Grim-faced professors flank the graduation chairman on the stage to await the long line of graduates to come up and pick up the diplomas one by one.

However, this was not the case for Rangsit University when Crown Prince of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Mangyal received an honorary doctorate on Sunday.

His presence was greeted by loud cheers from female graduates who were waiting to catch a glimpse of the Prince Charming whom they treat like a movie star.

Normally professors do not turn up in full force on graduation day. Of course, they feel very happy for their students. But if the graduation falls on a weekend, some leave their seats vacant.

But on Sunday, the professorial seats were fully booked. Not only the young students, but professors too were excited to see the young prince in person.

Apart from his charisma, Thai people are also impressed by his modest and gentle demeanour,  especially when he greets Thai people with a wai.

In fact, the Crown Prince of Bhutan had already caused a commotion a few days earlier when he visited the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek in Chiang Mai.

Crowds of onlookers were waiting to see the garden inaugurated by the handsome crown prince.

Vendors also warmly welcomed him.  They said they not only loved to see the young prince but his presence also generated whopping sales for them.

Online guide to great eating

Food connoisseurs can now look for the tips about where to find new restaurants at www.thailandsbestrestaurants.com, the latest food website featuring listings and reviews for 150 of Bangkok's best dining venues as selected by our readers.

Along with the capital's best, the website will also includes restaurants in Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Pattaya and Hua Hin.

The website is managed by Nigel Oakins, former managing director of the Bangkok Post and now chairman of Blue Mango Publishing.

busdsk@nationgroup.com