I'm sorry if this is old, trodden ground; I tried searching and didn't find anything recent. I was curious about the route from Bangkok to Savannakhet these days, and if there are any caveats about going alone instead of with a group. From what I understand there are Nakhon Chai and Sombat Tour buses from Mor Chit to Mukdahan, and an hourly bus that crosses The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge 2. Primarily my questions are: during what hours is the bridge open? Is there anything to be aware of, any unexpected or questionable border guard behaviour? I carry a UK passport. I've been on an extension for retirement the past 4 years, off of a Non-Immigrant O that was purchased in Yangon 5 years ago, when I was volunteering with an NGO. I switched to retirement during Covid to avoid having to go out for a new visa. This year, however, I am applying for B visa, having registered and set up a company.

I do know about having to book an appointment, and already have a date booked, but it doesn't coincide with a visa-run van service, so I wanted to check on the latest situation. Also, before Yangon I'd always received visas from Vientiane, so Savannakhet is unknown territory for me.

Thank you in advance.