14 countries and 91 stops experienced on the ground, turned into itineraries you can pick up and customise in Make your road.
Browse my road trips, with my photos, my favourites and the mistakes to avoid.
Each trip can be loaded into the app, with its stops and recommended durations.
Add, remove or move stops, and adapt the trip to your pace.
Two great cities to experience during their flagship events: Sydney for its harbour, Melbourne for sport and nightlife.
“Melbourne and its rooftops: the nightlife is very European.”
Maxime
No road trip here, but two very different city stays. Sydney impresses with its harbour, its Opera House and its New Year's Eve on the water. Melbourne, more European, is the capital of sport and going out, with the tennis Open, the F1 Grand Prix and its rooftops.
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The Opera House and the Harbour Bridge are best explored on foot, from the Botanic Garden or by ferry on the harbour. Add St Mary's Cathedral and the university's neo-Gothic campus. And if you can, experience New Year's Eve: the fireworks over the harbour are among the most spectacular in the world.
Australia's most famous beach, half an hour from the centre, with its surfers and its famous rock pool. The coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee offers superb ocean views.
Melbourne lives to the rhythm of sport: the Australian Open early in the year, the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Albert Park and matches at the legendary MCG. At night the city shows its other side, with rooftops, bars and a nightlife that lasts until morning.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Melbourne and its rooftops. The nightlife is very European: when I was there, Sydney's clubs closed around 2 or 3 am, while in Melbourne the party went on until 9 am. It's a city with a strong European community, you quickly feel at home.
A real road trip! I only stayed in these two cities, and Australia is also meant to be discovered on the road.
A real road trip: the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, the Blue Mountains from Sydney, or the coastal road linking the two cities.
The Melbourne Cricket Ground holds around 100,000 spectators, making it one of the largest stadiums in the world.
Pick up this 3-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The southern summer, from December to March, is the big events season: New Year's Eve on Sydney Harbour, the Australian Open and the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Melbourne. Melbourne's weather is changeable: they say you can get four seasons in one day.
The two cities are linked by many daily flights of about an hour and a half. In Melbourne, trams are free in the city centre. In Sydney, the harbour ferries are the most beautiful way to get around.
For Sydney's New Year's Eve, the best vantage points around the harbour fill up very early in the day, and some are ticketed. For the Open or the Grand Prix, book tickets and accommodation well in advance.
Melbourne is known for its rooftops, its bars hidden in laneways and a nightlife that goes on late. Sydney is more about beaches, terraces and outdoor living.
The complete tour of both islands by car, from the glaciers of the South to the beaches of Northland.
“The Tongariro hike is exceptional, and the view of Lake Tekapo blew me away.”
Maxime
New Zealand is made for road trips: quiet roads, landscapes that change every hour and total freedom to stop wherever you like. We start with the South Island, the wildest, before heading up the volcanic and geothermal North Island.
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The ideal starting point to pick up your car. Christchurch still bears the scars of the earthquake, with a very moving memorial. The winding road to Banks Peninsula is superb, with turquoise bays and viewpoints. The village of Akaroa, however, is very touristy: the drive is more worthwhile than the village.
Unreal milky-blue water framed by the Southern Alps. Go up to the Mount John observatory for the full view, then stop at the little Church of the Good Shepherd on the lakeshore. The night sky here is one of the clearest in the world.
The road along Lake Pukaki, facing the country's highest peak, is a highlight in itself. Once there, the hikes follow one another: the Hooker Valley for its glacial lakes, or the 2,200 steps of Sealy Tarns for those who want to touch the snow.
Head for the ocean and the amazing spherical Moeraki boulders sitting on the beach. Dunedin, a city of Scottish inspiration, hides a magnificent railway station, Baldwin Street, said to be the steepest street in the world (35%!), and the spectacular Tunnel Beach.
Honestly, the Deep South towards Invercargill has little to offer. If you're short on time, cut straight to Te Anau and the wild, silent lakes of Fiordland, gateway to Milford Sound.
The Milford road is one of the most beautiful in the country: allow time for stops, turquoise pools and keas, those very curious mountain parrots. Once there, the cruise through the fjord, between cliffs and waterfalls, is a must.
The adventure capital, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Head up to the viewpoint to take in the town and the mountains, and don't leave without trying the best burger in the country (the queue is worth it).
Quieter than Queenstown, Wanaka charms with its vineyards and its lake. Push on to Lake Hawea, where the mountains reflect like a mirror as soon as the wind drops.
