Who knows anything about Thailand?

[MrBlueSky]

My friend passed away in Pattaya, Thailand while there on vacation. We feel a little lost back here in the states. We were told by the Consulate that we probably wanted to have him cremated rather than embalmed. She said that they are way behind the U.S. in that area. Does anyone know there method for embalming? The family would rather have him embalmed, but not if they are going to butcher him. This is just one of the many worries we have. Anyone help us out?

 

[Kayes]

They might be a bit backward but so much as to butcher some dead body. Embalming only involves exchanging the blood with some liquid that preserve the body.
Anyway, the autopsy will probably do it anyway. Since you friend was a foreigner, they need to do that to ensure no foul play.

 

[MrBlueSky]

The Consulate from the US Embassy told us, "I dont recommend having him embalmed here, they dont do near the job as the US does. You will be very disappointed when you get him back there." Sounds like more than transfering fluids to me, maybe not though. I wish I could find some info on the internet about there practices. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[loup garou]

I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your friend, and I don't really know anything about the embalming matter, but when I saw your thread title, I thought you were going to ask about where to travel in Thailand. I was going to say "not Pattaya." It's so sad how dangerous that place has become.

 

[MrBlueSky]

We are hoping that he died of natural causes, not murdered. It is so hard to tell. Embassy said he was found dead in his room, in his bed. Thats it, didnt say of what, or how. He was only 35, but he did have some physical problems. I dont know if we will ever find out.

 

[snow patrol]

Kayes - do you have that God-awful program presented by that God-awful Anne Robinson over there then! (ref to your sig!)