Ecuador had an explosion of drug gang violence in 2024.

Potentially Safer Approaches To Airing Grievances:

Anonymous Channels:

• Anonymous posts in expat forums

• Throwaway accounts on Reddit expat communities

• Private expat Facebook groups with verified membership

• Word-of-mouth warnings in expat circles

Factual Documentation Focus:

• Share experiences as "questions" rather than statements

• "Has anyone had experience with refunds from [gym name]?"

• Focus on policy discrepancies rather than accusations

• Share your documentation privately with trusted community members

Additional Options:

1. Official Complaints

• File a complaint with the Thai Consumer Protection Board

• Report to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) if they're a registered training provider

• Contact the Sports Authority of Thailand if they're licensed for Muay Thai training

• Did you contact the Tourist Police?

2. Legal Consultation

• Consult with a Thai lawyer about contract enforcement

• Some may offer free initial consultations for foreigners

3. Payment Dispute

• If paid by credit card, initiate a chargeback through your bank

• Provide documentation of the unfulfilled refund policy

I have the 1-year non-OA visa and the application process was relatively straightforward.

For the mandatory health insurance, I recommend purchasing from a Thai agent/insurer to avoid any issues with meeting the requirements and the proof of insurance documentation.

When I arrived in Chiang Mai, the immigration officer requested proof, and I showed the complete Thai/English policy plus the receipt page with a red "PAID" stamp. Make sure to tell your insurance agent that the policy must meet non-OA visa requirements, as there are specific minimum coverage amounts that need to be met.

I believe I recently read that travel insurance is only valid up to three months.

If you plan on being here a year and WANT health insurance, there are Thai insurance brokers or insurance companies that can help you get sorted. I used AA Insure, though there are others.

Are there any Schwab-based methods to avoid fees?

@Polat ******

Adobe Acrobat Reader is their free PDF software. Adobe Acrobat is not free except during the trial period.

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

Thanks again. They sent the visa on Saturday (today) morning which I never expected.

It appears that there is nothing to worry about. Thanks everyone.

I reached out to the insurance, and explained my situation. We'll see what's possible.