Have you heard of the latest “begpacking” trend? It’s when a Western tourist runs out of money in a foreign country and sets up as a beggar asking locals for money. What a strange phenomenon!
I can’t say that I’ve seen this more than a couple times in my travels.
For more information, take a look at this article that describes the practice in Thailand.
Begpacking is shameless behaviour that is outlawed in Thailand and poisons goodwill between cultures
“Ignorant, ‘cool’ trend continues
Despite this, this ignorance is now a ‘cool’ trend among hip young millennials some of whom continue to come to Thailand. The activities are insulting to the occupations of Thai men and women as well as their right to a livelihood in their own country, something many of these young people have no understanding of apparently. It also, inherently, deeply disrespectful to the laws of the kingdom.”
I haven’t been to Thailand since 2013. With their crazy Covid-19 restrictions, it doesn’t look like I’ll be going back anytime soon. I’ll give you a “begpacking” update the next time I make it to Asia.