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)