The province of Ubon Ratchathani is tucked in the southeast corner of the northeast region, bordering with Laos and Cambodia. It is more prosperous than most provinces in the northeast and is surrounded by a more verdant landscape.
The provincial capital, known simply as Ubon, is located on the banks of the Mun River - Thailand's second longest river. The city was once dominated by Dvaravati and Khmer kingdoms, before being settled by Lao people in the late 18th century.
Along with Udon Thani and Korat, it became a US air base during the Vietnam war. The province benefited from the arrival of the US forces, who set up the infrastructure for the present day city.
Up until recently the border region with Cambodia was not considered a safe place to travel; due to the activities of the Khmer Rouge along the border.