Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

Local Laotian kissed me on the cheek

Country forums / South-East Asia Mainland

I just read that kissing is frowned upon here in Laos. It's not a social norm, in terms of proper etiquette. However, I was walking in Luang prabang, when a man approached me speaking in Lao (which I don't understand one bit). I figured he was pushing boat rides, but he wasn't. He ran over to me with a fried banana, broke a piece off, ate it and handed it to me. He smiled and seemed quite happy, as he flashed his 3 teeth at me. He beckoned me over for a hug, so I obliged... next thing I knew, I felt his lips, tongue and all 3 teeth on my cheek (an attempted kiss). I was so shocked, I laughed, smiled and thanked him for the fried banana.

Am I just a"lucky" guy or is there some kind of reason behind this interaction?

Who knows? Random things do happen. I expect they were pissed. Maybe someone else will post about their experiences with the three toothed lech of LP. I think your reaction was perfect. I take it the fried banana didn't send you into a coma, or have any Ill effects?

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Right? I figured I'd see if anyone had any ideas on the matter though. It would have been super random for him to have picked me as the passerby on the street to be pissed at... but then again, the whole thing seems quite random. Nope, not a drugged naner. I didn't really think about him trying to be malicious... and he ripped a chunk off to eat first.

2

Maybe he thought you were gay.

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Could be, but I doubt it. I'd take that over me being another dumb*** offensive American that pissed a local off.

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I think #1 is implying "pissed" as in drunk, not angry. Just take the "kiss" as a complement ;-)

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captain bob I need to ask something about getting to Chiangmai from Yangon. can i have your email?

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Oooooooo. I'll definitely take the compliment, but he didn't wreak of booze... I suppose alternative substances are also likely.

7

Random guy in street kisses tourist and not drunk? He was hitting on you lol

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Probably. My gay-dar isn't efficient with all nationalities.

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Haha funny, to tell you the truth it's likely the guy had some psychiatric issues.

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