Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

Last Day in Loei: A Sweet Ending

As our Thai adventure in Loei draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences Lena and I have shared. It's amazing how a place so different from our home in Berlin can feel so familiar and welcoming. Today was all about soaking in the last moments of Loei's charm and savoring the unique flavors one last time.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at Bonjour Loei. I was eager to try something new, so I opted for a classic Bánh Mì, reminiscing about the amazing Vietnamese cuisine I tried back in Cameroon. Lena, ever the traditionalist, stuck with her usual coffee and pastry. It was a simple meal, but the perfect way to start our last day in this tranquil province. I noted that there was also a Bonjour Big C Loei, but we stuck to the original.


Experience the charm of Bonjour Loei, where delicious snacks meet cozy ambiance in Thailand's picturesque Loei province.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to Chateau De Loei. I'd read mixed reviews, with some suggesting it was more of a novelty than a serious winery. Still, I was curious to see Thailand's oldest winery for myself. The drive there was quite scenic, and we eventually found our way via a paved road, thankfully avoiding the 'useless dirt tracks' mentioned in some online reviews.


Discover the charm of Chateau De Loei, where local culture meets stunning natural beauty in Thailand's picturesque Loei province.

Upon arrival, we discovered that the tasting options were indeed limited. They only had one wine available for tasting, a super-sweet white. While it wasn't exactly what I'd hoped for, the experience was still interesting. It was fascinating to see winemaking efforts in a region not traditionally known for viticulture. Lena and I shared a glass, appreciating the novelty of it all. We learned that Chateau De Loei spans over a thousand rai and cultivates both fresh and wine-making grapes. Though there wasn't a tour, as some reviews mentioned, the change of pace was nice.

Every journey, no matter how short, leaves an imprint on the soul.

After the winery, we decided to embrace the natural beauty of Loei with a visit to the Loei River. We strolled along its banks, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. I imagined what it would be like to kayak down the river, an activity I saw advertised online. The Loei River seemed to reflect the calm and unhurried pace of life here, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Berlin. We found a quiet spot to sit and watch the water flow by, lost in our thoughts and the serene surroundings.


Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of the Loei River, a serene escape in Thailand's breathtaking northeastern landscapes.

For lunch, we ventured to Phae Phuean Phong, a local restaurant known for its authentic Thai cuisine. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some spicy Isaan specialties that reminded me of the vibrant flavors of Cameroonian cuisine. Lena, who usually prefers milder flavors, surprised me by enjoying the spiciness of the food. It was a delightful culinary experience, a fitting tribute to the delicious meals we've had throughout our stay.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Phae Phuean Phong, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in scenic Loei.

As the day turned to evening, we sought out Jo+ Beer – Craft Beer Bar for a pre-dinner drink. I was intrigued by the prospect of trying local craft beers in Thailand. The bar was located in Chiang Khan, a charming town known for its laid-back vibe. We found the bar easily enough and were greeted by a cozy, inviting atmosphere. I decided to try a local IPA, while Lena opted for a refreshing cider. The beers were excellent, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff and fellow travelers. Apparently, the establishment is known for its diverse range of locally brewed and international craft beers. It's also known as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts.


Discover Jo+ Beer, Chiang Khan's premier craft beer bar, offering an array of local and international brews in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

For our final dinner in Loei, we chose Outlaw Brewing, a brewpub that had caught my eye with its interesting selection of craft beers. The reviews were promising, describing a pleasant bar-restaurant with its own brewed beer on tap. We arrived to find a lively atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. I ordered a flight of their IPAs, eager to sample the different flavors. Lena chose a lighter beer, and we settled in for a relaxed evening. The food was also excellent, complementing the beers perfectly. I learned that Outlaw Brewing was started by a Canadian and has won international awards.


Discover Outlaw Brewing: A premier brewpub in Loei offering craft beers and delicious local cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

After dinner, we took a final stroll through the streets of Loei, soaking in the sights and sounds of this charming town. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars shone brightly above us. It was a perfect ending to our Thai adventure.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Berlin, carrying with us a treasure trove of memories and experiences. Loei has been a wonderful escape, a chance to reconnect with nature, immerse ourselves in a different culture, and simply relax and unwind. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with Lena, and I know that we will both cherish these memories for years to come. While our time in Loei is over, the memories we've created here will last a lifetime. From the stunning landscapes to the delicious food and the warm hospitality of the locals, Loei has captured a special place in our hearts. As we prepare to leave, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Until next time, Loei, thank you for the memories.

As I reflect on our time here, I realize that travel is more than just seeing new places. It's about opening your mind to new experiences, connecting with different cultures, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. Loei has given us all of that and more. It's a place that I will always remember fondly, and I hope to return someday to explore even more of its hidden gems.

And with that, our Loei adventure comes to an end. Stay tuned for more travel stories from around the world!