The Northeastern province of Nong Khai will again host the Bang Fai Phaya Nark Festival from Oct 10-16. Marking the end of Buddhist Lent, the festival showcases “scientifically unexplainable” fire balls that rise from the Mekong River and are said to be produced by mythical snakes, or Naga. Should you want to witness the phenomenon, you should start looking for accommodation now. We suggest the riverside Sofa Gallery Hotel (24/2 Kaewworrawut Rod, 042-420-689, 080-279-8789, www.sofagalleryhotel.com) where room rates start from B1,500. You won’t need to run around frantically as the main attraction happens right in front of the hotel.