Top Reasons to Go to Isan

Roads Less Traveled: Tour buses are rare on the roads of the sprawling northeast plateau, and you'll probably only run into a few other farang (foreigners).

Khmer ruins: Thailand's finest Khmer temples are living histories, too, with Hindu shrines sometimes supplanted by Buddhist monuments.

Nature Preserves: Two of the country's most popular national parks are here, including Phu Kradueng, where you can find a profusion of wildflowers in spring.

Drifting down the Mekong: The Mekong's murky waters are a fixture in the eastern landscape. Take a boat trip, dine in a floating restaurant, or just take in the views from a waterfront hotel.

Som Tam: This spicy-and-sour green-papaya salad is a staple of the entire country, but its birthplace is Isan, and that's where it's still the best.