There's no actual set limit, BUT, you will be questioned by immigration after a few back to back entries, and eventually refused entry, as they will want you to get a proper visa.
Why don't you simply get a job for 3 years and learn Thai? That's the simplest way. You make it seem like you're unemployable in Thailand. You can communicate in English? Just teach English.
My pleasure. If you're willing to escape SEA and feel more adventurous, I highly recommend India and Nepal. Taiwan as well, but it's first world prices.
Danang is very appreciated. Since you mentioned Saigon (huge city, far from beaches) I can suggest Siem Reap (small town that shoots way above its weight in terms of restaurants and nightlife + the spectacular Angkor Park) and Hanoi (also huge but more charming than Saigon). Penang is great… Foodie heaven and ok beaches. I enjoyed La Union, which located about 200kms north of Manila.