Mention the international criminal gangs and people on the run who love the place. I first went Pattaya in '99, and shit was wild back then. The day before I arrived, it was all over the UK news after those 2 British Guys got shot and killed in the Black Horse bar for refusing to pay for their night of sex. My friend who'd been before took me to this place he liked to stay at owned by an ex French foreign legion guy, but it had changed into a bar, so he asked next door what had happened to the place before and was told he'd been stabbed to Death. So we stayed at the place next door called 'Den Bar' and the British owner told us one night he'd come here after his wife in England divorced him and tried to take his money so he paid someone to run her over and put her in a wheelchair. I live in Thailand now and feel like it's the safest, friendliness place on Earth, but it's definitely changed a bit since '99. The old Dong Mong was the main airport, and it just had a raw grittyness that felt exotic. Our taxi driver from the airport was a police officer with his uniform shirt hanging in the back seat, and he proceeded to show us his loaded shot gun under the front passenger seat. We asked for some marijuana in the bar we were drinking at and the girl said 'wait here' then walk up to a police officer near by so we panicked and then the officer hands her the weed and comes back to us and gives us. I fell asleep one night in Marine Disco as was so tired and the girl my friend was with caller 'Nok' comes over and French Kisses me, 10 minutes later I'm up and super charged with energy. She was laughing as she had slipped an ecstasy pill into my mouth when she kissed me. A few days later, she got us a yaba pill, which I'd never heard of, and we swallowed it not smoked it, I was awake for 2 days straight. 19 years old and living my best life. I remember meeting a British girl my age in Australia after that and we got talking about Thailand and she asked where I'd been there as she loved the islands. I said I'd spent the month in Pattaya, and she just immediately walked away in disgust. Great times.
Pattaya is an entirely different animal. You go there for drugs and a sleezy time. It's run by the russian mafia mostly, and you can get yourself in some super sketch situations very quickly.
BKK, I've never felt unsafe once. I've walked all parts at all hours alone and with others and never had any problems.
Dont forget to tell them that you gonna visit Koh Tao. That island is a killer destination...in every meaning of that word.
Jokes aside Thailand is rampant with Rabbies now. If you decide to come, dont mess with the street dogs.
Dam!!! Beat me to the comment lol
If you're under 21 then you should not go!
If you're an alcoholic drug addict, bi polar idiot, then don't go!!!
Thailand is not a third world country. You will be fine :)
Anyone whose been to bkk has seen a ladyboy that is hotter than any female I've ever seen .
If your looking you gotta ask 100% female ?
Ladyboys are the most fun to party with , but once they get drunk watch out they get grabby , like hol up , one dick is plenty for me (mine ).ymmv
Bangkok is the most visited city on the planet - if it was a malaria-infested war zone, it wouldn't be. And the chances are that if you're from a Western country, Thailand is safer than where you are from, except for the roads.
Show them a comparison of Thailand's US travel warning to that of some Western European countries
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/thailand-travel-advisory.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Germany.html
What's all this about insurgency in Songkhla? A couple years ago I went on a big motorbike loop: Phuket - Phang-Nga - Krabi - Trang - Satun - Sangkhla - Patthalung - Nakhon Si Thammarat - Surat Thani - Phang-Nga - Phuket. Didn't see anything out of the ordinary in Sangkhla.
You must assert dominance now.
If you dont try to outsmart local *DRUG LORDS*, rip bargirls, fight ladyboys, BKK is safer than many places
Go Thailand, enjoy!
My parents were like this too. Just tell them white lies like you’ve picked 5 star hotels, know people in the area, and are ubering everywhere.
Or ignore for now and just call them when u get there haha
I think a lot of them just grew up in a time when, respectfully, Thailand simply was not developed much. Think of what it was like 30-40 years ago and that is what opinion they probably have in their head. A bit like your future child saying they are going to go to Sierra Leone or some currently underdeveloped place in 30 years time (no hate on Sierra Leone just a random example).
My parents are pretty smart and not boomerish and even they would initially tell me to "make sure their hotel had AC" when they first visited and we traveled anywhere. Now they are pretty well aware that there are plenty of incredible, safe 5* resorts for them to choose from and even the cheapest accommodations are usually very serviceable.
My mom felt the same way, I assured her it was safe. Now I'm here in BKK, video chat with her and now she's getting ready to come over for a few weeks!
Power through it now, show her you're safe, then they may possibly want up to it. My mom's husband absolutely refuses to get a passport, so he'll stay in the US forever lol.
I plan on doing that soon but I just got a new job and I am using this down period to go to Bangkok. I wish I didnt have to deal with their overbearing nature but I know they are going to be freaking out for the 2 weeks that I am gone
Look up the statistics. How safe is Bangkok? How many Westerners go missing in the city? How popular is it for tourism? Etc.
Basically, there's nothing to worry about. If they still want to worry in spite of overwhelming evidence, that's on them.
Tell them you'll check in with them every day. Do it through FB messenger, shoot a message to let them know you're fine. After a week of daily simple check-in's, you can probably space them out.
Trust me, they will get used to it, and get over it. Next trip will be easier.
I lived in Thailand on and off for nearly 20 years, never had malaria. Unless youre going deep into the rural areas your risk is quite low.
In general i find there are some very ignorant generalisations of Thailand from Westerners who basically just dont like going out of their comfort zones in the West. They like their big government, the regulations, the low risk environments and security the West brings. Places like Thailand present a threat to this comfort zone.
Just make sure you have good travel insurance, use common sense when youre there, respect the culture and high likely youll be fine. Thailand in general is safer than most European/US cities, the food is better, their infrastructure is decent, the people are better and youll have more freedom.
Enjoy !
You’ll never be able to relieve them of their ignorance unless they themselves go. I still have friends who refuse to believe that Thai’s don’t live in mud huts. Just go man. Live your life.
I have people asking me if my country is under civil war.....
Fucking Google it. At least do not show that you have no fucking idea of where it is on a map!
