Isaan Travel Guide
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Book Isaan Tours
Accomodation
Insurance
Isaan Essentials
WHEN TO GO
Nov–May This season is the best time to visit and while it’s still warm visiting sites will not probably be beset by showers. It does get hotter in March and May with hight 30°C temps.
Jun-Oct Monsoon starts with showers and heavy in Aug & Sep, but temps drop by Oct.
HEALTH
The Isaan region is very rural, so the Recommended Vaccinations list should be followed to the letter, particularly if you’re going to be hiking. The city with the best medical facilities in the region is Khon Kaen, anything more serious than they can handle and you’ll be on your way to Bangkok. So get that insurance.
VISAS
Nationals of most countries can get a free tourist visa on arrrival in Thailand, it’s the length of the visa that varies and can range from 15 days to 90 days. Overstaying visas incurrs daily fines and rules can change overnight so be aware. Some visas can be extended, check the Thai Immigration website.
WEATHER
CURRENT ISAAN WEATHER
TRANSPORTATION
AIR/LAND/SEA
Where to start an Isaan journey is based on what sights you wish to visit. The most popular city is Khon Kaen, which is at the heart of the Isaan region. The city is well-served by trains, buses and flights to Khon Kaen airport (KKC). Flights from Bangkok can be as low as US$25 on Air Asia. Local transport is everything from tuk-tuks to car hire with driver, depending on your destination.
Isaan Daily Costs
BUDGET
Daily Budget Up To:
US$30
- Guesthouse room: US$20+
- Night market dish US$0.5–3
- Short tuk-tuk ride: US$1-1.50
MID RANGE
Daily Budget From:
US$31–200
- Decent air-con hotel room: US$35–100
- Good local restaurant meal: US$5–15
- One half day tour: US$45
LUXURY
Daily Budget From:
US$201+
- Boutique hotel or resort: US$80–500
- Fine dining meal: US$40+
- Compact rent a car per day: US$35+