He is part of an expanding population of nearly 11,000 foreign husbands in the region, drawn by the low cost of living, slow pace of life and the exotic reputation of Thai women — something like a brand name for Western men seeking Asian partners. ‘Thai women are a lot like women in America were 50 years ago,’ said Mr. Davis, before they discovered their rights and became ‘strong-headed and opinionated.’

‘The women now know they are equal,’ said Mr. Davis, a retired Naval officer who has been divorced twice, ‘so the situation is not as relaxed and peaceful as it is between an American and a Thai lady.’