Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

Day 6: Chasing Waterfalls and Local Brews: A Day of Exploration in Loei

Discover Loei's natural beauty at Huai Lao and Namtok Pla Ba waterfalls, and unwind with local flavors at Ponn Loei and Outlaw Brewing.

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Loei's Liquid Assets


Today was all about embracing the natural beauty and local flavors of Loei. From cascading waterfalls to craft beer, Lena and I dove headfirst into what this province has to offer. It’s amazing how much a day of exploration can invigorate the soul, especially when shared with my amazing wife.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ponn Loei Cafe & Restaurant. I opted for a traditional Thai breakfast, while Lena, ever the fan of European flavors, chose a pastry and a strong coffee. The cafe was cozy and inviting, a perfect spot to fuel up for our waterfall adventures. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. It's these small, authentic experiences that really make a trip memorable.

Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Ponn Loei Cafe & Restaurant in Kut Pong - where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Ponn Loei Cafe & Restaurant in Kut Pong - where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to Huai Lao Waterfall Forest Park. The drive itself was scenic, winding through lush greenery and small villages. As we approached the park, the air became noticeably fresher, carrying the scent of damp earth and blooming flora. The weather in Loei during November is typically perfect, bringing very high temperatures and low rainfall. The temperature during the day can rise to about 30°C.

Explore the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Huai Lao Waterfall Forest Park in Loei, Thailand, a true natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Huai Lao Waterfall Forest Park in Loei, Thailand, a true natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park was a true oasis of tranquility. The Huai Lao Waterfall cascaded down the hillside, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of nature's power and beauty. We spent a good couple of hours exploring the various vantage points, taking photos, and simply soaking in the serene environment. The hike to the waterfall was relatively easy, with well-marked paths that wound through the forest. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural splendor. I made sure to capture a few good shots with my camera, hoping to do justice to the scene's breathtaking beauty.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.


Next on our itinerary was Namtok Pla Ba. This waterfall was a bit further out, requiring a slightly longer drive, but it was well worth the effort. Namtok Pla Ba was less crowded than Huai Lao, offering a more secluded and intimate experience. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding rocks provided perfect spots for relaxation and contemplation. Lena and I found a quiet corner where we sat in comfortable silence, listening to the soothing sound of the water.

Explore the stunning Namtok Pla Ba waterfall in Loei, Thailand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Explore the stunning Namtok Pla Ba waterfall in Loei, Thailand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

By this point, we were both feeling a bit peckish, so we decided to grab lunch at Ran Lap Koi. This local restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. We ordered several traditional Thai dishes, including lap, a flavorful minced meat salad, and koi, a raw meat dish popular in the region. The food was spicy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It was a true taste of Loei's culinary heritage.

Experience culinary creativity at Ran Lap Koi – where traditional Thai flavors meet international fusion in Phu Kradueng.
Experience culinary creativity at Ran Lap Koi – where traditional Thai flavors meet international fusion in Phu Kradueng.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to treat ourselves to some local craft beer. We headed to Outlaw Brewing, a brewpub known for its unique and innovative beers. The brewery had a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating. We sampled a few of their signature brews, including their Mosaic IPA and Dark Horse Stout. I was particularly impressed by the creativity and quality of the beers. It's always exciting to discover local artisans who are passionate about their craft.

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

Outlaw Brewing has an interesting backstory. It was started in 2015 by a Canadian brewer named Mike Roberts, who initially brewed beer in the back of an ice cream shop. Due to Thailand's strict brewing laws, Roberts had to move his production to Cambodia. However, Outlaw Brewing has continued to thrive, becoming a popular craft beer brand throughout Thailand.

For dinner, we decided to stay at Outlaw Brewing. The food menu featured a mix of Thai and Western dishes, all designed to pair perfectly with their beers. We ordered some chicken wings and a pizza, which we shared while enjoying the lively ambiance of the brewpub. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.

After dinner, we decided to check out warp Bar @Loei. The bar had a cool and trendy vibe, with a mix of locals and tourists. We ordered some cocktails and enjoyed the music, chatting and laughing with each other. It was a fun and relaxed atmosphere, a great way to unwind after a long day.

Discover the electric nightlife at Warp Bar @ Loei, where vibrant music and delightful drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.
Discover the electric nightlife at Warp Bar @ Loei, where vibrant music and delightful drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.

As we sipped our drinks, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. Loei had exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and local flavors. I was grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Lena, my amazing wife and travel companion.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we made a pact to explore more of Loei's nightlife in the coming days. Perhaps tomorrow we'll check out TERM | BAR, another spot that came highly recommended. But for tonight, it was time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Wat Tham Erawan and the Phi Ta Khon Dan Sai Museum. I am particularly excited about the Phi Ta Khon Dan Sai Museum, as I am fascinated by the local culture and traditions. I've heard that the museum showcases the history of the Dan Sai people and their unique way of life. I am also looking forward to seeing the Phi Ta Khon masks, which are an iconic symbol of the region.

As I lay in bed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what tomorrow would bring. Loei had already captured my heart, and I knew that there were still so many more adventures waiting to be discovered. I am also excited to try some of the local restaurants in Dan Sai, such as Loei Kebab Plus and Rice Noodles Soup Loei. I am particularly interested in trying the local kebabs, as I've heard that they are quite unique and flavorful.

I am also looking forward to sharing these experiences with you, my readers. I hope that my blog has inspired you to consider Loei as your next travel destination. It's a province that is rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local charm. And most importantly, it's a place where you can truly connect with yourself and the world around you.

Good night from Loei!

P.S. I almost forgot! I managed to find a travel adapter today. Crisis averted! Lena was relieved, to say the least. Now we can both charge our phones and cameras without any issues. It's amazing how the little things can make such a big difference when you're traveling.
Go to day 5 Stairways to Heaven and Spiritual Sanctuaries: Exploring Loei's Heights
Go to day 7 Spiritual Heights and Masked Wonders: Exploring Loei's Cultural Gems
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Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

Discover the serene landscapes and rich culture of Loei, Thailand, on a unique 11-day adventure with my wife, exploring natural wonders and local traditions.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Joseph Ngo
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Software Engineer
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 33

Hey there, I'm Joseph! A software engineer by day and a passionate traveler by night (and weekends!). Originally from the vibrant lands of Cameroon and now living in Berlin, I've always been driven by a curiosity to explore the world. This blog is where I share my adventures with my amazing wife, Lena, offering a mix of practical tips, cultural insights, and personal stories. Whether it's navigating bustling city streets or trekking through serene landscapes, I'm all about seeking authentic experiences and connecting with people from all walks of life. Join me as I uncover hidden gems, savor diverse cuisines, and capture the beauty of our planet, one journey at a time!

Interests:
  • Technology
  • Photography
  • Culinary Arts
  • History
  • Global Affairs
More about Joseph Ngo

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Huai Lao Waterfall Forest Park

    Explore the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Huai Lao Waterfall Forest Park in Loei, Thailand, a true natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Namtok Pla Ba

    Explore the stunning Namtok Pla Ba waterfall in Loei, Thailand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

  • ป้อนเลย : Ponn Loei Cafe&Restaurant

    Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Ponn Loei Cafe & Restaurant in Kut Pong - where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.

  • Ran Lap Koi

    Experience culinary creativity at Ran Lap Koi – where traditional Thai flavors meet international fusion in Phu Kradueng.

  • Outlaw Brewing

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

  • warp Bar @Loei

    Discover the electric nightlife at Warp Bar @ Loei, where vibrant music and delightful drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.

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