When in Thailand, respect goes a long way. A wai and a smile can open more doors than ignorance ever will. (Photo – Shoe swallows tourist’s leg — stunned foreigner left in tears as kind-hearted Thais rush to help during Songkran water festival in Chiang Mail, April ‘25) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand continues to attract millions of international visitors each year, a growing divide is emerging between tourists who make an effort to understand and respect local customs—and those who treat the country as a consequence-free playground. While many foreigners are eager to learn about Thai traditions, etiquette, and values, a vocal number of longtime residents and locals express frustration over a persistent stream of cultural clashes, misunderstandings, and outright disrespect. From public disturbances and street fights to reckless driving and tone-deaf social media content, examples of bad tourist behavior seem to dominate headlines far more than stories of positive engagement. “It doesn’t matter what nationality you are. Respect the Thai law and tradition,” wrote a Swiss man who has lived in Thailand for years. “You are a guest here even if you’re supporting Thai businesses. Just make a wai and your excuse will be accepted.” This simple gesture—the wai, a polite bow with hands pressed together—is just one of many small ways foreigners can show humility and respect in a country where social harmony, deference, and face-saving are deeply rooted cultural values. But not every visitor is prepared—or willing—to adapt. The “live free, party hard” mindset that some tourists bring to destinations like Pattaya, Phuket, and even Chiang Mai has drawn criticism from both locals and expats. Some residents believe Thailand’s friendly reputation is being taken advantage of, and that leniency toward foreigners has gone too far. “9 out of 10 posts are about bad behavior, fights, car accidents, and general farang stupidity,” commented one observer on social media. “There certainly has to be something good to write about.” Indeed, many foreign visitors and long-term residents do respect Thai norms, often going to great lengths to learn the language, study local customs, and contribute positively to their communities. It’s these individuals who often become unofficial ambassadors for their countries of origin—demonstrating that cultural exchange can work, and work well. The foreigner thanks kind Thai locals in tears after freak accident traps leg — ‘I’ll never forget your kindnesses’.