Rob’s Thai Roving Report

Thailand is a large country, with journeys from Bangkok to its northern or southernmost cities taking well over ten hours. While many visitors choose to fly, those on a longer holiday - or anyone living in the Land of Smiles - may prefer the slower, cheaper and often more interesting option of travelling by bus. Here's what you need to know before setting off.

Since moving to rural Sisaket in February 2022, I've visited Ubon Ratchathani many times. It's only an hour away by car, and with trains from Kanthararom, it's easy to reach whether I'm heading there to explore or watch football. Over several overnight stays, I discovered a city with plenty of good food, lively bars and an enjoyable nightlife that's well worth experiencing.

Many of my family and friends knew that I would eventually relocate to Thailand, knowing it was a decision I had made. But even I was unsure about what lay ahead when I met Taew, and we were heading to live in rural Sisaket as a married couple. I certainly hadn’t heard of the nearest town of Kanthararom.

I don't think I'll ever tire of the excitement of an upcoming World Cup. They bring back great memories, especially of watching players from countries that seemed strange and exotic to me as a kid. So, imagine my delight when I discovered that a World Cup was coming to Ubon Ratchathani, just an hour from home. This wasn't the tournament I'd expected to see again. It was the 2026 Seniors World Cup, bringing former professionals and internationals over 40 to Ubon for a week of competitive football. For me, it was an opportunity too good to miss.