forum4travel

A
· posted in Indonesia Travel Forum
Hi

Hoping I can get some feedback on our itinerary for Bali that is planned by Ai For planning a trip, please.

We'll be there in July for 9 days.

It is my husband and I, and 2 of our daughters doing this trip: 21 and 19yo. We like to walk, we like the beach, we like learning about the culture / architecture (more performance and walking tour learning than museum-based), not so into art galleries on this trip, happy to do temples (just not 400 of them - I may have burnt my people out when we went to Japan on temples lol), happy to do a market but need to feel safe, not so into high adrenalin stuff, tend to do more during the day than the night.

We are staying at Wollas Villa & Spa in Seminyak then heading to Ayodya Resort in Nusa Dua.

Day 1 - we arrive late afternoon. Figure we check in then make our way to either Kayu Aya strip and/or Kunti I street.

1) Thinking we go to the deli and get some snacks in too - or does someone have a better idea of where to go to locate snacks?

2) Could we safely walk to either of these destinations in the evening? Or should we order a taxi?

If taxi - should I use gogek or grab? I've read Gogek is generally cheaper but I need an Indonesian phone number to use.

3) I'm looking at getting an e-sim with data. Happy to take directions on this.

Day 2 Check out Seminyak Beach. I've read that Wollas Villa offer a free one-way shuttle to Seminyak and Kuta that operates twice a day - need to confirm that.

4) Failing the shuttle option not being available - is it safe to walk down to the beach?

5) I'd like to do a big walk - any suggestions on which direction to go? I think seeing Petitenget Temple and Tanah Lot Temple would be cool ... it's okay if I go one way then double back ... so please throw advice my way. And if I need to taxi to Tanah Lot Temple let me know that too please.

6) Is there a market around Seminyak that you'd recommend? I'd happily pick up a knock off handbag, not so keen on plastic tat as I already have a lot of that. I like pottery/glasswork over paintings or sculpture - if there is anything along that line that anyone things is worth a look then please suggest.

7) I'm thinking we might tap into happy hour along the beach. Any thoughts on this are of interest - thank you.

8) Thinking we should check out Kreneng Market, Denpasar in the evening/for dinner. Happy to take cautionary tales about food etc to avoid and places to seek out here as my hubby always seems to get tummy upsets. Also happy to hear if this is worth me adding on to our list.

9) I'm assuming we're better off going via taxi to the Kreneng Market (if people think we should include this as a destination) - please set me straight if there is a better way to travel to and from (or where to go instead).

Day 3 and day 4. These are the places I'd like to go but I'm not sure how best to organise them and I also don't know if some of them are worth me factoring in. So - very happy to get feedback on these two days.

Note that on day 3 we are in Seminyak - on day 4 we check out and move to Nusa Dua.

10) And yeah I figure I will need to hire a driver for both of these days. I wrote down Wayan, Kadek, and Made Lela. I have no idea how to decide between these people - I figure it will come down to availability but again happy to take thoughts.

11) Here's the list:

Tegenungan Waterfall

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Tirta Empul Temple

Ulu Petanu Waterfall

Pura Gunung Kaiw Sebatu

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation

Saraswati Temple

Pura Desa

Ubud Palace

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Agung Rai Museum of Art (to see the dances here in the evening)

I could add another day in but I'd be coming from Nusa Dua which is a bit more of a trek.

Day 5 - hang out at the beach

Day 6 -

12) snorkeling at blue lagoon beach. Not sure this is worth the trip - is there a closer location?

13) Ulun Danu Beratan Temple - again this is a big drive - is it worth the travel?

14) Jatiluwih Rice Terrace - if we see the other rice terrace should we make the trip to see this one too? If we're there we'll go see the Handara Gates.

Day 7 -

15) watersports - probably tanjung benoa - but happy to take other thoughts. Banana boating and the jet skiing might appeal.

16) Devdan show at bali nusa dua theatre - thoughts on this, please.

Day 8 -

17) tanah lot temple is a bit of a drive - is it worth adding in to the agenda. Is there anything we could see along the way if we go?

18) I also considered the elephant park (there's a few different ones) but I have a real thing about animal welfare and so I thought perhaps it was best to avoid it ... but if someone has had a really good experience then I'm open to changing my mind.

19) Is there anything you think I missed?

Thanks in advance for taking the time to review.
0 Replies · 719 views
T
Last reply · posted in General Travel Talk
Hey everyone,

If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka and looking for reliable yet affordable transport options, local taxi services often work out much cheaper and more convenient than booking through large international tour agencies.

For long-distance transfers or coastal travel (like Colombo Airport to Southern beaches like Weligama, Mirissa, or Galle), using a local eco-friendly provider gives you reasonable rates without hidden fees.

