Thailand is a special country. I'm not referring here to its status as a haven of fake designer goods, bought sex, ping-pong skills, lady boys or full-moon parties, although these are as much a part of Thailand today as neon is to modern Japan. I'm talking more about its history as a progressive nation, because the foresight, open minds and (British) education of its former kings, notably King Mongkhut (King Rama IV - who The King and I was written about) and his son, King Chulalongkorn... read more
