People In Asia Are Sick Of Western ‘Begpackers’ Asking Locals To Fund Their Travels For Them (29 Pics)
Travel is truly one of the best things that a person can do – it broadens the mind, fosters empathy with people of all races and cultures and creates memories that last a lifetime. However, travel is a luxury and a privilege that only a fraction of the world's population can afford.
So when Western people, with all the privileges we hold, are found 'begpacking' on the streets of developing countries, it can leave a sour taste. Tourism is a vital source of income in many countries; we should travel in such a way that maximizes the benefits for local people and businesses. Sponging off the kindness of strangers to further our own selfish travel goals is just not on! If you can't afford to travel, stay at home until you earn enough money to do it ethically.
Authorities in some countries have had enough, and now immigration officers on the Indonesian island of Bali have started sending these 'begpackers' to their embassies to get themselves sorted out. "We have seen many cases of problematic tourists, lately they are either Australian, British or Russian," one official said. "We tend to report these cases to the relevant embassies so that they can oversee their citizens who are on holiday."
While we don't know the context behind these pictures - some of these people might genuinely have been a victim of some misfortune - others are clearly just looking for a free ride around the world.
What do you think about this phenomenon? Have you traveled on a tight budget before? Have you ever found yourself needing help in a foreign country? Do you see a problem with this kind of 'begpacking?' Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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Saw This Foreigner Begging To Travel To Thailand Next To An Elderly Woman Who Is Collecting Junk In Order To Resale To Survive
just do like other do… find a f*cking job. work for a month and then continue your roadtrip
Born and raised in Indonesia here. Grateful to have an opportunity to meet with a lot of people from abroad with a lot of different circumstances. And I hate this kind of people the most. A lot of people coming to Indonesia having higher currency than us but they have the guts to beg in the city ask people to donate our money to buy them an "airplane" ticket to go to other country while so many of our people struggling to feed their family is just disgusting. They spent so much money on Bali having luxury vacation and when they came to other part of Indonesia they thought of spending 2$ on a meal (you can get rice with fried chicken, ice tea, and vegetables at that price) is freaking expensive and ask for free food! Like What the hell..
These photos are infuriating. I worked through school, college and then full time in an office to save for two years. I had always dreamed of travelling, so saved my a*s off and went to 17 countries through South & Central America, Mexico & Cuba, all paid for by myself. No rich family, no loans, just hard work and determination. I did the same thing to spend 3 weeks in India the previous year. I’m back two years and working my a*s off again to go to Japan later this year. How dare these people expect to be handed these privileges when there are starving, homeless, desperate vulnerable people out there.
There is an excellent book called Karma Cola written by Gita Mehta that deals with westerners descending upon India to find their Nirvana. I cannot recommend it enough.
Unbelievable! I always thought travelling broadens your horizon, yet these people have remained dumb as f*ck. Truely disgusting and despicable!
As stated above: If you cannot afford to travel, stay home! Some of these cultures are in DEEP poverty and do not deserve to be bothered by people asking them for a hand out. Get a job, save your money THEN travel. With credit cards or debit cards you always have access to cash. Man-up!
why they are even allowed to enter the country without proper funds, while the westerners will charge huge amount of money from every Asian visitors including students? F*****g disgusting double standards.
In A Very Working Class Neighbourhood That Has Been Especially Hard Hit By The Typhoon How You Have The Nerve To Beg For Money To Fund Your Travels Around Asia Is Completely Beyond Me
Your new clothes and new shoes, begging for money in a wet market as people around you try to rebuild their shops and lives
The foolishness of people who give to these beggars knows no bounds.
Load More Replies...The insensitivity that stems from having convinced oneself of being the most sensitive of human beings, the most in touch, the most open-minded, the most searching for a connection with all humans ... conceited, anyone?
No, a self-entitled nitwit that didn't do his homework or over spent his budget partying in the countries he had visited before he got to that point. I wonder how many idiots like this the American Embassy staffs have to deal with every year, or any country's embassy for that matter.
Load More Replies...If you don't have the money to travel, keep your sorry butt at home, why should hardworking decent people give you money to live a lifestyle you obviously think you deserve? Here is a novel idea, go into a city, get a job and make enough of your own money to move to the next place. Not only would you not be a blight on society you may actually make some friends along the way and learn some important life lessons.
Why are you insulting asswipes? At least they are usefull.
Load More Replies...I wish a local would hit him with a stick until he went away.
For the vast majority of the planet the cost and practicalities of travel make it simply an unattainable dream; visa regulations are stacked heavily in favor of Western passport holders and affordable flights just don't exist in many parts of the world.
A European can, for example, pop over to Senegal for 90 visa free days whenever they feel like it. However, if a Senegalese person wanted to do same, going back the other way to Europe... harsh rules and restrictions apply for them. This is the reality for most of the developing world, so be thankful for the greater freedoms your passport gives you. Click here to check out the 2019 Global Passport Power Rank
Begpacker In Hong Kong
This kind of people are so annoying, get a job, there are people and causes that REALLY need money, to live instead of traveling so you can post dumb pics on insta.
Good luck with your dream. I'll support you in my thoughts as your sign says you are trying to do it without money.
Let me redefine this sign. Ahem.."I want to travel all over the world, but Daddy said if I didn't come home and get a job, he'd cut me off. Can you please help me ignore my responsibilities and fund my trip?"
