RI doctor refuses Thai massage

RI doctor refuses Thai massage

BANGKOK (JP): Massage parlors are scattered across the city
here but not all visitors are comfortable about their presence,
or even pronouncing the words.

It was still in the morning when an Indonesian medical
official had a little argument with a taxi driver in front of the
hotel where he is staying during the 13th Asian Games.

The doctor wanted to take a taxi to Thammasat University
sports complex, but the driver asked him to write down his
destination in Thai writing to ensure he would not drive to the
wrong place. A hotel employee offered a helping hand, but
unfortunately he wrote an unwanted address.

Every time the doctor showed the driver the words, he received
a leaflet offering massage services. "Thai massage, sir," said
the driver innocently.

Only after the doctor showed his destination on a map he was
carrying did the driver understand. (yan)