Tourists accidentally crashed funeral thinking it was a restaurant — but it was the family's reaction that blew them away

Unexpected situations catch us off guard, but our response can make a huge difference. A Chinese-Thai man named Charantorn Chaloemkiad was at a family funeral in the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat when he was met with an unprecedented scenario, reported South China Morning Post. While the grieving were following their ritual, two tourists crashed the funeral, assuming it to be a restaurant. Instead of feeling disrespected and being harsh, the family went out of their way to exercise hospitality to the foreigners, and it’s what a true community spirit looks like. 

Chaloemkiad revealed that per their tradition, guests who have attended the funeral often receive refreshments as a way of gratitude and hospitality. This family happened to have their gathering near the market area, which became the reason the tourists believed it to be an eatery. When the man saw them sit down, he went over and spoke to them. They explained that they were told about a restaurant in the same area, and that’s when Chaloemkiad clarified that it was a funeral setting. The duo was shocked and immediately apologized, and the family was understanding about it. 

They asked if they could stay, and “the deceased’s sister brought them drinks like iced tea, iced milk, and fried dough sticks.” According to the man, the same thing happened again. The next day, Dutch tourists came and sat themselves down, asking for cocktails, when they were informed of the funeral ritual. Nevertheless, being patient and understanding, the family was respectful and hosted them. “I didn’t question further because there were many guests at the time. The hosts had the server bring them food,” Chaloemkiad recalled.

In a clip shared by Bangkok News on February 4, 2026, the tourists can be seen seated at the table as guests are being served. The hosts tend to them as if they were just as much a part of the service. Chaloemkiad also shared videos of both the happenings on Facebook. More than anything, it highlighted how hunger can unite diversity beautifully and also showcased the generosity and kindness of the locals. It would have been easier to shun the tourists or even to give them an earful for showing up like it was a restaurant, but they chose to be understanding and hospitable instead. 

According to a survey from the American Psychiatric Association, kindness makes most Americans feel better. These aren’t grand gestures, just simple acts of kindness. 93% of Americans reported having done something kind for another. These gestures were as simple as saying hello to a stranger, holding the door, checking on someone, or giving up a seat while traveling. Out of over 2,000 Americans surveyed, 89% said they felt great doing something nice for someone, no matter how small or grand. On the other hand, 90% noted that it felt relieving and delightful to have someone do something kind for them. 

These tourists have taken back knowledge on culture but have also understood how community and love work, and it’s a beautiful lesson to take back. Lisa Chu wrote, “How kind are the Thai people! I would welcome tourists as well if that happened, commemorate & celebrate that person's passing.” Matthew Mahoney noted, “Brilliant and what a beautiful display of Thai culture and hospitality.” 

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