When I came here almost 14 years ago, I came with a backpack and 1 suitcase. For me, the best decision I made before I came, was divesting of the "stuff". I have in short visits back, returned with a few momentos, photos, etc.

Please! Do not buy a giant SUV, or full size truck wide Xtra wide tires. They clog up the roads, impossible to pass on the Soi's, and little space to park. However, "up to you"!

@Ethel *******

I call it the "are you still alive form". I get it every June to my address here in Thailand and send it back via Thai Post tracking.

@Kool ******

Thanks. Will pass on the information.

@Mike *********

Peace of mind for me is having my money close to me. 14 years here and no problems with Thai banking

Also, as of yesterday, there are no nosy tellers, bank officers, or anyone asking me what I am going to do with "my" money if I want large amount of cash.

Thanks, but I get D. D. myself to K bank. I am asking for friend who has Krungski and the past 2 months they all q assreturned to SS in the U. S

Manager at local branch is clueless

Many ways. You can get 60 day tourist visa from Thai Embassy or Consulate in U.S.

After arriving, you can get an additional 30 days at Thai immigration for 1900 baht. Gives you plenty of time to work out the details.

I have been here for many years , just switched country passports so had to fly out and back in 1 day, then started process again with non-o. Biggest obstacle can be getting Thai bank account. I am on U S. Passport now and will go to one year extension of stay for purpose of retirement end of April. There is no such thing as a retirement visa. Have more info. If you like, connect with me on messenger

@Neil *******

It may be what you call "bull", however, 2 friends were denied accounts, then agreed to buy insurance, and then they were given accounts. A friend of mine was a bank manager in one of the bigger banks in Phuket, and told me(some years ago)that there is no banking law to prohibit a Thai bank from opening a foreigners account, even on a tourist visa. Like immigration and gov't offices here, it is usually up to the individual you are asking

@JD ******

You may have to purchase insurance for 1 year. About thousand baht. Bangkok Bank seems to be the "easiest"

@Gregory *******

Actually, next year I will be able to use my retirement that is sent to my bank here every month. Maybe I will buy gold, you know, real "money".