Thailand Sales Planner - From Travel Agent September 10, 2007 - (Page 19)

Northeastern Thailand, commonly known as Isan, is the least visited region of Thailand, but this gives it a charm all its own. Prominent aspects of the culture of Isan include mor lam folk music, Muay Thai boxing and sticky rice, which accompanies almost every meal. DISCOVER NORTHEASTERN THAILAND ISAN OVERVIEW R Isan's culture is predominantly Lao, and has much in common with neighboring Laos. The language of the region is Isan (which is similar to Lao), but Thai is widely spoken. The traditional dress of Isan is the sarong; women's sarongs usually feature an embroidered border at the hem, while men's are in a checked pattern. Isan is one of Thailand’s most intriguing destinations with many Stone Age and Bronze Age dwellings and artifacts, and several significant temples that are a legacy of the Khmer empire. Khmer prasat hin (sandstone shrines) are popular tourist attractions, particularly the restored sites at the historical parks of Phimai in Nakhon Ratchasima and Phanom Rung in Buri Ram. After being inaccessible for some time, the temple complex at Khao Phra Viharn in Si Sa Ket on the border with Cambodia once again open to visitors. its folk culture, which is expressed in the indigenous cuisine and handicrafts, such as silk and cotton products, basketry, and bronze-ware. The primary draw for tourists are the area’s prehistoric rock a paintings. LOEI V Visitors head to Loei to enjoy its scenery, cool weather and national parks. Phu Kradung National Park and the area around Chiang Khan are popular sites for hiking. Phu Kradung is a bell-shaped mountain with an elevation of 4,265 feet. The 3.6 mile hike to the top presents spectacular views from the large plateau at the top. R Phu Rua National Park also offers mountain treks and stunning views. On reaching R the summit of Phua Rua, you’ll be able to see into the Mekong River and into Laos. The high plateau of Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary comprise forest and savannah, and is famous for its wild orchids. UDON THANI Udon Thani (often referred to simply as “Udon”) is of primary interest to tourists because of its proximity to the world-renowned archeological excavation at Ban Chiang. This xv W UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the world's oldest Bronze Age civilization flourished some 5,600 years ago. y Of special interest is red and white pottery thought to be the first earthenware vessels known to man, decorated in fingerprint designs. An open air, on-site museum set up r around the archeological digs presents exhibits and objects from the excavation. Thai Airways flies daily between Bangkok and Udon Thani; and several trains leave daily from Bangkok's Hualampong Railway station. Udon Thani has about 35 hotels and resorts to choose from; Charoensri Grand Royal is one of the city’s most popular hotels. UBON RATCHATHANI Ubon Ratchathani bordered by the Mekong River and is a gateway to Laos. Ubon Ratchathani is unique in www.tourismthailand.org/la | 19 http://www.tourismthailand.org/la

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Thailand Sales Planner - From Travel Agent September 10, 2007

Contents Make the Most of Amazing Thailand, Land of Heritage and History Planning a Trip to Thailand: Essential Information Transportation: Convenient Options, from Tuk Tuks to Skytrains Thailand's Vibrant Culture: Experience the Art of Thai Living Sampling Thailand’s Top 20 Delights Hotel Choices: From Luxury to Budget-Friendly Map of Thailand Overview of Thailand’s Regions Central Thailand: The Delights of Bangkok and Beyond Northeastern Thailand: A Distinct Culture All Its Own Northern Thailand: Experience the Iconic Heritage Southern Thailand: Balmy and Beautiful Days International Festivities in Thailand: Let Yourself Be Enchanted Water Sports: The Fun, Sun, Surf and Serenity of Thai Beaches Ecotourism: Encounter the Sheer Beauty of Thai Nature The Beauty of Wellness and Wellbeing in Thailand Shopping: Excite Yourself with a Myriad of Thai Trends

Thailand Sales Planner - From Travel Agent September 10, 2007

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