mandalay? maybe better things to see between Bagan and Mandalay which means heading to Kalaw first would be better? advice please?? Thankyou! Tue, 17 Sep 2013 15:59:10 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23053_Where-to-stay-in-Bangkok---1st-trip-to-Thailand-SEA/0 I am starting in Bangkok and traveling SEA for 4 months. Getting out of corp america and taking a break! I am looking for a nice place to stay in Bangkok for a few nights that is in a good location, safe (single female) but easy to get around to see the sights. I am flexible on timing and budget. Any suggestions welcome... plan to head up to Chiang Mai and play it by ear but definately hit the islands and see some elephants Thanks! M Tue, 17 Sep 2013 14:46:25 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/23052_From-Huay-Xai-to-Nong-Khiaw-/0 Hi, I will be i Laos in October, probably for arround 7/9 days. I would like to go to Nong Khiaw/Muang Ngoi and Luang Prabang. I´ll probably be entering Laos through Huay Xai and leaving from LP. Do you know if there is any buses from Huay Xai to Nong Khiaw?? If not, what would be better?, to go from Huay Xai to Nong Khiaw, via Luang Nam Tha (spending a night there if I must) or to go from the border to LP and from there go for 2/3 says to Nong Khiaw? Thanks a lot!! Tue, 17 Sep 2013 07:24:57 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/23051_Sumba--Visiting-Pasola-2014/0 Would like to visit the Pasola on Sumba island next year also to make some nice photos. Already did some research and found out that there are two Pasalo festivals in West Sumba in february, in both the Kodi area and the Lemboya area. Festival seems to start about 6-8 days after full moon (set at febr. 15) which would mean about febr. 21 till 23. It seems that the dates are not exactly known in advance but that's not a problem, I can go to Sumba a few days before and wait for the Pasola dates while visiting other places on the island (which seems to be special). A few questions about this: * How many days does each festival take place, can someone confirm or squeeze in the dates? * Are both festivals at exactly the same time? * Any ... Tue, 17 Sep 2013 03:23:55 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23050_BEST-SOUTH-EAST-ASIA-ROUTE/0 Hey guys just wondering what is the BEST route if we are flying into ho chi minh city and want to cover vietnam, cambodia and laos? Is it better to start of in cambodia or vietnam? is it easy to travel up north through vietnam? What's your favourite out of the three? thanks! Tue, 17 Sep 2013 01:13:55 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/23049_In-Bali-with-four-kids-plans-have-gone-awol-any-helpful-suggestions/0 We are in Bali with our four children aged 7 to 12. This is a big trip for us as you can imagine. We planned to start in Bali but spending quite a bit of time travelling across from Gili Islands to Lombok, Sumbawa and Komodo National Park. We had hoped to go to Salawesi but was going to see how far our budget stretched. Today we climbed aboard a fast boat to Gili and the boat met with an accident. The kids got a huge fright and I ended up in hospital. We all survived but none of us want to hop on another boat anytime soon. We have 7 weeks in Indonesia and would like to move away from the crowds, any suggestions would be much appreciated!! Tue, 17 Sep 2013 01:13:07 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/23047_Best-way-of-getting-from-Ho-Chi-Minh-City-to-Luang-Prabhang/0 Hello, fellow Travelfishers! We're travelling to Vietnam on 1st November 2013. This is our 4th visit to VN and we'd like to do Laos, probably, but not necessarily, Luang Prabhang. Is there any easy (quick) way to get to LP from HCMC? From searching air travel sites, it's either horrendously expensive or it takes so long, it's as if you have to go via the North Pole! We normally do our own bookings on line and have often booked with the little travel kiosks in the major VN cities without problems. We're thinking about chancing it and booking once we get to HCMC, but there's always the risk that we won't be able to get the right connecting flights, etc. It it would make things easier, we'd be prepared to go via Vientiane . Is ... Mon, 16 Sep 2013 20:37:48 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23046_Itinerary-ideas-----Bangkok-to-Singapore-over-3-weeks---/0 Hi guys. I thought I'd jump on the bandwagon and see if anyone had any extra tips for locations to get to during my 3 weeks in Southeast Asia. I have noted the obvious and some not so obvious places to go on my trip but wondered if anyone could add a few 'travellers secrets', little gems which only you guys know about! Any information will be gratefully received as this is my first time backpacking! Cheers! Carl Mon, 16 Sep 2013 18:31:26 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23038_Sangkhlaburi---Mon-Bridge-collapse---update-/0 http://www.bangkokpost.com/learning/learning-from-news/362198/mon-bridge-collapse-heavy-rain-strong-current Can anyone give me an update on this? Is the bridge being repaired? thx Mon, 16 Sep 2013 09:12:21 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23037_2-people----10-000-Sterling--6-months--Enough-/0 So, I've done a tonne of research, everywhere. Forums, Guidebooks, blogs and friends travel experiences, however, i'm still a bit worried that we're not going to have enough money. Me and my partner are going to SEAsia for 6 months (return flights booked) next week. I did plan on having 11.5k saved but I had to leave work a touch early and i'm now anxious. I'm basically posting in hope that you guys with the experience can just reassure me that i'll be alright. We aren't going to get drunk, we're going to see the world, walk, cycle, relax, eat and escape for a while. We're happy to go budget on hostels, eat street food (occassional restaurant or similar) We're going to do our best to travel by bus or train, no flying which should cut ... Mon, 16 Sep 