The Higbie book I mentioned wasn't a phrase book or a dictionary, it was the grammar book. I have several, and I still think the Higbie is the best on grammar ( This One). Granted its probably a bit beyond a beginner, but its a reference book rather than a teaching-Thai book.

The point I was trying to get aross was that if someone wants to learn to speak fluent Thai (not just holiday phases), then learning the Thai characters is the best way to go (yes, of course that is subjective). Every book has a different method of transliteration - and the semi-oficial Royal one is based on te Dutch system (Gor Gai is listed as 'K' for example - which can land people in trouble if they try and say things like banana with a 'K'!). Its harder, yes, but once mastered makes learning so much easier.

It all depends on his determination and staying power (and lets face it if he hasn't got the staying power he will not get far anyway) and what he wants out of it. Holiday phrases, conversational, business, fluency???

As to 'learning books' I think they all have their pros and cons - followers and critics, its down to personal taste. I have tried several over the years and found none of them very good, but I stand by Becker as being the easiest to get into. I also liked this one early on Thai (Teach Yourself) both have accompanying tapes (extra).

Still best to take a course with a Thai speaker, but as far as boks go this is my choice - other people will have other choices we all learn in different ways and for different reasons, so you'll have to find one that suits. No one's advice is better or worse than anyone else, just more or less suitable for you - and only you can make that decision.

Again, Good luck.