Why Farang get charged more

If you’ve spent any time in Thailand, you’ve probably heard the term “Farang” which basically means "foreigner." It is not meant to be a derogatory term but like any word it can be used negatively by the person saying it (perhaps in an angry tone).  But typically, it’s spoken in a neutral or sometimes even affectionate way. It's a common way to refer to tourists or expatriates, mostly of European or American heritage. 

Honestly, I go back and forth on my opinion.  I, myself, am a Farang and often use the term.  Such as, “Look at that Farang trying to ride a motorcycle and almost causing an accident.” But either way you look at it, the word “Farang” is a label to differentiate one type of person from another.  Isn’t that a form of discrimination, even if the intention is not meant in any way to be negative?

There is one undeniable way that Farang’s are discriminated against – charging them more money.  When I visit a public park in Thailand, I will see the price of 40 baht for local Thai and then 200 baht for foreigners, for example.  Other places where there is an admission fee are like that, too.  And sometimes restaurants, if I’m not paying attention, will charge me more than the local Thai community.  The argument is that a Farang can afford it, and in general the Thai community doesn’t have as much money as those from other countries.  Perhaps.  Does the end justify the means?  Not sure.  I pay the fee and I can afford it.  Actually, the price is still reasonable when I compare similar fees. For example, the United States charges me $20 USD to enter a public beach in California if I want a parking space close to the water. That would be the equivalent of about 660 Baht.  But still, at least they charge the same amount to everyone.  So, there ya go.

But all that makes me think about another label, too.  “Christian.”  If you hear that someone is a Christian, what is your first thought, and do you then treat that person differently? Positively or negatively? Do you associate a Christian politically as many do in terms of a Right-Wing Conservative Republican (and is that label considered positive or negative to you)? And I hear the term “Jesus Christ!” or “Jesus!” often used in movies where it is meant as a swear word or term of exasperation when the movie character is put in a tough or embarrassing situation.  It appears society is okay with that and does not feel it is a disrespectful or derogatory use of a sacred religious figure to many people.  You never hear, “Allah!” or “Buddha!” used as an expletive in movies but people muttering “Jesus Christ!” under their breath as a swear word substitution is perfectly acceptable by common society in general it seems.

Why? Well, God’s Word has some thoughts on it. I encourage you to take a look and ponder the following words and reflect on the words you use in your life as well as how you treat others who are different from you.  We’re actually not different, which is the whole point, you know?

·       Do to others as you would like them to do to you. (Luke 6:31)

·      ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater ...” (Mark 12:31)

·      …If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? (James 2:3-4)

·      Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves (Philippians 2:3)

·      Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs. (Proverbs 10:12)

·      A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (John 13:34)

·      Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. (Leviticus 19:18)

·      What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man. (Luke 6:22)

·     They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So, they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles. (Romans 1:19-23)