Here's several options for you. 1. If you just need cash to pay for taxi, food & misc you will need only about a couple thousand baht, just use your Schawab debit card at any bank ATM. You'll get the banks rate and your ATM fees will be reimbursed. 2. If you know someone you trust in CM, set up a Wise account and transfer the money to them and go get it when you get to CM. Wise usually has better rates than banks or money changers. 3. If you don't have someone you trust to transfer to, follow step one and go to a local money changer and you will probably get better rates than the bank. Basically, your goal should be to get out of the airport and exchange your money outside. Compare rates at banks and money changers.
If you are here on a retirement visa you have to inform immigration when you leave otherwise it voids your visa. There is no "marriage visa", it's a marriage extension and you still have to inform immigration when you leave if you don't want to void your visa.
Brought ex-wife's cat from Moldova to the US. It was $150 10 years ago, carrier had to fit under the seat. Possible quarantine upon arrival. Check requirements with whatever airline you want to fly and the country. Cute dog!