In the latest fad sweeping across Phuket, Chinese tourists are
dressing up in Thai school uniforms, much to the chagrin of local
authorities.
Chinese tourists have been spotted taking photos of themselves
dressed in Thai school uniforms at landmarks such as Museum Phuket and
Chiang Mai University, where administrators were forced to set up
facilities to accommodate these tourists.
This bizarre trend was reportedly inspired by Thai romantic comedies
such as "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" and the Chinese comedy film
"Lost in Thailand."
Though it seems innocuous enough, those jumping aboard the bandwagon
may find some legal repercussions. Thai lawyer, Ratchapon Sirisakorn,
warned Chinese tourists that wearing a student uniform without a valid
reason could result in a fine of 1,000 baht (US$30) under the Student
Uniform Act.
He further suggested that tourists avoid embodying any messages on
the uniforms or only embody their names to avoid legal charges and
fines.
Despite the warning, the trend has become popular among Chinese
tourists in cities like Bangkok and Phuket, which is currently
experiencing a significant number of Thai and foreign visitors.