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Four More British Men Arrested with 131kg of Cannabis at Koh Samui Airport
there's certainly alot of dummies in the world now. -
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As an Expat: How do you feel about dying in Thailand? Will you be happy about it?
Have to expire somewhere, why not Thailand? -
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As an Expat: How do you feel about dying in Thailand? Will you be happy about it?
Ok with dying here. But hope it's from old age. Not from an RTA -
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Bangkok BTS Disturbance Sparks Debate Over Tourism Conduct
BTS Skytrain. File photo A recent incident involving tourists on Bangkok's BTS Skytrain has stirred up a lively debate among expats and locals. The commotion, allegedly caused by a group of boisterous foreign visitors, has spotlighted varying opinions on tourist behaviour and the challenges linked to Thailand's growing visitor numbers. The BTS incident, which reportedly involved loud and seemingly disrespectful behaviour, has left many commuters disgruntled. An annoyed resident expressed, "Foreigners are always so loud on public transport. They need to respect others around them." This sentiment was echoed by others who felt the tourists' antics disrupted the peace and quiet normally associated with the BTS. However, not everyone is convinced about the disturbance claims. Some have questioned the authenticity of these reports, demanding evidence. "Where's the video then? Prove it," one sceptical expat demanded, while another dismissed the narrative as improbable, stating, "I've used the BTS extensively and never encountered such behaviour. It's usually calm and orderly." The incident has also ignited a debate about Thailand's visa exemption policies, with some arguing that easy entry might be encouraging poor tourist conduct. "Visa exemptions are being misused," one resident suggested, although others were quick to defend the policy. Critics argue that the real issues lie elsewhere, such as in the local acceptance of things like marijuana and alcohol, which might attract a rowdy subset of visitors. Concerns over Thailand's tourism future are growing, with talks about potential casino legalisation adding to the anxiety. "Opening casinos could attract gamblers and possibly lead to a rise in crime," one local warned, urging officials to prioritise the country's reputation over short-term tourist revenues. The debate also reflects on double standards, as some noted that disruptive behaviour isn't exclusive to tourists. "Thais talk loudly on the phone without regard for others, yet tourists are blamed for everything loud," another resident pointed out, commenting on the irony of the situation. Amidst this, some people have adopted a more philosophical view. "Such is the reality of public transport," mused one observer, suggesting patience as a virtue in such situations, reported Pattaya Mail. The uproar underscores wider issues about tourism, behaviour expectations, and policy decisions critical to Thailand's future. With millions of visitors drawn to the country each year, finding a balance between economic growth and cultural preservation remains a nuanced and ongoing challenge. As the conversation unfolds, the country must consider how to welcome tourists while keeping peace with its values and the comfort of its residents. -- 2025-03-17
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