Tourist took refuge in Thai temple
Images adapted from: Matichon
A stranded Russian traveller found refuge in a Thai temple in Surat Thani after the lockdown took place due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
25-year-old Ivan was enjoying his holiday at Koh Samui in March when the virus spread. When he attempted to go to Songkhla to extend his visa, the border was already sealed.
He then decided to take refuge at Wat Pattanaram Phra Aram Luang and work there in exchange for accommodation and food.
Image credit: Matichon
Paying it forward by teaching English and helping out
Image credit: Matichon
“Ivan is well-mannered, generous, and diligent. He wouldn’t accept money from us,” Abbot Phra Khru Pisan Pattananukit said.
“He wanted to work, but I was afraid it would be illegal, so I let him stay in the temple and teach English to the novices.”
Besides Ivan, many tourists have been left stranded in Thailand after the pandemic hit. Around 20,000 tourists of Russian nationality alone have been reportedly stuck in the country.
The Thai government has automatically extended all types of visa for foreigners who remain here until the end of July.
Big props to the abbot for lending a helping hand and to Ivan for paying it forward.
Also read:
- Thailand To Double COVID-19 Tests For High-Risk Groups In May
- Thai Doctor Hikes Up Mountains To Treat Sick Kid Who Is In Quarantine With Family
- Doctor Reveals Social Stigma He Experienced After He Recovered From COVID-19
- People Are Pretending To Be Ants In A Viral Facebook Group During COVID-19 Lockdown
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