From Ancient Ruins to the Heart of Isaan
I had opted for a slow train ride across the plains of Isan. Boarding the train from Ayutthaya, I watched as the urban landscapes faded into the countryside, vast rice fields stretching to the horizon. The ride to Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima) was peaceful, passing through rolling hills and rural villages, where local life unfolded in glimpses outside my window.
Korat, known as the gateway to Isan, is a bustling city with a mix of modern and traditional Thai culture. I took some time to explore before continuing to Buriram.
Buriram by Motorbike
Renting a bike in this northeastern Thai city gave me the chance to dive deep into its culture, history, and vibrant local life.
Buriram is known for its rich Khmer heritage, passionate football culture, and stunning countryside. With a full tank of gas and the open road ahead, I set off to explore everything this fascinating city had to offer.
Racing Into Buriram
I revved up my motorbike and headed toward Chang International Circuit, Thailand’s premier motorsports venue.
As the home of MotoGP Thailand, this place is a dream for speed lovers. While I didn’t hit the track myself, just being in the presence of world-class racing energy was exhilarating.
The nearby Thunder Castle, home of Buriram United Football Club, was another highlight, showcasing the city’s deep love for sports.
Between motorsports and football, it’s clear that competition is deeply woven into Buriram’s identity.
Tasting the Flavors of Isaan
No adventure of mine is complete without good food, and Buriram did not disappoint.
I rode to the Buriram Night Bazaar, where the scent of grilled meats and sizzling woks filled the air. I sampled local delicacies like grilled sticky rice, Isaan-style sausages, and spicy papaya salad, all freshly prepared by smiling street vendors.
I was especially happy to find Buriram-style Isaan sausages at the night market. And the lively atmosphere was the perfect place to soak in the city’s local vibe.
An Evening by the Reservoir
As the day wound down, I took a peaceful ride to Huai Talat Reservoir, a scenic spot just outside the city.
The calm waters reflected the colors of the setting sun, creating a perfect backdrop for a quiet moment after a day of adventure.
Fishermen cast their nets, birds soared overhead, and I sat back, appreciating the simple beauty of the countryside.
After the excitement of the city, the peacefulness of the reservoir was a welcome change of pace.
Ending the Day at Bamboo Bar
I finished my time in Buriram at the Bamboo Bar, an excellent open-air expat hangout where I made some friends and had a decent burger.
It was a relaxed way to end a day spent exploring the city by motorbike. The bar has long been a popular gathering place for locals and foreigners, with food, drinks, and live music adding to its easygoing atmosphere.
From racing circuits and football stadiums to Isaan sausages, quiet reservoirs, and friendly bars, Buriram offered far more than I expected.
Sometimes the best way to discover a city isn’t to follow a carefully planned itinerary.
It’s simply to fill the tank, point the motorbike toward the open road, and see where it takes you.
Where I Stayed:
La VIVA Hotel
La VIVA Hotel proved to be a convenient home base for exploring Buriram. One of its biggest advantages was its location, which allowed me to simply walk to a nearby motorbike rental shop and pick up a scooter for the duration of my stay. Having reliable transportation made it easy to visit temples, historical sites, and attractions around the province at my own pace.
Breakfast was exactly as advertised. A sign promised “Bread & Coffee,” and that’s precisely what was served—a loaf of sliced bread with butter, jelly, and peanut butter packets alongside a self-serve coffee station. While the breakfast was very basic, it was enough to get the day started before heading out to explore. Overall, La VIVA Hotel is a practical choice for travelers who value convenience and an excellent location over extensive amenities.
Traveling by train in Thailand offers a unique experience with its slow pace and beautiful scenery. The journey from Ayutthaya to Ubon Ratchathani sounds like an incredible adventure through history and nature. Exploring Korat and Buriram by motorbike must have been exhilarating, especially with the mix of culture, history, and local life. The Buriram Night Bazaar seems like the perfect place to end the day with delicious Thai food.