The Unbelievable Tourist Behaviours in Thailand: Insights from a Local

Thriving in the vibrant hues of Thailand, there are countless fascinating and cultural experiences for both locals and tourists. However, among the surprising and often amusing quirks observed, certain behaviors by tourists stand out as surprisingly peculiar and even bizarre. In this article, we delve into some of the weirdest and most outlandish tourist behaviors, particularly focusing on two distinct aspects: engaging in dangerous activities and a cultural faux pas that has widespread repercussions.

The Dangers of Tourist Curiosity: Crocodile Encounters

In a world where curiosity and adventure often go hand in hand, some tourists take things to a concerning level. One such instance that frequently comes to mind involves baited crocodile traps. In Northern Territory of Australia, these traps are used to catch aggressive crocodiles. However, several tourists have found themselves near danger by actually climbing onto these traps out of curiosity. The consequences can be severe, as crocodiles are known to rapidly react, often swiping their powerful tails or teeth, thus posing significant threats to human safety. A personal account of witnessing a ranger rescue a child from shallow waters underscores how such behavior can lead to near-disasters, with a large crocodile suddenly appearing where the child had been moments ago. This experience, while impressive in its own right, remains one of the scariest and most alarming moments observed.

A Thorough Analysis of the Wai Custom: A Cultural Faux Pas

Among the myriad customs and traditions, one that has particularly perplexed many foreign tourists is the Thai greeting known as the “wai.” Originating from a rich and ancient heritage, the wai is a respectful gesture involving a slight bow accompanied by clasped hands. This gesture has specific rules and protocols that highlight the level of respect or hierarchy between individuals. Despite the wealth of information available, many newcomers to Thailand often misinterpret the custom, leading to questionable and sometimes embarrassing moments. For instance, a foreigner once wai'd a temple dog, which is a common sight but a rare and unusual occurrence for Thailand's residents. Instances of tourists wai-ing everyone, from waiters to children, highlight the confusion surrounding this cultural norm.

ADDRESSING RESPECT AND ETHICS: Thoughts on Backpacking and Begging

Augmenting these peculiarities, the ethical dimension of tourist behavior in Thailand also brings to light some alarming practices. Among these, the use of begging by backpackers in Bangkok stands out as a particularly contentious issue. These tourists, often seen in city centers, engage in an activity that can be seen as grossly disrespectful to the local community. Despite the significant economic challenges faced by low-skilled workers in Thailand, from the average manual laborer earning between 2-3 dollars an hour, to the arduous work conditions faced by Burmese workers risking their lives, most still refrain from asking for charity. In contrast, backpackers, who have the means to travel, often squander their resources on pointless expenditures. This behavior is not only economically unfair but also does not foster mutual respect between different cultures. Furthermore, the practice is outlawed in Thailand and only serves to damage the goodwill between Thai people and tourists.

It is clear that understanding and respecting local cultures and customs is crucial when traveling. Behaviors that cross these cultural lines can have far-reaching consequences on both the individual traveler and the local community. By acknowledging and emulating these cultural practices, such as the proper way to perform the wai, and avoiding disrespectful actions like begging, tourists can contribute positively to their travels and the communities they visit.