Over 1,000 years old, Lopburi is a city with a unique and varied history. Located in the central plain of Thailand, it has been an integral part of many kingdoms. In the 10th century it was conquered by the Khmer who subsequently destroyed all former buildings so that now the oldest ruins that can  be found are Khmer temples.  In the 13th century, Lopburi was once again taken back by the Thai and for a period in the 1700s was used as a second capitol for Ayuthaya. Lopburi is approximately 150 kilometers from Bangkok and can be reached by either rail or car. 

                          

      The beautiful city of Chiang Mai is the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom.  Lanna was a kingdom in the north of Thailand before the unification of several kingdoms into the modern nation of Thailand.  The city, just a few years ago, was a medium sized city with all the unique charm and grace of the old kingdom.  Recently, because of its wonderful location, history, and culture it has become a large metropolitan area with many of the same joys and problems as other large cities.
      One of the joys is the ability to find many types of international cuisine as well as a wide variety of Thai specialties.  When staying in Chiang Mai, I usually stay at the Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel.   The breakfast buffet at this hotel is a well presented smorgasbord of  East meets West. It is easy to partake of too much at breakfast and ruin your lunch and dinner.  Just a few steps away from the front of the hotel, one will find Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Italian and vegetarian restaurants with outstanding food.  The late Queen Mother, of the present King, was known to go to Chiang Mai and dine at the Italian Restaurant, just a few hundred yards from the Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel. A truly first class meal here is well worth the price but for Thailand it is expensive ($30+ US).
     The outdoor setting of a lovely Thai-Indian-whole earth/vegetarian  restaurant, just a few yards in the other direction from the hotel, is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a great meal in the evening.  Of course, you can take off your shoes and climb the stairs of an exquisite teak house if you prefer and enjoy your meal in air conditioned comfort. You have the same menus, food and great service but I much prefer the outdoor seating with the flowers and trees surrounding me.  This restaurant is moderately priced ($8-$10 US) for dinner but is still a little pricey for Thailand.
      Two fine Japanese restaurants are located just before you get to either the Italian or Indian restaurants.  I am using the opinions of others on both of these restaurants.  I have been told both are very good, with the one close to the Indian Restaurant being a little more expensive than the one near the Italian Restaurant. I am told both are moderate but I can not say for sure since I have not dined in either. 
     Across the street from the hotel  are two not to be missed eating places.  One is a Chinese restaurant with the largest selection of food I have ever seen.  Pick your live fish from a glass tank if you want too! I have had too many extraordinary dishes here to recommend any single dish but I must say I have never had a bad dish here in the 9 years I have been eating at this establishment.  Price is inexpensive to extravagant ($3-$20 US) but everything is exceptional.  Now, another favorite of mine is the noodle shop on the corner across the street from the hotel.  For about 35 to 50 cents US you can have an unforgettable and authentic bowl of Thai noodles that is the best I have found in Chiang Mai.  It is a great place for lunch. 
       When walking to the Night Bazaar, you will notice a little alley on the right side of the street.  This is a food bazaar area with all kinds of eateries. There are probably 40 or more places to eat, including many delicious Thai specialties, an Irish Pub and a whole host of other food outlets in this market area. 
      I would be very remiss if I did not mention one of the favorite meals of the north, Khao Soy. This is a Chinese - Muslim egg noodle dish filled with chunks of beef and chicken and lightly sprinkled with coconut cream and garnished with garlic, crispy noodles and other condiments.  It is a real treat and one that you will be happy you tried.

     The picture to the right is of the Ubon Ratchanati Cultural Center and Hotel. It is a very impressive modern building.  Together with the Museum located at the old City Hall, built in 1873, one gets a very good overview of the history of Isaan (northeast).  The culture, food, language and people are different from the Thai of the Central and North.  However, I personally find it one of the most delightful areas of this magnificent Kingdom. 
     Ubon Ratchatani is the capital city of the Changwat (state) which has the same name.  It is the eastern most changwat and therefore is the first area of Thailand to greet the morning sun.  It was founded in the late 18th century by Lao immigrants and is situated on the northern bank of the Moon (Mun) River, which is a tributary of the Mekong River. The population of the city is now over 100,000. The city is home to many beautiful temples and close to several national parks and recreation areas. Tourism is increasing in this area of Thailand and there are many things to see and do here. Of the many festivals held each year, the Lenten Candle Festival in July is the largest and most beautiful.  Huge candles, sometimes several meters high and equally as long and wide, are paraded through town before being presented to local temples.  The candles are made from beeswax.   Local products include , silk, brass ware and basketry along with hand woven cotton in a pattern known as Khit.  This is a very distinctive design that has become very popular as a pillow cover.