Thai police investigate 'too realistic' guide book

John Aglionby in Bangkok

Friday December 2, 2005

The Guardian

Thai police have been asked to investigate the guide book Bangkok Inside Out after the government's director of cultural monitoring, Ladda Tangsuphachai, reportedly found it too realistic.

The Kom Chad Luek newspaper said the book was criticised for discussing "negative subjects such as fake goods, gambling, gay performances, touts and scams". Most retailers have withdrawn the book, which has sold 4,000 copies.

The two authors, Israeli and Canadian south-east Asia experts, yesterday apologised for any offence caused but said the book "oozes enthusiasm" for the country.

Gutted. I bought this book for several people as birthday presents. Thought it was interesting not only for the ex-prats but for those who live outside the country. What a choker.

Gutted. I bought this book for several people as birthday presents.

Your friends now got a rare collectors’ item

The book is still available from amazon.com and probably also other non-Thai book sellers.

At the moment, the book does not appear to be officially banned in Thailand; local retailers withdrew it voluntarily. “Pre-emptive withdrawal” so to speak.

It was still available yesterday on the shelves of Asia books, Times Square branch...

Bull

yeah i just bought this book a few weeks back on amazon.co.uk...

good wee read,...especially if your thailand info hungry like myself....

any news on thailand i seem to gobble up...sad huh...