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Cultural Significance of Skin Color and Tanning
The cultural significance of skin color and tanning is illustrated in Thailand, where lighter skin is associated with higher status due to the belief that people with tans are laborers, while those with white-collar jobs remain indoors. This contrasts with the Western trend of tanning to convey affluence and outdoor lifestyle, akin to wearing a Rolex. The speaker was initially surprised by the skin-lightening practice in Thailand, reflecting his cultural upbringing in the UK, where tanning is popular. This experience highlights the cultural differences in perceptions of skin color and tanning practices.