I've stayed at Udon Hotel at 550-ish with breakfast; it's one of the old guard of former top-of-the-market hotels that have aged. Location so-so (close to lake, usually need a tuk-tuk to nightlife street).
Will try to spend more quality time in Udon Thani on January trip. There's just enough of interest to farangs to avoid crashing boredom (can always see movie, hang around western bar, etc.). Not overwhelming like Pattaya or compromised by too many regular tourists. Weather is actually better during winter months but really hot & humid during summer.
I can see it becoming an alternative base to Pattaya in high season for those in the know.
