What is this I have heard about a dowry or “bride fee” that is expected from a man wanting to marry a Thai lady?
Sinsort as it is called in Thai is a long standing tradition practiced by Thais. The bride’s family expects the groom to pay them an amount of money that is based on the two families’ financial status and social standing. Sinsort is in part a show, with about half of it usually returned to the newly weds after the wedding. Another reason for sonsort comes partially from the cultural tradition that places most of the responsibility for taking care of the parents on the eldest daughter. Since the groom is taking the daughter away it is natural that he should see to it that the parents are cared for. The size of sinsort varies a great deal depending on factors such as the age of the bride, wealth and social standing, and any previous marriages. It can range from nothing to several million baht.
