Flying to Ubon
The journey to Ubon Ratchathani began with an exhilarating flight aboard a Cessna 152, our small yet reliable aircraft. Taking off, the vast expanse of Thailand unfolded beneath me, offering a breathtaking aerial view of fields, winding rivers, and scattered villages.
The cockpit hummed with the rhythm of flight as I navigated through clear blue skies, the propeller cutting through the air with a steady whirr. Glimpses of the horizon painted a serene picture, reinforcing the joy of flying.
We stopped along the way to refuel, and took off again east towards Ubon Ratchathani. The approach to Ubon airport was smooth, with the landing strip appearing like a guiding path amid the lush landscape, marking the start of an exciting aviation experience.
At the Airshow
Ubon Ratchathani’s airshow was a thrilling spectacle of aeronautical prowess, bringing together pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and spectators eager to witness the magic of flight. Rows of sleek fighter jets, private planes, and military helicopters lined the tarmac, each showcasing the impressive engineering of modern aviation.
The air buzzed with excitement as formations of aircraft soared overhead, leaving trails against the clear sky. Pilots and crew members engaged with visitors, discussing aircraft specifications and sharing their experiences. The ground was alive with movement—teams prepping planes, attendees snapping photos, and children gazing up in awe at the roaring engines above.
Balloon Show
As the sun set, we headed off into the city, at a park where an enchanting balloon festival was starting, illuminating the night sky with a spectrum of glowing orbs. Hot air balloons of various colors and patterns inflated one by one, their burners igniting bursts of golden fire into the night.
The atmosphere was festive, with crowds gathered around to watch these majestic giants ascend. The backdrop of Ubon’s golden sculptures and historic monuments added an almost mystical quality to the event. People wandered between the glowing balloons, capturing the moment in photographs, while others simply stood in awe, gazing as the balloons slowly lifted into the sky, marking the perfect conclusion to an extraordinary aviation adventure.
National Parks
Laos-Thai Border
Crossing the Laos-Thai border was a mix of excitement and curiosity. The place was bustling with vendors selling everything from local handicrafts to exotic snacks—some of which looked like they belonged on a dare game rather than a plate!
I wandered through the market stalls, spotting fake designer bags, stacks of passport covers, and bottles of whiskey lined up like trophies. There was an old-school charm to the place, with wooden houses on stilts, satellite dishes perched on roofs, and street sellers grilling skewers of mystery meat. It felt like a wild mix of cultures, with Thai and Lao influences blending seamlessly in the border town’s lively energy.
Pha Taem National Park
Pha Taem National Park was nothing short of breathtaking! Imagine standing on the edge of a cliff with a panoramic view of the Mekong River stretching into the horizon. The landscape was rugged yet peaceful, with ancient rock formations that looked like they belonged in a sci-fi movie.
Walking the trails, I saw prehistoric cave paintings—centuries-old art carved into stone, telling stories of ancient civilizations. The sunset here was unreal, painting the sky in warm hues over the endless greenery. It was the perfect spot to take a deep breath, feel the wind on my face, and just soak in the beauty of Thailand’s untouched nature.
Two Color River
The Two Color River was one of the coolest natural sights I’ve ever seen. This is where the brownish waters of the Mekong River meet the blue waters of the Mun River, creating a striking contrast that’s visible from the riverbank.
Standing there, it felt surreal watching the two colors swirl together without fully mixing, like some invisible force keeping them apart. The area had a peaceful vibe, with temples and small boats floating lazily along the water. We even found a nice shady spot under a tree to relax and take in the view—just a perfect way to end the adventure.
Food
The food we had on this trip was absolutely incredible—fresh, flavorful, and full of variety! We enjoyed a feast of local Thai dishes, with beautifully plated seafood like crispy fried fish topped with herbs and spicy sauce, grilled prawns bursting with smoky flavor, and a delicious shrimp and vegetable stir-fry.
The dining setup was just as enjoyable, with long tables filled with lively conversations, plates being passed around, and everyone digging into the shared platters of food. Eating right by the river added to the experience, making it feel like a perfect blend of great food and beautiful scenery. From fresh river fish to crunchy fried delights, every bite was a celebration of Thai cuisine!