After Haast Pass, rainforest and glaciers that come down almost to the sea take over. Honest advice: if you can only see one, choose Franz Josef over Fox, it's far more impressive.
The Pancake Rocks, stacks of rock shaped like piles of pancakes, are heavily promoted but disappointing. A quick stop if they're on your way north, not worth a detour.
After Nelson, the road climbs over Takaka Hill and drops down to Golden Bay, an unspoilt corner. Pupu Springs and its incredibly clear water, Rawhiti Cave, then Cape Farewell and Wharariki Beach at the very top of the island.
The Coast Track takes four days from Marahau to Totaranui: about 15 km, then 14, 18 and finally 4 km, between golden beaches, turquoise coves and estuary crossings at low tide. You return by water taxi.
A swim at Pelorus Bridge, then the scenic road to Picton through the fjords of the Marlborough Sounds. This is where you board the crossing to the North Island, one of the most beautiful ferry rides there is.
Ferry crossing between Picton and Wellington, about 3.5 hours through Cook Strait. Book your spot with the car in advance.
A small, human-scale capital of harbour, cafés and street art. Climb Mount Victoria for a view over the whole bay.
Mount Taranaki dominates the whole region… when it's not in the clouds. Stay flexible to be there on a clear day: the cone rising from the horizon is one of the most beautiful sights in the country. Then the Forgotten World Highway, a remote road of tunnels and passes, feels out of time.
Napier and its Art Deco architecture, Shine Falls and then Rere Falls near Gisborne. Drive around East Cape to see one of the first sunrises on the planet, at the East Cape lighthouse.
Geothermal land: mud pools, geysers and the incredibly coloured Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu. Pop over to Tauranga to climb Mount Maunganui.
Huka Falls and the great Lake Taupo, ideal for a skydive. The next day, the Tongariro crossing, between volcanoes and emerald lakes, is one of the most beautiful day hikes in the world.
Dig your own hot pool in the sand of Hot Water Beach at low tide, it's the experience not to miss. Cathedral Cove, so often photographed, disappointed me.
Head north, with the Waipu and Whangarei waterfalls. At Cape Reinga, the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet before your eyes, followed by the giant Te Paki dunes and the Bay of Islands on the way back.
The big city to finish: the Sky Tower, the volcanoes dotted around the city and the view of Rangitoto Island. A picnic on Mission Bay beach is the best way to end the trip.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The Tongariro crossing, an exceptional hike, and the view of Lake Tekapo.
I'd try to visit Taranaki on a clear day. Otherwise you miss the magnificent sight of the volcano rising above the horizon: keep some flexibility to wait for a break in the weather.
The Deep South towards Invercargill doesn't have much to see. Head straight to Fiordland.
Akaroa, the “French village”, is a tourist trap, even if the road there is beautiful. The Pancake Rocks and Cathedral Cove also disappointed me. And Fox Glacier is no match for Franz Josef.
Driving on the left is easy… except when I made a U-turn: every single time I ended up back on the right!
New Zealand has several sheep per inhabitant: on some roads you'll meet far more of them than cars.
Pick up this 21-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The southern summer, from December to March, offers the longest days and clear mountain roads. November and April are quieter and often very pleasant, but bring warm layers for the South.
A car or campervan is essential. You drive on the left, and roads are narrow and winding: always allow more time than planned. Book the ferry between the islands in advance, especially in high season.
The country is full of campsites, from very cheap DOC (Department of Conservation) sites to fully equipped holiday parks. Freedom camping is regulated: check where it's allowed.
For the great walks like the Abel Tasman or the Tongariro, book huts or shuttles in advance. Mountain weather changes fast: start early and always carry a waterproof jacket.
You get used to it very quickly on the road. The real trap is manoeuvring: when turning around or leaving a car park, the reflex to drift back to the right kicks in. Be especially careful at those moments.
Skyscrapers, multicultural old towns, tea plantations and primary jungle.
“The tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands are magnificent.”
Maxime
Peninsular Malaysia offers amazing variety over short distances: an ultramodern capital, listed colonial towns, islands, tea-covered hills and one of the oldest rainforests in the world.
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A modern, cosmopolitan capital. The Petronas Towers and KL Tower offer spectacular views, and the Batu Caves, guarded by a giant golden statue, are reached by climbing their colourful stairs under the watchful eye of macaques.
The UNESCO-listed old town of George Town blends Chinese temples, colonial houses and street art. The national park, in the north of the island, offers lovely walks between jungle and beaches.