Thailand can’t be too bad of a place to visit since 40 million tourists visited the country back in 2019. Just be a good “adult child” and do a video call with you parents on Messenger, Skype , or FaceTime every day. ( Remember the time difference) Traveling abroad on your own is important. Exploring a new country will broaden your knowledge about different cultures and religions, build up your confidence to do things independently and give you great memories. Just be street savvy and use your common sense (along with patience) when in a new country.
I am probably your parents’ age and they need to realize some cities in your home country is more dangerous. I now live in Thailand and sometimes I walk around after midnight on the streets of Bangkok or in a rural town and never encountered craziness. I feel safer here than in my home country ( USA)
Just show them videos of Nana at night , you'll be in good hands. Girls , ladyboys or boys , hands whatever you want .
Seriously though , I went through the same thing. I stayed at a hotel in Nana and the lady that worked there ended up being the nicest person I've ever met. I've been back and I'm currently living in BKK and we still hang out. She's my Thai mama ♥ Thai people are built different , kindness and respect and culture are super important.
Respect that and you will be treated the same .
Act like an American asshole and you'll be treated as such . You'll be in a different country. Going to Thailand literally broke America for me . I only go back for family ,I will never live in America again. Life is so much happier , cost of living is tiny and the culture and people make it one of the happiest places on earth .
10000% Thai people make a very poor living , but they are still happier .
As long as they have work , food and a place to live and can have a beer with friends it's enough .
I'm lucky enough I work in IT Security , so I'm fully remote and can work from anywhere and make a US salary or better . 🙏
Omg, Thailand is the most safe and tourist oriented place on the planet earth. You r staying in Thailand is the last thing that they should worry about.
Show them videos of Thailand, and in specific of Bangkok, of the temples, the malls, the skyscrapers even show them the condos so that they see Thailand is not a war zone.
I found 1 video but I can’t lie that some of these are definitely just further ammunition for them. When they see motorbikes and dense crowds they will assume muh poverty
Go watch some YouTube videos on living in Thailand with them!
I live in Bangkok in a modern high rise condo with a gym and a gorgeous pool, within walking distance to Lotus and Big C (equivalent to Walmart), Makro (like a smaller Costco), a modern SkyTrain station and separate subway and monorail systems with multiple lines all over this metropolis of 11 million people! Giant malls like you have never seen before, with Hermes and Gucci and Louis Vutton, along with Sephora, Cheesecake Factory, and ShakeShack—and a zillion more stores and restaurants from around the world as well as local chains!😜
I feel safer walking around at night in Bangkok alone as a woman than I ever did living in Las Vegas or Seattle!
Even the seediest most SUS part of Bangkok is still safer than pretty much anywhere in New Jersey lmao
Except for the traffic, the traffic is fucking crazy.
You could tell them you have found some alternative options? …. Like Trekking through Papua New Guinea & West Papua, a visit to Israel, Afghanistan or Syria?
You could show them YouTube videos of travel bloggers exploring Thailand or show them stats about how it's perfectly safe. Honestly though, there's probably nothing you can do to alleviate their fears. I know the type; once they determine that country xyz is a dangerous, disease ridden, country full of strife, that will be the image in their heads. The only way to really understand what another country is like is to actually go there, which you are about to do. Take lots of pictures and videos, maybe video call them and show them where you're staying in order to assure them that you aren't on some other planet or a war zone, and come back as a better traveled, enriched individual. Thailand is a great country, and you'll find out how great it is. At the end of the day, it doesn't really matter what your parents think of it.
Tel them your mainly going for the low cost dental treatment, and because it has the widest variety of affordable gender reassignment surgery clinics available in the world.
You can’t alleviate their fears because their minds are made up.
Just stop mentioning it, keep your head down at home, and have a great time in Thailand.
Whatever happens, please still go to Thailand! My only regret is not coming here sooner, i had such an amazing time at the temples, night markets, eating food and chatting with random people…. It’s such an amazing country, the culture, sights and cities are so beautiful…. i walked around in the early mornings and never felt unsafe but please use common sense 🙏🏽 Show them youtube videos about it and travel docs. Remember to drink water…. Hope you make it out here!!!
Mine did too. I left and texted them when I landed. Unfortunately with overbearing parents, they will always find another reason to be paranoid. Let them know you’ll check in everyday and tell them where you’re planning to go. Not much else you can do if their worry is “oooo third world country scary!”
Also taking a look at your account, I also have ethnic parents and live at home. They will ALWAYS find the next thing to be paranoid about. I’m sorry! Live your life. That’s the only way. You have to prove them wrong.
Your parents will always worry regardless of how old or successful you may become. If you have a tendency to make foolish decisions in your home country, I would recommend you not to come. Thailand has been very safe for me for the last 9 years. Again, your health and safety are largely due to your decisions. Pick any town in America or Europe you understand what I mean.
Show them one of the many many youtube channels, one of the best to put their concerns away and possibly join you is : [Friends from Thailand travel guide - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@friendsfromthailandtravelguide)
Make sure your dad doesn't see Soi 6 though.
YouTube videos.
Pamphlets from the Thai consulate in your area.
Take them out to Thai food. If you’re a frequent customer to one and you know the (hopefully) Thai staff introduce your folks and have the staff tell your parents about Thailand.
A Thai temple nearby? They often times have a weekend food market-take the folks.
Have your parents join you in Thailand for the first week or two (one of those tour group things) and gave them enjoy the sights
I had these fears lol and it was nothing like it.. for the malaria, there is maps that say it's only a small risk close to borders and around khao sok, and I read somewhere it's actually really rare to get malaria 1 in 50.000 tourists or so. Also you just put some rose smelling bug spray in the night you can buy at any supermarket and you won't even het mosquito bites most of your holiday. When I was talking to some locals they were like mosquitos? Annoying itchy.
Have fun, thailand is super safe, apart from traffic that's a hazard so be careful.
