Thailand was a more than welcome addition to the MotoGP™ calendar last year with the entirety of the paddock and MotoGP™’s loyal fans thoroughly enjoying a debut trip to the enchanting South East Asian country. Fantastic food, a tropical climate, distinctive local culture, stunning countryside, lush forests and incredible beaches are all a part of the wonder that is Thailand.
The country has become a magnet for tourists from around the world, many of whom flock to the country’s famously frenetic capital city of Bangkok - known locally as Krung Thep. The Chang International Circuit is located in the Buriram area, however, which is one of the North-eastern provinces of Thailand. While the town of Buriram itself has approximately 30,000 inhabitants and sits 400km (a five-hour drive) to the northeast of Bangkok.
Visitors can expect to enjoy a warm welcome from the enthusiastic and friendly locals, with an ever-increasing passion for motorcycle racing evident. Once you arrive in the town of Buriram, head out to start exploring the shops and restaurants – taking the opportunity to sample the nightlife of Sro Ground (Walking Street), from the south end of Romburi Street to the Romburi-Phi-thak intersection, which is closed off to vehicles in the evening.
If you have the opportunity to venture further afield, there is Prasat Phanom Rung 40km to the south of Buriram – a Khmer temple situated on top of an inactive volcano. The site is home to an extensive collection of Khmer sculptures, glorifying the Hindu god Shiva and three rare Naga bridges, the only examples of their kind in Thailand.
One thing is for sure, Thailand and, in particular, Buriram is a treasure cove of culture and beauty. You might only go for the PTT Thailand Grand Prix but you’ll definitely be wanting to return to explore more of Thailand.