2013 04:49:32 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/23036_land-transport/0 Does anybody know if there is a direct bus conection between Paksan and Phonsavanh?.Thanx. Mon, 16 Sep 2013 02:44:50 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/23031_Western-Union-scam/0 Hi there, it's my first time in Cambodia. I'm going to go to Koh Rong Samloem Island in Dec this year, over the Christmas period. I've booked one of the Bungalow there and they've asked me to transfer a deposit of $80USD via Western Union transfer. This doesn't feel entirely comfortable, am i being paranoid? the idea of having to use western union to transfer cash feels odd. Please advice? cheers Sal Sun, 15 Sep 2013 20:20:25 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/23028_8-days-in-Bali-/0 I am travelling to Bali with my 75 year old mum in the first week of November 2013. I have planned 3 nights at Ubud, One at Sidemen and 3 in suraberata, Tabanan . I am looking for an itinerary that is not too hard on my mum's knees! At the same time, don't want to miss out the good stuff.Any help would be very welcome! Sun, 15 Sep 2013 15:56:16 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23027_Vaccinations---may-have-made-a-big-mistake--/0 Basically i'm going to SE Asia in 3 weeks time. Places I'll be visiting include BKK, Chiang Mai then into Laos, onto Cambodia and back to BKK. I knew I had to get vaccinations for the trip but i've been very busy the last few weeks and completely forgot about them!! I heard that you need to get vaccinations 4 or 5 weeks in advance and I just googled it and it seems I need a lot of vaccinations. Will I need to cancel my trip to a later date so I have adequate time for vaccinations, or can some vaccinations be avoided because of very low risk? Thanks Sun, 15 Sep 2013 10:22:43 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/malaysia/23026_Malaysia-honeymoon-early-november/0 Hello all, I'm organizing our honeymoon at the moment and we'd love to go to Singapore for 3 days + Malaysia for another 10 days more or less. Leaving on the 28th of Oct. until 11th Nov., we'd be in Malaysia the first 10 days of November. Our original idea was spending a few days visiting Melaka and KL (after Singapore) and then move to some island on the east coast. Unfortunately we've just discovered that it is monsoon season on the east coast, and many resorts and places will be closed in Tioman. We're very upset about it, as our plan was just relaxing on wonderful beaches and snorkeling after visiting. What would you suggest? Unfortunately we can't change our dates. Any help would be much appreciated! Myriam Sun, 15 Sep 2013 07:15:20 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23025_Weather-In-September-October/0 Ill be leaving Now on the 27th September for Hanoi And going South leaving on the 17th October.Getting in the More Popular Destinations i suppose. Anyway I was wondering just getting around to Clothes packing and my mind is boggled . First of All is Hanoi as Hot as the forecasts predict high 30's I imagine that would be unbearable and is the rain as bad as it sounds or does it last for a certain time not like the persistant rain here in Ireland. I,ll be there for 4 nights and then going toward Hue-Hoian which will be in Monsoon season.I was hoping to pack light enough.But the weather seems so varied I really think ill bring my warddrobe.Would i need a hardcore Set of waterproofs or would a few light ponchos suffice. Any tips would ... Sun, 15 Sep 2013 02:25:49 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23024_Details-on-closure-of-northern-Thailand-train-line/0 We've just published a wrap on the situation regarding the closure of a 250km stretch of Thailand's northern railway for repairs. In summary the section between Sila At (in Uttaradit province) and Chiang Mai is closed from tomorrow (Sept 16) till (at least) November 1. The railways are still flogging thru tickets though -- you'll just do the last stretch by bus. You can read the full post here. Sat, 14 Sep 2013 18:44:21 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23022_CNX-DMK-REP-flight-dilemma/0 Hi, I need help! I am in process of booking internal flights for my first big family trip. I am travelling with my partner and our 10 month old baby. We'll likely have one checked bag. Itinerary at the bottom of this post. Among the flights I'm booking are CNX-REP on Nov 18 AirAsia has a great flight leaving DMK-REP at 10:20am, but I need to get to DMK first! NokAir has a flight CNX-DMK, arriving at 8:50am Is 90 minutes enough to deplane, pick up luggage, clear customs - recheck-in etc? Is there an earlier flight I'm just not seeing? Alternatives - #1 stay overnight at DMK on the 18th, fly DMK-REP on Nov 19. Depart REP on Nov 22. (lose a day in REP) #2 Leave CNX on Nov 17 - missing the final evening of Loi Krathong. Will most of ... Sat, 14 Sep 2013 14:28:43 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cycleasia/23021_Cycle-Advice-/0 Hello All, I know mostly everyone on this forum might be the DIY bike tourers - more power to you! But for those of you who have taken organized bike trips through SE Asia, do you have any to recommend? Or will you tell me to just save my money and go by myself? I'm interested in taking an organized trip (possibly Thailand, southern Laos, or Mekong Delta Vietnam) because I don't think I'm quite ready for a solo bike tour. Any thoughts or recommendations would be appreciated! Thanks, Molly Sat, 14 Sep 2013 05:14:23 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23020_Somewhere-in-South-East-Asia-to-recover-from-foot-fracture-/0 Hi, My sabbatical leave is starting in mid October. However, I managed to get a comminuted fracture on my foot which I was told would take two months to recover. Even though I should be off the aircast beginning of October, I was told to take it easy till end of the month. Since my company is unwilling to push back the start date of my sabbatical