Is Vang Vieng tubing still happening?

Yes. River tubing on the Nam Song River remains one of Vang Vieng's main attractions. The scene is significantly calmer than its wild party reputation of the early 2010s, but tubing is still available and enjoyable.

Is Vang Vieng tubing safe?

Tubing is generally safe for competent swimmers during dry season when river levels are lower. During wet season (July-September), the river rises significantly and currents strengthen. Always assess river conditions before entering.

How do you get to Vang Vieng from Thailand?

Most travelers reach Vang Vieng by bus or minivan from Vientiane (approximately 4 hours by road). From Thailand, cross at Nong Khai/Vientiane, then head north. Vang Vieng also has a small domestic airport.

07/19/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

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Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

07/19/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

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Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Coffee Pitini and Krua Kuhn Pon

07/16/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

A Great Place for the Family

A bit out of town, on the road that leads to the main entrance of Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), you will find Coffee Pitini’ Krua Kuhn Pon. A lovely spot with an outdoor patio area and garden, and a well-lit and air conditioned inside surrounded by fields of tapioca and sugarcane. Lots of tables and large benches, Coffee Pitini is more than happy to serve families and large groups of any kind. It’s not uncommon to find a group of Thai Air Force Officers enjoying various plates of food and iced mochas at Coffee Pitini.

The menu here is a massive plethora of dishes. Half the menu is Thai food and half is Western food. They serve large portions of everything, which is why it’s a good idea to go with some friends or family. The Thai dishes are mostly spicy salad varieties, curries, and sautÃ©ed dishes. The Western food is more typical of American dishes, such as hoagies/toasted sandwiches including pastrami, corned beef, salami, and pepperoni. They have a fine selection of steaks; beef, pork, and salmon. They can boast about Denver Omelettes, German-style sausages, Fish n’Chips, and pizza. Oh yes, amazing pizza loaded with real cheese. There is too much to name here, but basically even the pickiest eater in your family will find something on Coffee Pitini’s menu.

In addition to the breakfast, lunch, and diner menus they also have coffee, desserts and a bakery. They are always trying out new dessert items that tickle your taste-buds. They carry a nice selection of cakes, ice cream, and smoothies. They have pastries, even buns and rolls, and you can special order cakes for birthdays, graduations, or any event (their strawberry cheesecake will blow your mind). While it isn’t the easiest place to get to, taking the time to have a meal at Coffee Pitini is definitely worth the effort, especially when you have visiting friends or family. Everyone always leaves happy, full, and with suggestions on what to try next time. Coffee Pitini is open everyday from 10:30am â€“ 9:00pm. You can call and order pizza for takeout, place an order for a specialty cake, or book a reservation for a large group. Take a look at their website for the full menu and any specials they have. http://www.coffeepitini.com/ More pictures of that place here:Â https://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/albums/72157629723621326/with/15798168200/

About This Place

Krua Kuhn Pon and Coffee Pitini – Versatile Western and Thai Cafe. Located at 1023 Moo 4 Maha Witthayalai Road near Gate 1, this establishment combines a full-service restaurant with cafe capabilities. Popular spot for locals and expatriates in the region.

Have questions about living or working in Thailand? Contact Sebastien Brousseau – French-speaking lawyer based in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Restaurant Bibi à Korat

07/03/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

495 Pho Klang Amphur Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 044-274-225

Le propriÃ©taire du restaurant Bibi est un Pakistanais et son Ã©pouse est thaÃ¯landaise. Il nâ€™a rien dâ€™extraordinaire, mais ils serventÂ de bons repas thaÃ¯landais Ã bas prix. Ce restaurant est situÃ© prÃ¨s de â€œTak Haâ€ ou â€œYa Ha Tekâ€ intersection. Toutes les personnes de Korat sauront oÃ¹ est cette intersection. Tek Ha est un ancien restaurant Ã Korat situÃ© Ã lâ€™angle de cette intersection.

