POLL: Is double-pricing okay?

Perhaps the most common complaint by foreigners living or staying in Thailand for a long period of time, is in regards to the policy and practice of double-pricing, particularly at national parks.

Should some people pay more than others for entry to Thailand's National Parks?

The controversial practice is labeled as “racist” by many “foreigners” who argue that it perpetuates economic discrimination over one group, to the advantage of another group, solely on the basis of race.

Unlike double-pricing standards in other countries like the US, where “local” discounts are offered to anyone who can prove residency – irregardless of their skin colour or facial features – in Thailand, the sole “fee-entitlement” factor is one’s race or nationality – whether or not you are Thai.

According to the Department of National Parks, having a work permit, permanent residency or paying income tax does not entitle any non-Thai national to the same rights as Thais.

http://www.thephuketnews.com/tax-paying-foreigners-not-entitled-to-local-price-at-national-parks-50333.php

This means that all foreigners are obligated to pay entrance fees as much as 10 times more than Thais (B400 vs B40 at some national parks).

And while officers at some parks have reportedly been fair in giving “local” discounts to foreigners who can show a work permit, Taxpayers Identification Number (TIN), Thai Driver’s License or even the ability to speak Thai – these have only been the exceptions, not the rule.

The Department of National Parks claims that they are not asking foreigners to pay more, but rather, offering discounts to promote domestic travel among Thais, a majority of whom are poorer than foreign tourists and expats.

Such discounts have not been without consequences. Some readers have told us that they refuse to go to any place that charges foreigners more, and recommend against it to others likewise.

In our new poll, we want to hear from you, Thai and foreign nationals. How do you feel about double-pricing at national parks in Thailand? The options are:

It’s fair. Thais should be able to pay less than foreigners, it’s their country
It’s okay, but it shouldn’t be 5-10 times more for foreigners
Tourists should pay more, but expats should pay the same as Thais (residency not race)
I don’t agree with the racist practice at all. Everyone should pay the same rate.

Have your say. Click here to vote in the poll, which ends on March 20.