we're trend setters in the north :)

They were always planning to - they're building a multi story building on the land they own near the airport. The only question is whether they move all or some of the services into the new building and when.

A survey of Thaivisa dot com readers, not exactly a repesentative sample.

In theory won't be a problem - been there, done that with slight variation out of CM (language ED to visa exempt to TR to self-defense ED), however, anywhere but Penang in between times at this point of time for a TR given the ongoing reports of drama.

You might be better off in KL if you don't want to go to Vientiane for the TR - you still need to have your paperwork in order but they're not being quite as picky/pedantic. Alts are Vietnam (Hanoi or HCMC) remembering that you can fly direct from CNX. I priced HCMC the other day, <2k one way and it's great place if you haven't been.

@Tony **********

are you, though? you say you've got a pile of back-to-back visas, first thing you'd need to prove is that you've got income coming in from overseas, that would at least address the working question.

If they ask you about living and you've got back-to-back entries not sure and the whole being with your girlfriend thing won't work either as you're applying for a tourist visa. I guess you could claim you're touring or something :)

Question 1: are you working and/or living in Thailand.

You can get Sidegra (generic viagra) in CM for 100 baht - I wouldnt trust anything you buy in Tachilek :)

to get social security coverage you need to be working here and paying tax.

It's a land border - 500 baht fine.