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Ubon Nightlife

Posted by Stuart at 02:09 PM on August 11, 2005

And just when I thought that it couldn't get any better, I found an even CHEAPER internet cafe. The first hour is the regular 10 baht, but the second hour is FIVE BAHT. Amazing.

In any case, my quiet, solitary days in Ubon are now officially over. Last night I had an explosively good time out and about with the Ubon locals.

It all started as I was walking around town, exploring as I love to do. As I walk by each shop house I like to take a peek inside. Usually, they are completely open to the street since the air conditioning is not running, and so with each house I get a small voyeuristic glimpse into the life of the average Ubon resident.

Usually, the residents are quietly watching TV and/or eating dinner on the floor. Sometimes Isaan music is playing in the background. But the residents of one shop house in particular were having a big party. Being as friendly as most other Isaan people, and being in the party mood, they invited me in.

Well, to make a long story short, they took me to a fabulous restaurant for dinner where we feasted on delicious Isaan food (including an outrageously spicy tom yum goong soup that even the locals had trouble swallowing). The beers and the gentle Thai pop music coming from a single girl with a guitar on stage helped soothe the burning sensations.

The next stop was a small place called U-Bar. Even though it was a week night, the place was packed. On stage was a college-aged 6-member rock band. And rock they did. I felt like I was back at a fraternity party with a fun-loving cover band on stage. I of course didn't know any of the Thai songs, but it was incredible fun just to watch them bounce around and play their heart out in front of a very appreciative audience.

The next and final stop was the big "disco" in town. As usual in Thailand, "disco" means big warehouse with no dancefloor -- only tall tables with bar stools around which you and your friends sit and drink and maybe shake your body just a little bit while standing next to the table. In any case, it was still a lot of fun to sit and watch the crowd enjoy their night life.