Loei: The Hidden Gem of Thailand’s Northeast

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [laa kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่ใช่
  [mai chai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีต้อนรับ
  [proht/yin dee dton rub]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop khun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kor toht]
• How are you?คุณสบายดีไหม
  [kun sa bai dee mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดีครับ/ค่ะ และคุณล่ะ
  [sabai dee krap/ka lae kun la]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [kun poot paa saa ang grit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai kao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseฉันอยากดูเมนู โปรด
  [chan yak doo menu proht]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin neuua]
• Cheers!ชนเคอร์ส!
  [chon kerr]
• I would like to pay, pleaseฉันอยากจ่ายเงิน โปรด
  [chan yak jai ngoen proht]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย!
  [chuai duay]
• Go away!ไปห่างๆ!
  [bai yang yang]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ!
  [toh tamruat]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ!
  [toh mor]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
• I'm illฉันเจ็บ
  [chan jep]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันอยากซื้อ...
  [chan yak seuu]
• I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดู
  [chan kae doo]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [ra kaa tao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng geen pai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot ra kaa dai mai]

• What time is it?ตอนนี้กี่โมง
  [dton nee kee mong]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมงหนึ่ง
  [pen mong neung]
• Half past (10)สามสิบครึ่ง
  [sam sip kreuang]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua waan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [sam]
• 4สี่
  [see]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
• 8แปด
  [pet]
• 9เก้า
  [gao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [yoo tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่อยู่ที่ไหน
  [tee yoo yoo tee nai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ช่วยบอกทาง (บนแผนที่) หน่อย
  [chuai bok tang bon pla n tee noi]
• When's the next (bus)?รถเมล์ตอนไหน
  [rote mel dton nai]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว (ไป...)
  [dtua bai]

Loei's history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of early human settlements found in the area. Archaeological findings suggest that the region was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Tai and Mon-Khmer people, who laid down the cultural and agricultural foundations of the area.

During the 14th to 18th centuries, Loei was part of the powerful Lan Xang Kingdom, which covered much of present-day Laos and northeastern Thailand. The kingdom's influence brought Buddhism and distinctive art styles to Loei, which still linger in the region's temples and traditions.

Loei became strategically important during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods, serving as a buffer zone against invasions from neighboring states. The region's loyalty to the Ayutthaya Kingdom helped to solidify its cultural identity and integrate it into the broader Thai cultural sphere.

In the 19th century, Loei came under the influence of the Lao Kingdom of Vientiane. This period saw a blend of Lao and Thai cultures, which is evident today in the region's cuisine, festivals, and language. The annual Phi Ta Khon festival, known for its colorful masks and costumes, is a unique cultural legacy from this era.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the encroachment of French colonial forces in Southeast Asia. Loei, located near the border with French Indochina, became a site of geopolitical tension. However, it remained under Thai sovereignty, contributing to its unique blend of Thai and Lao influences.

In the mid-20th century, Loei experienced significant development, transitioning from a largely agrarian society to a more diversified economy. The construction of roads and infrastructure improved connectivity with other parts of Thailand, fostering tourism and cultural exchange. Loei's natural beauty, with its mountains, rivers, and national parks, became a focal point for visitors.

Loei is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, most notably the Phi Ta Khon, or 'Ghost Festival,' held in the Dan Sai district. This festival, rooted in local legends and Buddhist traditions, involves parades, music, and elaborate costumes. Other significant events include the Loei Cotton and Silk Fair, celebrating local textile craftsmanship.

Loei is located in northeastern Thailand. The nearest major airport is Loei Airport (LOE), which receives domestic flights from Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). The flight from Bangkok to Loei typically takes about 1 hour. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal; the journey takes approximately 8-10 hours. Trains do not run directly to Loei, but you can take a train to Udon Thani or Nong Khai and then transfer to a bus or taxi.

Within Loei, transportation options include local buses, songthaews (shared pickup trucks), and taxis. Songthaews are the most common form of local transport and are relatively inexpensive. Taxis and motorbike rentals are also available for more flexibility. For exploring farther areas, renting a car is a convenient option.

The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available in Loei, and currency exchange services can be found at banks and some hotels.

Loei is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance or 1669 for medical emergencies. Loei has a hospital and several clinics for medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect to local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers if needed. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a traditional Thai 'wai,' which involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and bowing slightly. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Loei like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Thai goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting Phu Kradueng National Park for hiking and stunning views. For a unique experience, attend the Phi Ta Khon Festival, a traditional celebration featuring colorful masks and lively parades.