OK, I realize my comments aren’t attracting too many favourable comments, so let’s be a little more positive and pragmatic. We’re all here in Asia and all experiencing different problems. Personally I enjoyed living in Thailand but hated the work. Yes, we were/are abused and taken advantage of, but at the end of the day we all chose to come here and we can all choose to leave.

I will definitely go back to Thailand, my home and family are there, but having said that, I doubt if I will work there again so that’s something we have in common. The reason I won’t is exactly for the same reasons many have stated. I’m not rich, I simply saw what would happen if I lived the good life and through injury, illness or ‘Acts of God’ the same thing happened to me as is happening to some of you guys now. I made provisions for myself against that happening and now simply query why I did and some of you didn’t.

I got out and have previously stated that I’d recommend others do the same if they’re unhappy with the way things are going. Thailand is not the only country in Asia and the path that they’re following is their decision and we don’t have to be a part of it.

You will always read negative and subjective reports about anywhere and especially Thailand. I’ve only been in China a short while, but from what I have seen I’m staying. Perhaps it does boil down to a question of attitude and perception; what we expect against what life is really like. There isn’t any point going on about Thai bosses, corruption and contracts. My point is that people move on and take responsibility for themselves. Perhaps again we’re too used to our own culture in which we seek to find blame in others for our own failings and ‘demand’ that we all be treated equally. I read between the lines and find a sort of ‘shock’ or incredulous approach to Thailand and again my point is that we accept it and learn to look after ourselves. I could go on the ajarn forum and find the same numpties bawling, swearing and abusing each other; the same sort of people who I would expect to be hostile to Thailand, but who it wouldn’t occur to, to leave. Try China as a last resort, but be aware that life here is even more controlled than Thailand and here you do really have to stand on your own two feet. I wish you all the best.

James