Hi there Isaanites, (or is it Isaanians?)

Two of us guys will be cycling from Chiang Khan pretty much following the route of the Maekhong, as far as the roads will permit, for charity between 15th and 24th November to the Chong Mek Checkpoint prior to crossing over to Pakse. Any advice on what to see, where to stay (cheapish) and particularly any places to avoid will be gratefuly received.

Also, where do all the expats meet in places like Nongkhai, Nakorn Phanom, Mukhdahan and the like? Be good to meet some of you guys and share a beer or five

Thanks for taking the trouble to give us some info.

Cheers

AjarnP

Cycling. I once made a mistake by thinking cycling means bicycle. Or do you mean motorcycle ? The latter will improve your possibilities. From Tak to the south you will find major and smaller cities within every 50 km with hotels and guesthouses. Did you buy the Lonely Planet ? In some places here for sale even in second hand shops. It's the bible for travellers.!

Nongkhai, where to go. Many places to stay and have food and a beer. Rooms between 200 en 1.500 baht p night. With or without breakfast. Do you like names for stay, food or a beer ? Tell me and I will try to help ya.

Tak ? Wrong, sorry. I mean Loei.

You might want to check this out:

http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/5791

Or this one:

http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/4326

Or this one:

http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/eastbaybob

Cycling. I once made a mistake by thinking cycling means bicycle. Or do you mean motorcycle ? The latter will improve your possibilities. From Tak to the south you will find major and smaller cities within every 50 km with hotels and guesthouses. Did you buy the Lonely Planet ? In some places here for sale even in second hand shops. It's the bible for travellers.!

Nongkhai, where to go. Many places to stay and have food and a beer. Rooms between 200 en 1.500 baht p night. With or without breakfast. Do you like names for stay, food or a beer ? Tell me and I will try to help ya.

Hi,

You're right; I mean bicycles with pedals (not motors) we will be arriving Nong Khai from Chiang Khan on around 15th November via Route # 211 then taking route # 212 all the way along the Mae Khong River. stops are planned in Lao Luang (near Ban Phaeng) Nakorn Phanom, Mukdahan, Song Salueng. If you know of any good spots to visit or take (liquid) sustenance we'd be grateful for the insider information.

Thanks

AjarnP

Go to any 'search engine' and type in Travelfish.

Great site and will include a couple of the places on your route.

Gives details of guesthouses, eateries, bars etc..... and prices.