The last time I was in Hong Kong (20 yrs ago), I was surprised by the amount of elderly who were working jobs like McDonalds. My friend (born in HK) explained that because there was no old age pension, if you hadn't saved enough, and your children didn't take you in, you had to either go back to work or live in the streets. I saw a lot of both. Knowing what I saw there, and thinking about this piece of s**t begging next to citizens who deserve better... it angers me like few things can.
Now that you said that..I want to go start a non-charity page to start an old folks home for castaway elderly in China... That's just sad.
Load More Replies...I like that she says she is traveling around the world without money. Um, no. You are traveling around the world with other people's money. Sorry, but there' nothing romantic about freeloading off of other people, especially extremely poor people.
Begpacker
Seriously though. I plan to travel extensively in my lifetime whenever I can afford it by saving up money out of every paycheck for a travel fund. Because that's how responsible adults do it.
Load More Replies...Why are our ppl giving these kinds of ppl money is beyond me. Seriously though we r just that soft hearted it's sickening
Load More Replies...Really? Not "help the local kids that are hungry" or "help the local elderly population pay for their bills"...but "help" you take a stinking vacation? While you sit there banging some weird drum with your bottled water and yoga pants? For shame. smh
Some ppl in asia are struggling to eat A MEAL A DAY. So selfisss
I feel like the amount the money you need to travel around the world can’t be got by begging
Start with "Will work hard for food" and take it from there...
There is nothing wrong with sharing a skill, like teaching a language for example, or selling some hand-made products. Travelling on a shoestring is a source of pride for many people, who enjoy the challenge of survival in challenging places. That's also fine, as long as you don't become a burden and have to rely on others, who themselves may have little to give.
“Whilst it is not OK to beg whilst travelling there really is nothing wrong (or new) with busking or selling hand-made jewellery on the side of the road,” Will Hatton, founder of the Broke Backpacker blog, told the Independent.
“This isn’t a conventional career choice but it is how some people opt to travel the world and if you are sharing a skill or selling a product I really don’t see the harm. I think a lot of people are threatened by backpackers living so hand to mouth as it’s a lifestyle which many people just can’t get to grips with – ultimately though, for many, it’s far more fun to travel the world on $10 a day than to be chained to a desk.”
I Happen To Pass By This Area In Bukit Bintang And I Saw This Irresponsible Act By Russian Begpackers That Can Literally Cause Injury To That Poor Baby
Well this one was arrested for it, in Feb 2019 [see e.g. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-47126174 ]. This is a specific Russian thing/belief/fad, "dynamic baby yoga".
I do not want to upvote this. The "winner} of this thread ought to be the posted photo with the most downvotes!
WTF?!? Can someone arrest that a-hole!! And who are the douchebags in the back applauding!!
They have been arrested in February 2019. See bbc.com/news/world-asia-47126174
Load More Replies...Begpacker In Seoul
I agree this person is a piece of s**t a*****e. I don't agree with your use of his race. There are plenty of shire people who would never dream of doing anything like this!!
I know it's a typo Kerry, so apologies, but that did make me think of Bilbo Baggins and Frodo.
Load More Replies...Lost your money and wallet in a foreign country? Got to your freaking embassy there loser!! Know how to deal with your own life before you leave home. Stop being a boil on the a*s of humanity.
Racism comes in all colors and you're pointing out "mighty white man" is not called for yes it is sad but your racism is sadder
Jongno 3-ga is FULL of English institutes desperate for foreign teachers. I taught there for a year and saved enough to buy a house when I got home. No excuse for this lazy entitled behavior. Sorry Korea!
So is it the idea of begging he doesn’t like or the fact that the guy is white? Sounds like his race put him over the top with anger.
There are few posts from the same guy here, and he always focused on the race.
Load More Replies...If you've lost your wallet, go to the embassy. Or call daddy or something.
"The news about foreign tourists turning to begging and busking on the streets of Kuala Lumpur cannot be good news. They claim they need money to continue their world travel." Malaysian businessman and traveller TV Smith said in an Instagram post.
"It cannot be a good thing as it might affect all of us travelers, especially travelers on a budget."
"I am very angry reading this as I do not travel without sufficient funds or contingency. Most of us don't. We stick to a plan and go home when money run low."
"How will it impact you? Soon, many countries may start imposing conditions to enter such as minimum amount of money in travelers cheques or you must carry a credit card with a healthy credit limit. Or provide proof of hotel reservations and return tickets. I have seen it imposed at entry points in the UK in the 1980s. I don't know if travellers cheques still exist and it was a hassle buying them before a trip. It will affect genuine travelers everywhere."
"I think it is best we do not give money to these panhandlers as it will only encourage more shoestring backpackers to do the same. Some of the beggars boast on their Facebook, showing off their lavish lifestyle funded by begging from locals. Many just pretend to be poor and may have a platinum card in a pouch somewhere."
Pretty much sums it up! Let's hope this horrible new 'phenomenon' is quickly dealt with. Travel responsibly, everyone!
Beg Packers - Tourists Who Travel With The Intent To Beg For Money From The Locals To Fund Further Travel. Peep The Sign, Too
While I find those 2 disgusting, just writing "s**t" and "f*****s" isn't much better
Load More Replies...The phrase is beggars can't be choosers - though you both still remain self-indulgent wastrels.
What exactly are they trying to tell us with the beggars/choosers sign? I‘m confused. Do they mean that they won’t accept donations that are not good enough for them?
