Places to See and Stay: Isaan - Thailand

Despite its popularity, Thailand still has a number of less developed and unspoiled areas to explore.

One such region is Isaan, a vast plateau in the northeast of the country that borders Laos and Cambodia. Here, lifestyles, customs, dialect and cuisine are distinctly different from the rest of the country. Important archaeological sites, Angkorian temple ruins and pleasingly unsophisticated wats pepper the region amongst scenery untouched by modern progress. Colourful festivals and traditional handicrafts such as distinctive hand-woven silks are inherent to Isaan’s culture. Whilst a number of road journeys are required to bring several attractions together, both Udon Thani and Ubon Ratchathani are served by scheduled flights from Bangkok.

Whilst we have sourced a few characterful accommodation options deep in Isaan territory, the absence of five-star properties only adds to the charm of this area’s refreshingly simple and unassuming way of life.

The intrepid visitor is rewarded by the experience of real, undiluted Thailand.