PATTAYA, Thailand – A Thai Grab driver has shared a heartwarming story online after receiving a 1,000-baht tip from a US sailor for a 120-baht fare during the USS Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Pattaya.
Facebook user Nara Mik posted in the Grab Pattaya group that she had driven an American serviceman and received 1,000 baht despite the journey costing only 120 baht. “Fare 120 baht, given 1,000 baht. Thank you, American soldier,” she wrote, alongside a photo showing the sailor from behind and the money she received.
The post quickly attracted attention and smiles from other users, with several people commenting on the generosity of foreign customers and tipping practices. Another user shared that her partner had delivered food to American sailors staying at a pool villa and received a 2,000-baht tip, with two people each giving 1,000 baht. A former hotel worker also recalled receiving tips of 1,000–2,000 baht from foreign guests after providing services.
More than 5,000 US Navy personnel from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln were in Chonburi from September 2–6 for rest and recreation during the ship’s port visit to Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port. The sailors have been spending their shore leave across Pattaya, visiting restaurants, shops, attractions, massage parlors and entertainment venues. The generous tips have become one of the lighter stories surrounding the visit, while the spending by US personnel has brought increased activity and income to local businesses and service providers.