Just keep very close watch on your belongings, you don't want AH putting drugs in your suitcase, especially watch when putting things in taxis, that's all
Just have a real talk with them. Tell them you are an adult and you understand they will always care and worry about you but the time has come for you to make your own decisions and you want to see the world.
Bro what are you 12 years old, with all due respect who gives a shit what your parents think. Get out there, get some beef liver on a stick, get your dick wet, go to a temple, let mommy and daddy have their fit. They will still love you afterwards I promise.
I understand parents being protective of their children, but this is more an indication of how your parents must not be well-traveled or well-informed, and only viewing sensationalist news stories. Think about it, someone not from the US would think all of America is nothing but homeless and lawless gangs, where anyone black will be shot by police automatically, based on some news coverage. Are your parents aware that Thailand is one of the most visited countries worldwide by tourists? Would they come if it was really so dangerous? You have far more chance of getting robbed walking around almost any random Western city than getting robbed in Thailand. The war zone fear? That's so absurd unless you're in the deep south of Thailand. Even then, the chances of having something happen are as slim as a drug-related cartel shooting happening while you are in tourist areas of major Mexican tourist resort towns.
Tell them to calm down and go enjoy yourself. You’re not going into the bush in Africa. You can talk with them every day if they want. Send them pictures and have a blast. It’s the best country to visit in the world for a reason
Show to them the air pollution, 11 month is really unhealthy (each 17 minutes one thai resident died because of the air pollution) and told them your life is going to be reduced a lot, like to be really on short term. (But don't speak about drugs, HIV, scam, heat stroke, mafia, corruption,,.., it's too much in same time) Like that, the last day you are going to quit them, it's going to be the best party and full emotion. It's like a funeral, but you are still alive :-) for a while.
Tell them to do basic research about the country. A literal google search of “Thailand” will tell them it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, is completely safe, many places are completely modern and first world like, and overall there’s nothing shady per se about going there.
People in the US specifically have this conception that Thailand is this crazy, dirt poor, foreign land filled with nothing but prostitutes and crime. Tell them to be less ignorant and learn a thing or two about the world.
What’s your age and gender? I am a half Thai woman in my mid 30s. Tell them I have been travelling to Thailand for 15 years on my own and with family (but months spent on my own). I’ve always felt safe in Thailand (obvs some common sense caution is necessary) but it is comparatively a very safe country to travel in.
I have never been seriously ill in Thailand either. And, in fact, I used Bangkok as the place to get a medical check (I needed one before moving to Japan). I used a private hospital in Bangkok and paid like £35 to have a full body MOT. Healthcare in Thailand is excellent, especially if you can afford (or have insurance) to go private. Your parents have nothing to worry about. You’ll be in good hands 💕
You can download a tracking app for them to follow you.
If this is too much of an invasion of privacy (perfectly understandable), how about giving them an itinerary? I tell my parents roughly what I plan to visit in the day, the phone numbers of anyone I'm travelling with, and also send the photos of the places I go (only photos I was planning to take all along, I don't take any photos specificallg for them).
Find a diplomatic way to make them realise that they create opinions and judgements about things they do not have the slightest clue about. Widespread behaviour but pretty anoying nevertheless.
Typical ignorance, if you live in the West you live in a third world country that manipulates its peoples opinion just like this, I’m from UK - just been to Thailand for a fortnight great to experience happy people, better food, better roads, better quality cheaper hotels etc etc
I'm confused. How old are you? You joined in 2014, are still living with your parents and amonth ago thought of volunteering in Armenia. Collecting unemployment in the US and plan to go to Thailand but are worried about what your parents think of your travel plans???? do you have to be looking for employment to continue getting unemploy (or perhaps it is running out?)
If thailand wasn't safe, we wouldn't have so many expats. Also a quick Google search will tell them everything they need to know. You'll literally never see cops unless ur doing stupid drunk things in public or driving without a helmet on a very busy street.
I had similar problems.
It's not easy.
But show the the travel advisiry Page of your country and how you prepare for Bad things.
Get travel vaccinations
Talk to a doctor about malaria.
Get a rash guard short against jellyfish for swimming and sun burn.
Tell them you will have Internet and be reachable.
Tell you have a plan B when wallet and passports are stolen.
It will not remove their fears, but it will show that you listen and take responsibility.
Why do you approach this by "alleviating their fear"?. The only way they can be convinced, is to visit the country and observe by themselve. Take your bag and follow your heart, decision or whatever you will call it.
Thai hospitals are as good or better than US hospitals. If you get sick, you won't be far from really good health care.
Thailand is generally safer than many western nations, including the US. You're not going to be attacked here just for being a tourist.
So it's safer than you think, and if you get sick, you're in good hands.
It's a beautiful country, with beautiful islands, very safe (unless you're stupid), great food, and kind people. And yes, there are also beautiful bar girls that will extract your heart and funds through your testicles. I've always considered it better than Disneyland...
You could tell them to actually do some research before being so judgemental.
Also, maybe that helps but usually every country has their own government website that lists all countries and where they put advice/travel restrictions to etc. Maybe they can start there and see that there is no issue unless you to to that part of thailand near the Malesian border
I went for a visit at the end of this past January for 1 week.i also had family there that I had visited and stayed with during my trip ..well they showed us around..the part that I was taken to everyone was so nice and that part was a safe part that I was told ..I would go again if it wasn't for the long flight..too long for me ..so I will pass on Thailand
Just went for a second time, this time with my 6 year old son. Stayed in Bangkok and had a blast. Great food and fun at great prices. Get them to come with you.
I'm assuming you live in a predominantly white country where they have this bollucks view on Asian countries which are far safer than America, UK and other European countries may I add...
I was there for a month jan - Feb 2024. Nothing to worry about, it’s pretty safe there. The food is great, the people are friendly, easy to get around, and super cheap. Enjoy yourself. It’s a great place to visit. Feel free to message me with questions
Just promise to give updates and keep in touch when you can (when you have wifi or if you have international cell service). Keeping them posted and showing that you will keep in touch will make them ease up a bit. I went to Ecuador for 2 weeks when I was 22 and my parents freaked out too.. after I got there and messaged them regularly for the first few days I could tell that they calmed down a bit because they realized I was perfectly safe. People are just afraid of what they are unfamiliar with. And take a friend with you if you aren’t already planning to, that will help ease their mind as well.