If you're looking for low-cost transfers, you can check out Eco Cab Taxi for direct local bookings and transparent pricing.

Feel free to ask if you need any advice on Sri Lanka travel routes!
3 Replies · 58 views
Mila_119
· posted in Spain Travel Forum
If you are staying in Barcelona for a few days, I highly recommend making a day trip to Montserrat. It is only about an hour from Barcelona, but the landscape feels completely different from the city.
Montserrat is famous for its spectacular rock formations and the Benedictine monastery built high in the mountains. But one of the main reasons people come here is La Moreneta, the Black Madonna of Montserrat, one of the most important religious symbols of Catalonia.
According to local tradition, the statue was discovered in a cave on the mountain. Today, it is located inside the basilica, and visitors can go inside to see it.
I would also recommend leaving some time to explore the mountain rather than visiting only the monastery. There are several walking routes with beautiful views, and you can take the Sant Joan funicular higher up the mountain. If you enjoy hiking, you can continue towards Sant Jeroni, the highest point of the Montserrat massif.
Another interesting experience is hearing L’Escolania, the famous boys' choir of Montserrat, which has a tradition going back more than seven centuries. The schedule varies, so it is worth checking before your visit.
You can reach Montserrat from Barcelona by train and then continue by cable car or the mountain railway. Going by car is also convenient if you want to explore more of Catalonia afterwards.
For me, Montserrat is one of the best day trips from Barcelona because it combines history, religion, nature and spectacular scenery in one place.
0 Replies · 14 views
Tran
· posted in Vietnam Travel Forum
The year-end market session in Dong Van town (Dong Van district, Ha Giang) is as lively as a festival, filled with the colorful attire of the Dao, Hmong, Tay, Nung ethnic groups... Goods are also more abundant than usual.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau

Attending the market is an important activity in the daily life of ethnic minorities in the Ha Giang rocky plateau. Especially in the days leading up to Tet, various types of goods and agricultural produce are displayed and sold more abundantly. In Dong Van district, the market meets once a week on Sunday.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau

The market session is held on a large plot of land next to the old quarter in Dong Van town. The place most frequented by men in the market is the bird-selling area.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Many people who live far away have to leave from 3 a.m., crossing several mountains to arrive in time for the market. Mr. Giang Nhi Dinh from Thai Phin Tung commune led a black pig from his home to the market to sell.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Black pork is very delicious because it is free-range raised by the Hmong people, with each pig weighing only 30-40 kg. Near Tet, almost every family stocks up on some black pork to wrap cakes and prepare feasts.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau

By 8 a.m., the market is packed with people, and the roads leading to the center of the market are also crowded. Locals come to the market to buy farming tools.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Clothes and daily necessities are of greatest interest to women. Goods are mainly brought up from the lowlands, while a small portion of farming tools and seeds are produced and brought to sell by the locals.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Ethnic minority people often carry woven back baskets to hold goods. For the elderly, money is not kept in pockets but wrapped in a cloth pouch.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Ethnic minorities in the Ha Giang rocky highlands work hard every day, and families live whole hills or mountains apart. Therefore, meeting each other is very limited. The market session is an occasion for them to meet, share the joys and sorrows of life, and raise a glass of wine together.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Drinking wine at the market session is a custom of the Hmong people. After shopping, they often gather in a corner to meet and drink wine. Both women and young girls can drink.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
A special feature of highland market sessions is that in addition to buying, selling, and trading goods, the market is also a place for people to socialize. Therefore, almost all family members eagerly wait for the market day to go down to the market together, also known as going to the market for fun. Many young couples also take this opportunity to express their affection.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
Hmong youths play the khen and dance in the market session, to the warm cheers of the local people.

Tet market in Ha Giang rocky plateau
This year, many ethnic minority people in the Ha Giang rocky mountains celebrate a prosperous Tet as the weather was quite favorable for agricultural production. Therefore, when coming down to the market, everyone is happy and wearing their newest and finest clothes.
source: https://ola88.com/en/van-hoa-vung-mien/tet-market-in-ha-giang-rocky-platea-21728
0 Replies · 19 views
YashGoda
Last reply · posted in Round the World Travel Discussions
The best travel trips and accommodations can be booked on a completely pocket friendly way also over a budget:
Katmandu- Nepal
Bali- Bali
Ho Chi Minh City- Vietnam
Kandy- Sri Lanka
Bangalore- India
Da Nang- Vietnam
Hanoi- Vietnam
Pattaya- Thailand
Bangkok- Thailand
These are some trips under 20,000.
Hope you enjoy your trip.
23 Replies · 5227 views
shaggys
Last reply · posted in Sri Lanka Travel Forum
One of the most common questions from travellers planning a Sri Lanka trip is:

“How do I find a reliable driver?”

