Sometimes, the best adventures begin with an unexpected meeting. In Ubon Ratchathani, I met a woman who, with a warm smile and a sense of adventure, agreed to join me on a road trip through Isaan in her car. What followed was a journey filled with stunning landscapes, quirky roadside stops, vibrant city experiences, and the kind of spontaneous fun that makes travel unforgettable.
Setting Off from Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon, one of Thailand’s easternmost cities, had already charmed me with its relaxed atmosphere, riverside temples, and friendly locals. But the call of the open road was too strong to resist. With our bags packed and a playlist of Thai road trip songs queued up, we hit the highway, heading northwest toward Khon Kaen.
A few hours into our drive, we stumbled upon Supisara Farm & Café, a hidden gem bursting with color and creativity. This quirky café in the countryside looked like something out of a fairy tale, with windmills, whimsical decorations, and lush gardens that made for the perfect roadside break. We sipped on iced Thai tea while wandering through the playful outdoor setups, snapping photos and soaking in the lighthearted energy of the place.
Arriving in Khon Kaen, we found a city that balanced modern urban life with deep-rooted traditions. Our first major stop was Wat Nong Wang, the breathtaking nine-story temple that dominates the skyline. Climbing to the top rewarded us with panoramic views of the city and the vast Isaan plains beyond. Inside, intricate murals and golden Buddha statues told stories of Thai spirituality and history.
For dinner, we discovered Ladyboy Café, a well-known spot where the food was delightful. The atmosphere was electric—full of laughter, music, and the warm hospitality that defines Isaan. The dishes, a mix of Thai and Isaan flavors, were bold and unforgettable as we indulged in Thod Man Kung (Shrimp Cakes), Khoo Phad Moo (Fried rice with pork), Kor Moo Yang (Cooked pork neck), Tum Thai Khao Kem (Salted eggs with Papaya Salad) and Khanom Jeen (Rice noodles fermented for three days then boiled) and served with fish sauce and coconut milk sauce.
Udon Thani: The Magic of the Red Lotus Lake
The next leg of our journey took us to Udon Thani, where one of Thailand’s most enchanting natural wonders awaited—Red Lotus Lake (Talay Bua Daeng). At dawn, we boarded a small boat and drifted into a floating sea of pink and red lotus flowers stretching as far as the eye could see. The cool morning air, the stillness of the water, and the endless blooms made for a dreamlike experience, one that felt worlds away from the bustling cities.
Beyond the lake, we ventured into the countryside, exploring small villages, rice fields, and roadside markets filled with local snacks and handmade crafts. There’s something special about these quiet, off-the-beaten-path moments—no crowds, no rush, just the beauty of rural Thailand unfolding around us.
Back to Ubon: Reflecting on the Journey
After several days on the road, we made our way back to Ubon Ratchathani, retracing our route but with a newfound appreciation for Isaan’s diverse landscapes and cultures. As we pulled into the city, I realized how much this road trip had given me—not just incredible sights and experiences, but a deeper connection to the people and places that make Thailand so endlessly fascinating.
Traveling with someone you’ve just met can be a leap of faith, but sometimes, it leads to the best adventures. Our road trip through Isaan was proof that spontaneity, kindness, and an open heart can turn a simple journey into something extraordinary.
Scroll down below the comment section (leave a comment if you like), to read the next or previous post and discover another adventure…