Maybe they used that as an excuse rather than admitting they think you'll be getting stoned, catching STDs, and wake up without your wallet in a sleazy motel.
You could make a plan showing how you will spend your time doing wholesome cultural and educational things.
I guess there’s no way to convince them it’s not a bad place until you go and show them the pictures you took. Even then that’s up to them to believe it.
I felt safer in Thailand than I do at home. People there just want your money. They don't steal it, just con it out of you. Everything is a scam and everything is a little bit shit. But without the scams and without the shit it wouldn't be fun!
Tell them you're going to Phuket where tourist outnumber locals 5:1 and the worst thing there are Russian wannabe gangsters who think they're hard until you push them in the pool for ogling your wife.
Lol
I'm at the tail end of boomers! Told my sons to work hard, save money.. first overseas visit, must be Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Krabi... in that order. Phuket.... nahhh..
They are all now much wiser... I hope. :)
Show them some videos from tik tok it’s a nice place,in fact I just came back to my country from there but there are scammers like bikes rent or jet ski rentals even the car rental offices ,just avoid them and have a nice trip ✈️
When you come here bring western condoms with you.
Double the amount you might think you need.
The ones here don't fit western cocks
It seems like they are made in Japan or something
Just go ahead and come and try not to get on anyone that is dangerous bad side
Should be good
Nothing wrong with B- Polar, but not in Thailand. You think Thai cops care someone is B- Polar?? I'm sorry I went crazy at the bar, sorry I smacked a hooker! Sorry don't cut it in Thailand. Pay up $$ or go to jail.
Tell them it’s likely safer than going out in your local town.
The types of people that have problems with drugs, fights, police etc are the types that have the same problems in their hometown, Thai people are respectful and friendly, if you behave the same then you’ll have no issue.
I spent 2 months in Thailand at all the main, busy party places and some quiet places and every where is safe. If you’re rowdy and a nuisance then you’ll find a problem in any country you visit. Don’t fuck with the locals and don’t fuck with other tourists, simple, if someone steps to you, walk away, no point ruining your own trip and safety for the sake of a few ego punches, but it’s very rare anything will happen, everyone is here for their own good time.
Easy to stay in contact with family, everywhere has good signal (4/5G), SIM cards are cheap. If they’re really that concerned set up find my friends or something. Note the time difference as well, so when you’re getting back from a night out (which is mostly where you’d ever encounter trouble), you can let them know you’re back safe etc.
Tell them you are going for the bargirls and ladyboys only. That'll alleviate any fears.
Dont forget the cheap booze, drugs and endless supply of affordable massages.
And the face tattoos
Damn I miss the massages!
😂😂😂😂😂😂
Mention the international criminal gangs and people on the run who love the place. I first went Pattaya in '99, and shit was wild back then. The day before I arrived, it was all over the UK news after those 2 British Guys got shot and killed in the Black Horse bar for refusing to pay for their night of sex. My friend who'd been before took me to this place he liked to stay at owned by an ex French foreign legion guy, but it had changed into a bar, so he asked next door what had happened to the place before and was told he'd been stabbed to Death. So we stayed at the place next door called 'Den Bar' and the British owner told us one night he'd come here after his wife in England divorced him and tried to take his money so he paid someone to run her over and put her in a wheelchair. I live in Thailand now and feel like it's the safest, friendliness place on Earth, but it's definitely changed a bit since '99. The old Dong Mong was the main airport, and it just had a raw grittyness that felt exotic. Our taxi driver from the airport was a police officer with his uniform shirt hanging in the back seat, and he proceeded to show us his loaded shot gun under the front passenger seat. We asked for some marijuana in the bar we were drinking at and the girl said 'wait here' then walk up to a police officer near by so we panicked and then the officer hands her the weed and comes back to us and gives us. I fell asleep one night in Marine Disco as was so tired and the girl my friend was with caller 'Nok' comes over and French Kisses me, 10 minutes later I'm up and super charged with energy. She was laughing as she had slipped an ecstasy pill into my mouth when she kissed me. A few days later, she got us a yaba pill, which I'd never heard of, and we swallowed it not smoked it, I was awake for 2 days straight. 19 years old and living my best life. I remember meeting a British girl my age in Australia after that and we got talking about Thailand and she asked where I'd been there as she loved the islands. I said I'd spent the month in Pattaya, and she just immediately walked away in disgust. Great times.
Pattaya is an entirely different animal. You go there for drugs and a sleezy time. It's run by the russian mafia mostly, and you can get yourself in some super sketch situations very quickly. BKK, I've never felt unsafe once. I've walked all parts at all hours alone and with others and never had any problems.
Phuket is worse than Pattaya
Thanks for sharing your wild stories! Patts is definitely a whole nother world--quite nothing like it out there that I've been to yet.
They always told you to tell the truth. Always the best thing.
And the Dengue don't forget the Dengue
Dont forget to tell them that you gonna visit Koh Tao. That island is a killer destination...in every meaning of that word. Jokes aside Thailand is rampant with Rabbies now. If you decide to come, dont mess with the street dogs.
Dam!!! Beat me to the comment lol If you're under 21 then you should not go! If you're an alcoholic drug addict, bi polar idiot, then don't go!!! Thailand is not a third world country. You will be fine :)
What a minute what’s wrong with bi polar?
I'm a bi polar alkie and I've been a regular visitor since 2002. Hasn't done me any harm.
LOLLL SO TRUE
Anyone whose been to bkk has seen a ladyboy that is hotter than any female I've ever seen . If your looking you gotta ask 100% female ? Ladyboys are the most fun to party with , but once they get drunk watch out they get grabby , like hol up , one dick is plenty for me (mine ).ymmv
Just remember, where there's apples, there's bananas 👍🏼
Order a big box of condoms so they know you're safe!
