KRABI, Thailand – A recent incident has sparked outrage on social media after two foreign tourists violated regulations by diving in a restricted area in Krabi, which is designated for coral reef restoration. The area, located approximately 750 meters offshore, was closed to protect the reef, yet the tourists ignored the warning and dived without a guide.
When local authorities intervened and issued a warning, the tourists reportedly responded with rudeness, disregarding the instructions and expressing dissatisfaction with their behavior, even stating it would be their last visit to Thailand.
The incident was shared on Facebook by “Sai – merman,” a Southern Thailand swimmer and marine conservationist, who criticized the tourists’ disrespectful behavior towards Thai officials. The post read: “Is this appropriate behavior when visiting Thailand? Ignoring park rangers—disrespecting our people? Absolutely not. Thailand is not your playground!”
The post also thanked the officials and volunteers for managing the situation, while expressing frustration about having to deal with disrespectful tourists. The tourists violated multiple rules, including swimming in a dangerous area without a tour guide, which posed risks to their safety and that of the staff. Despite repeated warnings, the tourists continued to disregard the rules. ‘Free Visa’ is in doubt.
As a result, they were escorted back to shore and prohibited from continuing their dive. The authorities stressed the importance of respecting local laws for the safety and preservation of the environment.
