The same Rose Coloured glassed can never ever see any one critical of Thailand.  I hate the BBC and I love Thailand but it is far from perfect. I have had a gun pulled on me twice. Once simply over parking. Road deaths are enough to cause concern. And yes as someone one here stated prostitution is a pandemic in Thailand to the extent its treated as a way of life. And then there is the chopping and changing of visa rules (the reason we left). 

The bbc has more employees than followers.

It's just fake news.

I couldn't be bothered. Repetitive nonsense. All the content has been dished out countless times. Absolutely nothing new.

45 minutes ago, Cameroni said:

 

Sorry, I did not realise you were an idiot.

 

The rage of Caliban seeing his own image in the glass.

59 minutes ago, glennamy said:

It's the BBC, Biased Bullsh1t Communism, the paedophile protecters. They try to tax us, the citizens, to fund it. I haven't paid it for nearly 5 years!  

Yes I understand that there are households in UK that are so impoverished that they cannot pay approximately £3 weekly for a multitude of radio and tv stations that the BBC broadcasts.

I wonder how many of those who rail against the “extortionate “ Licence Fee have subscriptions to Sky, Netflix etc packages at rates 10 times the perfectly justified Licence fee.

Just saying.

3 hours ago, Photoguy21 said:

Typical trash which the BBC is supreme at dishing out.

 

Which is the same trash being pumped out by the multitude of commercial stations.

 

But the BBC wasn't like that before.........then along came this:

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcasting_Act_1990

 

"The Act passed through Parliament despite opposition from much of the Labour Party and from some members of the ruling Conservative Party, who saw it as representative of a decline in standards, and on occasions saw it as enabling what was, for them, an unwelcome Americanisation. Notably, Douglas Hurd has since criticised the Act's after-effects, describing it as "one of the less successful reforms of those years".

 

Thatchers work.

 

 

 

1 hour ago, pub2022 said:

The bbc has more employees than followers.

It's just fake news.

Long time ago, maybe until around the late 1970's, BBC was the place for news.

Later on, it became utter rubbish.

Sad, but true.

10 hours ago, BritManToo said:

Who are these people?

Thailand is dangerous, Brits are 20x more likely to die on holiday in Thailand than any western country.

That's because when most Brits get to thailand they become complete drunken arsholes and offend the thai people, they come with their  g strings & boobs hanging out and show no respect for local thai tradition or culture ...they go to tourist thailand (  pattaya & phukett etc. ) and think they witness the real enigma of thailand & spending most of their holidays in bars & discos...thailand has never been colonised, thank God for that..

4 minutes ago, Johno57 said:

That's because when most Brits get to thailand they become complete drunken arsholes and offend the thai people, they come with their  g strings & boobs hanging out and show no respect for local thai tradition or culture ...they go to tourist thailand (  pattaya & phukett etc. ) and think they witness the real enigma of thailand & spending most of their holidays in bars & discos...thailand has never been colonised, thank God for that..

'they come with their g strings & boobs hanging out and show no respect for local thai tradition or culture'

And that's just the men. 🫡

1 hour ago, Red Forever said:

Not true. Holding a yellow book doesn’t ensure that the holder pays Thai entrance/ medical fees.

 I speak from experience.

So do I, Red. Maybe it is the people who you were showing your book to, and they had issues for the day. Just saying.

As a farang in Thailand for 32 years I have had no incidents of violence and only one incident where something of mine was stolen. I was pickpocketed. Having said that I have been scammed, paying exorbitant amounts for very poor service. But that's another story.

 

I use common sense so try to avoid situations or people that could get me in trouble. That pickpocket incident happened over 10 years ago in Soi Saladaeng near the tourist area of Silom Road, Bangkok. A 10-12 year old boy carrying 4 or 5 plastic bags containing loaves of bread wanted me to buy a loaf from him pressing the loaves, and his hands, against my thigh. Unbeknown to me one of his hands slipped into my jeans' pocket and helped itself to the money inside. Due to his constant thigh pressing I didn't notice this and I continued walking on my way not buying any of his bread.

 

Fortunately, I soon went into a 7-11 around the corner on Silom Rd and when I went to pay it was then that I noticed all my money was gone. I went back to the boy, who was still there and demanded my money back. He said "how much"? I said "all of it". I got my money back but while talking to this kid a Tuk-Tuk driver came up to us and offered to translate for me, not knowing that I was already speaking Thai fluently with the kid. It appeared to me then that the Tuk-Tuk driver, parked across the street was the kid's "minder" and in cahoots with the kid to pickpocket tourists in the area.

 

After all we farang just love bread right?.

2 hours ago, Red Forever said:

Not true. Holding a yellow book doesn’t ensure that the holder pays Thai entrance/ medical fees.

 I speak from experience.

By the way Red, I never go to a Government hospital only Private so I do not know if your comment is accurate or not but who cares. Parks etc., went to only a few but always paid a very small amount but nothing to get upset over.

