Don't be in a rush to go north. You have some fantastic ridung in your own backyard with out the tourists..
Chong mek following the Lao border to the Emerald triangle is great and you won't bump in to other tourists or riders.
Jim and I did a few weekends exploring the area. All the tracks uploaded on open Street maps for your enjoyment and plenty. Tons more to find and update..
GT Riders meet the Emerald Triangle
Then you have southern Laos. So much to do.
My suggestion. Stay put enjoy your back yard good and proper.
Will msg you Jim's details.
Cheers
Brian
Thanks again Brian
Chong Mek & Sirindhorn are already one of my favourite areas.
CM is cool with artisan coffee shops, tricked out 'bikes and good border crossing + very friendly inhabitants.
And - yes- so quiet and peaceful region to travel thro'.
BUT....I get withdrawal symptoms from years of steep, tricky hill climbs : on & off road
The UK's playgrounds in North Wales, Peak District, Lake District along with Maroc's Atlas mountains and Trans Portugal, Spain, Andorra have left me with the addiction for steeper challenges in my mix of FUN factors.
Not to mention Indian Himalaya @ 6,000m and Patagonia Andes
The GT region probably has rather more than the flatlands of Amnat Charoen.
And I've well saturated places like Phu Ta Jor mountain, and similar, in Phang Nga National Parks.
Phu Ta Jor, to the top summit trail is a worthy ride about 23K's up the mountain and very steep last 6/7-K's. When wet it's a real handful...yahoo...
So, I think I'll be back Chang Mai way ...BUT your point is well noted !
My own back yard & S Laos have much to offer, so thanks for reminder.
Best
Maurice