leave, I was thinking of going to South East Asia in mid October as planned and maybe sit on a beach or somewhere relaxing for two weeks. Can someone please recommend such a place? Where public transport is quite good or getting around is easy so there wouldn't be as much walking involved (I'm not suggesting no walking involved just perhaps no trekking or really long distances between ... Sat, 14 Sep 2013 05:03:35 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/23019_Searching-for-travel-companions-in-Vietnam/0 I am going to Cambodia soon, and from Phnom Penh I am planning to go to Ho Chi Minh on 26/27 September. Then I want to go all the way to Hanoi where I have flight to HK on 10th October. Unfortunately for now I dont have any companions, so if somebody have similar plans to mine - I would be more than happy to travel with you! Sat, 14 Sep 2013 04:59:44 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/23017_Looking-for-travel-buddies/0 I'm a 25 year old living in New York City and am going to be in Chiang Mai, Thailand from November 9-22 and am looking to prolong my stay and travel through Southeast Asia. Looking to hit Bangkok and Combodia and Bali and open to any suggestions and others who are traveling during that time. thejakeboyd@gmail.com Sat, 14 Sep 2013 03:22:30 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/23016_first-time-travel-6week-trip-need-advice-----/0 hi,myself and my boyfriend have decided to go see south east Asia for 6 weeks in May/June 2013, we are from ireland and we have never done this type of thing before so it is all new to us! places of interest we are thinking would be Ban,Thailand, Cambodia,Laos, Vietnam. We are greatly interested in seeing -jungles,tribes,fishing,hiking trips,amazing beaches,markets and the like. We would greatly appreciate any advice on how long to stay in each area,what places are a must see,and roughly spending money needed for the six week trip,also were thinking of booking accommodation before we leave or would it be a better option to stay in places as we travel?? Thank you so much to anyone who takes the time to read all this jibber jabber and any ... Sat, 14 Sep 2013 02:45:30 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23014_anyone-familiar-with-Vietnam-Group-Tour-in-Hanoi/0 Looking for comments regarding ======================= Vietnam Group Tour Address: 69A Ly Nam De str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi thank you Fri, 13 Sep 2013 12:52:26 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/23013_Vietnam-Tour-Operator-Reviews/0 Is there a site that Vietnam Tour Operator reviews can be found. Wanting to learn about the reputation and quality of services? Thank you Fri, 13 Sep 2013 12:48:40 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/23012_Arriving-late-in-Thailand--Advice-/0 I am booking my flight today and the one I prefer has a short layover but I will be arriving in Thailand at midnight. I am a solo female traveler and I just want to be careful since I will be traveling alone. I've read its not the best idea to travel alone at night but my hostel is 20-30 minutes away from the airport. Is it safe to travel in a taxi at night from the airport to a nearby hostel? Fri, 13 Sep 2013 06:15:19 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/23011_Comparison-of-the-weather-in-Cambodia-and-Indonesia-during-a-rainy-season-/0 I am considering traveling Java and Bali in the coming January, i.e., rainy season and worried about the weather. I have experience of traveling Cambodia and Vietnam in September and October, i.e., rainy season. It rained nearly every day and was very heavy but the raining was generally only during an hour or so. Before and after the rain, strangely the sky was usually clear and sunny and the rainy season was not a big difficulty to me. However, I wonder how bad the weather is during a rainy season in Indonesia. The portions in my travel itinerary which I am afraid of most are the trekking in Mt. Bromo, sightseeing in Borobudur, Prambanan and rice field in Bali (subak), and cosy(lazy?) driving in Bali. During the rainy season, if the ... Fri, 13 Sep 2013 00:13:27 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/23000_Don-dhet-to-Pakse/0 Is it possible to leave Don Dhet in the morning and get to Pakse in time for the 12:55pm or 17:15 flight the same day? Also, going the other direction, is it possible to get to Don Dhet from Pakse if the flight arrives at at 12:40 pm? thanks eric Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:09:33 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/22999_Ecotourism-in-SE-Asia/0 Hey guys, I'm going to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and maybe Laos. I'd like to do the regular tourism but I would also like to hike and do some (if not a lot of) ecotourism. Do you guys have any recomendations that you can give me? Thanks in advance Thu, 12 Sep 2013 08:00:48 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/22998_direct-bus-pp-to-bangkok/0 is there a direct bus from siem riep to bkk' Thu, 12 Sep 2013 04:04:27 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/22997_One-way-renting-of-a-car-in-Indonesia-/0 I considered one-way renting of a car, ie, picking one at Jakarta and returning it to Denpasar. I checked car rent websites but they did not show available cars but showed a message, "Cars meeting your requirements are not available." I tried the search several times with different dates but the results were the same. Is one-way car renting is not available in Indonesia? Thu, 12 Sep 2013 03:05:12 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/traveltechnology/22990_hyperlinks/0 Just a quick note. I've noticed some regular posters on here put up an address with no link. I just wanted to make people aware that there is an icon above the box which allows you to enter the hyperlink to the site so people can click directly on it. Wed, 11 Sep 2013 20:21:27 