I would prefer the Astrazenica one as well.

Not where I want to be!!

These comments are keeping me entertained during my non travel year.

I will add my voice to the "DON'T leave Thailand!!" camp.

Once you leave downtown KL, it quickly becomes very un western.

In the world order, You are either a Tourist, a refugee, a resident, or a citizen. I don't actually think Thailand considers the Retiree as a "Resident". Just a tourist with a longer visa duration.

In most countries, resident status can be attained when you get married, work, have a child, or attend school. Once any of that is done, you will be re-evaluated.

I have read all the tips over the last couple of years, but the common thread over that time is:

1. Different Customer reps in the SAME branch will have completely different results, so it really IS the luck of the draw.

2. Bangkok Bank seems the best to try first.

3. Having a passport is usually a must

4. Go with a Thai person you trust. This gives you 50% chance instantly!

I got a savings account and debit/BTS card without needing a visa, but she saw from my passport that I am there often, and she also wanted a foriegn account from where regular funds would be coming from. My gf did all the talking.

It helps if you go with a Thai local you trust. That is what I did.

They also asked if there would be a main external bank where to expect $$$ to come from.

(Not quite Thailand, but...) A few round a bouts in Bali can take about 10 minutes to get around during rush hour.

I should be clear, I opened an account, and have a debit card. Not credit card.