A lush island reached by ferry. Climb to the top of Gunung Raya, swim at the Seven Wells and walk across the Sky Bridge, a footbridge suspended above the forest.
At 1,500 metres the air cools and the hills are covered with tea plantations. You walk among the tea bushes, visit strawberry farms and enjoy a cup of tea overlooking the valleys.
One of the oldest rainforests in the world. You arrive by boat, walk on walkways suspended in the canopy and, with a bit of luck, come across herds of buffalo along the river.
A former Portuguese, then Dutch and British trading post, Malacca is a journey through history. Stroll along the river, down Jonker Street and around the red Dutch Square.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The tea fields of the Cameron Highlands, magnificent.
I'd try to do the Malaysian part of Borneo. And watch out: some beaches are closed part of the year.
Nothing disappointed me on this trip: an easy, varied country.
Leave the monkeys alone at the Batu Caves.
Borneo: the Malaysian part of the island, with Sabah and Sarawak, its jungles, orangutans and Mount Kinabalu.
The Petronas Towers were the tallest skyscrapers in the world for six years before being overtaken.
Pick up this 6-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
On the west coast, Penang and Langkawi, the best period is from December to April. The east coast gets the monsoon from November to February. It's hot and humid all year round, with short showers.
Long-distance buses are modern and cheap, and the train efficiently links several cities. A ferry serves Langkawi. A rental car gives you freedom in the Cameron Highlands.
Food is one of the great pleasures of the trip: Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisines meet everywhere. Penang's food courts and night markets are famous throughout Asia.
A mainly Muslim and very tolerant country: cover your shoulders and knees in places of worship, and take off your shoes before entering mosques and temples.
On the east coast, several islands, like the Perhentians, close during the monsoon, usually at the end and start of the year. Check the season before planning a few beach days.
Use Grab, the local ride-hailing app, rather than taxis without meters. Avoid the Cameron Highlands at weekends, when they're very busy. In Taman Negara, long socks protect you from leeches after rain.
Golden temples, waterfalls and limestone karsts, from the south to the centre of the country.
“Khao Sok, my absolute favourite in Thailand.”
Maxime
Thailand is perfect for a first trip to Asia: easy, welcoming and incredibly varied. This itinerary combines the buzz of Bangkok with the waterfalls and jungle of the south.
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Just past the Malaysian border, Ton Nga Chang waterfall cascades down seven tiers in the middle of the forest. A lovely introduction before heading north.
An electric, fascinating city. The Grand Palace, the reclining Buddha of Wat Pho and Wat Arun can be seen in a day, then get lost on the klongs, the canals, aboard a long-tail boat.
West of Bangkok, the Bridge on the River Kwai recalls the tragic history of the Death Railway. Nearby, Erawan National Park and its seven turquoise pools are perfect for a swim.
Night train or flight between Bangkok and Surat Thani, gateway to Khao Sok and the Andaman coast.
One of the oldest jungles in the world and a lake with spectacular limestone karsts. You explore it by boat, visit Coral Cave and sleep in a floating bungalow.
To finish, the Andaman coast and its karsts plunging into the sea. Climb to the viewpoints to admire the region, then enjoy the beaches of Railay and the surrounding islands.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Khao Sok, its lake and its jungle.
I'd add Chiang Mai and the north of the country.
I did everything to avoid Phuket and Pattaya, and I don't regret it: you discover a much more authentic Thailand.
Krabi is great, the ideal alternative for enjoying the Andaman coast.
Chiang Mai and the north: temples, mountains, night markets and a gentler atmosphere than in the south.
Bangkok's full ceremonial name is considered the longest place name in the world.
Pick up this 5-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The dry, cooler season from November to March is the best. March to May is very hot. The monsoon then hits the Andaman coast, while the Gulf stays drier until October.
Night trains, buses, minivans and cheap domestic flights cover the whole country. In Bangkok, river boats and the Skytrain beat the traffic jams.
The choice is huge and affordable. In Khao Sok, don't miss a night in a floating bungalow on the lake, a unique experience.
Shoulders and knees covered in temples, shoes off at the entrance. The royal family is highly respected: avoid any remarks about it.
In Bangkok, beware of a stranger telling you the Grand Palace is closed and offering a cheap tuk-tuk: the ride ends in gem shops. Insist on the meter in taxis or use a ride-hailing app.
Scooters are everywhere but accidents are frequent, and insurance often covers nothing without a valid motorbike licence. Choose ethical sanctuaries over elephant rides.
The garden city, between futuristic skyscrapers and rainforest.
“The Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest, my two favourites.”
