Welcome to Northeastern Thailand

The northeast is Thailand’s forgotten backyard. Isan (ee·săhn), as it’s usually called, offers a glimpse of the Thailand of old: rice fields run to the horizon, water buffalo wade in muddy ponds, silk weavers work looms under their homes, and pedal-rickshaw drivers pull passengers down city streets. If you have a penchant for authentic experiences, it will surely be satisfied here.

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Spend even just a little time here and you’ll discover as many differences as similarities to the rest of Thailand. The language, food and culture are more Lao than Thai, with hearty helpings of Khmer and Vietnamese thrown into the mix. And spend time here you should, because it’s home to some of Thailand’s best historic sites, national parks and festivals. Thailand’s tourist trail is at its bumpiest here (English is rarely spoken), but the fantastic attractions and daily interactions could end up being highlights of your trip.

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Northern Thailand Explorer

Often overlooked for the country's southern islands, northern Thailand offers incredible opportunities to witness local culture and tradition. You'll get time to explore the capital of Bangkok before heading up to scenic cities along the Mekong, wandering through rice fields and discovering temple-rich regions. This engaging itinerary satiates explorers that are eager to go off the beaten path, with time to visit historic sites and local towns at your own pace.
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