Quelques tables seulement Ã lâ€™intÃ©rieur du restaurant. Vous ne verrez pas beaucoup dâ€™Ã©trangers ici!

Leur menu est en anglais et vous pouvez aussi voir quelques-uns des plats Ã lâ€™avant. Le propriÃ©taire pakistanais ne parle pas à¸°à¸žà¸™à¸¢ anglais.

Essayez le cÃ©lÃ¨bre â€œKhao Mok Gaiâ€. Câ€™est lâ€™un des meilleur riz que jâ€™ai mangÃ© Ã Korat, servit avec poulet et une soupe. Environ 50 baht. â€œKhao Mok GaiÂ» est un aliment musulman selon Thaisâ€¦

Il sâ€™agit dâ€™une photo de la faÃ§ade du restaurant. Ce nâ€™est pas une trÃ¨s bonne image â€¦ mais cet endroit sert une cuisine honnÃªte avec des prix honnÃªtes. Si vous voulez un peu de curry indien spÃ©cial, Dal, cuisine pakistanaise, il peut le faire, mais vous devez lui dire Ã lâ€™avance.

Ils ont rÃ©cemment ouvert une succursale (Bibi2) Ã Terminal 21, dans le food court, au 4e Ã©tage. Excellent! [flickr_set id= »72157670782534058″]

About This Place

Bi Bi Restaurant – Halal Muslim Cuisine. Located at 495 Pho Klang Road, Tambon Nai Mueang, Bi Bi Restaurant serves 100% clean and tasty food with a strong emphasis on quality and hygiene. Popular spot for locals and expatriates in the region.

Have questions about living or working in Thailand? Contact Sebastien Brousseau – French-speaking lawyer based in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Bibi Restaurant in Korat

07/03/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

495 Pho Klang Amphur Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 044-274-225

The owner of Bibi restaurant is a native Pakistani and his Thai wife. It has nothing fancy, but can make good Thai meals for low prices. This restaurant is located near « Tak Ha » or « Ya Tek Ha » intersection. All people of Korat will know where is this intersection. Tek Ha is an old restaurant in Korat located on the corner of that intersection.

Few tables only inside the restaurant. You won’t see much foreigners here!

Their menu has English and you can also see some of the dishes in front. The Pakistani owner doesn’t speak English very well. But it’s funny, we can still communicate with him and he will be happy to serve new customers.

I didn’t remember the name in Thai of this rice, but if you meet the owner, you just ask « biryani rice ». It was something like « Khao Mok Gai ». I had it today and seriously, it’s one of the BEST rice I had. And I normally don’t like rice… Chicken was fine, roasted chicken. « Khao Mok Gai » is muslim food according to Thais…

This is a picture of the front of the restaurant. It’s not a very good picture… but this place serves honest food with honest price. If you want some special Indian Curry, Dal, Pakistani food, he can make it but you must tell him IN ADVANCE.

They recently opened a new branch at the Food Court of Terminal 21, on fourth floor. The food court at Terminal 21 is actually amazing. They took all the best and famous places of Korat, put them together and often you can eat there even cheaper than the original restaurant.

[flickr_set id= »72157670782534058″]

Visitor Tips

Located in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), this is one of the many dining options available to visitors and expats in the Isaan region of Thailand. When visiting restaurants in Korat, it is customary to order several dishes to share. Most restaurants in this area serve both Thai and international cuisine, and staff often speak some English.

Getting There

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is located approximately 250 km northeast of Bangkok. You can reach Korat by bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (about 3.5 hours), by train from Hua Lamphong station, or by minivan from Chatuchak. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are the most common local transport within the city.

About Isaan Cuisine

The Isaan region of northeastern Thailand has its own distinct culinary tradition, influenced by Lao and Khmer cultures. Signature dishes include som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat salad), sticky rice (khao niao), and grilled chicken (gai yang). Food in Isaan tends to be spicier and more sour than central Thai food, using ingredients like padaek (fermented fish sauce) and fresh herbs.