Maxime
Singapore surprises with how much space it leaves to nature. Beyond the skyscrapers of Marina Bay, you'll find extraordinary gardens, preserved rainforest and even an island frozen in time.
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The futuristic heart of the city. Under the huge greenhouses of Gardens by the Bay, the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest, with its indoor waterfall, are impressive. Come back in the evening for the Supertrees light show.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Botanic Gardens are a green haven in the middle of the city. Lakes, rainforest, waterfalls and the famous Orchid Garden unfold along a long walk.
A real jungle hike beside a large lake. The highlight is the TreeTop Walk, a suspension bridge above the canopy.
A short boat ride and you go back in time: Pulau Ubin has kept its traditional villages and forest tracks. Cycle around it, through the mangroves.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest, at Gardens by the Bay.
Nothing: it's a city-state, you feel like you've done everything. But if I went back, I'd eat at Atlas, a spectacular Art Deco bar.
Life there is expensive. Hawker centres let you eat well without breaking the bank.
Nearly half of Singapore is covered in greenery, despite one of the highest population densities in the world.
Pick up this 4-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
It's hot and humid all year, with frequent but short showers. February to April is often a little drier. Pack light clothes and an umbrella.
The metro is fast, clean and goes almost everywhere. For Pulau Ubin, a bus takes you to Changi Village, where the small boats to the island leave from.
Hawker centres, the big popular food halls, are the best way to taste local food cheaply. Some stalls even have gastronomic guide awards.
Rules are strict and enforced: no chewing gum, no food on the metro, and you cross at pedestrian crossings.
From the temples of Angkor to the beaches of the Gulf of Thailand, a small country with an immense heritage.
“The temples of Angkor, of course.”
Maxime
Cambodia is easily discovered in a week: the temples of Angkor, among the most beautiful sites in the world, a few beach days on the coast, then the capital, Phnom Penh, on the banks of the Mekong.
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Angkor Wat is just the most famous of around a hundred temples. Take time to get lost in the ruins of Ta Prohm, where tree roots wrap around the stones, and before the carved faces of the Bayon.
From Sihanoukville, boats reach Koh Rong and its neighbouring islands: white sand, clear water and spectacular sunsets. It's pleasant, but the beaches are sometimes less clean than in the photos.
The capital lies at the confluence of the Mekong and the Tonlé Sap. The Royal Palace and its lively riverside contrast with the Tuol Sleng museum and the Choeung Ek memorial, two difficult but essential visits.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The temples of Angkor, of course.
Islands like Koh Rong are nice, but a bit dirty.
You need a pass for the Angkor temples: buy it beforehand, at the official ticket office or online.
At the border, for the visa on arrival, hand over the exact amount: the traveller in front of me never saw his change again.
Angkor Wat appears on Cambodia's national flag, an almost unique case for a monument.
Pick up this 3-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The dry season, from November to March, is the most pleasant. April and May are very hot, and the rainy season that follows makes some roads difficult but brings very green landscapes.
Buses and minibuses link the main cities. Locally, the tuk-tuk is the most practical option, especially for touring the Angkor temples with a driver for the day.
Get a multi-day pass: the site is huge. Start early to avoid the heat, and wear clothes covering shoulders and knees to enter the temples.
The country still bears the scars of its recent history. Visiting the memorial sites in Phnom Penh is harrowing but essential to understand today's Cambodia.
The most peaceful country in Southeast Asia, at the pace of the Mekong.
“Don Det, in the 4,000 Islands, my favourite.”
Maxime
Laos is the land of slowness: an immense river, karst mountains and golden temples. This itinerary travels from south to north, from the Mekong islands to Luang Prabang.
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In the far south, the Mekong widens and splits into a multitude of islands. Settle in Don Det, in a waterfront bungalow: you get around by bike and admire the sunsets. Khone Phapheng Falls, the most powerful in Asia, are close by.
The road heads up the country via Vientiane to Vang Vieng, surrounded by limestone karsts. Summit viewpoints, caves and kayaking down the river make it an ideal playground.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the small royal town enchants with its golden temples, colonial houses and night market. Get up at dawn to see the monks' procession.
A lovely boat trip on the Mekong leads to two caves carved into the cliff, filled with thousands of Buddha statues.
A tiered waterfall and pools of an unreal turquoise where you can swim. At the entrance, a sanctuary takes in bears rescued from poaching.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Don Det, in the 4,000 Islands.
I didn't stop in the capital, Vientiane: maybe I will next time.
