After spending my whole day wandering around in Roi Et, I can confirm my first impression from yesterday:
Roi Et is a very nice place to be.
If you are looking to get away from the beaten path and to explore a part of Thailand that most people miss, then Roi Et might be just perfect for you. Its small, its cute and its a perfect destination for recreation and joy. The city itself is not very different to most other small Thai cities. Loads of restaurants and shops without any unique features to it.
What really sets Roi Et apart though is its centre, where Phalanchai Lake is located. I know what you think: a lake in a city is not very special. Oh, this one definitely is. In the middle of the lake there is an 200.000 sqm island, which is connected to the “shore” by three bridges. Here is what it looks like from above:
Bridge to Phalanchai Lake Island
Walking Buddha on Phalanchai Lake Island
This whole area really is one of a kind. I spent most of today on or around that island, and there really is plenty to see. There is a whole sculpture park with dinosaurs, fruits and other figures. There is a big standing Buddha, palm trees, shrines, free gym machines and even basketball courts. There are a lot of special plants and trees, and everything is in perfect condition. The grass is short, the paths are clean, it looks like from a movie.
People doing fitness
Sculptures on the island
Shrine on Phalanchai Lake Island
Even though its not incredibly big, it is a good place to rest your soul, to recreate and to enjoy. Coming to Roi Et as a westerner is also pleasant on another level. Since there are less than a few western tourists, the locals are incredibly nice and open when they see one. You feel very welcome here, its an entirely different feeling than from being e.g. in Bangkok.
Phalanchai Lake Island at Dusk
Very close to the lake there is another very interesting place worth checking out: the local fresh market. The offers range from local fruits and vegetables to fruit juices, meat, soups and sushi. There are also lots of different kinds of seafood on offer, so whatever you are looking for, you will find it here. Its open from afternoon till night (10 or 11PM) and the prices are very good as this market is not targeting tourists too much. Again, a market itself is nothing too unique for a Thai city, but this one feels more personal and simply nicer than most others I have visited.
So, if you happen to be in Isaan, pay a visit to Roi Et, I am sure you won’t regret it.
Yours
Crazy Ivory
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