He just thinks he is smart, using the verb 'to beg' in two different ways. But it means nothing. Which fits him perfectly.
Load More Replies...Support your own damn trip. Get a temp job or here's a thought, try saving before going on your journey!
The dude on the right looks way sick. Idk. It's a very selfish lifestyle, but I'd be concerned if I saw that man on the street.
Right, I would help him fond a PAYING JOB immediately!
Load More Replies...Wow! this is both desperate and condescending. These guys look more like druggies than travelers.
sheesh, to go overseas such as UK and US we have to apply for a visa to show what we have in our bank account, etc. It's time to reciprocate.
Initially She Started To Beg With Her Child And Picture Of Her Because Her Husband Dumped Them
Few days later this husband pops out and they are together begging.
When Boredpanda used to post an article with the tittle like "This baby travels around the world bla bla bla, let see the photos bla bla bla" - I never imagine there's the unfortunate one like this. It's sad to look. They should go home, get a job, and rise their child properly (instead of using her photo to take pity from locals)
These people should have their child removed from their care, they are not keeping her safe in the situations they are putting her in.
Sick how these uneducated, unemployed POS use children for monetary gain, er, begging.
It's despicable enough, but to use your baby? Using babies and pets to get more money is pretty much as low as you can go.
Why would you want to spend the time you are traveling, begging? Doesn’t that eat up all your time?
Travel has always been a luxury item it’s your responsibility to have enough funds to get home. It’s insulting to be taking money from people who can’t really afford to give or they should be supporting the genuine homeless in there own country. Stop being lazy and thinking it’s your right to travel the world and have others fund it for you. Travel by all means but be responsible and respectful to others.
Begpacker From Russia
You should have thought about that before you left Mother Russia, Sergey!
This guy could be from literally anywhere within the former sovjet union, e.g. russia, kazakhstan, uzbekistan, belarus, ...but sure, lets make him Russian just cause it suits are prejudices.
I’ve noticed that there is a huge amount of xenophobia and low key prejudice against Russians from writers of this site as well as a ton of commenters. But if you say a single thing about it they downvote you and try to dismiss you. Not very tolerant or willing to look deeper into it. It’s like they don’t even realize that not every Sergey or Boris or Natasha are Russian. And notice how in one of the posts, they wrote “Westerners” not Americans. But instead of writing “Eastern European” here they made sure to put Russian.
Load More Replies...Hong Kong is very expensive. Good news: it is connected by land to Russia. If you keep walking north you'll get home. Good luck.
When money runs low, spend your last $$ on a ticket home! Only one answer.
Well, jerk-off, you should have, what’s that saying? Oh, yeah! —Planned Ahead!!!!
he is not a smart traveller, if i were him i'd prepare everything. how long i would stay and how much money i need. and it would be easier just to ask help from his own family instead of ended up being a begger
Oh l doubt very much that Sergey's family are prepared to finance his latest financial adventure.
Load More Replies...Do your research kiddo. Money is a common thing you need in most countries on this planet. You think a cardboard sign will do the job for you? Start making local friends and see if you can work for food and a place to stay to begin with...
Begpacker In Seoul
What these people are doing is so tasteless and disgusting to me. I had no idea that this kind of thing was even happening. I am just so shocked and disappointed in these people.
Me too! Had no idea this was a thing until I saw this truely disgusting BP article! Makes me so f+cking angry!!
Load More Replies...Drag her butt to jail and tell her they will get an interrupter for her. I bet her communication skills improve immediately.
It's the age of the entitled youngsters, We have them in New Zealand. They steal nice cheese from the supermarkets because 'it is too expensive in NZ'. They sneak into campsites late hoping to not pay. If they can't get into campsites for free, they s**t on the beach. They use the free wifi in the public library and stink the place out
Ate they New Zealanders or foreigners? I thought that NZ had fairly tight immigration controls
Load More Replies...Except that the only border would be the DMZ at the 38th parallel! lol
Load More Replies...She Is Stil Active And Doing The Same Scam Since We Reported In May In Penang, Malaysia
The sad thing is, people like her are the reason why so many people don’t trusts beggars. I think most of us wouldn’t have a problem with giving a little money to someone who would go hungry otherwise, but you never know if you‘re truly dealing with someone in need or just a scammer.
She tried to scam us in Penang literally 2 months ago. Same woman, with her son claiming her credit card got stuck in an ATM and she needed money urgently. Luckily we have our heads screwed on and told her no - phew!
Arrest and deport her already! She has to have a passport as well as her son, so take them and file charges for fraud in her country of origin!
I could suggest a few German words to say to her, the next time that you see her! lol
Begpacker
A couple like that came through our town years ago, begging. He had quit his job because (she said) "My husband don't take nothin' from nobody" My aunt replied; "On the contrary, your husband takes everything from everybody"
There was a small kid in the tram in Hamburg a few years back. School age too by the looks of it. She was dancing or singing... can't remember which. And then she went round to collect money. Her dad (or whoever that was) was sitting at the end of the train. I call THAT disgusting!
My step-daughter and her friend got jobs in Europe as barristas. They worked at Starbucks in the states to have experience and a reference. Worked out very well for them as they were there for 3 months. They put away money for tickets before they left. See? Life planning is not hard. I consider what these folks are doing is stealing.
That poor child. He shouldn’t be relegated to a stroller all day while his parents beg. Sickening.