I got scammed on my bank card: be wary of card terminals, prefer cash and withdraw from ATMs inside banks.
Kuang Si Falls: it's well known, but truly magnificent.
Vientiane: a stop on the way north, for its temples and the COPE centre.
Laos is the most heavily bombed country in the world per capita: millions of bombs were dropped during the Vietnam War, and many never exploded.
Pick up this 5-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The dry, cool season from November to February is ideal. March and April are very hot and sometimes hazy because of agricultural burning. The rainy season makes the landscapes superb but the roads slow.
Distances look short but mountain roads are slow: allow plenty of time. Buses, minibuses and Mekong boats get you everywhere. The new railway line between Vientiane and Luang Prabang saves a lot of time.
Guesthouses and waterfront bungalows are the norm, simple and welcoming. In Luang Prabang there's more choice, from colonial houses to small boutique hotels.
Dress modestly in temples, don't touch people's heads, and watch the monks' alms giving in Luang Prabang discreetly, without flash.
From the terraced rice fields of the north to the busy avenues of Saigon.
“Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay on land.”
Maxime
Vietnam stretches over more than 1,600 kilometres and changes face with each region. This itinerary runs from north to south, from the mountains of Sapa to the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City.
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In the northern mountains, near the Chinese border, terraced rice fields sculpt the valleys. Enjoy the drive up, preferably by day: the rice terraces line the whole route. Once there, walk from village to village with a local guide.
Thousands of limestone karsts rise from emerald water. Spend a night aboard a boat to experience sunset and sunrise over the bay, and explore its caves.
Nicknamed Ha Long Bay on land, the region blends rice fields and limestone karsts. Climb the steps of Hang Mua for a spectacular view, then glide by rowboat through the rice fields of Tam Coc.
In the centre of the country, Da Nang combines beach, Marble Mountains full of caves and pagodas, and lively evenings around the Dragon Bridge. The old town of Hoi An is right next door.
Saigon buzzes day and night. Between Notre-Dame Cathedral, the colonial-style Central Post Office and City Hall, the War Remnants Museum offers a moving look at the country's history.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay on land.
I'd go to Hue.
Enjoy the road to Sapa and its magnificent rice terraces.
I had a scooter accident, and the locals were incredibly helpful.
Hue, the former imperial city, between Ninh Binh and Da Nang, and the Hai Van Pass linking Hue to Da Nang.
Vietnam is the world's second-largest coffee producer: try iced coffee with condensed milk, or Hanoi's egg coffee.
Pick up this 5-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The climate varies a lot from north to south. March and April are a good compromise for the whole country. The north is cool in winter, the centre can get storms in autumn, and the south is pleasant from December to April.
Domestic flights are fast and cheap for long distances. The Reunification Express, which runs along the coast, is a great experience. Night buses link almost every city.
Pho, bánh mì, bún chả: street food is delicious and everywhere. Sit on the little plastic stools, that's often where you eat best.
Scooters are countless. To cross, walk at a steady pace without stopping suddenly: they'll go around you.
The scooter is king, but traffic is dense and unpredictable. Ride carefully, wear a helmet and check that your travel insurance covers this type of vehicle.
Perfect volcanoes, whale shark encounters and the lagoons of Palawan.
“Palawan, my favourite in the Philippines.”
Maxime
With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines force you to make choices. This itinerary combines the volcanoes of Luzon, an unforgettable encounter with whale sharks and the lagoons of El Nido, among the most beautiful in Asia.
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Two hours from Manila, Taal is a volcano in a lake, with its own lake in its crater. The boat crossing and the climb to the crater rim offer an amazing panorama.
Mayon is famous for its almost perfectly symmetrical cone. Admire it from the rice fields, the Cagsawa ruins or the heights of Legazpi, especially at sunrise when the summit is clear.
Donsol is known for swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. Be warned: on some days several boats can end up around a single animal, and the experience then loses much of its magic. The sunsets, however, are blazing.
Limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons and deserted beaches: El Nido is a postcard landscape. Do several island-hopping tours, then take a day for the long beaches of Nacpan and Lio.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Palawan and its lagoons.
Swimming with whale sharks in Donsol: we only spotted one, with five or six boats on top of it. It really wasn't pleasant, neither for us nor for the animal.
The Philippine archipelago has more than 7,600 islands.
Pick up this 4-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
The dry season, from December to May, is the most pleasant. The rainy and typhoon season that follows can disrupt flights and boats. In Donsol, whale sharks are mostly present between November and June.
