'''Surin''' (????????) is the provincial capital of Surin Province.
Surin is the capital of the capital of Surin province. Its population is small, approximately 40,000 (bear in mind that the province itself is densely populated). It is about 450km from Bangkok and 50km from the Cambodian border. A quiet town, its one claim to fame is its annual 'Elephant Roundup', which takes place in November (book a room in advance).
There are convenient bus services from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Moh Chit).
There are several daily trains from Bangkok's Hualamphong Train Station.
Surin is a small town, most journeys in the central area can be accomplished on foot. However, there are also sam-lors (rickshaws/'saam-law') and tuk-tuks. The larger hotels also have a car available for hire. Keep in mind that no one considers overcharging a foreigner to be a serious crime. A sam-lor ride around the central region of the town is 40 baht, a tuk-tuk maybe 50/60 baht for foreigners. If in doubt ask your hotel for advice. When 'getting off the bus' always be extra careful not to be taken for a ride while being taken for a ride.
Surin is not the most picturesque spot on the Earth, but it does have a few, small attractions.
These stretch from the border westwards to Buriram Province. There are few organised tours (tourism is not overly big in Isaan). You can always find an (expensive) rental car, with driver, at your hotel, or it is possible to visit the major temples by using the local public transport system (this is very cheap). Ask you hotel or guest house for instructions. (Most signs at the bus and train station are in Thai, however, the staff are very helpful.)
There is nothing truly distinctive to be found in Surin, however some prices are lower than in Bangkok.
Surin has a fantastic night market. Be sure to try the Isaan sausage and Laos-style flattened chicken (gai yang), but be careful with the som-tam (papaya salad)!
In addition to the night market Surin is liberally endowed with small restaurants, and the usual street vendors. Also the major hotels have reasonably priced menus.
Surin is not overly well endowed with watering holes but there are a few places where one's palate, and appetite can be quenched.
Most places are located near the Thon Torin Hotel. Adjacent to the TT are two streets lined with small bars, small restaurants, small karaoke bars, and small go-go bars. The larger hotels also have bars and restaurants. There are also several small restaurants managed or owned by ex-pats scattered around town. The largest is the 'Farang Connection', followed by the 'Oasis'. Both are near the bus station.
There are three main 'good' hotels in Surin:
In addition to these hotels there is a range of accommodation around the town, and just outside.
More accommodation in Surin
[http://surin.thaiapartments.net/ Surin Thaiapartments.net]
Always ask for a discount (700-800 baht/night) in the non-elephant roundup season!