Dual pricing - higher prices for foreigners debate - again

[Gaybutton]

Here's something we haven't heard about in a while. Let's have a look at the latest.
________________________________________________________________________________________

Dual pricing in Thailand’s tourist spots – an economic strategy or a source of unintended discrimination

By Pattaya Mail

December 5, 2024

In Thailand, the practice of dual pricing at tourist attractions, where foreigners are charged higher entry fees than locals, has long been a topic of debate. While this pricing system is not officially linked to any form of racial discrimination, it is often perceived as promoting inequality and fostering a sense of exclusion among visitors. This practice has raised concerns about its implications and whether it unfairly targets tourists based on their nationality rather than their race.

The dual pricing system is typically seen at popular cultural and natural attractions such as temples, parks, and historical sites. Locals enjoy discounted rates, while foreign visitors are required to pay a higher fee. The rationale behind this pricing strategy is usually explained as a way to support domestic tourism and protect the country’s cultural heritage. It also aims to address the cost of maintaining attractions and managing large numbers of international tourists.

However, this practice has faced criticism, particularly from foreign visitors who feel it creates an unnecessary divide. Many argue that it fosters a sense of inequality, as they are being charged more simply because of their nationality, which may inadvertently fuel resentment. Some even perceive it as a form of discrimination, although it is not based on racial prejudice. Instead, the pricing structure is based on nationality or residency status, not the ethnicity or race of the individuals.

Critics of dual pricing often argue that it damages Thailand’s image as a welcoming tourist destination, suggesting that the policy undermines the spirit of hospitality that the country is known for. Others argue that the higher prices for foreigners could make Thailand less competitive compared to other Southeast Asian countries that do not implement such systems. Moreover, tourists may feel unfairly singled out, as they pay significantly more than local visitors for the same experience.

On the other hand, supporters of dual pricing argue that it is a necessary mechanism to generate funds for maintaining the country’s rich heritage, which benefits both Thai citizens and visitors. They point out that it is not intended to discriminate against foreigners but rather to ensure the sustainability of tourist sites for future generations. They also note that many foreign tourists still choose to visit Thailand despite the higher costs, driven by the country’s unique attractions and cultural significance.

While the intention behind dual pricing may not be to foster racism, it does highlight the complex intersection of tourism, economics, and cultural heritage. It’s important for both tourists and locals to understand the reasoning behind the practice, as well as the potential impact it has on the country’s global image.

In the future, a more transparent and fair pricing system that considers both local and international tourists equitably might help Thailand avoid the negative perceptions associated with dual pricing, fostering a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for visitors from all backgrounds.

https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/ ... ion-482557

[Dodger]

The article is suggesting that there is some sort of high-level concerted effort (or strategy) behind dual pricing which I find hard to believe. The businesses over here set their own prices without any mandates that I've ever heard of that would prevent dual pricing.

The Tourist Ministry constantly launches initiatives (some half-baked) to not only boost tourism, but to increase revenue after the tourists have arrived - so what's preventing the businesses that serve tourists from seeking ways to "cash in" as well???

When I resided in Pattaya I was confronted with "dual pricing" fairly often because Pattaya is a tourist town. I remember telling the laundry near my building once that I resided in Thailand and was not a tourist any more - and if they didn't stop charging me more than Thais to clean my clothes I would go elsewhere. They seemed to understand and stopped over-charging me. If I were a tourist I rather doubt they would have listened.

One of the benefits of residing in Bang Saray is that it caters mostly to residents and domestic tourists (Thais) so dual-pricing is unheard of here. Just the way I like it.

[Gaybutton]

I've had a few times when I was going to be charged the farang price. I showed my Thai driving license. Sometimes that worked and I was charged only the Thai price and sometimes it didn't work and I had to pay the farang price. But if I had not showed the license I never would have gotten the Thai price.

As far as these venues are concerned, showing a long term visa, such as the retirement visa, is meaningless. For me that never worked. For whatever reason, showing the Thai driving license often did work.

Besides, most of the time the farang price is not that much more than the Thai price, which is fine if it is only you. But if multiple farang are involved, it quickly adds up.


"It's not convenient and it's not fair - A poor excuse for picking a man's pocket every 25th of December. A full day's wage for no work."
- Reginald Owen (Scrooge), 'A Christmas Carol' - 1938

[Jun]

The last time I knowingly paid a higher price was at the Erawen falls, about 5 years ago. I like waterfalls.

On the other hand, if I only have a marginal interest in a venue, farang pricing will tip the balance and I won't visit.

I've never seen a temple with an entry charge. Dozens of donation boxes, but no entry fee.

I use coin operated laundries, which are convenient and I get all the correct clothes back. No dual pricing,

On the rare occasions I hire a motorcycle taxi, I consult the written price list, often written in Thai only.
The last time I hired a taxi within Bangkok was just after DMK reopened. I had one hell of a job to get the driver to take me to the correct airport. So I started using the perfectly good bus service to DMK after that.

[Jun]

I just saw a stall selling socks.
The English sign said 3 pairs for 100.
The Thai sign said 20 baht per pair or 6 for 100. They didn't try too hard to disguise it, as this wasn't using Thai numerals. .

[Gaybutton]

this wasn't using Thai numerals.

Apparently he was absent the day they taught basic arithmetic at school . . .

[AdamKY]

When visiting foreign countries I make an effort to 'fit-in' - behave in a manner that conforms to the local culture. Having to pay a little extra because I am a foreigner doesn't bother me. I am just trying to bridge the culture gap and 'fit-in'.

Jun:

"I just saw a stall selling socks.
The English sign said 3 pairs for 100.
The Thai sign said 20 baht per pair or 6 for 100."

Seems like an invitation for some friendly bargaining.

[Jun]

Seems like an invitation for some friendly bargaining.

I just selected 2 pairs and handed over 40 baht.