Parents impressed the internet with their innovative way of touring a magical Thai cave with their 10-month-old baby in tow.
Tora, 32, and Marcus, 31 (@torastravels), from Norway, have traveled five countries with their baby. They shared a snapshot from a recent extraordinary adventure where they explored the Emerald Cave in Koh Mook, Thailand, using a plastic box as a vessel to bring their baby along for the ride. The footage quickly amassed 402,300 views and 28,500 likes on TikTok.
“We were a bit hesitant at first, but apparently this was the normal standard for bringing babies into the cave and he had done it hundreds of times before,” Tora told Newsweek.
“As first-time parents, we are often on the most cautious side of the spectrum, but as we have traveled to non-Western countries, we have learned that if you want to bring your kids along, that sometimes means doing things a bit outside your comfort zone.”
@torastravels/@torastravels
In the video, the baby is safely secured in the plastic box, with both parents wearing life jackets to ensure the baby’s safety, alongside their trusted guide.
Other explorers cheered them on as they made their way through the 80 meter cave, to reach the hidden beach.
Emerald Cave, also known as Tham Morakot, is one of Thailand’s most famous caves. Located on the island of Koh Mook, it features a beautiful emerald lagoon surrounded by cliffs. Visitors must swim through the tunnel to reach the breathtaking beach.
“We got out on the other side and the cave was magical, we are so happy we brought him along to experience it,” Tora added.
In the next scene of the video, the parents are seen showing their baby the picturesque beach and surrounding scenery.
“I would never have thought of this solution, but our tour guide had done this many times before. Our baby thought it was very fun, he was laughing and cheering inside the box,” she said.
TikTok viewers had mixed reactions to the video, with many expressing delight at the family’s adventurous spirit.
“Can’t wait for when he tells you about his memories of magical worlds,” said Erin B.
“I regretted every day we were in Thailand that we didn’t take our son. Such a welcoming place for families, can’t wait to go back, this time with two sons,” said Lulu.
“Get a clear one next time lol this is adorable,” suggested Tanya Gardner. “Mini boat love it,” said another user.
However, the video also attracted some criticism, with certain viewers questioning the safety of the decision.
“Where is the baby’s life jacket? Seriously, guys, come on. That is ridiculous,” said Brittany.
In response to the backlash, Tora shared her perspective on the situation.
“As everything else we post, the reactions have been split in two; on the one side, you find the people who are inspired by the fact that we bring our baby along on adventures,” she said.
“These people found the story very funny and quite adorable, and they salute the tour guide for the creativity. On the other hand, you find the people who think we are irresponsible for not putting a safety jacket on our baby, and for even taking him on a boat ride or even to Thailand altogether. I’ve been doing this for multiple years now, and the criticism doesn’t get to me anymore—especially when I have assessed my choices to be in line with my values.”
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