Part 1 Isaan, Nong Khai, Thailand – JC’s Road Trip

Well for all the fans sick of seeing me at the beaches and want to see me head back to the North of Thailand you will have to wait!! Because this time I am headed to a region I have never visited, Isaan.

Let’s head off to a small town called Nong Khai. What does it cost and what is it like to live in Nong Khai? Can a category 1 RIPper (Retiree In Paradise) live well and be happy there?  Let’s find out about transportation, costs of some food, getting your laundry done and some lodging options in Nong Khai.
So put on your traveling shoes and let’s jump in the RIPper mobile and let’s see what Nong Khai has to offer!
Isaan is bordered by Laos and Cambodia on three sides. This scorching-hot area of northeast Thailand is known as Isaan. It comprises a third of the country’s land area and is home to nearly a third of its population. This is the poorest region of the kingdom of Thailand, and it is also the least-visited. Farming is the traditional way of life in Isaan.
At the eastern end of this upper part of Thailand, is the border town of Nong Khai which is surrounded by wonderfully ornate temples, some of which are used by the large population of Vietnamese and Chinese migrants.
Nong Khai is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane positioned along the Mekong River.
Nong Khai exhibits the well known Isaan Culture which is very different from the culture of the central, northern and southern regions of Thailand. Isaan is known for its warmth, friendliness and kindness. The Isaan dialect has been drawn from both Thai and Lao roots. These days the distinctive Isaan culture has tremendous pride to those who are born into this region. Most indigenous people here speak both Thai and the local dialect called Isaan.