1 hour ago, roo860 said:

'they come with their g strings & boobs hanging out and show no respect for local thai tradition or culture'

And that's just the men. 🫡

On a recent trip to Lao I saw a lot of farang women tourists wearing "hot pants" and "spaghetti" string tops exposing a lot of flesh. Yes it was hot but contrasts to the local Lao women who dress conservatively. And maybe these farang women attract unwanted attention from local Lao men- "only Lao prostitutes dress like these farang women". When in Rome the saying goes, so dress conservatively like the locals. Men, don't go walking around in public topless. Even wear longs when in public, especially in a urban environments.

1 hour ago, Enoon said:

 

Which is the same trash being pumped out by the multitude of commercial stations.

 

But the BBC wasn't like that before.........then along came this:

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcasting_Act_1990

 

"The Act passed through Parliament despite opposition from much of the Labour Party and from some members of the ruling Conservative Party, who saw it as representative of a decline in standards, and on occasions saw it as enabling what was, for them, an unwelcome Americanisation. Notably, Douglas Hurd has since criticised the Act's after-effects, describing it as "one of the less successful reforms of those years".

 

Thatchers work.

 

 

 

The BBC used to be a good source of information. Now it is an absolute disgrace.

7 minutes ago, Photoguy21 said:

The BBC used to be a good source of information. Now it is an absolute disgrace.

You used to have some classic humour and comedy shows as well. I love the old British humour. Not the 9 o'clock news, Mr. Bean, Monty Python, Benny Hill.. Fun times 😄

On 9/16/2025 at 3:59 PM, snoop1130 said:

The Dark Side

It's a scary place, east of the Sukhumvit 

10 hours ago, bamnutsak said:

.Streisand Effect - never heard of it .    What is it ?.

 

This is what I find on the internet after a search for the series: "Immersing herself in Bangkok’s backpacker hub, Zara soon lands in trouble with the Thai police when she starts to uncover the scale of Thailand’s illegal sex industry."

 

So another feminazi pussy cartel hatchet job by the BBC. I wish for the likes of "Zara" to end up with their feet sticking out of a ditch.

so boooooring

Lived 6 years in Thailand. Always avoided tourist areas. Travelled by motorbike everywhere, literally everywhere in Thailand. Had to return to Canada for medical reasons. Love the country I consider home because my family lives there. If I could get medical coverage cheaply, I would definitely return and stay for4 good. Not perfect: pollution, bureaucracy, difficult language, dangerous roads, religion everywhere. But, I love the country, and it is absolutely safe. Just avoid Phuket and Pattaya, and Bangkok maybe.

On 9/16/2025 at 3:59 PM, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

"Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise," a documentary released by the BBC, has stirred significant controversy and backlash. The documentary set out to critique Thailand's tourism industry, but it has been met with strong defensive reactions from both Thai nationals and foreigners who hold the country in high regard. The discontent centers around the documentary's portrayal, which many argue is distorted and lacking in balance.

 

The criticism began with the choice of Zara McDermott, a former contestant on "Strictly Come Dancing," as the documentary's presenter. Without a background in journalism, McDermott’s selection raised questions about the BBC's decision-making, especially given the sensitivity of the topic. This decision has led to a broader scrutiny of the BBC's perceived biases, particularly towards Asian countries, with some alleging that its coverage often carries racial, regional, and political prejudices.

 

The documentary trailer’s release provoked a storm of responses, particularly from foreigners living or having lived in Thailand. These individuals have come forward to share their experiences, which starkly contrast with the documentary's narrative. Many have expressed that Thailand is a safe, welcoming place, and the documentary’s focus on negative aspects does not reflect the country they know.

 

This response has not just been about defending Thailand but also about challenging what they see as an unjust portrayal. Critics of the documentary have drawn parallels with historical narratives, particularly colonialism, where media representations often carried racial undertones. This analogy is rooted in the ways colonial powers, like Britain, used race and media to justify their actions and superiority. These historical contexts continue to influence perceptions, leading to skepticism about the intentions and accuracies in media portrayals of non-Western countries.

 

The media portrayal has opened up old wounds related to British colonialism, where racism was systematically employed to exert control. The empire’s policies often used pseudoscience to justify racial hierarchies, seeing non-white individuals as inferior. This historical backdrop provides a lens through which many critics view the documentary, interpreting it as an extension of these outdated narratives.

 

Within the context of personal experiences, numerous expats have shared positive and reassuring stories about living in Thailand. Their narratives emphasize feelings of safety and respect, areas they argue are not adequately represented in the BBC’s portrayal. Comments from foreigners suggest a preference for walking the streets of Bangkok over those in many UK cities, where they feel more vulnerable to crime and violence.

 

For these individuals, Thailand represents more than just a travel destination; it’s a place where they have built lives and communities. Many have expressed pride in the culture and hospitality that Thailand offers, feeling misrepresented by the litany of negative press.

 

Moreover, these reactions highlight a deeper issue within media practices today. As digital platforms increase competition, there is an ongoing struggle between maintaining journalistic integrity and drawing audiences with sensational content. This tension raises important questions about the role of media in shaping perceptions and the ethical responsibilities in reporting.

