@Richard *****

we are not all like this.

Here in chiang Mai I have the same issue. I will try again next year, I was unable to get the bank account and have to leave the country. It's a vicious circle but I think I will have everything they want next year.

I always book my flight and hotel before the visa, but as others have said you can choose the dates and flights you plan on using.

Don't forget depending where you are and the time, Thailand is up to 12 hours into the future from the US.

You can get a 3 month non O in your country before you visit.

Hummm as a banker in the US, banks make their money many different ways. If you are here on a non O and keep 800,000 in a timed deposit, the bank uses that money to make money, lending it out at a higher rate etc. of course they have multiple sources of income including credit cards etc.. All I am saying is foreign dollars that sit there can be a good source of income for the banks.

@Pedro *******

I am heading in that direction. I love that with Delta / Korean I can go from Detroit or Chicago to chiang mai Thailand with only one layover.

I use Korean air and / or Delta

@Tod ********

thank you

@Rob ******

interesting! Thank you