It is an important question because in Sri Lanka, the person driving you around can have a big impact on your whole holiday.

You may spend 7, 10, 14 or even 20 days travelling with the same person, so I would recommend looking beyond just the cheapest quotation.

Another thing many visitors do not realise is that not every driver offering tourist transport provides the same level of service or qualification.

1. Tourist Driver​

A tourist driver mainly provides transportation.

They are a good option if you already have your itinerary planned and mostly need someone to take you safely between hotels, attractions and destinations.

A good tourist driver will usually know:

  • Main tourist routes
  • Hotels and restaurants
  • Good places for rest stops
  • Approximate travel times
  • Local conditions
  • Useful places along your route
However, a tourist driver should not automatically be considered a professional tour guide.

This option is usually suitable for travellers who mainly need comfortable private transportation.

2. Chauffeur Guide​

A chauffeur guide combines driving and guiding.

This is probably one of the most convenient options for couples, families and small groups doing a round trip around Sri Lanka.

A licensed chauffeur guide can drive you while also explaining Sri Lankan history, culture, traditions and attractions during the tour.

Instead of hiring both a driver and a separate guide, you have one person travelling with you throughout the trip.

This can be especially useful if your itinerary includes places such as:

Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Ella and other cultural destinations.

3. National Guide​

A National Guide Lecturer is a more specialised professional guide.

National guides generally provide more detailed historical, archaeological, cultural and destination information.

They are often used for:

  • Larger groups
  • Cultural tours
  • Archaeological tours
  • Educational trips
  • Special-interest tours
  • Travellers who want more detailed explanations
Usually, you would have a separate vehicle and driver together with the National Guide.

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority officially recognises several categories of guides, including National Guides and Chauffeur Guides.


So how do you find a reliable driver?​

My suggestion is don't select someone only because they gave you the cheapest price.

Before booking, ask some basic questions.

Ask for their licence or tourism identification.

If someone says they are a chauffeur guide, tourist driver or National Guide, ask them to show their current identification.

Ask exactly which vehicle you will receive.

Ask for:
  • Vehicle make and model
  • Year
  • Passenger capacity
  • Luggage capacity
  • Air conditioning
  • Recent exterior photos
  • Recent interior photos
  • Luggage-space photos
Ideally, these should be photos of the actual vehicle you will receive rather than pictures downloaded from the internet.

Check what the quotation includes.

Two drivers might quote very different prices because one quotation includes everything while another doesn't.

Ask whether the price includes:
  • Fuel
  • Highway tolls
  • Parking
  • Driver accommodation
  • Driver meals
  • Airport pickup/drop-off
  • Kilometre allowance
  • Extra kilometre charges
Get this confirmed before the tour starts.

Ask whether the same driver stays with you​

If you are doing a 10 or 14-day tour, confirm whether the person you are communicating with will actually be your driver.

Sometimes travellers communicate with one person and later receive a completely different driver.

There is nothing necessarily wrong with a company assigning another driver, but you should know beforehand who will be travelling with you.

Check recent reviews​

Look for reviews from travellers who have actually completed tours.

Don't just look at the number of 5-star reviews.

Read what people say about:
  • Driving style
  • Punctuality
  • Vehicle condition
  • Communication
  • Honesty
  • Flexibility
  • Knowledge
  • Whether unexpected charges appeared during the trip

Be careful with unusually cheap quotations​

Sri Lanka is affordable compared with many destinations, but operating a proper tourist vehicle still involves fuel, insurance, maintenance, tyres, licences, driver accommodation and other expenses.

A quote significantly below everyone else is worth questioning.

Ask why it is cheaper and exactly what is excluded.


One useful way to compare Sri Lankan drivers​

Instead of contacting dozens of individual drivers through Facebook, WhatsApp and forums, travellers can also use:

CarWithDriver.lk

You can submit your Sri Lanka itinerary and receive quotations from available verified tourist drivers, chauffeur guides and National Guides.

The platform says driver accounts are checked before approval and may require documents such as driving licences, tourism licences, vehicle registration and insurance.

What I particularly like about this approach is that you can compare more than just the price.

You can compare:

Driver type + experience + licence + vehicle + reviews + included services + total quotation

rather than choosing someone from a WhatsApp message alone.

You can submit your trip here:

https://carwithdriver.lk/

Then speak with the drivers or guides who are interested in your itinerary and compare their offers before deciding.
2 Replies · 86 views
Princess Kabukis
· posted in General Travel Talk
Hi everyone! I’m a local host based in Bali, and tomorrow I’ll be doing a live virtual walk around Sanur, taking you to a lovely beachfront café area overlooking the ocean.
IMG_2986.webp

It’s a little different from watching a regular travel video because it’s live — you can join from anywhere, chat with me, ask questions, and experience the atmosphere of Sanur with me in real time.

