Ben you forget that for returning to Thailand from Laos, is now factually impossible

it is factually becoming impossible to travel or "return" to Thailand from just anywhere. There is no way to get the required "covide-fre" certificates and the insurance. His ONLY way out is BACK HOME to Kansas

Education and Muay Thai is also out of question now, with semi-closed borders

I assumed so. He is in the wrong place at the wrong time. He is strongly advised to go back to his home country ASAP

a METV can only be applied for in one's home country, most embassies or consulates in neighbouring countries don't offer it to non-residents. Given this and the fact that now all neigbouring countries stopped issueing VOA or visa-exempt entries, there remains only one way - that's the road back to the home country

as US passport holder, you can still do a border bounce flight to Vietnam. There is a list of countries whose citizens cannot do a visa-free entry to Vietnam any more, and I think, the USA are not on that list. However, boarding a flight to Thailand in Vietnam could pose to be impossible without presenting a medical clearance and a travel insurance covering a covid-19 infection up to the amount of 100,000 USD. Please check on the US embassy Vietnam website for instruction and guidance

I have been crossing this border a few times, it is used by many foreigners, too. And actually an easy going in-and-out border. The main road from Ubon Ratchathani to Paxxe, pretty busy everyday

congratulations to both of you and respect for your insisting and your patience!

the IATA list from today, 9:15 am, does not mention any requirements for US citizens who have been to Cambodia, to present anything upon entering Thailand

and keep in mind, Kevin is not allowed entry to Cambodia any more, to accompany her, as he holds a US passport