@Frank-Steven **********

I don’t disagree. Once upon a time (yes, back in the dark ages when I was young) larger companies and employees had mutual loyalty. As long as an employee put in the work, their jobs were pretty secure. Nowadays, that’s no longer the case. Looking at such things like the olden days does not make sense.

They want to be sure the company will still be there in 10 years. I understand that in many ways this does not make sense. A highly skilled worker will be able to gain employment again should a company fold or downsize. However, I’m sure that’s the reasoning.

I have a similar objection to the pensioner requirement. If a person has over $800K in assets, why do they care if it’s in a retirement account (where it can still be withdrawn, but it would actually incur a penalty, thus not actually being worth $800K) or a regular brokerage fund?

Although I meet both options ($80K/yr and over $800K in assets), but I can’t meet their methods of documentation or some rule (like the type of account). It’s frustrating.

@Eric ******

even being old, you need to make $80K/yr

@Bart *************

I do not know the history. However, my understanding is that Bangkok will only issue a certificate of residency after a 90-day report. Given that I’m never in Thailand for 90 days concurrently, that would have presented an issue for me. I’m glad I was able to prove my residence with the lease. Honestly, I think the lease makes more sense anyway, both due to the reason you noted and also because it simply removes a layer of bureaucracy.

I’m just glad I have my accounts now 🙂.

@Graham *****

every bank has its own requirements. I didn’t need a certificate but I did need a lease.

@John *********

or, they can hire an agent.

I’ve recommended KL many times. It’s a cheap flight from BKK. Meanwhile, Penang is famous for its food. I haven’t gone THERE yet.

If you want a fun day or two in Bangkok, try searching on multi-stop trips. I just had the craziest experience.

I was in Tokyo, but I live in Bangkok. I tried to book an unexpected flight to the States, since I was nearly halfway there. A non-stop cost nearly $2K.

I then looked from BKK…$850 with a stop in Tokyo. 🤔. I then searched with a one-week stop in Tokyo…$650. Guess which one I am doing. 🤣🤣🤣 in all cases, that flight to the States was the exact same one.

In other words, you might be able to make your stop in Bangkok for as cheap or cheaper and enjoy the day as long as you book at the same time.

Btw, I often use Skyscanner, but for this trip it was Google Flights. I always check both plus the carrier’s site. I prefer to book directly if possible. Third-party tickets can create issues should a problem arise.

@Kitty ******

as I read it, he put down a deposit on accommodations for his friend. That wasn’t his intent, but all he did was put down cash and his friend signed the lease. He has no standing. He will lose his deposit if he walks away. Nothing else will happen and tourist police can’t help.

@Jack ***************

why didn’t you just take the bet :-)