None of them look like they are starving or need assistance. The child’s legs look healthy and not undernourished! What happened to calling your freaking family for money?? Unless.... they know whatshit worms you are and refuse to help!!
This is King's road in Northpoint, Hong Kong near my old office. I see them all over. Embarrassing.
Westerners Are Traveling Around Asia On A Shoe String Budget And Begging For Money To Fund Their Trip
Yep, they're usually people travelling with expensive equipment and clothes and such, yet they have the audacity to beg for money from others
Load More Replies...How about I support your trip to jail? People like this make people not want to help others. People are less likely to be kind to one another because they don't want to be taken advantage of by unethical people like this couple. Its obvious they have no shame and think they are a gift to the world and we should all pay them just for existing. The more I read of this subject the more I hate the human race.
I might have some respect if they had a flipping talent and ‘busked’ their way around the world. Sitting on your a*s with a feed me sign is NOT a talent, it is a scam.
Sure! I’ll support your trip—with my bank account. Send me your address and I’ll get you a cashier’s check right away. LOL
Somehow Begpacking Is Becoming A Trend Among Ukrainians, Please Support Them, Share With Us When You See Them To Help These Brave Hard Working Travelers!
I mean, relatively speaking, he's not terrible. He's at least selling photos to fund his trip.
Wouldn't it be better to buy photos from a local who needs the money to survive?
Load More Replies...THIS MAN IS TRYING TO SELL HIS PICTURES, TO SUPPORT HIS TRIP. SHOULD NOT BE ON THIS LIST
Support your own flipping trip - no-one owes you a free ride to see the worlds most beautiful places.
in this case, he's supporting it. He's selling his work. Art is work too.
Load More Replies...This isn't begging. His gone out, took pics, printed then, and is selling them. It he is taking up a lot of space and I'd be curious whether it's legal to sell things on the street without a permit.
he is selling something its not begging he at leas has to pay to print the photos and sale them and he is not putting a price its the price you want to pay i dont find this wrong all the ones before got me really mad
That I could still live with and support him. At least he's not just leaching off other people.
This guy seems more honest. At least he’s selling some thing. I see he says he’s hitchhiking so he’s using the money wisely, I hope anyway.
Begpacker Giving "Free" Hugs
Why is she blindfolded? I can see this leading to numerous problems
Even if the donation is optional, this is giving free hugs a bad rep, too. Free hugs was originally invented by a guy who felt overwhelmed in a new country while knowing no one and who simply wanted to connect to and with others. It is not for begging, for f's sake! This makes me angry. And the birdbox cosplay doesn't help.
I saw this woman in HK two years ago! I'm surprised she is still doing this now... and in another country I guess, sadly... disgrace!
I hope while she is blindfolded someone steals whatever "donations" people gave her
i saw this woman in HK about two years ago. I ignored her as well very shocked that she is still doing this
They Literally Would Create Such A Gimmick Of Putting Blind Folds And Offer "Free Hugs" With A Donation Box Asking For Help To Fund Their Travels
We can clearly see how privileged these guys are because a lot of Asian girls got so giddy about them to the point that one of them wept with joy while being bear-hugged by one of them. Welp, I guess this is becoming a trend now...
I take issue with people who feel that they have to blindfold themselves in order to cope with hugging strangers. Or what the hell else is the reason behind it.
How about sending the Police & Immigration Official to hug them into jail and deport them?
Exactly, all these f*****g annoying smelly hipsters, they think they are extremely cool, but what a f*****g nightmare to have to be in the same space with these. Smelly f*****s.
Load More Replies...What Ever Happened To “Free Hugs”?
Why is there misspelled Finnish in the sign behind him. Or maybe it's Estonian, if there's an Estonian person here, let me know, because I'm curious
No, it is bad finnish. Jõulud võidavad halloweeni - that is the direct translation from this sign what is visible
Load More Replies...To people who is wondering why it's translated in (incorrect) Finnish... Answer: This picture was taken in Tokyo, Japan, and people in Japan think that Santa Claus lives in Finland, not North Pole. Kids even write letters to Santa in Finland. https://www.quora.com/Why-do-Japanese-people-say-that-Santa-Claus-comes-from-Finland
These would-be huggers/beggars are arrogant enough to think people actually WANT to hug a complete stranger who hasn’t had a shower in weeks. Where do I sign up? LOL
Does anyone know what the Japanese text says? Can someone translate?
I think part of that sign is missing but it says "to Santa. Christmas is better than Halloween."
Load More Replies...Begpacker In Seoul
At least he's doing something for the money.....no different than a street performer in North America.
I think there’s a number of problems with what he’s doing though. I’ve read about this issue, and it’s interesting. Jongno is the poorest part of Seoul. White people have been coming here for years specifically to take advantage of the “poor” environment. On top of that, for a lot of older Koreans who lived through the Korean War, the US is viewed as a savior, sort of, and Americans, by extension white people, are commonly held in high regard. Whereas actual impoverished Koreans or tourists from countries like China often find themselves isolated from general society.
Load More Replies...But he's playing music so not really begging... Or should we get rid of all street performers as well?
He doesn't have a permit and is taking money from locals that probably have less than him (and maybe even taking donations that might have gone to other street performers. Most people have limited funds and don't donate multiple times).
Load More Replies...I get street musicians. That’s not really begging. They’re working for a living.
