Loei is an ideal destination for mildly adventurous folks who love nature, and wish to experience a unique area of Thailand, relatively unaffected by the known negative effects of international tourism. Hiring a vehicle and exploring the province opens up an unbeatable mixture of travelling experiences, including forays along the Mekhong River, which is less than 50 kilometres away. Further afield, major towns, interesting in themselves, include Phetchabun (80 kms) Khon Kaen (120 kms) Udon Thani (143 kms) and Nong Khai (170kms) where the Friendship Bridge connects Thailand with Laos over the Mekhong. For the more athletic, the National Parks described above are some of the most beautiful in Thailand, but best visited outside of the rainy season between June to October.