Domestic flights are essential to link the islands. Locally, tricycles, jeepneys and boats do the rest. Always leave a margin: delays are frequent.
In El Nido, boat tours are organised by circuits: choose two or three different ones to see the most beautiful lagoons. Environmental fees are paid locally.
In Donsol, the encounter is done with mask and snorkel, supervised by guides. Keep your distance, don't touch the animals and avoid any non-biodegradable sunscreen.
Volcanoes, temples and megacities: crossing Japan from Kyushu to Tokyo.
“Nachi Falls and its temple, my favourite.”
Maxime
Japan is travelled from south to north with disconcerting ease thanks to the train. This itinerary mixes big cities, historic sites and nature, with a few lesser-known detours that are really worth it.
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In the heart of Kyushu, Aso has one of the largest calderas in the world. The roads across its grasslands lead to the active crater, which constantly releases plumes of smoke.
A lively, warm city marked by its history. The Peace Memorial and the Atomic Bomb Dome are deeply moving. The rebuilt castle and an evening at the baseball stadium show the city's other side.
A little-known excursion an hour from Hiroshima: a trail follows a river with crystal-clear water, between rocks, waterfalls and forest. Perfect for a nature day away from the crowds.
Himeji Castle, nicknamed the White Heron, is Japan's most beautiful original castle. An easy train stop on the way to Kyoto.
The former capital has an incredible density of temples. Set off early in the morning to enjoy the Golden Pavilion, the thousands of torii of Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera before the groups arrive.
A more spiritual and wild Japan. Nachi Falls, the highest in the country, drop behind a red pagoda for one of the most beautiful views in Japan. Access by public transport is long: allow a full day from Kyoto or Osaka. On the way back, Mount Yoshino and its forest temples are worth the detour.
At the foot of Fuji, Shiraito Falls form a curtain of hundreds of streams. In Fujinomiya, the centre dedicated to Mount Fuji explains the mountain's place in Japanese culture.
The Shinkansen links the Fuji area to Tokyo in no time, an experience in itself.
A fascinating megacity where you go from a centuries-old temple to the neon lights of Shibuya. Go up the Skytree for the view, cross the world's most famous intersection and, if you get the chance, watch a judo tournament.
To finish, a day by Lake Kawaguchi, facing Mount Fuji. Come early in the morning: it's often the best time to see the summit clear.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Nachi Falls with its temple. But it's hard to reach by public transport from Tokyo: go there from Kyoto or Osaka.
I'd go north, to Sapporo.
Buy a rail pass: it served me well.
Never disappointed by Japan.
Hokkaido and Sapporo, in the north: wild nature, hot springs and excellent food.
The Shinkansen is famous for its punctuality: its average delay is counted in seconds.
Pick up this 9-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
Spring, with the cherry blossoms, and autumn, with the red maples, are the most beautiful seasons. Summer is hot and humid; winter is colder but very bright and less crowded.
The rail network is remarkably punctual and the Shinkansen links the big cities in record time. A rail pass can pay off depending on your route: do the maths before you go.
Alternate practical business hotels with nights in a ryokan, the traditional inn with tatami, bath and Japanese dinner. Capsule hotels are a fun experience for one night.
You take off your shoes when entering homes, ryokans and some temples. Tipping isn't practised, and eating while walking in the street is frowned upon.
More than 9,000 kilometres by train, from the Pacific to the Baltic.
“Saint Petersburg, my favourite in Russia.”
Maxime
The Trans-Siberian is a legendary journey: a week by train through taiga and steppe, broken up by stops at Lake Baikal, before the two great imperial cities, Moscow and Saint Petersburg.
My view today: don't go while the war is raging. Check your government's official travel advice before considering this trip.
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The eastern terminus of the Trans-Siberian, the city spreads over hills around a spectacular harbour. Its giant bridges, its port and its historic station set the tone before the big departure.
Four days watching the taiga, rivers and wooden villages roll by. You share tea with your compartment neighbours and stretch your legs on the platforms at every long stop.
The deepest lake in the world holds a fifth of the planet's fresh water on its own. Get off at Irkutsk and head to its shores, where in spring the ice cracks into bluish slabs.
Three more days by train between Irkutsk and Moscow, for a total of more than 9,000 km from Vladivostok.
After Siberia, the sheer scale of Moscow: Red Square, the Kremlin, metro stations decorated like palaces. Gorky Park, the Novodevichy Convent and the Space Museum complete the visit.