The guy is busking. I love street musicians livening up the city. Some are amazingly good. No, I don't agree with the presumption that busking is simply begging.
His Signs Reads: "You Can Hug Me For Free And If You Want You Can Support My Trip And Leave Some Donation Let's Hug"
What makes this guy think anyone wants to hug him? And to pay him for it? Pssh nah bro, get a job like the rest of us
Very Good Point. These "hug-for-free" guys remind me of most of the people trying to get money from others doing the "living statue". Most of them are so ridiculously bad at it that it hurts my eyes to even see the spectacle. Pathetic is the word.
Load More Replies...Ah - actually I have decided I like the blindfold. People who can't afford to eat can happily help themselves to the money that they need so much more. 👍👍👍 They probably have too much dignity though. Unlike these bozos.
Nope, don't want to support your trip thanks. I've not had a holiday since 2007 and I'm sure that there are many people who have never had any kind of trip or holiday or chance to travel ever. I'll reserve my sympathy, support and tiny amount of funds to donate to causes that help alleviate suffering.
Are they all a part of a group? The sign is identical in 4 different posts
Good catch! Either they are part of the same group or someone is photoshopping that sign.
Load More Replies...Money for nice clothes, shoes, blond highlights, and of course, a tattoo. Yet needs to beg. Just call Mom & Dad like you always have, a*****e.
Love those Nantucket Red shorts. This guy couldn’t have picked a better color combo/outfit to beg for cash he clearly doesn’t need. Nantucket Red Bermuda shorts & navy polo shirt screams “I’m far from poor & I’d rather spend your money on myself because ...well, why spend my own when I can get suckers to fund my trip for me?”
I think I would give him a swift kick to the family jewels with a pair of hiking boots
Load More Replies...Yesterday I Saw These Blindfolded Travellers Asking For Money In One Of The Most Transited Areas Of The Shopping District Of Kuala Lumpur
Travelling is a choice, and not only a choice but a luxurious one. When you choose to travel, to leave your comfort zone and explore the world you might feel yourself as an adventurer, and you might be one, you are one among your group of privileged people. If you can actively decide to leave everything behind, take a backpack and wonder the world, it is because you have a social structure that allows you to do it. You do it because most likely your family does not need your work force to be sustained, you do it because even after months or years of travel, you can go back to a safe place were your "Struggles" as a backpacker will only be a nice memory of the times when you decided to get out of your comfort zone and "Live". I have no troubles with the people that decide to travel and perform an art, entertain people, and from that keep travelling, or finding a part time job in different places to keep going, as long as it is legal. When I was living in oxford I had a licence to perform in the streets and I was registered as a legal busker as a side activity. I have also performed in bars and hostels in exchange of a beer or an extra free night. I have done hardcore backpacking myself, and if it wasn't for the dozens of people that have let me stayed with them or that have helped me in other ways, I wouldn't have been able to live as many experiences. But I have never pretended that people should give me free money to keep travelling, to keep doing what the majority of the people in this planet will never be able to do, not because they don't want to but because they can't. I have always had enough to sustain myself, I plan and save for years for my travels
A.k.a. pay my Lowlife trashbag a*s to get the f**k out of your country.
The one guy on the left is wearing the weirdest t-shirt for begging. I mean how many people wear a Beverly Hills Polo Club, that REALLY needs money,HUH?
I wish I wasn't too tired to argue my opinion as I don't believe the long rant above is always true. I believe there is another viewpoint, other reasons. The fact that this person mentioned living in Oxford proves they are speaking from their own singular viewpoint.
Begpacker Near Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi
Due to many very long business trips to Việt Nam (that's how they spell their country's name) I have spent a total of almost 2 years in this country. I know how much the average Vietnamese people earn and it makes me really angry to see such beggers asking them for money.
Probably trying to sucker other travellers into giving money.
Load More Replies...I'll travel to Vietnam next year. I've never travelled this far in my whole life. Simply because I couldn't afford it and/or had other priorities. I would never ask anyone to fund my travels. I'm working for it. If I see any of this s**t going on, I'll confront these people, I swear!
In my country, Vietnam, people are working hard to make a living. we hardly have enough food on the table, traveling is beyond our dream, yet those white peeps come and beg to support their around-the-world trips. Disgusting and upsetting.
Load More Replies...This woman (or man😂) is in desperate need of a hair wash. So disgusting. If I walked by, I think I’d “inadvertently” walk on her/his photographs as I unconsciously twisted the ball of my foot.
Okay, To all the potential begpackers out there who'll be reading this. Vietnamese people live on an average of $500US a month (Source: Vietnamese girlfriend) Them giving you say, $20US is the equivalent of someone giving you $100US back home. Consider that the cost of living for them is about 5x less if you compare the US to Vietnam on exchange rates alone, but you also gotta remember that they also get paid about 5x less than you do back in the US. Now, begpacking to get a goddamn plane ticket to your next destination is a real "F**k you" to these people, considering that you're literally trying to scrape together a month of their salary to galavant to your next country. Vietnamese are friendly, hard working, but also mutual in terms of respect. If you do something for them, they will definitely do something equally good for you. If you're begging for something and will give them nothing in return, that's a real slap in the face to their culture.
OK, I guess begpackers really do try to 'sell" tiny prints of their stupid photos.
They can't do it here in the Philippines, we have no money to fund for their choice. We earned our money through hardship so we might just give some to the people who really are in need money or anything than to this kinds of people.
