Last Farang in Town

In this time of Covid, I am not seeing any other farangs anywhere in my wanderings (except for my once-a-month libertarian meet up with Western friends deep into Bangkok).  We have become an endangered species. 

In my own home neighborhood’s two-kilometer radius, I am usually the only farang around, although throughout my years here it had not been uncommon to see a farang once or twice a month on the local sidewalks.  But I never see them now. 

When I go to the nearest big shopping mall, seven klicks away, I never see farangs at all.  I’m the only one.  Although I don’t speak Thai, I do occasionally pick up a comment mentioning “farang” as I walk by.  I hope they are not buying into the stereotype of the “dirty farang” who is a public health hazard and menace.  I wear a mask, use hand sanitizer at every opportunity, and follow all protocols.  But I feel like I’m viewed as a leper in their midst. 

Alien.  Stranger in a strange land. 

-Zenwind. 

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