Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

This is a neighborhood market, not a tourist attraction – and that's precisely what makes it so special. Street food, clothing, and household goods are sold at the stalls in the Mi Chai district of Mueang Nong Khai, all under the open sky. Anyone who has come to Nong Khai for the Mekong River and its relaxed atmosphere will find themselves happily strolling among the vendors for an hour, experiencing the true ambiance – far better than any staged tourist attraction.

Go for the food. Isaan snacks and Thai dishes at affordable prices, enjoyed standing or sitting down wherever you like. The best time to go is early evening, when the heat has subsided, the lights are coming on, and more stalls are open than usual. Come at midday, and you'll wonder what's so great about this place. Don't expect handicrafts or souvenirs you'll want to take home, and don't dedicate your whole day to it. This visit fits well into an evening in a small, manageable town that's easy to explore on foot.