English What Now? is an ongoing series based around the humorous, head-scratching, or just plain amusing English found around Thailand observed and written by Teresa Derr.
Teresa Derr, 134 YinD RPCV
One of the best things about Thailand is the diverse natural wonders that differ so much from what we have in the States. I was blessed to be able to visit several National Parks, both in Thailand and in Laos, and roam around in caves, up waterfalls, down rivers, over mountains, and more. Much of what I saw has been featured in other EWN articles, but there were rules and regulations that I saw at many of the National Parks that made me laugh occasionally. So, when you’re exploring Thailand, keep some of these rules in mind!
While the majority of these rules from a park in Laos are understandable, with a little bit of assumption and rearranging of words, the first one remains a mystery to me. Rampant what? Or is going on a rampage forbidden? Did enough people go on rampages that they had to make it the number one rule of their park? And is there any grace for those of us who aren’t culturally Laotian and might accidentally make a cultural offense, since we don’t know what those are?
The first couple of rules of this sign are very good English, perhaps because it was back in Thailand. I appreciate the photo illustration they included – we aren’t cavemen anymore, so cave paintings are strictly forbidden! Of course, I’m not sure what “Top & Pocket” means, but I just didn’t touch any rocks to be sure I didn’t top them accidentally. And I’m glad I never felt faint, because I didn’t want to “ark” for assistance – Noah and his ark can remain hidden!
Thai people love their filters and their makeup, and I’m sure all of them want such things to be their natural look. Unfortunately, we didn’t find the secret to everlasting, perfect beauty in this cave in Laos, but we did discover a beautiful natural scene. No filters needed.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I hope you keep these things in mind as you roam around the country on your own. And if you see some particularly obscure or confusing rules that might not have been translated properly, you can write the next installment of this When in Nature article!
Sticky Rice 
Share your thoughts