Begpackers Spotted In Hoi An
Faces buried in a book and drum. Yeah, I'd be ashamed to show my face, too.
Hah, as if I'd like to buy a random photo of an entitled guy standing in front of the sea!
Yes! I’d ❤️ to support travelers who don’t have the wherewithal to work jobs to earn their travel expenses. #losers
Hey guys, why not... Idk, go work in a cafe. There's literally thousands of them in Vietnam and i'm sure the locals would love having someone who can speak english working in them.
Again, playing a non-musical instrument that requires no skill, so they can pretend to themselves they're buskers rather than shameless beggars. And pretending to offer for sale crappy prints of crappy photos that no-one wants.
Travelling by hitchhiking? No you’re not. You’re sitting on your a*s. I’ve hitched with 50 euros around Spain. I slept on beaches, made drawings from nature and sold a few. Basically I took responsibility for my situation and didn’t sit around expecting something for nothing. I hitchhiked back to Germany and got my s**t together. Now I’m teaching English in Taiwan after doing a working holiday in Australia..all so I can keep traveling and support my trip.
Begpackers In Asia
Wtf, these people are like 50 years old!! And they still can't manage to put together a travel budget??! I bet that if one of them broke a leg they would set up a Go fund me page to get tickets back to the UK (?) so they can use free national health care.
They probably would come to the UK for that even if they didn't originate from there.
Load More Replies...First of all, traveling, moving from one region to another, needs some money. If you're from US/Europe traveling around Asia, that "some" might escalate to "a lot". Specially for airplane ticket. Traveling to foreign countries without money is reckless
You are taking food out of people's mouths, are you proud of yourself?
If I gave you money, I would ruin your "traveling without money" fantasy.
How about this; Get an education and a job. Then you save the money YOU earn and use that to fund your holiday. Stop begging like a common beggar when you obviously don't need too. Shame on you
Begpacker
You know what other people do to achieve their dream? Work hard and earn money
Well said. I have a dream too. Work my a*s off and then retire when I am too feeble to continue,
Load More Replies...And my dream is to be 20 years younger, but you can't always get what you want.
And then boast about how the universe fulfilled your dream and that everyone just needs to dream harder to achieve their goals?
Is this Emre Durmuş from Instagram account @yolgunlukleri Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/emredurmus1515 ? https://youtu.be/j5oO8pVFbe0
Why should others support your dream ? Especially since your dream only benefits you. Seems like someone's been spoiled too much growing up (IMHO)
Begpackers In Thailand
Funny how they had money to get the photos printed . . .
Load More Replies...Donate a dollar and get a photo of the creepy couple begging for money. Then take their photos and post it everywhere stating to stay away from these people.
Who would want other people’s travel photographs? Yuck. The woman looks nice enough (but she’s still a loser) and the man looks like he hasn’t had a bath in months. Bet her parents are so proud she’s a “contributing” member of society.
Begpacker
Don't believe people like these! If they were truly robbed, they would contact their country's embassy and get help that way!
They are hopeful of finding people who are more naive and easy to scam - and probably poorer than the beg-packer. It's disgusting.
Load More Replies...If there was people like this in my city, I'd sucker punch them and rob them myself.
I will give him some coins if I can kick him in the jewels.
Load More Replies...I tend not to believe the robbery sob story. Get help from your embassy, that's what they are there for.
Surrrrre. Money this loser gets from begging is going toward a flight home? Hardly.
Maybe, maybe not, but who are we to judge ones story. He'll be judged someday if he's lying & not by y'all
Oh will someone please just stab this impeccably haircutted arsehole with his pen
Begpacker In Seoul
Idk i feel travelling artists and travelling musicians arent too bad! Its the free hug ones or the ones that just sit there asking for donations that really gr8 my bones
I feel like this one doesn't really count, he is obviously making those bracelets to sell. That's not begging.
Err this one is actually trying to sell what he can to make money. No begging here.
I really don't like the tone of the caption. Sure it's massive white privilege. He is actually making something with his own hands and selling.
when I went to Thailand back in 2004, we had to get visas. I didn't even know you could go someplace other than mexico/canada without getting a visa before entry- even if it was a day of thing. (like when we entered Amsterdam during a long-ish layover.)
Load More Replies...I know that the majority of these people are white, but, if a white person made a comment about someone's color being related to them doing something crappy, you'd hear all about "the racist making comments about people of color".
Actually, that happens all the time. People clearly all resent having begpackers/refugees/immigrants/etc. in the same way, world wide. (Or briefly: resentful humans tend towards racism)
Load More Replies...Why does their race have to come into play? I understand the frustration, but these people do not represent all white people. Reverse racism is still racism.
Reverse racism doesn't exist!!! Please, talk about white privilege is not racism. I agree the guy wasn't fair because the boy in the picture is working not begging but the boy is still privileged to be in a developing country living just for his art because this country is much cheaper than his own.When white people go to developing country begging or just selling things in the street ignoring that in this country people need to work much more to get their money and they think is completely ok to wait to get their money is a privilege. This is f****d because, honestly, do you think if a black or Asian person try to do this in Europe for example would be permitted?I'm sure that wouldn't be because the police is always taking immigrant products in the streets!Is a huge privilege for white people to be allowed to sell their things or do their arts in the middle of the street in developing countries.They not even need permission to be in the street doing that. They just go there and do it.
