Discover the surroundings

Isan (Isaan or Esarn) is the name given to this North Eastern region of Thailand. Isaan is rich in history, culture and natural beauty. It also takes in several surprising cities such as Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani and Khon Kaen. There are many nearby villages with markets and you can find little restaurants and bars all over the place. You can see monkeys, deer, snakes, bears, geckoes and many exotic birds in the nature parks as well as 1300 varieties of orchid. There are also mountains and spectacular waterfalls in which you can swim in the most stunning, turquoise water. Discover monumental temples, dinosaur fossils and the King Cobra village. Nearby, you will find a huge reservoir, a fantastic Gold Club and an enormous White Buddha on the top of a mountain. The walk to this Buddha offers a magnificent view over the region. To the North, is the border with Laos, formed by the Mekong river. This is not far away and is certainly worth a visit.

Isaan History

This area was only affiliated to the kingdom by the then Thai sovereign in around 1707. Local rulers were then appointed. It was only in the late 19th century that Siamese kings occupied an area that was closer to the local government in Bangkok. This was partly as a result of pressure from the French who wanted to add the area to their colonies in French Indochina, with the argument that the inhabitants were Lao and not Thai. Many provinces along the Mekong are home to large numbers of Vietnamese who fled during the Vietnam war. The Thai name Isan comes from the word Isarn, from Sanskrit, and means North-east. For many years the plateau, which lies 200-300m above sea-level and borders the Mekong river, with Laos in the North and Cambodia in the South, was a pretty isolated area. Until the 19th century, the plateau was primarily made up of impenetrable woodland and older people still speak, with great reverence, of the tigers that were around at that time. Now, however, three-quarters of the region is covered in paddy fields and just 10% of the population lives in the cities. The area remains poor because of the natural surroundings, too little rain and the impoverished soil but, with projects such as this resort, we are trying to provide employment opportunities and prosperity.

Excursions

You will, of course, want to see more. The Mekong River, The Erawan Cave, Nong Kai. The ancient dinosaurs or the King Cobra village. National Parks. Shops in Udon Thani, Khon Kaen or Nong Bua Lamphu.

Our guides are ready to help you.

Private car with guide/chauffeur

Treat yourself to a little luxury. Go out without having to worry about a thing. Go wherever you like, your guide will take you there.

Hiring bikes, cars and scooters

Do you wish to explore the surroundings by yourself but do not have your own transport? Cars, scooters and bikes can all be hired for a reasonable price.