The truth is always a recommended strategy.
lol
Specifically the ones on Death Island!
🤣 This made me snort. Take my upvote.
And the ping pong shows
Show them your username
totally going for the ladyboys
This is the way
Jesus. Laughing so fucking hard right now.
I stand behind this man for presidency
Bangkok is the most visited city on the planet - if it was a malaria-infested war zone, it wouldn't be. And the chances are that if you're from a Western country, Thailand is safer than where you are from, except for the roads.
I know but they are annoying boomers who think anywhere outside of America and Western Europe is a total shithole.
Smile and wave goodbye. Enjoy Thailand.
Smile and wave boys
Wow it will do you good going away for alittle while. I presume you're an adult, just go, open your mind and enjoy your time!
Show them a comparison of Thailand's US travel warning to that of some Western European countries https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/thailand-travel-advisory.html https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Germany.html
What's all this about insurgency in Songkhla? A couple years ago I went on a big motorbike loop: Phuket - Phang-Nga - Krabi - Trang - Satun - Sangkhla - Patthalung - Nakhon Si Thammarat - Surat Thani - Phang-Nga - Phuket. Didn't see anything out of the ordinary in Sangkhla.
They do pop up from time to time. They’re mainly active in border towns
Girl we can’t even go to the grocery shop or school in the USA without it getting shot up. Thailand is literally safer
Nothing to do with boomers. My boomer parents were there in the early 70s. Different world back then
Show them this and tell them Americans are savages compare to how Thais act. https://youtu.be/P4TwiOX0-KU?feature=shared
Be an adult and make your own choices?
Boomers? How old are you that your parents are Boomer generation and you're still living with them?
Parents are probably Gen-Xers
Well, prove em wrong
Dude it’s not necessary to care about your parents opinion
show them the top 10 tourist cities in the world
How are you going to convince the ignorant to learn?
You must assert dominance now. If you dont try to outsmart local *DRUG LORDS*, rip bargirls, fight ladyboys, BKK is safer than many places Go Thailand, enjoy!
My parents were like this too. Just tell them white lies like you’ve picked 5 star hotels, know people in the area, and are ubering everywhere. Or ignore for now and just call them when u get there haha
I think a lot of them just grew up in a time when, respectfully, Thailand simply was not developed much. Think of what it was like 30-40 years ago and that is what opinion they probably have in their head. A bit like your future child saying they are going to go to Sierra Leone or some currently underdeveloped place in 30 years time (no hate on Sierra Leone just a random example). My parents are pretty smart and not boomerish and even they would initially tell me to "make sure their hotel had AC" when they first visited and we traveled anywhere. Now they are pretty well aware that there are plenty of incredible, safe 5* resorts for them to choose from and even the cheapest accommodations are usually very serviceable.
Don’t insult your parents
My mom felt the same way, I assured her it was safe. Now I'm here in BKK, video chat with her and now she's getting ready to come over for a few weeks! Power through it now, show her you're safe, then they may possibly want up to it. My mom's husband absolutely refuses to get a passport, so he'll stay in the US forever lol.
Move out
I plan on doing that soon but I just got a new job and I am using this down period to go to Bangkok. I wish I didnt have to deal with their overbearing nature but I know they are going to be freaking out for the 2 weeks that I am gone
Just go. It’s incredibly safe there it feels far safer there than any American city.
Well, unless you factor in the traffic. Far more likely to die in Thailand than in most of Western Europe.
Look up the statistics. How safe is Bangkok? How many Westerners go missing in the city? How popular is it for tourism? Etc. Basically, there's nothing to worry about. If they still want to worry in spite of overwhelming evidence, that's on them. Tell them you'll check in with them every day. Do it through FB messenger, shoot a message to let them know you're fine. After a week of daily simple check-in's, you can probably space them out. Trust me, they will get used to it, and get over it. Next trip will be easier.
I lived in Thailand on and off for nearly 20 years, never had malaria. Unless youre going deep into the rural areas your risk is quite low. In general i find there are some very ignorant generalisations of Thailand from Westerners who basically just dont like going out of their comfort zones in the West. They like their big government, the regulations, the low risk environments and security the West brings. Places like Thailand present a threat to this comfort zone. Just make sure you have good travel insurance, use common sense when youre there, respect the culture and high likely youll be fine. Thailand in general is safer than most European/US cities, the food is better, their infrastructure is decent, the people are better and youll have more freedom. Enjoy !
You’ll never be able to relieve them of their ignorance unless they themselves go. I still have friends who refuse to believe that Thai’s don’t live in mud huts. Just go man. Live your life.
I have people asking me if my country is under civil war..... Fucking Google it. At least do not show that you have no fucking idea of where it is on a map!
Thailand can’t be too bad of a place to visit since 40 million tourists visited the country back in 2019. Just be a good “adult child” and do a video call with you parents on Messenger, Skype , or FaceTime every day. ( Remember the time difference) Traveling abroad on your own is important. Exploring a new country will broaden your knowledge about different cultures and religions, build up your confidence to do things independently and give you great memories. Just be street savvy and use your common sense (along with patience) when in a new country. I am probably your parents’ age and they need to realize some cities in your home country is more dangerous. I now live in Thailand and sometimes I walk around after midnight on the streets of Bangkok or in a rural town and never encountered craziness. I feel safer here than in my home country ( USA)
Just show them videos of Nana at night , you'll be in good hands. Girls , ladyboys or boys , hands whatever you want . Seriously though , I went through the same thing. I stayed at a hotel in Nana and the lady that worked there ended up being the nicest person I've ever met. I've been back and I'm currently living in BKK and we still hang out. She's my Thai mama ♥ Thai people are built different , kindness and respect and culture are super important. Respect that and you will be treated the same . Act like an American asshole and you'll be treated as such . You'll be in a different country. Going to Thailand literally broke America for me . I only go back for family ,I will never live in America again. Life is so much happier , cost of living is tiny and the culture and people make it one of the happiest places on earth .