We’ll have a relaxed stroll, enjoy the beachfront views, and I’ll share a little bit about everyday life in Sanur and the places we pass along the way.
IMG_2989.webp

If you’re currently dreaming about Bali, planning a future trip, or simply curious about what Sanur looks like beyond the usual tourist videos, you’re very welcome to join!
IMG_2984.webp

I’m hosting it through Peekabl, where you can find the tour details and join the live experience.

Live Virtual Tour: Sanur Beachfront Café Walk
Sanur, Bali, Indonesia
️ Tomorrow

If you’d like to see the tour details or join me, here’s the link:
Tap here to join my virtual live tour

Hope to see some of you there!
0 Replies · 22 views
ankursharma
· posted in General Travel Talk

Yes, Kufri is definitely worth visiting on a short Shimla trip, especially if you enjoy mountain views, nature, and light adventure. Kufri is around 20 km from Shimla and can easily be covered as a half-day or day excursion.

  • Beautiful scenery: Enjoy Himalayan views, pine forests, and fresh mountain air.
  • Snow activities: Winter can bring snow and opportunities for skiing and other snow experiences.
  • Himalayan Nature Park: A good stop for families and nature lovers.
  • Fun activities: Kufri Fun World offers rides and adventure activities.
  • Horse riding: A popular experience, particularly outside the snowy season.
  • Great for photos: The mountain landscape makes Kufri an easy addition to a short itinerary.
If you’re planning your trip, you can also explore Shimla-Manali tour packages for convenient itinerary and travel options.

In short: If you have even half a day available, I’d recommend adding Kufri to your Shimla itinerary.
0 Replies · 18 views
travellolo
· posted in Round the World Travel Discussions
Finding cheap business class tickets from the NYC to London requires flexibility and careful comparison. Start by checking multiple U.S. departure airports, such as New York, Boston, Chicago, Washington, and Los Angeles, and compare London Heathrow and Gatwick options. Keep your travel dates flexible and compare weekdays, off-peak periods, and different seasons. Compare several airlines, including nonstop and connecting itineraries, rather than focusing on one carrier. Track business class fares and look for airline promotions, discounted fare tiers, and limited-time offers. Compare one-way, round-trip, and multi-city prices because pricing can vary significantly. Check whether Basic Business or lower premium fare options provide the benefits you actually need. Before booking, compare the total cost, baggage allowance, seat selection, lounge access, aircraft, change fees, and cancellation rules. Finally, verify the final fare and ticket conditions directly with the airline before payment.
0 Replies · 19 views
travellolo
· posted in General Travel Talk

Tips to Book Cheap Business Class Tickets: USA → London from TravelLolo.com​

  • Compare multiple airlines and airports.
  • Keep your travel dates flexible.
  • Check nearby U.S. departure airports.
  • Compare nonstop and connecting flights.
  • Look for business-class fare sales.
  • Compare one-way and round-trip prices.
  • Track fares and set price alerts.
  • Check different business-class fare tiers.
  • Consider airline miles and reward points.
  • Compare the total fare, including baggage and fees.
  • Check the aircraft and seat before paying.
  • Book when you find a genuinely competitive fare rather than waiting for a “perfect” booking day.
0 Replies · 21 views
Elsie Young
Last reply · posted in France Travel Forum
City of Lights, City of Love, City of... Champagne Showers at the Eiffel Tower? Get ready travel buddies, because France isn't just about baguettes and berets. I've found that sweet spot for travel falls in the shoulder seasons, those in-between times. May and June, or September and October, are magic. The weather is fantastic, not too hot, not too cold – think 16 to 20 degrees Celsius (around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit).

The moment I arrived , jet lag momentarily forgotten by the sheer anticipation. We hopped on the metro, a labyrinthine but efficient network, and within minutes, we were standing at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, that iron icon reaching 324 meters towards the sky. But this wasn't just any Eiffel Tower experience. We bypassed the crowds and ascended, not to the top platform, but to a hidden gem – the champagne bar on the first floor.

That, my friends, was just the first day. France is a country that seduces your senses, leaving you breathless and begging for more.

What is the best time to visit France.jpg

Yes, you read that right. Clinking champagne flutes 57 meters above the Parisian sprawl? Indescribable. The city shimmered before us, a tapestry of golden hues bathed in the late afternoon sun. We sipped our bubbly, the gentle fizz mirroring the excitement bubbling within. Below, the throngs of tourists seemed a world away, their excited chatter a distant hum. It was an exclusive, intimate moment, Paris at our feet, a promise of adventure hanging in the air. That, my friends, was just the first day. France, it seemed, had a lot more stories to tell.

  • Check out my profile for unique list for luxury vacation hotels, resorts and much more .
8 Replies · 2153 views
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