We need to do our first Visa run. Came in on 30 day exemption and did one border bounce for another. Planning on being here through December at least. There are 6 of us. Flights adding up quickly. 1) Is our cheapest option to take a bus or maybe rent a car? 2) Vientiane the closest in that case? 3) it wouldn't count as 2nd land crossing as it would be a 60 day tourist Visa and not a end 30 day exemption, is that correct? 4) any better ideas or crucial bits I'm missing? 5)Thanks!!!
Edited to add: we are in Chiang Mai
TLDR : Answer Summary
A group of six expats in Chiang Mai is considering their options for a visa run as their initial 30-day visa exemption is about to expire. They are exploring the most economical means of transportation, debating between taking a bus, renting a car, or flying. The suggestions include: 1) A visa run to Vientiane, Laos, where they can obtain a 60-day tourist visa at the Thai consulate. 2) A less expensive option of a border bounce at Mae Sai, which is more convenient and allows them to extend their stay without impacting their entries for the year. 3) It's also mentioned that extensions for their current visa can be made at an immigration office, allowing for additional 30 days. The conversation highlights the importance of planning to avoid overstays and to consider costs and logistics as they prepare for their extended stay through December.