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22987_2-weeks-between-september-and-october/0 Hi there guys, We're a couple of workaholics that are almost boarding to Thailand without a definite destination. We'll be very glad if you could help us on this particular period of the year. As I've seen on your weather chart the best zones are between Chiang Mai and Koh Samui. Correct me if I'm wrong! Can you please advice me for some activities up in the north and down in the in the islands? If it is a good option... otherwise we are glad if you suggest some of your own. Don't mind about extreme low budget. We work we spend Thanks a lot, GC Wed, 11 Sep 2013 10:24:03 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22986_First-time-travellers-Bangkok/0 Hi all! My girlfriend and i are planning a 6 month trip October next year visiting Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore. We are just in the early stages of researching everything and planning first stage of trip ie Flights from Glasgow to Bangkok and accommodation. We are planning on staying in Bangkok for 3 nights before moving on our budget we are looking to spend in £50 a day. Any information on which part is best to stay, hotels and best way to travel from airport to central Bangkok would be great. Please excuse my ignorance as i said its early stages of research so still lots to learn. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance Greg. Wed, 11 Sep 2013 07:43:18 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22984_Ultimate-Thailand-tour-with-Ultimate-Oz/0 Hi, I am a 31 year old female travelling to Thailand for the first time on 7th October and I am a bit nervous as I am travelling on my own. I am debating booking the Ultimate Thailand tour with UltimateOz as it looks like it covers quite a few of the places I am keen on going too. I was wondering if anyone had done this tour and had any comments about it? I have heard that it is not necessary to book a tour, however I am a bit freaked out at the prospect of finding my own way around at the start! Let me know any advice or tips you may have! thanks Charlotte Wed, 11 Sep 2013 03:05:31 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22980_Bangkok--Chiang-Mai---Septemeber---November/0 Hi all! Just a quick post for anyone like myself who had planned to travel to Chiang Mai by train during september - November I have recieved an email from the train company that there will be engineering works being done which means services are cancelled : The State Railwayof Thailand (SRT) has maintenance plan for the Northern Line railroad tracksbetween Sila-Art station to Chiang Mai. As the result , SRThas stop train services from Bangkok Chiang Mai for Train No.1 and 13 fromSeptember 16 to October 31,2013 (for 45days). Andother trains as train no.9,109,105,107, and 51 will operate from Bangkok toSila-Art Station only. .Also return fromChiang Mai to Bangkok also stop service for Train no. 2 and 14 from September17 to ... Tue, 10 Sep 2013 23:58:05 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/22978_23years-Female-looking-for-travelmate-cambodia-vietnam-start-in-Bangkok/0 Hello Everyone! I'm Clementine, French girl 23 years Old, I m actually in Australia (Sydney)and i am planning on going to SE Asia for my first time on november until 6 december. I will be traveling solo. I have traveled solo before, but not extensively, and I enjoyed it, although it's always nice to meet and make friends with fellow travelers, especially being a female solo traveler. I would like going in cambodia for a week and after Vietnam (I really want doing the hanoi bay in kayak). I'm flexible for the date of travel. If you are also planning a trip around this time, It's would be good meet you. Perhaps we can build a little friendship over the next few months via e-mail and then we can meet up down in Asia! I want see the ... Tue, 10 Sep 2013 12:04:57 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/22977_Vieng-Phoukha-to-Muang-Long-road-ready-in-2013-/0 Hi! Does anyone know if the long promised road from Vieng Phoukha to Muang Long (and then on to Muang Sing) is already done? Traveling there in december 2013 Tue, 10 Sep 2013 08:23:11 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22976_Where-can-I-find-a-good-machete-in-Bangkok-/0 I'm looking for the heavy duty kind you see those guys using out in the bush (the kind that can take down small trees) not those whimpy butter knife things you find at home. Is there any place in Bangkok worth checking out? Thanks Tue, 10 Sep 2013 06:01:33 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22975_Bus-from-Phuket-to-Ranong/0 Hi, I will be arriving at Phuket airport around 1pm and from there take the bus to Ranong . I don't think I can catch the bus to Ranong from the airport, so need to go to Phuket new bus station. Does anyone know if there are still buses leaving phuket town in the afternoon? Where can I find a timetable that is up to date? Thank you so much! Mon, 09 Sep 2013 23:54:02 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22973_Let-me-buy-you-lunch/0 All you need to do is tell me where the waterfall is at the top of our Facebook page. Easy! Mon, 09 Sep 2013 23:11:57 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/22972_Travelling-Solo-Thailand-25th-Sept----7Oct--13/0 Hey all, I'll be arriving in Bangkok on 26/09/2013, and will than fly out to Phuket immediately there after. I have no set Iternary but would like to get some Diving done. Anyone else looking for a Dive/Travel Buddy please feel free to send a message. 