I haven’t failed to see your perspective, and completely understand what the ramifications are. However like I said Thailand (any country really) can run their country however they see fit, even if it involves creating policies that seem stupid or counterintuitive. If people don’t like it, or disagree then don’t support it by not going. Then maybe the tune will change. If this is something Thailand wants to take a gamble on and implement then so be it. Besides I don’t see how it’s qualifies as scam when they’re now being transparent and up front about it. (Yes, I say “now” because duo pricing has always been a thing just not as an official policy.)

Are sliding scale clinics that base payment on income a scam too? Or what about official government rates at hotels in the US (FYI it’s usually higher because the charge the max allowable for reimbursement.)

Not suggesting you should “feel sorry” for anyone over income disparities. Just pointing out a potential reasoning behind the policy… But really why care so much about what locals pay? Everyone has the option to accept or reject the rate by choosing to go or not to go. 🤷🏻‍♀️

The income differences between Thai nationals and foreigners is pretty big. I think Duo pricing allows Thais to enjoy some of the luxuries within their own country. To me this is fair. It’s not about race because they are not specifically targeting one.

Most Thais cannot afford to leave the country or go overseas. Even getting a Visa to visit the US is extremely difficult to impossible. US immigration have been directed to look at every applicant as a flight risk/ non-returning/ attempting to illegally immigrate. So it’s not as if they can just go on a vacation to any destination of their choosing.

So as a well traveled American with Thai family members that will never have the opportunity to travel abroad I think this is absolutely fair.

It appears that people need to learn what the definition of racism is. It’s interesting to observe the entitlement and gatekeeping by foreigners in regards to Thai policies though… I think Thailand like every other country can do whatever TF they want when it comes to running their businesses/country. If you don’t like their policy/ rules/ laws/ lack there of… then simply don’t go. If it turns out to be a mistake for Thailand then I’m sure they’ll backpedal.

I don’t think that applies. There are a handful of Dementia Care facilities that are targeting foreigners. So there is a pathway.

Here’s someone else’s description that goes into more detail as well:

78-cash-advancecounter-withdrawal-my-experience-at-bangkok-bank/

Does your US bank do Cash Advances with your debit card? Mine does and there’s no fee so that’s how I usually withdraw/ exchange while in country. Bangkok Bank didn’t charge me any fees for this either. In my experience this was by far the best exchange rate as well. I can’t remember if there was a limit and what it was though. Worth asking both sides about. It’s called a “Debit Cash Advance”.

Yes, I think it's higher quality thicker steel. I really notice the difference when using the soup spoons. If it's for a gift or decoration then consider the really pretty imprinted design ones.