Exploring the Tranquility of Loei, Thailand

A Day of Heights and Streets in Chiang Khan

Today was all about embracing the charm of Chiang Khan, a town that seems to have perfectly preserved its cultural soul. Lena and I set out to explore its famed Skywalk and the bustling Chiang Khan Walking Street, ready to immerse ourselves in the local vibe. It was a day filled with stunning views, delicious food, and the kind of laid-back atmosphere that makes you forget all about the hustle of city life.

Our day began early with a hearty breakfast at Rice Noodles Soup Loei. This local spot was bustling with activity, mostly locals starting their Sunday with a comforting bowl of Vietnamese-style rice noodle soup. The broth was rich and aromatic, filled with fresh herbs and a hint of spice that woke up my senses. Lena opted for the special chili sauce, which added an extra kick to her noodles. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day’s adventures. The temperature in Chiang Khan in November is very pleasant, with average highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 64°F (18°C).


Experience authentic Vietnamese rice noodle soup at Rice Noodles Soup Loei - a local favorite in the heart of Thailand's Loei province.
With our bellies full, we hopped in a tuk-tuk and made our way to the Skywalk Chiang Khan, also known as Skywalk Phu Khong Ngeo. The ride itself was an experience, winding through small roads and offering glimpses of the rural landscape. As we approached, the towering figure of the Big Buddha Phu Khong Ngew came into view, standing at 19 meters tall.

The Skywalk is perched about 80 meters above the Mekong River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Thai-Laotian border. Walking on the glass bridge was a bit unnerving at first, but the breathtaking scenery quickly distracted me. Lena, ever the architect, was fascinated by the structure itself, admiring the engineering that allowed us to stand so high above the river. The weather was perfect, with a cool breeze making the experience even more enjoyable. From up there, the Mekong looked majestic, snaking its way through the landscape, a true border between two worlds.


Discover the stunning vistas of the Mekong River at Skywalk Chiang Khan, a breathtaking glass walkway in Loei, Thailand, perfect for unforgettable experiences.

The Skywalk Chiang Khan offered a perspective that was both thrilling and serene, a perfect blend of human ingenuity and natural beauty.

After soaking in the views and snapping a few photos, we headed back down and decided to grab lunch at So Ahan Thai Restaurant. The reviews I’d read mentioned authentic Thai flavors, so I was eager to try it out. The restaurant had a cozy vibe, and we ordered a selection of dishes, including Pad Thai and green curry. The food was indeed delicious, with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Lena particularly enjoyed the green curry, noting the freshness of the ingredients. It was a satisfying meal that gave us a taste of the local culinary scene.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at So Ahan Thai Restaurant in Mueang Loei District, where every dish tells a story.
As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to the Chiang Khan Walking Street. This lively market stretches along the Mekong River and is known for its traditional wooden houses and vibrant atmosphere. As the sun began to set, the street came alive with vendors selling everything from local handicrafts to street food. The Chiang Khan Walking Street comes alive at night, offering a lively market experience that shouldn't be missed.


Discover the vibrant culture and delightful street food at Chiang Khan Walking Street, a must-visit destination in northern Thailand.
Lena and I strolled along, taking in the sights and sounds. We sampled various snacks, including grilled shrimp skewers and candied coconut, both local specialties. The Walking Street was bustling with people, mostly Thai tourists enjoying a weekend getaway. It was a great opportunity to people-watch and soak in the local culture. The architecture of the wooden houses lining the street was fascinating, a reminder of a simpler time.

For dinner, we decided to try Saloon Loei, a bar and restaurant known for its mix of Thai and international dishes. The place had a lively atmosphere, with eclectic decor and friendly staff. I opted for a traditional Thai dish, while Lena went for a burger. The food was good, but the atmosphere was the real highlight. It felt like a community gathering place, where locals and tourists mingled and shared stories.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Saloon Loei – your gateway to exploring the beauty of Thailand on two wheels.
To cap off the evening, we ventured to Outlaw Brewing, a local craft brewery. I’d read about their unique beers and was curious to try them. The brewery had a cool, laid-back vibe, and we sampled a few of their IPAs. The beers were indeed impressive, with bold flavors and creative names. It was a great way to end the day, sipping on local craft beer and reflecting on our Chiang Khan adventures.


Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Outlaw Brewing, a unique brewpub in Loei, Thailand, where quality meets local flavor.
As we walked back to our guesthouse, the night air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter from the Walking Street. Chiang Khan had truly captured our hearts with its charm, beauty, and authentic Thai spirit. It's a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to appreciate the simple things in life. As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, when we plan to explore Phu Ruea National Park and Wat Somdet Phu Ruea. It's supposed to be a day of hiking and temple visits, a chance to connect with nature and spirituality. I'm also hoping to visit Chateau De Loei, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home.

Before drifting off to sleep, I couldn’t help but reflect on how different this trip is from our usual city explorations. Berlin has its own kind of magic, but there’s something about the tranquility and cultural richness of Loei that’s incredibly soothing. Maybe it’s the slower pace of life, or the genuine warmth of the people, but I feel a sense of peace here that’s hard to find elsewhere. Lena seems to feel the same way, and I’m grateful that we decided to embark on this adventure together. It’s moments like these that make our marriage stronger, as we share new experiences and create lasting memories.

Tomorrow, we’re heading to Phu Ruea National Park, where I’m hoping to capture some stunning landscape photos. I’ve heard the views from the summit are incredible, and I can’t wait to see it for myself. I've packed my camera and hiking boots, ready for whatever challenges the day may bring. I hope the weather will be kind to us, and that we'll have clear skies for our hike. I'm also looking forward to visiting Wat Somdet Phu Ruea, a temple known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. I've always been drawn to places of worship, finding a sense of peace and contemplation in their sacred spaces. And, if we have time, we’ll try to swing by Chateau De Loei, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home. Lena is always on the lookout for unique gifts, and I know she'll enjoy browsing through the local crafts and products.

Good night from Loei, and stay tuned for more adventures!