"Having visited Thailand twice before, it was a real pleasure to visit Gecko Villa! Your hospitality was superb and we felt like part of the family. We particularly enjoyed seeing lifestyles that have fast disappeared elsewhere and feeling really welcome. We will not hesitate to recommend you!"

"Undoubtedly Gecko has been the highlight of our last two trips and will certainly be so of the next."

"Had a great time! Loved the garden shower and the bedroom! Can now make some som tam and spicy beef - but eating it here we miss the atmosphere of Gecko! Good luck to you both."

"An inimitable experience. We look forward to coming back and to meeting you all again....it'll be a case of visiting old friends."

www.smarttravelasia.com
For a back-to-nature away-from-it-all escape in Thailand’s eastern province of Isaan (bordering Laos), the Gecko Villa, set amidst rice fields and cattle farms, is an option. Located in Amphoer Prajak Sinlapakom, in Udon Thani, the resort is very much in the local Thai style – on stilts – but with airconditioned bedrooms and living rooms and a private swimming pool finished in hand-made tile. There are no set menus at this three-villa resort. Guests state their craving and the chefs will prepare it. Learn Thai cooking, visit temples on a bicycle, shop for handicraft or ride a water buffalo.

ResponsibleTravel.com
"Some stories to tell the grandchildren, I would not hesitate to recommend it to a friend"
Thailand farmstay, reviewed by Charlie Marshall.

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The power cut one night; Ten and his wife (the owners) took us out to "eat locally", which involved piling half the town into the back of the 4WD, driving to the local eatery and singing some video karaoke with the local teachers. After that, we were taken to the local village monthly festival - an experience we never would have had were we travelling alone.

2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Ask the owners to teach you how to cook Isaan food, especially the Kao Thom..!

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.

handbag.com
For something completely different, go rural. Udon Thani can be reached by air from Bangkok - it's near the Lao border and the countryside around it is famous for its endless rice paddies. Gecko Villa is a B&B-style lodge right in the middle of the country - perfect if you want to observe the local way of life and clomp around in wellies for a bit. Alternatively, head for one of the northern hill tribes - any Thai travel agent will be able to assist you with booking information.

Bangkok Post
"Surrounded by rice fields and small rural villages where traditions are strong and the rhythm of village life has remained largely unchanged...Gecko Villa offers a chance to live the Thai way of life"