In general swimming is not particularly popular in Thailand. Dark skin complexion is seen as something for the poor or uncultured (foreigners generally excluded

In general swimming is not particularly popular in Thailand. Dark skin complexion is seen as something for the poor or uncultured (foreigners generally excluded), and that tends to go along with swimming. This is why you can find more than a few local hotels that will have pools built under natural shade. That way you can swim without being in the sun, even though it's something the vast majority of their target clientele would not want! It's also why you might see a Thai fully dressed while swimming at the beach or a pool. It's not about modesty - it's about avoiding the tan!