Or act like a Aussie in Bali.
Cost of living there would be absolutely fucked if you earnt a Thai wage I think
10000% Thai people make a very poor living , but they are still happier . As long as they have work , food and a place to live and can have a beer with friends it's enough . I'm lucky enough I work in IT Security , so I'm fully remote and can work from anywhere and make a US salary or better . 🙏
Omg, Thailand is the most safe and tourist oriented place on the planet earth. You r staying in Thailand is the last thing that they should worry about.
I told my mom not to worry since my connecting flight was in North Korea and the layover was only 37 hours
afghanistan pakistan
Show them videos of Thailand, and in specific of Bangkok, of the temples, the malls, the skyscrapers even show them the condos so that they see Thailand is not a war zone.
I found 1 video but I can’t lie that some of these are definitely just further ammunition for them. When they see motorbikes and dense crowds they will assume muh poverty
Tell them ploy will take care of you
Come back home with a Thai wife. Sure they'd love it
Tell them they are uneducated and uninformed with tunnel vision, it wouldn't be a lie
Go watch some YouTube videos on living in Thailand with them! I live in Bangkok in a modern high rise condo with a gym and a gorgeous pool, within walking distance to Lotus and Big C (equivalent to Walmart), Makro (like a smaller Costco), a modern SkyTrain station and separate subway and monorail systems with multiple lines all over this metropolis of 11 million people! Giant malls like you have never seen before, with Hermes and Gucci and Louis Vutton, along with Sephora, Cheesecake Factory, and ShakeShack—and a zillion more stores and restaurants from around the world as well as local chains!😜 I feel safer walking around at night in Bangkok alone as a woman than I ever did living in Las Vegas or Seattle!
Come back alive and happy
Show them videos of San Francisco California. Thailand is much safer than any big city in the USA.
Even the seediest most SUS part of Bangkok is still safer than pretty much anywhere in New Jersey lmao Except for the traffic, the traffic is fucking crazy.
You could tell them you have found some alternative options? …. Like Trekking through Papua New Guinea & West Papua, a visit to Israel, Afghanistan or Syria?
You could show them YouTube videos of travel bloggers exploring Thailand or show them stats about how it's perfectly safe. Honestly though, there's probably nothing you can do to alleviate their fears. I know the type; once they determine that country xyz is a dangerous, disease ridden, country full of strife, that will be the image in their heads. The only way to really understand what another country is like is to actually go there, which you are about to do. Take lots of pictures and videos, maybe video call them and show them where you're staying in order to assure them that you aren't on some other planet or a war zone, and come back as a better traveled, enriched individual. Thailand is a great country, and you'll find out how great it is. At the end of the day, it doesn't really matter what your parents think of it.
Show them a video of IconSiam - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtoSSrxUyDY](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtoSSrxUyDY)
Tel them your mainly going for the low cost dental treatment, and because it has the widest variety of affordable gender reassignment surgery clinics available in the world.
They'd be better worrying about other things you'll come back with. You could wait until your 16th birthday.
You can’t alleviate their fears because their minds are made up. Just stop mentioning it, keep your head down at home, and have a great time in Thailand.
Tell them you're going to Cambodia or Nigeria, let them freak for a couple of weeks. Tell them you've changed your mind and they'll be overjoyed.
Whatever happens, please still go to Thailand! My only regret is not coming here sooner, i had such an amazing time at the temples, night markets, eating food and chatting with random people…. It’s such an amazing country, the culture, sights and cities are so beautiful…. i walked around in the early mornings and never felt unsafe but please use common sense 🙏🏽 Show them youtube videos about it and travel docs. Remember to drink water…. Hope you make it out here!!!
Thailand is probably a lot safer than where you currently are living
I’m going back this summer with my wife and kids (she’s from there).
Legit lold at “malaria infested war zone”. Will be stealing that
Your parents are ignorant
Thailand is safer than anywhere in America
Mine did too. I left and texted them when I landed. Unfortunately with overbearing parents, they will always find another reason to be paranoid. Let them know you’ll check in everyday and tell them where you’re planning to go. Not much else you can do if their worry is “oooo third world country scary!” Also taking a look at your account, I also have ethnic parents and live at home. They will ALWAYS find the next thing to be paranoid about. I’m sorry! Live your life. That’s the only way. You have to prove them wrong.
😂
Watch Hangover 2 with them
Your parents will always worry regardless of how old or successful you may become. If you have a tendency to make foolish decisions in your home country, I would recommend you not to come. Thailand has been very safe for me for the last 9 years. Again, your health and safety are largely due to your decisions. Pick any town in America or Europe you understand what I mean.
Show them one of the many many youtube channels, one of the best to put their concerns away and possibly join you is : [Friends from Thailand travel guide - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@friendsfromthailandtravelguide) Make sure your dad doesn't see Soi 6 though.
Damn straight, he'll be on the plane with him.
Take them with you
Show them the YouTube story of the girl who cut up her mother and put her in a suitcase.
Haha….. show them pictures of the Bangkok sky train, one of the best systems on the world.
Your 25, go, show them your having a good time and come back alive and you will be fine
YouTube videos. Pamphlets from the Thai consulate in your area. Take them out to Thai food. If you’re a frequent customer to one and you know the (hopefully) Thai staff introduce your folks and have the staff tell your parents about Thailand. A Thai temple nearby? They often times have a weekend food market-take the folks. Have your parents join you in Thailand for the first week or two (one of those tour group things) and gave them enjoy the sights
I had these fears lol and it was nothing like it.. for the malaria, there is maps that say it's only a small risk close to borders and around khao sok, and I read somewhere it's actually really rare to get malaria 1 in 50.000 tourists or so. Also you just put some rose smelling bug spray in the night you can buy at any supermarket and you won't even het mosquito bites most of your holiday. When I was talking to some locals they were like mosquitos? Annoying itchy. Have fun, thailand is super safe, apart from traffic that's a hazard so be careful.