Peter the Great's imperial city, set on the Neva. The Winter Palace and the Hermitage, the churches with colourful onion domes and walks along the canals make it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
Saint Petersburg.
I'd get a SIM card as soon as I arrived: contrary to what was advertised, there was no wifi on board the Trans-Siberian.
Choose your hotel carefully: read recent reviews to get an idea of the clientele, not just the room.
Lake Baikal.
The Trans-Siberian is the longest railway line in the world: nearly 9,300 km and seven time zones between Vladivostok and Moscow.
Pick up this 5-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
Entry conditions and the situation can change: always check your government's official travel advice before planning a trip to Russia, as well as the visa rules in force.
From May to September, days are long and Siberia is accessible. In late spring, Baikal can still be partly frozen, an amazing sight. Winter is magnificent but extremely cold.
Book a second-class berth for more privacy, or third class for the atmosphere. Bring food and a thermos: every carriage has unlimited hot water.
Learning the Cyrillic alphabet helps enormously to read stations and menus. The Moscow metro is a museum in itself, and Saint Petersburg's white nights are something to experience at least once.
From the Lapland tundra to the islands of Stockholm.
“The Arctic far north, my favourite in Sweden.”
Maxime
Sweden comes in two parts: the raw nature of Lapland, above the Arctic Circle, then the elegance of Stockholm, built on fourteen islands. The night train links the two worlds.
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Above the Arctic Circle, Abisko National Park is one of the best places to see the northern lights. By day, follow the river's emerald canyon, or go up Mount Njulla for the view over Lake Torneträsk.
The night train links Lapland to Stockholm: you fall asleep in the tundra and wake up in the capital.
Built on water, Stockholm is best discovered on foot and by boat. Get lost in the colourful lanes of Gamla stan, then head to Djurgården for the Vasa Museum, a warship raised almost intact after three centuries underwater.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The Arctic north.
It was a short trip, so not much more to say.
Impossible to rent a car on Sundays: plan ahead.
Abisko enjoys a microclimate, the “blue hole”, which makes it one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights.
Pick up this 2-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
Late August and September bring Lapland's blazing autumn colours and the first northern lights. Summer brings the midnight sun, winter snow and auroras in intense cold.
The night train between Lapland and Stockholm is comfortable and practical. In Stockholm, everything is done on foot, by metro or by boat between the islands.
The weather changes very fast: bring warm, waterproof layers, even in summer. Trails are well marked, and the Njulla chairlift makes it easy to gain altitude.
The city is expensive but very pleasant. The museums are well worth it, and a boat trip in the archipelago shows the city at its best.
A loop through the Julian Alps, from the lakes of Bled and Bohinj to the Adriatic coast.
“The alpine mountains, my absolute favourite.”
Maxime
Slovenia packs alpine lakes, turquoise gorges, spectacular passes, caves and a stretch of Mediterranean coast into a small territory. Distances are short: every day brings a new landscape without spending your life in the car.
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To begin, a little white church perched on a green hill, facing the peaks of the Alps. It's one of the most photographed images in the country, a quarter of an hour from Kranj, and a lovely stop on arrival.
Slovenia's most famous lake, with its island, church and clifftop castle. Walk around the lake, then climb to the Ojstrica viewpoint for the classic view. In the evening, the illuminated castle is reflected on the water.
Right next to Bled, the boardwalks of Vintgar Gorge follow a clear mountain stream. You then climb onto the Pokljuka plateau, covered with forests and pastures, with wide views over the Julian Alps.
Near Mojstrana, a short trail leads to a waterfall you can walk behind, under the cliff. A rare experience, and a striking sight when the sun shines through the curtain of water.
Near Kranjska Gora, the Zelenci reserve protects the source of the Sava, a small lake of incredible turquoise. Wooden boardwalks let you admire it facing the peaks.
The country's most spectacular road crosses the Julian Alps in about fifty hairpin bends. Stop at the top and on the southern side, where the view plunges towards the Soča valley.
The emerald river carves spectacular gorges, like the Velika korita, where the water slips between white rocks. Around Bovec, the Virje and Boka waterfalls round off a perfect day.
A beautiful day hike from the Soča valley, through alpine pastures, to a green mountain lake framed by cliffs. One of the most beautiful lakes in the country, and far less crowded than Bled.
A small town steeped in history, linked to the battles of the First World War. Nearby, a trail leads to the Kozjak waterfall, which falls into a rock grotto, and to the Napoleon Bridge over the Soča.
Wilder and calmer than Bled, Bohinj is magical in the early morning, when mist floats over the lake. Climb up to Savica waterfall, then enjoy the shores around the Church of St John the Baptist and its stone bridge.