26 M South Africa Mon, 09 Sep 2013 22:59:30 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/philippines/22971_3-Weeks-in-the-Philippines---Itinerary-Advice/0 Hey Guys, I'm hoping someone will be able to have a look over this itinerary and give some advice on a couple of questions I have. For some background information; I'm meeting my parents in the Philippines after a year of being away from home (I'm in Aus at the moment, from the UK). I spent 8 months in Asia before coming here so consider myself quite a seasoned traveller/backpacker, my parents however, are not, so we'll need some level of comfort while travelling, airconed busses at a minimum, and a bit of peace of mind in our travel plan. My dad and brother both have their PADI certs, so we're looking to hit up a few good dive spots, the rest of us are happy with some decent snorkelling and good beaches. So here goes (apologies in ... Mon, 09 Sep 2013 21:06:21 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/tripreports/22970_Malaysia-Trip-Expenses-and-blog/0 I had 2 amazing weeks in Malaysia and here is a link to what it cost me door-to-door in expenses (excluding the international flights). Also sharing my Malaysia experiences at my blog, incase you are interested in checking it out. Mon, 09 Sep 2013 19:48:43 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/22969_When-best-to-visit-Luang-Prabang-within-November---February-period-/0 To visit Luang Prabang specifically, I'm trying to choose a month between November and February inclusive, thinking about weather and crowded periods and any festivals. What should I bear in mind in choosing when to visit during this period? How do these 4 months vary in this part of Laos? Any periods to avoid? Mon, 09 Sep 2013 19:36:02 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22968_Tet-Festival--amp--Perfume-Pagoda-Festival---wise-to-visit-at-these-dates-/0 I'm noticing dates for the 2014 Tet Festival & & Perfume Pagoda Festival and am wondering whether these represent great opportunities or whether local celebrations make life too hard for a traveller. I'd welcome comment on each separately, so I can decide whether to pick travel dates. Re Tet, is this a time when transport comes to a standstill & hotels get all booked up? How long does it last? What are the cultural activities at the time, which would be good to witness? Re Perfume Pagoda Festival, the Perfume Pagoda is one of the places which I am most keen to visit. Would the Festival enhance a visit or would it make the place so crowded that it's hard to visit the shrines at leisure? Mon, 09 Sep 2013 18:41:57 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22965_Best-itinerary-for-halong-cruise--2-or-3-nights/0 I am looking for advice on a good two or three night halong bay cruise, even with a night staying on Cat Ba, if that is possible. Ideally, I would like an itinerary that allows many stops to kayak, swim, and enjoy beach time. I don't want to spend the majority of the time sitting on the boat. Any advice would help, as it seems to be overwhelming on the internet. Thanks so much in advance! Christy Mon, 09 Sep 2013 12:50:09 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/22963_12-months-in-South-East-Asia/0 Hi all, I'm hoping that you can give me some much need advice/guidance on the 12 month trip around SEA that I have planned. I intend to travel in December 2014 with a £9.5k (GBP) budget. I have the following (rough) itinerary in mind: Flying into Bangkok and spend 3 nights there before taking the over night train to Sukhathoi, I'm planning on spending 4-5 nights here before heading up North. I'll probably spend 4 weeks travelling between Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Chiang Dao before catching the 2 day slow boat to Luang Prabang. I'm thinking of sticking to the South of Laos and using this as a rough guide - http://www.travelfish.org/trip_planner/southern-laos-holiday (6-8 weeks). I'll then move on to Cambodia using this as a ... Mon, 09 Sep 2013 07:30:09 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/22962_Do-I-need-to-book-accomodations-for-Koh-Rong-in-advance-/0 Hi, Going to Cambodia in November and was planning on staying on Koh Rong or one of the other islands for a few nights. I was wondering, should I book the accomodations in advance or do you think it's possible to snag a beach front room/bungalow the day of arrival on the island? Anyone have any advice/experience with this? Mon, 09 Sep 2013 06:32:18 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/idlebanter/22961_How-do-you-handle-the-emotions-of-long-term-travel-/0 Hi guys, I'm currently planning for my second long-term trip. My first lasted 3.5 months, mostly split into a month each in Thailand, peninsular Malaysia and Vietnam, and moving at a reasonable pace (so an average of 3-4 days in each place). I'm hoping to travel for longer next time, but I'm not certain how I'd handle a longer trip (from a psychological/emotional perspective). I noticed during my first trip that once a month, after about 3 weeks of travelling about, I found myself really unwilling to move on again, just not willing to face bus rides and navigating a new town and tramping around carrying my pack. Each time this happened I was in a quiet seaside location (often in off season) and ended up just chilling on a porch with a ... Mon, 09 Sep 2013 06:15:56 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/22960_First-time-backpacker-to-Cambodia--need-some-advice-/0 Hey all! So, I decided to take the leap and go backpacking for 15 days in Cambodia from 29 October to 15 November. For those that have backpacked Cambodia, my first question is this; is 15 days enough? I'm sort of willing to tack on another few days, maybe week onto the trip, but if there is no need to, then I won't. Aside from that question, the gist of what I want to do is as follows and I'd appreciate any and all suggestions of what places to go to and for how long. I fly into Phnom Penh and would like to explore the city and stay for a little bit (how much time should I set aside for Phnom Penh) then hit Angkor Wat and Siem Reap . From what I've read, 2 to 3 days there in Siem Reap should suffice. I then want to travel to ... Mon, 09 Sep 2013 03:41:56 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22959_searching-for-hotels-in-Saigon-Ho-Chi-Minh-City-for-family-with-2-children/0 We are planning a 3 week trip to VN in