Ubon Ratchathani Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Ubon Ratchathani.
Healthcare System
Ubon Ratchathani has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. The city serves as a medical hub for the northeastern region, with several hospitals capable of handling most medical situations. Public hospitals are affordable but may have language barriers and longer wait times, while private hospitals offer more English-speaking staff and faster service at higher costs.
Hospitals
Main hospitals include Sappasithiprasong Hospital (public, 24-hour emergency), Ubon Ratchathani Hospital (private), and Wattana Hospital (private). Private hospitals have some English-speaking doctors and are accustomed to treating foreign patients. Expect to pay upfront or show proof of insurance before treatment at private facilities. Public hospitals are significantly cheaper but may require Thai language assistance.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, marked with green crosses. Many common medications available by prescription in Western countries can be purchased over-the-counter in Thailand. Pharmacists often speak limited English but are helpful. Major chains and hospital pharmacies are most reliable. Common medications for stomach issues, pain relief, and antibiotics are readily available. Bring prescriptions or medication packaging to show pharmacists.
Insurance
Travel insurance is not legally required but is strongly recommended. Medical evacuation to Bangkok or home country can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Ensure your policy covers motorcycle accidents if you plan to ride, as many policies exclude this. Private hospitals may require proof of insurance or significant cash deposits before treating serious conditions.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient quantities of prescription medications as specific brands may not be available locally
- Carry a copy of prescriptions and a letter from your doctor explaining your medical needs in English
- Private hospitals are more expensive but offer better English communication and faster service
- Keep your travel insurance policy details and emergency contact numbers easily accessible
- For minor ailments, pharmacies can often provide effective over-the-counter solutions
- Dengue fever is present in the region; seek immediate medical attention if you develop high fever after mosquito bites
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Thailand has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the world. Road conditions in Ubon Ratchathani vary, with some rural roads poorly maintained. Drivers may not follow traffic rules strictly, and motorcycle accidents are particularly common.
Petty theft and pickpocketing are relatively uncommon in Ubon Ratchathani compared to major tourist destinations, but opportunistic theft can occur, particularly targeting distracted tourists.
Ubon Ratchathani experiences extreme heat, particularly March-May when temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are real risks, especially for those not acclimatized.
Traveler's diarrhea and stomach upset are common issues, usually mild but can disrupt travel plans. Tap water is not safe to drink. Street food is generally safe but hygiene standards vary.
Dengue fever is present year-round in Ubon Ratchathani, with increased risk during rainy season. Japanese encephalitis and malaria are rare in the city but can occur in rural border areas.
Stray dogs are common in Thailand, including Ubon Ratchathani. While most are harmless, dog bites can occur, and rabies is present in the country.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Drivers quote inflated prices to tourists or claim meters are broken. Some may take unnecessarily long routes. This is less common in Ubon Ratchathani than Bangkok but still occurs.
Friendly locals or tuk-tuk drivers recommend 'special' jewelry shops with 'tax-free' deals or investment opportunities. Gems are often fake or vastly overpriced.
Tuk-tuk drivers or touts claim the temple or attraction you want to visit is closed for a holiday or special event, then suggest alternative destinations that pay them commission.
Rental shops claim pre-existing damage was caused by you or find minor scratches to charge excessive repair fees, sometimes withholding passport deposits.
A friendly English-speaking local befriends tourists and eventually invites them to their home to meet family, where a card game is suggested. The game is rigged, and tourists lose significant money.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Keep copies of passport, visa, and important documents separate from originals
- Register with your embassy if staying for extended periods
- Learn basic Thai phrases for emergencies and common situations
- Keep emergency contact numbers saved in your phone and written down
- Share your itinerary with family or friends back home
- Carry a business card from your hotel to show taxi drivers
- Download offline maps of Ubon Ratchathani before arrival
Transportation Safety
- Only use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps
- Always wear helmets when on motorcycles or as passengers
- Avoid riding motorcycles if you lack experience, especially in traffic
- Be extra cautious during Songkran festival when accident rates triple
- Check that vehicles have working seatbelts before riding
- Avoid overnight buses if possible; daytime travel is safer
- If renting a vehicle, ensure you have proper insurance and licensing
Health and Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating
- Bring or buy probiotics to help prevent stomach issues
- Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits unless from trusted sources
- Stay hydrated but only drink bottled or boiled water
- Apply mosquito repellent regularly, especially at dawn and dusk
- Get recommended vaccinations before travel (Hepatitis A, Typhoid, etc.)
- Carry a basic first aid kit with anti-diarrheal medication, pain relievers, and bandages
Cultural Respect and Safety
- Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees)
- Remove shoes before entering temples and homes
- Never touch anyone's head or point feet at people or Buddha images
- Stand respectfully during the national anthem (played at 8am and 6pm in public places)
- Never criticize or disrespect the Thai royal family (illegal and serious offense)
- Ask permission before photographing monks or local people
- Remain calm and polite in all situations; raising your voice causes loss of face
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls rather than street ATMs
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave excess cash and cards in hotel safe
- Be discreet when handling money in public
- Keep some emergency cash hidden separately from your main wallet
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Be aware that credit card fraud exists; check statements regularly
- Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange booths, not on the street
Accommodation Safety
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables
- Check that doors and windows lock properly
- Know the location of emergency exits in your hotel
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify with reception first
- Keep your room number private
- Choose accommodations with good reviews regarding safety and security
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Ubon Ratchathani is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Thai culture is relatively conservative, and women are treated respectfully. Serious harassment or assault is uncommon, though minor unwanted attention can occur. The local Isaan culture tends to be more traditional and conservative than Bangkok or southern tourist areas, which can actually mean fewer issues for women travelers. Most visits are trouble-free when standard precautions are followed.
- Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas; this shows cultural respect and reduces unwanted attention
- Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night; use taxis or ride-hailing apps
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers and watch your drink at bars
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself politely
- Solo women should be cautious about invitations to private locations from new acquaintances
- Consider staying in hotels rather than isolated guesthouses if traveling alone
- Keep family and friends informed of your whereabouts and plans
- On public transportation, sit near other women or families when possible
- Be aware that some Thai men may be overly friendly but most interactions are harmless
- Carry a charged phone and know how to contact emergency services
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers if seeking company
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Thailand with no laws against same-sex relationships. Thailand is generally considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in Asia. However, same-sex marriage is not yet fully recognized (civil partnerships are being legislated), and LGBTQ+ rights are less advanced than in some Western countries.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection regardless of orientation
- Ubon Ratchathani has limited LGBTQ+ specific venues compared to Bangkok; the scene is very low-key
- Most hotels will not have issues with same-sex couples sharing rooms
- Be aware that while tolerance is high, understanding of LGBTQ+ issues may be limited in rural areas
- Bangkok has Thailand's main LGBTQ+ scene if seeking specific venues or events
- Use common sense and read social situations; most interactions will be positive
- Thai culture values politeness and discretion for everyone regardless of orientation
- Online LGBTQ+ travel forums can provide current information about the local scene
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Ubon Ratchathani. Medical evacuation to Bangkok or your home country can cost $50,000-$100,000. Private hospital care is expensive by Thai standards, and serious accidents or illnesses can result in bills of thousands of dollars. Many private hospitals require proof of insurance or large cash deposits before treating serious conditions. Additionally, motorcycle accidents are common, and many standard policies exclude coverage for motorcycle-related injuries unless specifically added.