LeighTravelClub

Just in case anybody had any doubts about the severity of punishment for insulting the Thai Royal Family, take a look at this link.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asi...ic/6505237.stm

Rather severe, I know, but people need to be aware that this can be the consequence of disrespectful actions against the Royals in Thailand.

You Know The saying.....'when in Rome.......

MichaelBKK

One would hope (in vain?) that people would respect local cultures where-ever they go, regardless of the consequences, but yes, if you're the type to do stupid things when you're drunk, you better be on your best behavior in Thailand.

It's perhaps woth noting that the king traditionally pardons people convicted of lesse majeste against him. This was a point he chided Taksin about, since the former PM couldn't stand to be questioned and often sued anyone who criticised him for millions of dollars.

mrwunrfl

If that man had vandalized the side of a building by spray painting and got caught what punishment might he expect? Same crime, just the subject is not the king and not on the king's birthday.

mrwunrfl

What I am getting at is that he wasn't just speaking his mind, he was committing a crime that would get jail time in many countries, tho maybe not 10 years.

But spray painting the king's portrait? on his birthday? Even most people who don't respect other cultures are not that stupid.

glorialf

might be considered the same crime in america. It is definitely NOT the same crime in thailand. How a culture or country defines crime and punishment is unique to them and should be respected. It's not like the Thais hide the fact that they consider it a serious crime to insult the King.

Hanuman

This guy is not a tourist he's an expat or someone living in Thailand and he knows or should know Thai law. He has a problem with booze and was angry when he could not buy booze during the King's birthday - December 5th.

I think he will probably get pardon and quietly leave the country.

DonTopaz

Hanuman and others are correct: the foolish man will soon be quietly pardoned.

Each country will have its quirky laws, and the US is not only not an exception, but it may well be leading the pack. I just returned from Long Beach, where the following warning signs are found throughout town:

<b>NO CRUISING</b>
Passing by the same spot
3 times in 4 hours is Cruising

easytraveler

3 times in 4 hours???!!!

Every woman has to hope there are no jewelry or clothing shops in the vicinity! LOL!

rabidstoat

I went to a movie in a theater in Bangkok yesterday. After the previews, everyone started to stand (so lemming-like, I did too).

Turns out it was a 60-ish second montage of photos of the king, set to music, to honor him. Apparently they play this before all movies in the country.

So yeah. They really like their king. Don't mess with the man!

MichaelBKK

Yes, before every movie, you must stand for the king's anthem. Not doing so is grounds for stoning.

mrwunrfl

I heard that at the theater refreshment stands that, next to the Goobers and in front of the Raisinets, they have stones for sale just for that purpose.