Michael has just turned twenty-one and as a birthday present, his unmarried uncle, Joe, invites him to spend some time with him at his hotel in Thailand. While staying at the hotel, Joe comes to understand both himself and the people around him. He finds the Thai people friendly, tolerant and open-minded, which does not seem to be common in most Western society.
While he is staying in Thailand, Joe gets Michael and a Private Investigator friend, called Billy, to investigate mismanagement at the hotel and the possible smuggling of illicit rubies.
Through their adventures, Michael grows as a person and comes to terms with his sexuality and his true feelings for his uncle.