Predjama Castle is built into a cliff, at the mouth of a cave. The whole Karst region is riddled with spectacular caverns, including the famous Postojna and Škocjan caves.
A small stretch of Venetian-looking coast. Koper has a pretty old town and cathedral, but it's Piran that charms most, with Tartini Square, its harbour and the view from the town walls.
A human-scale, pedestrian-friendly and pleasant capital. The castle, the banks of the Ljubljanica and the Franciscan church can be seen in a day, ideal to end the trip.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The alpine mountains, from Bled to the Vršič Pass and Lake Krn.
Nothing, but maybe I'd head a bit further east. I'm less of a fan of Mediterranean towns, even if you can't avoid them.
I found there wasn't much to do in the capital: one day is enough.
I found everything beautiful there.
They have really good apple juice!
The east of the country, with Maribor, Ptuj and the Štajerska wine region.
More than half of Slovenia is covered in forest, making it one of the most wooded countries in Europe.
Pick up this 13-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
From June to September, the passes are open and the hikes accessible. September is ideal: the weather is still good, the lake water is still pleasant and there are far fewer people than in midsummer.
A car is essential to enjoy the Julian Alps. An electronic vignette is mandatory on motorways. The Vršič Pass, with its 50 numbered, cobbled hairpins, is closed part of the winter.
Guesthouses, apartments and farm stays are plentiful and welcoming. Bled and Bohinj make good bases for the Alps, Bovec or Kobarid for the Soča valley.
Triglav National Park has trails for every level, from waterfall walks to the climb to Lake Krn. Start early to avoid the heat and the crowds at the best-known sites.
From Iguazú Falls to the glaciers of Patagonia, a huge country crossed from north to south.
“Iguazú Falls, my favourite.”
Maxime
Argentina is enormous: in a few days you go from subtropical jungle to the colourful deserts of the Andes, then to the lakes and glaciers of Patagonia. Here's the itinerary I followed to see its many faces.
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The capital is the natural arrival point. Its wide avenues, European-style palaces and very different neighbourhoods are best explored on foot. Keep an evening for a late dinner, Argentine style.
More than two hundred waterfalls in the heart of the rainforest, on the border with Brazil. The park's walkways lead to the Garganta del Diablo, where the noise and spray are overwhelming. You'll also spot toucans and macaws.
The beautiful colonial city of Salta is the ideal base for a driving loop through the Northwest, a real favourite. Roads cross red-rock quebradas, incredibly coloured mountains and the white desert of the salt flats, above 3,000 metres.
At the foot of the Andes, Bariloche looks like Switzerland with its deep blue lakes and forests. Drive the Circuito Chico and go up to the viewpoints to take in lakes and peaks at a glance.
Flight to El Calafate, then about three hours by road to El Chaltén, Argentina's hiking capital.
The small village of El Chaltén is a hiker's paradise: trails start from the centre and are free. The climb to Laguna de los Tres, facing Fitz Roy, is demanding but unforgettable, as is Laguna Torre with its blocks of ice.
From El Calafate, walkways lead you face to face with a wall of ice more than 60 metres high. Stay a while: regularly, huge blocks break off and crash into the lake with an impressive roar.
What I experienced on the ground, unfiltered.
The Iguazú waterfalls.
Maybe I'd go further south, to Ushuaia.
I missed a Boca Juniors match: I thought it was the next day, because I was reading the times in French time. Always check the local time!
I loved the mini road trip around Salta.
Take cash with you.
Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego, at the end of the world, after El Calafate.
Aconcagua, in the Argentine Andes, rises to 6,961 metres: it's the highest peak in the Americas.
Pick up this 6-stop itinerary and adapt it to your pace, your wishes and your dates.
For Patagonia, go in the southern summer, from November to March: trails are open and days very long. The Northwest and Iguazú can be visited pleasantly all year round, avoiding the summer heat for Iguazú.
Distances are gigantic: domestic flights save whole days. Locally, a rental car is ideal around Salta and Bariloche. Long-distance buses are comfortable and well organised.
The wind is constant and the weather changes in minutes. Bring a windbreaker, warm layers and good shoes, even in midsummer. In El Chaltén, most hikes start right from the village.
Roads quickly climb above 3,000 or even 4,000 metres. Go up gradually, drink plenty of water and keep a fuel margin: petrol stations are rare.
Choose your stops, plan your days and accommodation, and follow your route on the map with Make your road.