Load More Replies...Begpacker
Peasant? His sweater looks practically brand new.... ffs if you don't have enough money to travel then go the f*ck home! Or don't leave home in the first place.
I was noticing that everything he is wearing looks brand new. Appalling!
Load More Replies...Stop with the white privilege b******t. These people are just a******s. Has nothing to do with race. I'm white and my family is poor. No white privilege here. I would never dream of going somewhere and begging for money or using my kids as leverage. Let's just chalk these people up for what they are, dickheads, and leave the color of their skin out of it.
There's privilege, when it never even crossed their minds why this begging would be a bad idea. They've never been really poor
Load More Replies...Do any of you realize that this guy is a musician? He is literally playing his instrument that is directly in front of him. That's not begging that's an exchange. His music for your money. That's not white privilege. Stop being racist. artists should be paid for what they do including traveling artists and street performers.
Stop bringing race into it!! Whlte privilege?! I SAVE for EVERYTHING I need or want. Please don't paint me with your paint brush.
So, you're saying that you'd be OK with this if this nimrod had been Black or Hispanic or Asian. But the fact that he is White is what is offending you. Hmm.
SERIOUSLY THIS IS THE FOURTH PHOTO FROM JONGNO 3-GA just go to some barbecue place in Gangnam and ask for a job, not that hard smh
Begpacker
Well a least this dude had the energy to translate the sign... but wouldn't it cost money to have those photos printed?
yeah no s**t, it would cost money to have them printed..this is his business. he has a job. why are people heckling him for living out his dreams?
Load More Replies...How disgusting! Interesting that these folks are all young adults, who have absolutely no shame.
Interesting, but hardly surprising. Actually this species of society's dregs has been a plague ever since the beginning of budget airfares in the early '70's!
Load More Replies...Haha! I wonder who made the sign in the local language! It might say, don’t donate to me!i am a big liar!
work a street translator for other foreigner in distress who can pay you
I can't afford to make my own dreams a reality but I'll be thrilled to fund this random self-entitled asswipe's! *kicks all his s**t into traffic*
Living in Latin America, I take exception to the idea that "There is nothing wrong with sharing a skill, like teaching a language for example, or selling some hand-made products." Admittedly, I stayed in Mexico as an "illegal alien" for a time as an under the table "Business English" teacher... whether I had the pedagogical qualifications to be a teacher being beside the point. Yes, I had a "skill" (I have a Masters degree in English literature), but there are a lot of professionals who teach English here as well. As to selling "hand made" items or buskering, plenty of local people make their living doing the same thing. The tourist isn't paying any taxes, is using our social services, and expecting us to support their expansive western lifestyle. Sorry, but if you're coming here as a tourist, have the money to support yourself, and do not expect us to fall all over you, and coddle you because you come from a wealthier part of the world.
I've been stranded in a foreign country with no money. It's scary. Would never do it on purpose and just hope someone will give me money. I guess I'm lucky.. I have a telecommuting job and can work on the road.. I also have a large network of friends from all over on social media, so I will message them if I'm going to be in their area.. Met some of the best people I know, but they are always welcome at my home when they're in town, too. Have hosted quite a few in return. Been to 27 countries so far. There's a difference between seeing the world and making new friends and just being a bum...
There are real people in the world with real needs. I don't see any of these signs saying will work for food and shelter. So self centered.
I find it insulting that people have the gall to go on a holiday and are counting on other people to pay for it. I also think that people shouldn't give any money to these leeches but kick them out of their city if they are begging. Try crossing the american border without sufficient funds to pay for your intended stay.
I agree that those just sitting there begging or offering 'free hugs' (seriously, GTFO you arrogant twats) are not cool but I don't really see a problem with those who are selling goods to make some money. Busking, performance, selling art/ handmade crafts to make money is something that's been going on for centuries... if people want to buy their photos or jewellery, or give them some coins because they enjoyed the performance, they're getting something out of it as well - it's a fair transaction. Please note though that this does not mean I condone people expecting others to pay for them to travel. If you want to do it you should plan and save accordingly. Travel for pleasure is a luxury, not a right. I just personally don't have a problem with people selling goods in exchange for money, i.e. actually doing something constructive to make money instead of just expecting people to give it to them for nothing.
Can agree with you for quite a bit. But I don't think it's ok that begpackers are competing with local people that rely on their business to survive.
Load More Replies...The ignorance of these people is beyond mind-boggling. Backpacking entails an extraordinary amount of preplanning and saving up money; some people plan and save for years in advance in order to fund long-term backpacking trips. People who expect members of the local community to fund their “glorious find myself trips” are beyond selfish. They are not giving back or supporting the communities of the countries where they travel. Sadly, traveling is often a privilege and can be extremely pricey. However, excellent travel blogs out there to help backpackers budget and plan for extended travels. There are also the options of staying at a hostal, Air B and B, or even participating in a home-stay to help save money. Some countries even offer farm stay or teaching programs. Backpackers help a local family on their farm or with a manual task in exchange for lodging. This way the traveler is giving back to the community and hopefully becoming more immersed in the country’s culture.
This disgusts me. As someone who spent time homeless due to circumstances beyond my control I can tell you it's soul crushing, dehumanizing and depressing as hell to have to beg to survive. There are people who genuinely wind up in a bad place and just need a hand to get out of it. It is not something to sit there, smile smugly and emulate because you want to indulge your privilege. Save up, plan a trip, go have fun. Don't sit there in a country where some people make less in a month than a person spends at a Starbucks and ask those people to support your 'dream'. What else disgusts me is this isn't a single person being talked about doing this, there's clearly a trend. W.t.f.
