The excellent behavior of Chinese tourists in Thailand was recently praised by the owner of Wat Rong Khun, or White Temple, outside of Chiang Rai. At the same time, the owner criticized certain actions of European and U.S. visitors, a local newspaper reported.

Chalermchai Kositpipat pointed out in the article that Chinese tourists do not speak loudly or smoke at the site, and they haven't caused any recent damage to the temple's toilets. Meanwhile, he urged visitors from Europe and the U.S. to mind their behavior, according to a report by Sing Sian Yer Pao Daily News. Kositpipat dislikes when tourists pose for pictures hugging, kissing or grasping the temple's main sculpture, as these behaviors have already begun to damage it.

According to the report, the "Iron Man" sculpture was completed last year. Its exterior is made of glass and ceramic tiles, many of which have begun to come loose since so many tourists fail to consider the sculpture's delicate nature.

"It is inappropriate to do any sexy poses in this art-focused environment," opined Kositpipat, "not to mention the tourists who actually damage [the sculpture]."

Fortunately, after being informed of the guidelines for visitors, Chinese and Thai tourists have almost entirely stopped their misbehavior toward the sculpture. Kositpipat expressed his hope that more travel guides in the future would clearly illustrate the rules governing Thailand's scenic spots, and he thanked Chinese tour guides for doing just that.