thanks Jan I agree this indeed seems to be the best option atm and I will proceed with the same, I will look out for agencies offering this service here in jomtien and Pattaya.
yes that was my intital plan till I read some recent posts of people saying they were questioned doing this, but yes maybe if it’s first should be alright. However I believe there is a multi-entry 6 month paid e-visa that I can apply for, and this might be a safer way to do it