@John ******

3-4 hours is more realistic

@Barry *****

Air Asia, Chiang Mai to Hua Hin costs around 2000 - 2500baht return depending on the day

@David *********

I have never managed 2 hours, more like 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

@Joseph ********

The Australian Embassy no longer provides that service.

@Barry *******

using an agent is not illegal. In Thailand it is just business. If the authorities decided it was illegal to use an agent, then they would have to prosecute half of the expats living here. However, make your own mind up and do what you are comfortable with.

@John *******

I used an agent, it saved me money in the long run and I contributed to the Thai economy.

Visit a visa agent, that will free up your money.

@Dave *********

I am getting 5% in a short term account. You may only get 1% in Thailand, but I think that is his point.

@Colin ********

Nobody was talking about taxes until you raised it! The subject was about how unfair Australia was making it for their citizens to retire overseas by making them live there for two years to qualify for something they are entitled to! It's typical for someone to divert the point of a debate to point out an unrelated matter rather than admit the injustice!

@Colin ********

I stand by my comments that Australia is cheating it's citizens of what they are entitled to! Even though you were not born in Australia, it seems that you have been indoctrinated to not be able to bring yourself to admit that Australia is not the utopia that it once was!