I agree that the personal attack was unjustified, but can you see how your comment about "thai workmanship" was offensive? Years ago at Babylon, I was in the gym and a machine broke - a farang who was working there said, "oh, must be made in Thailand". The Thais who heard it were very offended. My guess was that it was made in USA (I'm American). Thailand is a beautiful country with much to offer. They might not have the money that many Western/colonial powers do, but please be respectful.

Actually, Thailand's financial situation is better than that of many Western "powers" these days. I can't recall Thailand's credit rating being downgraded recently.

Indeed. Thailand's public debt is at 40% of its GDP, a (lowish) figure most "Western/colonial powers" can only dream of these days.

The private sector also has plenty of money. Sure, there's a lack of equal opportunities, but that's more of an illusion in many Western countries, too. Especially since ordinary tax payers have been forced to "bail out" the "elite".

So from today's point of view, us Westerners are well advised to have a somewhat humble, modest attitude when passing judgment on other countries.