April 14 and have 2 kids ages 6 and 9. Could anyone please commend hotels in Saigon. We're on a budget so looking at £30 or less per night. We don't expect 4* but looking at rooms with 2 double beds(english size double) as kids can share. I never know what single and double mean in VN (we've stayed in Hanoi and some hotels have given us twin room, which has 2 double beds, yet others are single twin so very confused). A reasonable breakfast would be great and not so noisy. Last time we visited, our first night was a nightmare. We were all completed shattered (kids aged 2 and 4), son had horrible trouble with ears, we stayed on arrival at hotel which was dirty, you could hear horns beeping ... Sun, 08 Sep 2013 23:41:06 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22958_Weatherwise--what-months-for-visiting-both-Hanoi-and-Hue-/0 During which months would it be good to visit both Hanoi and the area around Hue? We're trying to avoid extreme heat, rain and cold and most definitely the smog from spring crop fires. Are there any months which would suit both these areas? Sun, 08 Sep 2013 21:33:40 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22954_Confusion-with-Thai-Visa-s--/0 Hi everyone My girlfriend and I are planning our first ever trip around the world and are looking for some advice on Visa's... I guess these questions pop up alot but we cannot find the answers we are looking for! The first part of our trip consists of approximately 4 months in Asia... We fly into Bangkok on 3rd November and are intending to head up north for 14 days through Chiang Mai and into Laos (3-5 days) , Vietnam (3 weeks) and Cambodia (12 days) then back overland into Thailand as we have reservations in Koh Phangan over xmas and new year. We are planning to then travel down south Thailand after the new year into malaysia (for 2 weeks) and then travel back up to Bangkok from 1st February - we will work our way up through ... Sun, 08 Sep 2013 03:34:09 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/traveltechnology/22953_android-apps-for-itinerary-building-/0 Hi all I've just realized that it would be really helpful to have an app to help me visualize and fill in my itinerary. I'm doing research, creating bookmarks, pasting into documents, putting post-its into books,,,it's all good, but it's unwieldy. What I'd like to be able to do is to put all the information onto a map somehow (I love maps!). Then when I found myself in the middle of Laos with a day to spare, I could have a look to see if I'd discovered anything interesting in the area. (or talk to people there, of course!). Or if we really liked somewhere, I could more easily see where we could pass on going to. Any suggestions? Thank you. Sun, 08 Sep 2013 02:38:21 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cambodia/22952_Help-fund-a-rainforest-camera-trap-expedition-into-Virachey-National-Park/0 Just thought I'd post this Indiegogo project I just found out about (via Greg, the resident Travelfish Virachey expert . The organisers are raising funds to set up a series of camera traps that will be used to prove there are endangered species (tigers, elephants, rhinos, leopards and friends) to try and use that as leverage to get some serious protection happening -- not before time! The project's funding requirements are pretty clear and so I'd say if you've got an interest in this kind of thing, take a look and get your wallet out if it appeals -- I did You can read about the full project here. Cheers Sat, 07 Sep 2013 22:07:09 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22951_Mekong-Delta-4-days---suggestions-/0 Hi I'm travelling alone to Vietnam in October and I'm planning to spend 4 nights/5 days in the Mekong Delta region. I'll arrive in Cat Tho on Wednesday at 15.45 and I have my flight back to Europe on Sunday at 18 from HCMC. I'd like to make the most of this time, with an eco-tourism approach to the delta (hiking, outdoors, supporting local initiatives, etc.). Ideally, I'd like to avoid crowds as much as possible, and take organized tours only when there's no other option. I have two specific questions but I would be grateful for *any* recommendations about places to see/things to do that you might have. Questions: 1) I was considering Can Tho, Ben Tre and Chau Doc, would that be too much in such a short time? 2) I know forum rules ... Sat, 07 Sep 2013 21:24:20 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/22950_Flight-routes--amp--costs-from-UK-to-Luang-Prabang-/0 We're hoping to visit Luang Prabang this November, flying from Britain, probably London. Would be grateful for any comment on: 1) Cheap international routes / airlines / connections which will end up with us flying into Luang Prabang airport, not Vientiane. 2) Any very rough idea about likely total one way cost in November. I'm not sure how typical are the sort of prices I'm seeing on the web. Sat, 07 Sep 2013 21:16:54 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22949_8-days-in-the-south-with-6-year-old/0 We are going to be in Southern Vietnam for eight days in the beginning of January, and I would greatly appreciate itinerary assistance. My husband and I will be traveling with our well-travelled, easy going six-year-old girl. We will have just spent a week in a very chill, quiet Thai beach with Thai relatives, so we are not looking for beach time and we don't need to cater to the child's whim too much. Then again, we want to keep her involved. We generally travel pretty independently and span the gamut of rustic, local to more luxury, but we always prefer more local flavor. I really wanted to get some Mekong Delta time in, and I was wondering how long I should spend there and what else I shouldn't miss. Any and all advice is much ... Sat, 07 Sep 2013 07:36:18 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22948_Places-to-snorkel-in-November--In-northern-half-of-Vietnam-/0 We're trying to plan our first holiday in Vietnam and would be very grateful for