Amid growing concerns over disruptive behavior by Israeli tourists in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, the Israeli Embassy in Thailand has issued new guidelines urging visitors to respect local customs and laws.
On February 21, the embassy shared a set of behavioral recommendations on its Facebook page in response to complaints from Thai citizens. The concerns stem in part from the establishment of a Jewish synagogue in the northern tourist town, which some locals fear signals encroachment.
Local officials have confirmed that the Chabad center, a religious and community hub, is legally established and that the Israeli visitors involved in recent incidents are legitimate tourists.
To protect Israel’s national image and foster goodwill, the embassy urged its citizens to keep noise levels down, respect private property, follow traffic and visa regulations, dress modestly, and engage politely with locals, particularly during market transactions.
The embassy also revealed that several Israeli nationals have recently been deported for violating Thai laws. While most Israeli visitors are warmly welcomed, officials stressed the importance of maintaining mutual respect between the two nations.
Thailand’s immigration police confirmed that a recent gathering of 200 to 300 Israelis at the Chabad in Pai did not involve any legal violations, according to the Bangkok Post.
However, local residents have reported multiple troubling incidents involving Israeli tourists, including a shocking episode where four men vandalized the emergency room at Pai Hospital. The group allegedly stormed the facility after rushing in to check on a friend injured in a motorcycle accident.
As Thailand remains a top destination for Israeli travelers, the embassy’s new guidelines serve as a warning—urging visitors to be responsible and avoid further controversies.
