American tourist sleeps inside Thailand’s Suvarnabhumi Airport for 10 days after entry denial

Posts from the Instagram account @rastagraphy showed the man documenting daily life in the transit area, including watching movies, reading, resting and eating while awaiting onward travel.

Thai broadcaster Channel 3 Thailand reported that he had appealed to an airline to cover the cost of a new ticket, saying he would remain at the airport until arrangements were made.

According to Thailand Immigration Bureau, the traveler arrived from Singapore on March 15 but was denied entry as he did not meet standard tourist requirements, The Tiger reported.

Authorities said that under immigration rules, responsibility falls on the airline that transported the passenger to arrange return or onward travel. Unable to immediately afford a new ticket, the man stayed in the transit area under the airline’s supervision.

He departed Thailand on March 21 after travel arrangements were completed.

Officials added that immigration authorities’ role ended after the refusal of entry, with the airline handling subsequent logistics and assistance in line with regulations.

The case has attracted significant attention online, though officials cautioned that such posts may be intended to generate sympathy or engagement and urged the public to verify information carefully.

In December last year a 23-year-old European tourist claimed she was denied entry into Thailand after immigration officers at Don Mueang International Airport determined she did not have sufficient funds on hand.