Me too friend. Glad you got out of it! The struggle is real.
Load More Replies...Always wondered what happened with the guys behind all the BP "I quit my job to travel all around the world" post. Now I know.
If these people want to travel and can't afford it, why not travel as a volunteer? Clearly they had the money to buy a ticket to get there. A lot of places will provide room and board in exchange for farm labor (WWOOF)
so you guys really think these individuals beg to fund their trips? think again. most of these people are low-middle income europeans/americans who had either already wasted their trip money on drugs (psychedelics mostly, se asia is a heaven for them) or begging money to spend on drugs.
I have no problem with the people that make arts and craft stuff for sale. Some of it is actually good. But I'm not funding someone else to travel around the world. I'll save up my own money and drag myself around the world...and I'm not going to beg anyone to pay my way.
Doesn't it take money away from people who live in the country that have to do that to eat though? I have less of an issue with it than the free hug rubbish but it still leaves a nasty taste in my mouth.
Load More Replies...I didn't know this was a thing. But I do know that I was raised to know that if I can't afford it, I can't have it.
Yes! Why are they travelling if they can't afford it?! I can't afford travel, so I don't travel! I don't understand some ppl
Load More Replies...Many expats living in Asia are working hard to shake off the imagine of having white privilege by being constructive members of the society. Then there are those trashes milking the last bit of white privilege :/
I know, I hate it when other white people use their privilege to take advantage of locals in Asia and Africa
Load More Replies...I find it insulting that people have the gall to go on a holiday and are counting on other people to pay for it. I also think that people shouldn't give any money to these leeches but kick them out of their city if they are begging. Try crossing the american border without sufficient funds to pay for your intended stay.
I agree that those just sitting there begging or offering 'free hugs' (seriously, GTFO you arrogant twats) are not cool but I don't really see a problem with those who are selling goods to make some money. Busking, performance, selling art/ handmade crafts to make money is something that's been going on for centuries... if people want to buy their photos or jewellery, or give them some coins because they enjoyed the performance, they're getting something out of it as well - it's a fair transaction. Please note though that this does not mean I condone people expecting others to pay for them to travel. If you want to do it you should plan and save accordingly. Travel for pleasure is a luxury, not a right. I just personally don't have a problem with people selling goods in exchange for money, i.e. actually doing something constructive to make money instead of just expecting people to give it to them for nothing.
Can agree with you for quite a bit. But I don't think it's ok that begpackers are competing with local people that rely on their business to survive.
Load More Replies...The ignorance of these people is beyond mind-boggling. Backpacking entails an extraordinary amount of preplanning and saving up money; some people plan and save for years in advance in order to fund long-term backpacking trips. People who expect members of the local community to fund their “glorious find myself trips” are beyond selfish. They are not giving back or supporting the communities of the countries where they travel. Sadly, traveling is often a privilege and can be extremely pricey. However, excellent travel blogs out there to help backpackers budget and plan for extended travels. There are also the options of staying at a hostal, Air B and B, or even participating in a home-stay to help save money. Some countries even offer farm stay or teaching programs. Backpackers help a local family on their farm or with a manual task in exchange for lodging. This way the traveler is giving back to the community and hopefully becoming more immersed in the country’s culture.
This disgusts me. As someone who spent time homeless due to circumstances beyond my control I can tell you it's soul crushing, dehumanizing and depressing as hell to have to beg to survive. There are people who genuinely wind up in a bad place and just need a hand to get out of it. It is not something to sit there, smile smugly and emulate because you want to indulge your privilege. Save up, plan a trip, go have fun. Don't sit there in a country where some people make less in a month than a person spends at a Starbucks and ask those people to support your 'dream'. What else disgusts me is this isn't a single person being talked about doing this, there's clearly a trend. W.t.f.
Me too friend. Glad you got out of it! The struggle is real.
Load More Replies...Always wondered what happened with the guys behind all the BP "I quit my job to travel all around the world" post. Now I know.
If these people want to travel and can't afford it, why not travel as a volunteer? Clearly they had the money to buy a ticket to get there. A lot of places will provide room and board in exchange for farm labor (WWOOF)
so you guys really think these individuals beg to fund their trips? think again. most of these people are low-middle income europeans/americans who had either already wasted their trip money on drugs (psychedelics mostly, se asia is a heaven for them) or begging money to spend on drugs.
I have no problem with the people that make arts and craft stuff for sale. Some of it is actually good. But I'm not funding someone else to travel around the world. I'll save up my own money and drag myself around the world...and I'm not going to beg anyone to pay my way.
Doesn't it take money away from people who live in the country that have to do that to eat though? I have less of an issue with it than the free hug rubbish but it still leaves a nasty taste in my mouth.
Load More Replies...I didn't know this was a thing. But I do know that I was raised to know that if I can't afford it, I can't have it.
Yes! Why are they travelling if they can't afford it?! I can't afford travel, so I don't travel! I don't understand some ppl
Load More Replies...Many expats living in Asia are working hard to shake off the imagine of having white privilege by being constructive members of the society. Then there are those trashes milking the last bit of white privilege :/
I know, I hate it when other white people use their privilege to take advantage of locals in Asia and Africa
Load More Replies...