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

07/03/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Surin National Museum

07/03/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

The Surin National Museum opened its doors in 1995. It is located few kilometers from the city and will give you a great exhibition about the cultural heritage of the area of Surin. It is a true gem for expats looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of the region. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that beautifully showcase the unique heritage of Surin and its surrounding areas.

The museum is divided in several sections:

1. Natural sciences
2. History-Archealogy
3. Local history
4. Ethnology
5. Local heritage

I was there a Wednesday afternoon and I saw only 3 other visitors in this big museum. If you go slowly and read everything, it will take you an hour or two to have a nice visit. I particularly enjoy the traditional costumes of different cultures, Kuay, Khmer and Laos. The museum in Surin has a section dedicated to elephants. The Kuay people are skilled at catching and training elephants.

1. Ancient Artifacts

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Surin National Museum is its collection of ancient artifacts. Expats visiting the museum will have the opportunity to witness the wonders of centuries-old pottery. There stoneware, and bronze items that showcase the true craftsmanship of the region’s ancestors. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the daily lives, rituals, and customs of the ancient inhabitants of Surin.

2. Traditional Textiles

No exploration of Surin’s treasures would be complete without admiring the exquisite traditional textiles displayed at the museum. Thai silk, with its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, is particularly celebrated in this region. Expats can marvel at the traditional weaving techniques and admire the stunning costumes and fabrics that have been carefully preserved over the years.

3. Local Handicrafts

Surin is renowned for its talented artisans who create beautiful handicrafts using age-old techniques. The Surin National Museum proudly exhibits a diverse range of local handicrafts. It includes intricately carved wooden sculptures, delicate porcelain, and exquisite silverware. Expats can appreciate the skill and artistry that goes into each piece. Perhaps even bring home a unique souvenir to cherish.

4. Archaeological Discoveries

The Surin region has a rich archaeological history, and the museum offers a captivating insight into some of the most significant discoveries made in the area. Visitors can learn about ancient civilizations and the excavation sites that have uncovered important relics and artifacts. From ancient burial grounds to temple ruins, the museum presents a fascinating journey through time.

5. Museum Tour Guide

Exploring the Surin National Museum can be an enriching experience for expats in Thailand. To make the most of your visit, consider hiring a knowledgeable tour guide who can provide valuable insights and anecdotes about the exhibits and the region’s history. I didn’t have a guide when I was there but maybe you will be more lucky than me. A capable tour guide can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the treasures housed in the museum. Here are a few reasons why a tour guide can be beneficial:

6. In-depth Knowledge

A qualified tour guide will have a deep understanding of the museum’s exhibits and their historical significance. They can provide detailed information about the artifacts, share captivating stories, and answer any questions that may arise during your visit. The insights provided by a knowledgeable guide can truly elevate your museum experience, allowing you to delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Surin.

7. Contextualization

The Surin National Museum offers a vast array of exhibits, each with its own historical context. A tour guide can help you make sense of the interconnectedness between various artifacts and their significance within the bigger picture of Surin’s heritage. By providing the necessary background information, a guide can weave together a cohesive narrative that brings the exhibits to life.

8. Cultural Interpretation

Understanding a culture goes beyond simply appreciating its artifacts. A knowledgeable tour guide can offer cultural interpretations that help you gain a deeper appreciation of the people and customs of Surin. They can shed light on the symbolism behind certain artworks, explain the role of specific traditions, and provide insights into the local way of life. This cultural context can enhance your overall understanding of the museum and its exhibits.

9. Personalized Experience

With a tour guide, your visit to the Surin National Museum can be tailored to your specific interests and preferences. Whether you have a keen interest in ancient pottery, traditional textiles, or archaeological discoveries, a guide can customize the tour to focus on your areas of curiosity. By providing a personalized experience, a tour guide ensures that you get the most out of your visit, making it a memorable and enriching experience.

