@Brandon ***********

i was in the "agent trap" also. I had to leave the country to get an O visa in Lao. The Lao consulate wanted to see the 12 months of bank statements along with proof of the source of my 65,000+ baht income transfers. After entrance to Thailand and asking for a 1 year extension, i had to show the same documents to the Thailand Immigration. Extension approved. Good to be free from the agent.

Nong khai immigration are friendly but best to bring your thai speaking spouse or friend with you.

Knee replacement private hospital 250,000bt, $7000. Government hospital $4000

@Dirk *************

same

You should be able to easily find a taxi for 700bt to 1000bt.

@John ********

Be polite, be appropriately dressed and take a respectful Thai friend to help you. That and a passport with a valid visa is all I needed. This worked a couple of times for me.