It is a known type of Western foreigner you see in Thailand. It is less common than it was 20 to 30 years ago, but still present, especially in the more remote provinces. They arrive and quickly decide they have found something close to paradise, and from that point their focus shifts heavily toward immersion in Thailand. This often includes an assumption that Thai ways are generally better, combined with a strong effort to integrate with locals, adopt local habits, eat local food, and gain acceptance. It becomes a "going native" pattern of behavior. It comes across as excessive and lacking in balance. There is also a tendency for some of them to lose a clear sense of personal identity. I have seen this over the years. It is not a large group, but I have met enough to notice a pattern. A common feature is a reduced interest in other foreigners, and sometimes a degree of distancing from their own home country. They also often appear to be on limited budgets. I am not suggesting a single cause links all of these traits, but it is a recurring type of foreigner I have encountered in Thailand more than once. That said, all the ones I've seen who fit this profile have definitely been weird. More like troubled I would say.
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