10. Language Assistance

For expats who may not be fluent in Thai, navigating a museum can sometimes be challenging. By hiring a tour guide who is fluent in both Thai and English, language barriers can be overcome. This allows for a more seamless and immersive experience, ensuring that expats can fully grasp the historical and cultural significance of the exhibits at the Surin National Museum.

The Surin National Museum is a true treasure trove for expats living in Thailand. Its extensive collection of artifacts, from ancient pottery to traditional textiles, offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Surin and its surrounding areas. By hiring a knowledgeable tour guide, expats can deepen their understanding and appreciation of the museum’s exhibits, gaining valuable insights and cultural interpretations. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the local culture, a visit to the Surin National Museum is an experience that should not be missed.

This museum is closed on Monday, Tuesday and public holidays.

It is opened other days from 9am to 4pm. Admission was 100 baht when I went. It is free for students in uniform, thai people over 60 years-old, disabled people and monks.

More pictures about the Surin National Museum here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/50651722@N03/with/16026491990/

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Tubing in Vang Vieng

07/01/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

Tubing in Vang Vieng: Laos’s Most Famous Adventure

Ask any Southeast Asia backpacker of a certain era about Vang Vieng, and they’ll likely smile — or wince. This small Lao town on the Nam Song River, nestled among dramatic karst limestone peaks, became notorious in the early 2010s for its extreme party scene built around river tubing. After a series of tourist deaths and international pressure, Laotian authorities cracked down significantly. What remains is a town that has found a more sustainable identity — still fun, still centered on tubing and the river, but no longer a scene of dangerous excess.

What Is Tubing?

Tubing in Vang Vieng means floating down the Nam Song River on a large inflatable rubber tube, typically over a few hours. You rent a tube and tuk-tuk from town, get dropped several kilometers upstream, and float back to Vang Vieng at the river’s pace.

Along the way, riverside bars — those that remain operating — invite you to stop, have a drink, and continue your float. The scenery is genuinely beautiful: limestone cliffs, rice paddies, water buffalo, and clear green water.

What the Scene Is Like Now

The infamous zip lines, rope swings, and « buckets » of strong alcohol that characterized the scene circa 2011-2012 are largely gone. The Lao government closed most of the riverside bars after several tourist deaths. What remains is a tamer, more sensible version of the experience.

Today, tubing in Vang Vieng is:

Significantly less crowded than during peak party years.
Focused more on the natural scenery and a relaxed float.
Still with some riverside stops for food and drinks.
Enjoyed by a mix of backpackers, couples, and families.

The town itself has also evolved — better restaurants, more outdoor activities (kayaking, caving, cycling, hot air ballooning), and improved accommodation.

Safety Considerations

River safety should not be taken lightly:

Dry season (November-May): The river is at manageable levels, currents are gentler, and conditions are generally safe for competent swimmers.
Wet season (June-October): The river rises substantially, currents strengthen, and submerged hazards become harder to see. Tubing is significantly more dangerous during this period.
Always wear a life jacket — available when renting tubes.
Do not tube while heavily intoxicated.
Go with friends rather than alone.

Getting to Vang Vieng

From Thailand:

Cross the Mekong from Nong Khai (in Isaan, Thailand) to Vientiane, Laos, via the Friendship Bridge.
From Vientiane, take a bus or minivan to Vang Vieng (approximately 4 hours north).
A high-speed rail line now connects Vientiane to Vang Vieng (and beyond to Luang Prabang) in about an hour — one of the most significant infrastructure changes in Laos in decades.

For those coming from Isaan, Thailand: Isaan: Northeast Thailand for the approach from the Thai side.

Other Things to Do in Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng has expanded well beyond tubing:

Tham Phu Kham cave and Blue Lagoon: A refreshing swimming hole in a turquoise pool beneath limestone cliffs — one of the most beautiful spots in Laos.
Kayaking: Multi-day kayak trips down the Nam Song and Nam Ngum rivers.
Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore the surrounding rice paddies and villages.
Rock climbing: Developing scene on the limestone karsts surrounding the town.
Hot air ballooning: Dawn balloon flights over the karst landscape offer extraordinary views.