advice on a couple of questions. We were thinking of going this November. We're seeking a sort of 2 /1 mix of cultural and beach holiday. We've got plenty of places in mind for the former - Hanoi and environs, then to Laos for Luang Prabang, then back to Vietnam for Hue and Hoi An and back to Hanoi. But where in November would be suitable for the beach side of the holiday, which didn't mean travelling any further south? We're seeking snorkelling and quiet beauty - definitely not a loud beach party scene nor luxurious hotels and restaurants. I had wondered whether beaches near Hoi An, like Cua Dai, might fit the bill - or the Cham Islands. Near Hue, ... Sat, 07 Sep 2013 05:28:45 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/laos/22947_Laos-again-and-again/0 Hi i plan my 4th trip to Laos after a travel in the south (4000 Islands) Slow Boat to Thailand , Vientiane Luang Prabang , Plain of Jars, I missed only central Laos ( Thakhek) and Nong Khiaw .Any suggestions? But i have only two weeks this year. thanks Sat, 07 Sep 2013 03:52:46 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/cycleasia/22944_cycle-partner-s--for-laos-cambodia-vietnam--/0 Hello All! I'm planning to cycle in southern Laos through Cambodia, possibly end of December/beginning of January? Anyone want to join or have some general advice? Thanks! Fri, 06 Sep 2013 10:41:27 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/22943_Solo-F-traveller-November-and-onwards-/0 Hello All! I'm traveling to Indonesia in November and plan (as of this minute) to travel to Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. I'm volunteering at some farms and natural building centers along the way. I also would love to do some trekking and biking too! Anyone interested in joining me, let me know! It's always good to have company Molly Fri, 06 Sep 2013 10:10:21 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22939_Recommendation-for-massage-spa-in-Ha-Noi/0 I and my family are in adventure in Viet Nam. We will stay in Ha Noi for a month. We almost travel by bicycle and walk so we sometimes we fell so tired after a day going around. Therefore, we are planning to have the massage in order to relax our body. But we have no idea about spa with good service in Ha Noi. Could you give me some suggestion about spa with great service in body treatment and foot reflexology. I appreciated all your help. Thank you ! Thu, 05 Sep 2013 18:26:09 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/idlebanter/22938_Ethics-of-couchsurfing/0 Hi guys, I regularly notice people on this site talk up couch-surfing as a way to save money on accommodation. I've never tried it (I'm rapidly approaching middle age and stuck enough in my ways to want my own space) but my understanding of the ethos of couchsurfing is the pay-it-forward principle: You stay with Ben in Barcelona, Ben stays with Susie in Singapore, Susie stays with Laura in LA, and on and on and on. But this works on the assumption that everyone is in a position to host as well as get hosted. When you're couchsurfing in a part of the world where people are in general less well-off, surely this breaks down? I would assume that most people in Vietnam, for instance, simply don't have the money for overseas travel. So do ... Thu, 05 Sep 2013 17:51:16 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/22936_itinerary-feedback-needed-Burma--Indonesia--Laos--Thailand--Cambodia--and-more--/0 We're planning a 6 month trip around South East Asia/Asia(our first long trip, and first time in Asia!), starting in February 2014.We're in our 50's, fairly active-we like the outdoors, and we're comfortablewithout all the comforts of home (e.g. we like kayak camping). We're guessingwe'll spend ~$50/day each (give or take). We'd like to see enough to have somesense of what a country's about, and see some of the major"must-sees"-but we'd rather spend a few days hanging out in some town getting to know it than a few days trying to sight see our way around some big city. We'd like to fit in a few weeks of meditation retreat, a few treks, and alot of seeing new places. I've come up with a tentative itinerary that I'dreally like ... Thu, 05 Sep 2013 15:37:39 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/vietnam/22932_2nd-hand-clothing-in-Saigon/0 Hello, While living in Northeast Thailand, I enjoyed purchasing second hand clothing (generally imported from the US) from vendors at weekly night markets - they were very common, usually a half dozen or more "shops" - selling most items for a buck or two (30-60 baht) ... I would like to know if anyone has seen such offerings in Saigon? Thanks Thu, 05 Sep 2013 06:09:46 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/22931_14-days---thai--vietnam-and-cambodia-/0 Hello! I am spending 14 full days in south east asia. I am landing in Bangkok and departing from there aS well! I was wondering... Would I be able to see vietnam, thai and cambodia (top destinations only) In only 14 days? What would you recommend as top places to see? Thanks millions!! Lavinia Thu, 05 Sep 2013 04:38:25 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/22930_Youtube-travel-channel-/0 Hi guys! I have a youtube channel where I upload videos about my trips to foreign countries. I just came back from Vietnam and made a short video. Would be awesome if you could check it out! You can also check out my other videos around the world here's the link to my channel: www.youtube.com/jerometraveller cheers jerometraveller Thu, 05 Sep 2013 02:52:37 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelhealth/22929_Warning--men-shouldn-t-skinny-dip-in-S-E-Asia/0 I just read that the Pacu, a fish with very sharp, human like teeth can be found off the coasts of South-East Asia. In fact fishermen enjoy the ferocious fight the Pacu puts up. It is closely related to the pirhana. There have been genuine reports of men having their testicles bitten off by Pacu. So think again when you go in the sea au naturel Thu, 