The Changing Status of Lisu Man under the Expansion of Chinese Tourists in Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province

Abstract

The Lisu women and men in the context of tourism have a very modest status. Tourism has pulled Lisu women from the household area to the tourist market area, which is a public area. This change of status has a profound effect on the Lisu man, who was originally a public figure and a leader in the family, the main decision maker. This change is due to the use of the tourist area as a market for the cultural products, which is related to the women. However, the expansion of tourism aimed at increasing the number of Chinese tourists, has become an important channel for reintegration into the role of Lisu man. In addition to the expansion of Chinese investors who have expanded with Chinese tourists, also under the Investment Law for Foreigners in Thailand, there are loopholes. Being married to a Thai national is a great option for Chinese women. Language skills and space in the tourist area make Lisu men the prime choice of these business people. To be marriage with the Chinese business women is not only an economic gain, but the status of the Lisu man's household again. This article demonstrates that the power of women and men in the household is always changing, depending on the context and exploitation of both women and men.