Phuket Shop's 40-Baht Entry Fee Ignites Social Media Backlash

A controversial incident in Phuket's Old Town has sparked widespread outrage on Chinese social media after a shop owner charged 40 baht for entry and allegedly used offensive language towards Chinese tourists. The video, which circulated on platforms like Douyin, shows an elderly woman demanding an entry fee and reportedly making inappropriate gestures when tourists refused to pay. The incident has raised serious concerns about Thailand's tourism reputation, with many online commenters criticizing the shop owner's behavior and warning about potential negative impacts on Chinese travelers' perception of the destination. Multiple users suggested that such incidents could discourage tourists from visiting and potentially damage Thailand's crucial tourism industry. The controversy has prompted calls for local authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate action to address the situation and protect the country's tourism image.