05 Sep 2013 02:06:10 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/burma/22927_1-Month-Burma-15th-Sep-2013-to-17-Oct-2013/0 Hi Everyone I'm going to Burma/Myanmar soon. It looks like it could be quite rainy, but i'm not letting that put me off, at least it should be easy to get hotels. So we are starting in Yangon and Finishing in Mandalay. We will also overstay our visa by a couple of days, but it seems to only be $3 a day each to go over so no big deal really. It is also me and my new wife, so any particularly romantic spots would be good. Since we are starting south and finishing North we can't do any sort of loop. So i was thinking heading West from Yangon to Golden Rock and Mawlamyine/Hpa-an Then maybe up Westish to Muark-U, then to Bagan. Anyway, why don't i leave it up to you guys, any suggestions on where should go on this 1 month ... Wed, 04 Sep 2013 22:29:52 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indochina/22923_Philippines---Malaysia---Thailand---HongKong-in-7-weeks/0 Hello Fellow travelers, There is loads of information on Travelfish.org but I wanted to get some subjective opinion from you. We are spending 48 days if precise in Asia and I would really appreciate your suggestions and help with this In 9 of Feb. we ( me and my girlfriend ) land in Shanghai ( we have been here last year, but we want to spend a day here to accumulate long 15h flight + we need other airport. so we fit for 72h VoA ) 2 - 3 days Hong Kong (I would like to visit HongKong as one of my friends live there ) 2 - 3 days Cebu ( might visit chocolate hills, Donsol ) 5-7 days Puerta Princesa/El Nido ( underground river, Beach and tour to the hidden ones ) 2-4 days Manila and around ( not sure if it deserves 2, 4 or maybe 6 days ... Wed, 04 Sep 2013 18:41:50 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/traveltechnology/22918_iphone-or-ipod-touch-/0 Hey Guys, So first off I'm completely out of the technological loop, and have yet to own a smart phone. Therefore, I'm wondering if it's even necessary for me to have an iphone or ipod touch on my trip? The closer I get to leaving for an extended amount of time in SEA the more I'm beginning to think one or the other could come in handy for apps, podcasts, and skyping. Money is a factor for me and I'm not too excited about shelling out over 600+ dollars for an unlocked iphone. Could I get away with taking an ipod touch? Pros and Cons of each would be greatly appreciated! Wed, 04 Sep 2013 14:06:43 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/financemoney/22909_landing-temporary-work-in-SEA--how-realistic-is-it-/0 Hey Guys, So I'll be heading to SEA on a one-way ticket come January 2014. I'd like to travel the region for at least 4 months, on a budget of $5,000(US). I intend to visit: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar. My itinerary is open, time isn't an issue, but money is. Therefore, I'm open to the idea of working for weeks or months on end throughout my trip, even if only to save money on room and board. How realistic is it for me to assume that I could find temporary work teaching English, bartending, etc. throughout the region, without making prior arrangements? Also, I've heard that as an American it's relatively easy to obtain an Australian work visa, along with work. How true is this? Any tips? Tue, 03 Sep 2013 15:25:32 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/indonesia/22908_3-day--2-Night-Tanjung-Puting-Klotok-Tour/0 Hello, I'm looking to join or assemble a small group to do a 3 day, 2 night klotok trip up river to Camp Leakey in Tanjung Puting National Park through a tour company sometime between September 10 and October 10. I'm pretty flexible on dates. I'll be travelling singley from and returning to Jakarta where I am visiting family. If anyone is interested, please private message me. Thanks, Anna Tue, 03 Sep 2013 14:03:46 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/idlebanter/22907_Say-whatever-you-like/0 Talk about anything you like. No set topic. Tue, 03 Sep 2013 02:08:49 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/22906_Search-Travelpartner-Motorbiketour-from-Malaysia-to-Thailand/0 Hey all together I am Ulf 27 from Germany and going to do a road trip in Asia on a motorbike from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Thailand from the 20.10.2013 (end of October) until next year January. I'm looking for a travel mate, who is also interested in exploring the country by your own motorbike. I don't have any fixed travel plans, so we can decide together about our rides and tours. If you are interested in, send me a message by mail to "ulf-is-travelling@gmx-topmail.de". Regards Ulf Mon, 02 Sep 2013 20:37:11 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/travelcompanions/22903_Need-travel-mate/0 I am currently in Bangkok and would like to find someone to travel around with. I would like to go south and see the beaches and neighboring countries before going to Cambodia. However I am flexible about the where and the when. I just want to hit the road in the next day or two and start to travel. Mon, 02 Sep 2013 11:41:44 +0000 http://www.travelfish.org/board/post/thailand/22902_Bicycles-in-Bangkok-MRT/0 I will visit Thailand in October and will bring my bicycle with me.I will do a bike trip first up north, then to the south. My hotel in Bangkok is in chinatown for the first 2 nights because i will catch the train to Ayutthaya for the start of my bike trip. Has anyone had any success on bringing a bike( in a bike bag) on the MRT or does anyone know roughly what a taxi to chinatown( near Hua Lamphong) should cost from the airport? I know they don't allow bicycles on the MRT, i was hoping by keeping it in the travel bag they would give a break? I know i could take the airport rail link part way into town, but would then need to take the MRT or skytrain, (which doesnt go into chinatown). Any tips or ideas would be great. I'd like to ... Mon, 02 Sep 2013 11:11:32 +0000