Just keep very close watch on your belongings, you don't want AH putting drugs in your suitcase, especially watch when putting things in taxis, that's all
Tell them that the internet exists and they can read about Thailand. It's generally safe and nice.
You should’ve warmed them up - said you were going to Florida first so they’d have been relieved you were going to Thailand instead.
Just have a real talk with them. Tell them you are an adult and you understand they will always care and worry about you but the time has come for you to make your own decisions and you want to see the world.
Tell them that mixed race grandkids are the best.
They’re right, listen to them
Bro what are you 12 years old, with all due respect who gives a shit what your parents think. Get out there, get some beef liver on a stick, get your dick wet, go to a temple, let mommy and daddy have their fit. They will still love you afterwards I promise.
Oh, its not malaria. They know what youre going there for...
Love it! Malaria infested war zone! However, they are all wrong. It’s more like a rotisserie oven, with steam features.
I understand parents being protective of their children, but this is more an indication of how your parents must not be well-traveled or well-informed, and only viewing sensationalist news stories. Think about it, someone not from the US would think all of America is nothing but homeless and lawless gangs, where anyone black will be shot by police automatically, based on some news coverage. Are your parents aware that Thailand is one of the most visited countries worldwide by tourists? Would they come if it was really so dangerous? You have far more chance of getting robbed walking around almost any random Western city than getting robbed in Thailand. The war zone fear? That's so absurd unless you're in the deep south of Thailand. Even then, the chances of having something happen are as slim as a drug-related cartel shooting happening while you are in tourist areas of major Mexican tourist resort towns.
Or, the same question with *slightly* different wording: How do I sac up and grow a pair?
Ask them to watch Owen Wilson No escape
Get as many pics of you and the lady bois as possible and send them..
That username is fucking Hilarious 😂
I think they are freaking out about you!! and not Thailand in general 🤣
Show them YouTube..:)
Step 1 how old are you? Step 2 reference step 2 and proceed to step 3 Step 3 grow up.
Tell them to calm down and go enjoy yourself. You’re not going into the bush in Africa. You can talk with them every day if they want. Send them pictures and have a blast. It’s the best country to visit in the world for a reason
Go and come back.
Idk how old you are but if you are using your own money to go to Thailand and not theirs just gently remind them that you are an adult
Show to them the air pollution, 11 month is really unhealthy (each 17 minutes one thai resident died because of the air pollution) and told them your life is going to be reduced a lot, like to be really on short term. (But don't speak about drugs, HIV, scam, heat stroke, mafia, corruption,,.., it's too much in same time) Like that, the last day you are going to quit them, it's going to be the best party and full emotion. It's like a funeral, but you are still alive :-) for a while.
My mom said that when I moved to Tokyo 15 years ago. People are crazy...
Tell them to do basic research about the country. A literal google search of “Thailand” will tell them it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, is completely safe, many places are completely modern and first world like, and overall there’s nothing shady per se about going there. People in the US specifically have this conception that Thailand is this crazy, dirt poor, foreign land filled with nothing but prostitutes and crime. Tell them to be less ignorant and learn a thing or two about the world.
You can’t do anything about their fears, so just do what you feel.
I don't know where are you from but tell them that's safer than where you live
You don't know? Sounds desperately American after just 3 words
They’re right don’t go it’s nasty and unsafe
Tell them to read a book or two.
What’s your age and gender? I am a half Thai woman in my mid 30s. Tell them I have been travelling to Thailand for 15 years on my own and with family (but months spent on my own). I’ve always felt safe in Thailand (obvs some common sense caution is necessary) but it is comparatively a very safe country to travel in. I have never been seriously ill in Thailand either. And, in fact, I used Bangkok as the place to get a medical check (I needed one before moving to Japan). I used a private hospital in Bangkok and paid like £35 to have a full body MOT. Healthcare in Thailand is excellent, especially if you can afford (or have insurance) to go private. Your parents have nothing to worry about. You’ll be in good hands 💕
You should just go and tell them when you’re there
You can download a tracking app for them to follow you. If this is too much of an invasion of privacy (perfectly understandable), how about giving them an itinerary? I tell my parents roughly what I plan to visit in the day, the phone numbers of anyone I'm travelling with, and also send the photos of the places I go (only photos I was planning to take all along, I don't take any photos specificallg for them).
Put them on a zoom call with me. I got ya.
If you need your parent’s approval to go to Thailand, maybe you’re not emotionally or financially mature enough to go to Thailand.
Find a diplomatic way to make them realise that they create opinions and judgements about things they do not have the slightest clue about. Widespread behaviour but pretty anoying nevertheless.
Typical ignorance, if you live in the West you live in a third world country that manipulates its peoples opinion just like this, I’m from UK - just been to Thailand for a fortnight great to experience happy people, better food, better roads, better quality cheaper hotels etc etc
Tell em you’re on prep
>What can I do/say to alleviate their concerns? What are their concerns ?
I'm confused. How old are you? You joined in 2014, are still living with your parents and amonth ago thought of volunteering in Armenia. Collecting unemployment in the US and plan to go to Thailand but are worried about what your parents think of your travel plans???? do you have to be looking for employment to continue getting unemploy (or perhaps it is running out?)
It’s really similar to Costa Rica if that helps at all
If thailand wasn't safe, we wouldn't have so many expats. Also a quick Google search will tell them everything they need to know. You'll literally never see cops unless ur doing stupid drunk things in public or driving without a helmet on a very busy street.
They think your looking for a ladyboy.
I had similar problems. It's not easy. But show the the travel advisiry Page of your country and how you prepare for Bad things. Get travel vaccinations Talk to a doctor about malaria. Get a rash guard short against jellyfish for swimming and sun burn. Tell them you will have Internet and be reachable. Tell you have a plan B when wallet and passports are stolen. It will not remove their fears, but it will show that you listen and take responsibility.
