Been looking for an area not in a central farang town, but reasonably close. Live in an Isaan village now and very happy. Like Thai / Isaan food and can cook my own food. Don't need super malls, farang restaurants etc on a daily basis, nor the expensive rents that go with a central farang town.

A friend of mine tells me Nong Bua Lampu would fit the bill. Anyone have any experience of the area? Anyone know of a rental agent or property available?

Any help appreciated

You might like to check out Kalasin, it is my favourite city in Isaan. Rents are generally low, little traffic and if you get a place in the central part of own you can walk most places. Or if you want really low rents, why not check out one of the district towns.

If you are happy in an Isan village then N.B. will be OK for you.

Compared to Khon Kaen and Udon it is far from being farang rich.

Its rural and more looks like a district town than a province capital. really small and manageable.

About 46 km to central Udon Thani on a four lane highway would be an improvement for me

Good for a weekly excursion.

Numerous buses going (if you don't have a car).

Mahasarakham has a huge student population.

We live about 40 clicks from NBL and go there from time to time. They now have a Lotus with a theater, KFC and Swenson's. All the banks are available in town but I know little about rentals, I haven't been able to find any decent farang restaurants but haven't really searched them out. One poster has mentioned a good pizza restaurant but not been there yet.

Close enough to Udorn to go as often as you like and far enough away to not be burdened by the crowds.

Another option you might want to consider is Loei. We are about 60 clicks from Loei and go there more often than NBL. Loei has Lotus, BigC, Makro, Home Depot and the rental situation there is supposed to be good.

Check them both out and see which one suits \you best.

Thank u all