 

The controversy surrounding "Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise" shines a light on these critical discussions, reminding us of the importance of critical evaluation of the sources of information we consume. It serves as a call to action for media outlets to present more nuanced and fair narratives that accurately reflect the diversity and complexities of countries and cultures.

 

Ultimately, this situation underscores the depth of affection and loyalty that many foreigners feel towards Thailand. Their defense of the nation goes beyond mere sentiment; it represents a commitment to ensure that voices of truth and fairness are amplified. As the debate continues, it’s clear that respect and understanding across cultures remain essential, particularly in an increasingly interconnected world.

 

The backlash to the BBC documentary also highlights the broader implications of media representation in shaping public perceptions. As stories circulate globally, they can influence opinions and shape how countries and cultures are understood across different contexts. Inaccurate or biased portrayals can perpetuate stereotypes and lead to misunderstandings that are difficult to correct.

 

Given the rapid dissemination of information in today’s digital age, the stakes are higher than ever for media outlets to prioritize responsible and accurate reporting. More than just providing entertainment or information, media narratives have the power to influence perceptions and shape societal attitudes. Therefore, the responsibility to ensure integrity and accuracy in reporting is not only a professional obligation but a societal one.

 

Looking forward, it’s essential that media organizations strive to balance engaging storytelling with factual accuracy, especially on topics that impact entire nations and cultural identities. Achieving this balance requires a commitment to diverse perspectives, rigorous fact-checking, and an awareness of the broader historical and socio-political contexts in which stories unfold.

 

In the case of "Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise," the global reaction serves as a powerful reminder of the need for empathy and understanding in storytelling. It highlights the importance of incorporating diverse voices and experiences to provide a fuller picture of a nation’s reality. This holistic approach not only enriches the narrative but also contributes to a more informed and equitable discourse.

 

As discussions continue and more voices join the conversation, the hope is for increased collaboration and dialogue between media creators, audiences, and the subjects of their narratives. By fostering these connections, media can play a crucial role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and respect.

 

In conclusion, the response to the BBC documentary reflects a broader desire for truth and fairness in media portrayals. The collective voices rising to defend Thailand emphasize a commitment to these values, highlighting the critical role of media in shaping our understanding of the world. As audiences, creators, and consumers, the opportunity lies in working together to advocate for narratives that reflect the true diversity and richness of human experiences.

 

Key Takeaways

• Foreigners with experience in Thailand refute BBC's portrayal.
• Concerns are raised about bias in media, especially related to colonial history.
• The situation emphasizes the need for balanced and accurate reporting.

 

Related Stories

Thailand's Tourism Booms with 22M Visitors in 2025

British TV Star Zara McDermott’s Filming Fright in Thailand

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-09-16

 

 

Many countries have far worse problems than Thailand.  It is mostly a good place to be.

5 hours ago, ravip said:

Did they issue a travel warning?

Did the Aussies stop coming to TH?

What were the reasons given for those deaths?

Any reliable links?

From what I've seen in the news a lot involve heavy intoxication and drug use. Some of the survivors feature regularly in the news for being denied travel insurance claims. Many are not aware that most policies are not valid after certain alcohol limit in the blood.

20 minutes ago, MarkBR said:

Many countries have far worse problems than Thailand.  It is mostly a good place to be.

 

Absolutely right. The sad thing is that all this furore and criticism about this docu only gives it publicity so it will be seen as "impactful".

 

Lies sell.

Before, when they has been a program about Thailand that paints not such a rose picture, someone, often a government spokesperson, gets on their soap box and say it is not true, LOS is not like this ect, ect.

This time I have not heard or seen anything from the Thai media,or AN, either they have not seen it, as someone said it was on BBC 3 ,(did not know they was a BBC3 ),or they deemed it ok with nothing to say which is usually.

6 hours ago, Andrew65 said:

Many years ago the Australian authorities stated that more of their citizens die in Thailand than in any other overseas desination.

Bali more likely.

This compelling BBC documentary sheds light on the pervasive patriarchy in Thailand. To foster true change, it is crucial for Western women to share their knowledge of feminism, empowerment, and liberation with Thai women. Together, we can challenge and dismantle the structures of patriarchy that hinder progress. The time for transformative action is now.

7 hours ago, Photoguy21 said:

Typical trash which the BBC is supreme at dishing out.

Did you watch it? Any of it?

1 hour ago, Cameroni said:

 

Absolutely right. The sad thing is that all this furore and criticism about this docu only gives it publicity so it will be seen as "impactful".

 

Lies sell.

...and how many actually watched it? Any of it? Even with my VPN pointed at UK I can't access it. I'm not suggesting it's good or bad, but if most of these posters didn't even watch it.. well...

13 minutes ago, ronnie50 said:

...and how many actually watched it? Any of it? Even with my VPN pointed at UK I can't access it. I'm not suggesting it's good or bad, but if most of these posters didn't even watch it.. well...

 

It's on daily motion if you don't have a VPN to watch BBCiplayer you can watch it there.

This piece was produced to get eyes and advert $.  A boring piece doesn't do that.