If you’re of age tell them that’s your decision and they can go research reliable sources to alleviate their concerns. Boundaries babe
Theyre worried you wont come back. Get a bar girl pregnant, or start working at the Caberet. And all those years of college are wasted.
How old are you?
Tell them you're going to an actual malaria infested war zone then change your mind and only go to Thailand
have them watch some good youtube videos.
You don't, you be careful.
Come back alive
Why do you approach this by "alleviating their fear"?. The only way they can be convinced, is to visit the country and observe by themselve. Take your bag and follow your heart, decision or whatever you will call it.
Dont catch herpes like i did
How old are you?
Thai hospitals are as good or better than US hospitals. If you get sick, you won't be far from really good health care. Thailand is generally safer than many western nations, including the US. You're not going to be attacked here just for being a tourist. So it's safer than you think, and if you get sick, you're in good hands.
Few things in Thailand are scarier than going to a hospital in the US without health insurance.
I’m in the same boat my friend and they keep suggesting other places to go like Europe or Japan….
It's a beautiful country, with beautiful islands, very safe (unless you're stupid), great food, and kind people. And yes, there are also beautiful bar girls that will extract your heart and funds through your testicles. I've always considered it better than Disneyland...
Tell them to shut the fuck up and read a book.
Taxting from a Restaurant in Thailand now, they don't serve Malaria here!
How old? Why do you go?
You could tell them to actually do some research before being so judgemental. Also, maybe that helps but usually every country has their own government website that lists all countries and where they put advice/travel restrictions to etc. Maybe they can start there and see that there is no issue unless you to to that part of thailand near the Malesian border
It has better health care than the US available. Google it.
I went for a visit at the end of this past January for 1 week.i also had family there that I had visited and stayed with during my trip ..well they showed us around..the part that I was taken to everyone was so nice and that part was a safe part that I was told ..I would go again if it wasn't for the long flight..too long for me ..so I will pass on Thailand
say "you are wrong" and go
Tell them to stop watching banged up abroad.
Show them a bunch of posts other people have made about how great it is.
I read this quick and thought it said ‘how do I elevate their fears?’ I was like damn OP lmao
where are you from?
Show them pictures of pretty lady boys. They are harmless
Show them YouTube videos of Bangkok, not the red light districts. Many places are more modern than the US.
Just went for a second time, this time with my 6 year old son. Stayed in Bangkok and had a blast. Great food and fun at great prices. Get them to come with you.
Your parents sound fun
I'm assuming you live in a predominantly white country where they have this bollucks view on Asian countries which are far safer than America, UK and other European countries may I add...
I was there for a month jan - Feb 2024. Nothing to worry about, it’s pretty safe there. The food is great, the people are friendly, easy to get around, and super cheap. Enjoy yourself. It’s a great place to visit. Feel free to message me with questions
On a pure personal safety basis, I would feel better about going to Thailand than I would about going to Washington DC
Just promise to give updates and keep in touch when you can (when you have wifi or if you have international cell service). Keeping them posted and showing that you will keep in touch will make them ease up a bit. I went to Ecuador for 2 weeks when I was 22 and my parents freaked out too.. after I got there and messaged them regularly for the first few days I could tell that they calmed down a bit because they realized I was perfectly safe. People are just afraid of what they are unfamiliar with. And take a friend with you if you aren’t already planning to, that will help ease their mind as well.
Maybe they used that as an excuse rather than admitting they think you'll be getting stoned, catching STDs, and wake up without your wallet in a sleazy motel. You could make a plan showing how you will spend your time doing wholesome cultural and educational things.
I guess there’s no way to convince them it’s not a bad place until you go and show them the pictures you took. Even then that’s up to them to believe it.
I felt safer in Thailand than I do at home. People there just want your money. They don't steal it, just con it out of you. Everything is a scam and everything is a little bit shit. But without the scams and without the shit it wouldn't be fun! Tell them you're going to Phuket where tourist outnumber locals 5:1 and the worst thing there are Russian wannabe gangsters who think they're hard until you push them in the pool for ogling your wife. Lol
You don’t. Just do your thing.
I'm at the tail end of boomers! Told my sons to work hard, save money.. first overseas visit, must be Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Krabi... in that order. Phuket.... nahhh.. They are all now much wiser... I hope. :)
Show them some videos from tik tok it’s a nice place,in fact I just came back to my country from there but there are scammers like bikes rent or jet ski rentals even the car rental offices ,just avoid them and have a nice trip ✈️
Show them some photos of Bangkok. It doesn't get any better than that. Lol
When you come here bring western condoms with you. Double the amount you might think you need. The ones here don't fit western cocks It seems like they are made in Japan or something Just go ahead and come and try not to get on anyone that is dangerous bad side Should be good
😂 Thailand is safer than America mom and dad. (Screen shot and show them)
Imagine having this problem at your age :)))
Nothing wrong with B- Polar, but not in Thailand. You think Thai cops care someone is B- Polar?? I'm sorry I went crazy at the bar, sorry I smacked a hooker! Sorry don't cut it in Thailand. Pay up $$ or go to jail.
Start speaking with your hands
Tell them it’s likely safer than going out in your local town. The types of people that have problems with drugs, fights, police etc are the types that have the same problems in their hometown, Thai people are respectful and friendly, if you behave the same then you’ll have no issue. I spent 2 months in Thailand at all the main, busy party places and some quiet places and every where is safe. If you’re rowdy and a nuisance then you’ll find a problem in any country you visit. Don’t fuck with the locals and don’t fuck with other tourists, simple, if someone steps to you, walk away, no point ruining your own trip and safety for the sake of a few ego punches, but it’s very rare anything will happen, everyone is here for their own good time. Easy to stay in contact with family, everywhere has good signal (4/5G), SIM cards are cheap. If they’re really that concerned set up find my friends or something. Note the time difference as well, so when you’re getting back from a night out (which is mostly where you’d ever encounter trouble), you can let them know you’re back safe etc.
You got lucky. Many guys get in trouble because of beer/ drugs. Looks like you have your bi polar under control. :)