A group of foreign women faced criticism in Chiang Mai, Thailand, after sunbathing in bikinis near a Buddhist temple.
The incident occurred along the city moat opposite the Ratchamonthian Temple, a sacred site in Chiang Mai, on Monday (5 Jan).
Photos of the women were posted on a local Facebook page, with the original poster (OP) calling out the act as inappropriate.
Source: แฉเชียงใหม่ V2 on Facebook
The images show the women in bikinis sitting and lying on the grass, with one reportedly lying with her legs open, feet pointing toward the temple.
In the post, the OP noted that such behaviour is considered disrespectful in Thai culture and questioned whether the tourists had made any effort to learn local customs.
Source: แฉเชียงใหม่ V2 on Facebook
Thai news outlet Khaosod reported that the OP witnessed the incident while he was driving through central Chiang Mai at around 1pm.
This behaviour has been widely criticised as offensive, especially in a city known for its rich cultural and religious traditions.
The Facebook post, which was widely shared, called attention to the lack of cultural sensitivity displayed by the tourists.
Many Thai netizens expressed their dismay, with one commenter suggesting that authorities should put up signs around the area to educate visitors on the local customs and expectations.
Translation: People who can speak English can tell them nicely, and they would understand. Authorities can just put up signs around the moat. Some tourists are not aware of the do’s and don’ts here.
Source: Facebook
Another user pointed out that the area is not a public park and that relevant authorities should address the issue.
Translation: It’s not a public park. Relevant officials should do something about it. No one can do what they want as if there weren’t restrictions. Otherwise, we might see people strip naked around the moat.
Source: Facebook
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Featured image adapted from แฉเชียงใหม่ V2 on Facebook.