A few days back ‘pleasure marriage’ was widely discussed in Indonesia. A trend of ‘rental wives’ in Thailand is also being witnessed. These wives are also known as ‘Black Pearls’ in the country. A book was also published on the issue which was on high demand.
In Thailand’s Pattaya, this controversial custom still prevailed. People called it ‘Wife on Hire’ industry. This is a temporary arrangement of marriage where women, who generally come from a poor background, are ready to become companions of foreign tourists. This custom is commonly found outside Pattaya’s Red light area and nightclubs.
This custom is spreading rapidly in Thailand. The book that became a talking point is written by La Vérité Emmanuel. Titled Thailand’s Taboo: The Rise of Wife Rental in Modern Society, it explores love, commerce, and controversy in Thailand’s wife rental phenomenon.
The custom has emerged in the form of a big business in Thailand. A few youngsters see it as an opportunity for those who are unable to get a good income. However, the concept of ‘rental wives’ is a controversial custom in Thailand. These women live as wives with tourists and offer them all services during their stay. This is like a temporary contract which continues for days or months.
There is no definite time of ‘rental wives’ as it depends on the contract. A woman earns from $1600-$1,16,000. It is also found that a few women tied knots with their customers. Foreign tourists establish contact with these women in night clubs and restaurants.
The Thai government admits that such customs still prevail in the society. This concept of ‘rental wives’ is inspired by costumes of Japan and South Korea.
