Analysis: Isaan, the northeastern region of Thailand
Isaan, the northeast of Thailand, is a region with a rich history, unique culture and a strong agricultural economy. Despite economic disadvantage, the area is developing rapidly with investments in infrastructure and tourism. From ancient Khmer temples to lively festivals and culinary delights, Isaan offers an authentic picture of Thailand and has the potential to become a major growth hub in Southeast Asia.
You have to give something for it, but the reward is a breathtaking view. Wat Phu Tok is a special high-altitude temple in the northeastern province of Bueng Kan (Isan).
Food from Isaan – the Northeast of Thailand
The Isan cuisine from the Northeast of Thailand is less known, but it can be called special. Dishes from Isaan are often even sharper than other Thai dishes due to the addition of a lot of chili pepper. By using less chili pepper, it is also fine to eat for tourists.
Chaiyaphum, also Isan
If you don't know Thailand well yet and look at the (road) map, you tend to think that the Isaan is bordered in the west by the Motorway no. 2 from Korat to the border of Laos. That is not correct, because the province of Chaiyaphum also belongs to the northeastern region, which is called the Isan.
We're going to Ubon Ratchathani!
If you are looking for something other than white sand beaches, busy city life or jungle trekking in Thailand, then a trip to the city and province of Ubon Ratchathani is a good choice. The province is the easternmost province of Thailand, bordering Cambodia to the south and bounded by the Mekong River to the east.
Surin, in Northeast Thailand, offers a profound journey through ancient traditions, majestic elephants and lush landscapes. Far away from the tourist crowds, a world of authenticity unfolds here, where Thailand is palpable in the temples, villages and rice fields. A place where nature and culture come together in harmony and beauty.
The Hidden Soul of Thailand – Why Isaan Will Steal Your Heart
Far from the well-known tourist trails, Isaan offers a unique view of the real Thailand. Here you will find authentic culture, untouched nature and an unparalleled hospitality that you will not experience anywhere else. In this forgotten region, where traditions are still deeply rooted, you will discover the charm of village life, impressive history and flavours that will stay with you.
10 best places or sights in Isaan to visit
Isaan is a region in northeastern Thailand, known for its rich culture, history and beautiful landscapes. The area encompasses 20 provinces and has a population of over 22 million people.
Discover the hidden treasures of Udon Thani (video)
Located in northeastern Thailand, Udon Thani province is home to a wealth of untouched cultural treasures and natural beauty.
As a tourist through the Isan
Less than 10 percent of foreign tourists who come to Thailand have a visit to the northeast, the Isan, on their schedule. That's a pity, because this largest region of the kingdom has a lot to offer.
Amnat Charoen, do you know that?
There is nothing spectacular to say about Amnat Charoen, the province and the capital. It is one of the smaller provinces of Thailand located in the Northeast that is called Isan. The province, with less than 400.000 inhabitants and more than 700 kilometers from Bangkok, is sandwiched by the provinces of Yasothon and Ubon Ratchathani.
Nong Bua Lam Phu, a special province in the Isaan
If the title of this story doesn't tell you anything right away, you've probably never been there. It is one of the newest provinces of Thailand, which was formed on December 1, 1993. Previously, the area was part of the Udon Thani province in the Northeast (Isan) of Thailand.
Nong Khai – Adventure begins at the Mekong River (video)
After arriving in the northern city of Udon Thani, just an hour's flight from Bangkok, you can head north towards Nong Khai. This city is located on the mighty Mekong River, which also crosses China, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.
Music from Isaan: Luk Thung
What certainly stands out when you watch TV in Thailand is the sometimes typical Isan music. It seems a bit complaining. The music style I am referring to is 'Luk Thung' and comes from the Thai pleng Luk Thung. Loosely translated it means: 'song of a child of the fields'.
Mukdahan, pearl on the Mekong river
Mukdahan is a province in the northeast of Thailand, the area called the Isan. It borders a number of other Thai provinces, while it is separated from neighboring Laos to the east by the Mekong River. The capital of the same name is also located on the river.
The charm of the province of Roi Et
Roi Et is a province in the northeast of Thailand, the area called Isan. Despite its many natural and cultural attractions, the charms of the province are known only to adventurous types who have dared to venture off the beaten tourist track.
Isan women, the raw reality (final)
We continue with more examples of Isan women. The sixth example is the eldest daughter of my eldest brother-in-law. She is 53 years old, married, has two lovely daughters and lives in the city of Ubon.
Isan women, the raw reality (part 2)
In part 2 we continue with the 26-year-old beauty who works in a jewelry store. As already mentioned in part 1, it concerns a farmer's daughter, but a farmer's daughter who has successfully completed a university study (ICT).
Isan women, the raw reality (part 1)
Some readers of this blog think that Isaan and its inhabitants are romanticized too much. I like that romance myself, but this time the raw reality. I will, however, limit myself to those Isan women who have no contact with farangs, except for the writer of course. Not because I want to oppose those women who do have contacts, but because I know too little about that group of women. I leave it to the reader to judge whether or not there are differences between the two groups, if that distinction is allowed to be made. Today part 1.
A day trip to a waterfall in Isaan
A day out with a Thai family in Isaan is Sanuk and usually means a trip to a waterfall. The whole family comes along in the pick-up truck, as well as food, drinks, ice cubes and a guitar.