@Oliver *******

100%. It still requires border runs, even if they're not as frequent as with existing/previous multiple entry visas. That alone makes it less attractive to many people.

I also agree that they might tighten up or even scrap the soft power category.

@Anon*****

That's a good point. I'm sure the MFA know what they're doing and his constant criticism of them, as if they were a completely incompetent agency for creating this visa is another thing that completely confuses and annoys me. I mean, they're a branch of the Thai government that deals with external affairs, including issuing Thai passports to Thai citizens and visas...they seem pretty competent to me.

@Andi **********

It also seems like he wants to keep Thailand for himself, as in not wanting any other foreigners to live here.

@Ray ****

Exactly and thus it's more than absurd to think they would create a visa class that suddenly can't be used over the course of 5 years as intended for no reason.

@Steve **************

What annoys me the most is how he's adamant he knows Thai immigration better than Thai immigration itself.

@Anon*****

Actually, he is a naturalized Thai citizen, but the rest or your comment is spot on. He's definitely spreading fear and misinformation.

@Jean-Baptiste **********

Doesn't matter where you arrive from, no need for a ticket and no request for proof of accommodation when applying for the visa either.

@Andi **********

Generally, you don't come in for interviews once the e-visa system goes into effect. You are simply asked for more documentation via email or possibly phone call.

@Hans ****

I disagree. Hotels cost about the same as in Bangkok. 2000 NTD ish for a family room in a new, clean hotel without breakfast is perfectly affordable and that's what I paid. In Bangkok, a similar hotel will cost at least that amount too.

However, I'm not someone who slums along in a hostel, so I'm not even going to be looking for such places anywhere I travel.

I spoke in Mandarin with the staff there as well. My Chinese isn't so great, but good enough for a general conversation. I also had to come back to show additional banking documentation the next day, which I figured they might ask for (I should have brought it on day 1). Anyway, things went over smoothly the next day.