@Brett ********
I just returned from Laos an hour ago and got my new tourist visa, no questions asked.
Take the Nakon Chai Air VIP bus from bkk for 700 baht and get dropped off at the border. Laos VISA 1.500 baht, taxi to Thai embassy 300 baht. One night in hotel about 600 baht. Thai VISA 1.000 baht and another 300 baht to the border and bus station in Nong Khai.
Remember to book appointment online before you go
You might want to fly there instead but with the virus about I prefer an overnight half empty VIP bus with good leg room and movies but your call (y)