In Thailand, Wives Can Be Rented—For a Price, Tourists Can Even Marry If They Like
In a country like India, where traditions and cultural values are deeply ingrained, the idea of “renting a wife” may sound unusual. However, in Thailand, this practice has existed for quite some time, especially in the tourist hub of Pattaya. Here, solo travelers can hire women as temporary companions, a practice commonly known as “Wife on Hire” or “Black Pearl.”
Temporary Marriage for TouristsIn Thailand, this arrangement is seen as a form of temporary marriage. Tourists pay women to act as their spouse for a specified period, during which they fulfill the role of a partner. Over time, this practice has developed into a structured business, offering contracts ranging from a few hours to several days.
Insights from Recent ResearchLaverté A. Emmanuel’s book “Thai Taboo: The Rise of Wi...









