Behind the good news, dark old truths still stain Chiang Rai – and Thailand

Harsh reality hit me recently, though, when while taking shelter from a monsoon shower in a bus shelter I was joined by a group of Myanmar migrant workers. Very soon after that a black BMW pulled up and a smartly dressed government official joined our little group. 
Ignoring my bedraggled appearance he then proceeded to take passports and wads of money from these desperate workers. Yes, corruption is still alive and well in Thailand, encompassing all facets of life here and leaving a deep stain on such a beautiful country.
Recently I innocently asked a Thai friend about the cost of a Thai driver’s licence. “Depends how bad a driver you are,” he replied. 
Rod Grierson 
Chiang Rai