Conclusion

Vang Vieng has grown up. The wild party days are largely gone, replaced by a more mature but still genuinely fun destination. Tubing remains the signature activity and is worth doing once — especially in the dry season with clear water and good weather. Combine it with the Blue Lagoon, a bicycle ride through the countryside, and the extraordinary scenery, and you have one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding short stops.

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Tim Ho Han -1 Star Michelin Restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima

06/30/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

(THIS PLACE IS NOW CLOSED).

According to Wikipedia, Tim Ho Wan’s history started in 2009. « Mak Kwai-pui, formerly a chef of three-Michelin-starred restaurant Lung King Heen, opened a 20-seater dim sum restaurant in Mongkok. Tim Ho Wan would eventually earn a Michelin star of its own in the 2010 Hong Kong and Macau Guide, a distinction which some have stated was a move in response to the criticism that the Michelin Guide was « elitist » and « out of touch with local tastes. » In 2015, its Sham Shui Po, North Point and Tai Kok Tsui branches had all received one Michelin star. Since then, the restaurant has been dubbed as « the world’s cheapest Michelin-star restaurant. »

How the hell does Nakhon Ratchasima has a one-Michelin-Starred restaurant? A branch of that chain opened at Terminal 21. It’s in the basement, just in front of Foodland. Not Mr Pizza, the one beside, hidden. A jewel in the city. DO NOT MISS THAT ONE.

[flickr_set id= »72157670782534058″]

Visitor Tips

Getting There

About Isaan Cuisine

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Indian Spices in Korat

06/27/2018 04/16/2026 by Sebastien

If you’re a fan of cooking Indian cuisine, you might find it difficult to get your hands on Ghee or Garam Masala in Korat. Well, not anymore! This is not the easiest place to find, but just follow our instructions, and you’ll soon be basking in aromatic herbs and spices. The shop is actually inside of a fabric store, near the night bazaar in the middle of Nakhon Ratchasima.

At the end of the night bazaar, opposite the end near Chez Andy, there is a 7-Eleven. On the same side of the road as the 7-Eleven, continue on towards Yamo. After about 100 or so meters, you’ll findÂ the fabricÂ store next to a TOTO mattress and bedding shop. If you’re savvy and know actual street names, itâ€™s located on Chompol Road, not far from Klang Plaza 1 (old Klang) in the old town of Korat. While they donâ€™t have a very large selection, you should still be able to get a hold of everything you need. Itâ€™s easy to find cumin, coriander powder or seeds, chili pastes and powders, and oils in various shops, but this hidden gem of Indian in Korat has much more to offer.

Hereâ€™s ghee! It may be inÂ aÂ can, but it’s authentic.

Garam Masala: the small ones go for 30 baht, the bigger ones for about 150 baht. They also have anise seeds and Indian-style chili powder.

They have â€œIndian flourâ€ used for making roti, as well as dals or lentils for about 50-80 baht. Panch Foran is a mix of 5 spices from NorthEastern India. They sell other various other items from Indian, like bracelets and assorted jewelry.

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Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

A Great Place for the Family

About This Place

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

About This Place

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Visitor Tips

Getting There

About Isaan Cuisine

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

1. Ancient Artifacts

2. Traditional Textiles

3. Local Handicrafts

4. Archaeological Discoveries

5. Museum Tour Guide

6. In-depth Knowledge

7. Contextualization

8. Cultural Interpretation

9. Personalized Experience

10. Language Assistance

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Tubing in Vang Vieng: Laos’s Most Famous Adventure

What Is Tubing?

What the Scene Is Like Now

Safety Considerations

Getting to Vang Vieng

Other Things to Do in Vang Vieng

Conclusion

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Visitor Tips

Getting There

About Isaan Cuisine

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

Useful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand

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