Best to take a Thai speaking person of repute with you if at all possible (schoolteachers are well respected). Bank staff like their commission so be prepared to buy Personal Accident Insurance. It is worth it particularly if you have no other form of insurance. It covers moto accidents up to age 65. The cost of an annual policy is similar to the amount you would pay an agent.

@Steven *****

Thai Airways are keen as are Air Europa. Others vary. My own experience of course!

@Steven *****

I’ve been visiting Thailand several times per year since 1960 and never been asked to show a return ticket! Don’t worry about it, it’s a myth!

@Gregor *********

The truth! As you stated this is a rule that applies Worldwide. Checking-in online or at airport totems doesn’t avoid this issue. Airline staff operating the departure gate know how you’ve checked-in and if you have a one-way ticket. I’ve been denied boarding at the gate and also deboarded on the second leg of a three leg flight.

@Josh ********

What I would do is get to your departure airport earlier than usual. Speak nicely to the airline desk staff and point out what has happened. You may find they can input your middle name free of charge. Someone did that but another person was charged $5 USD. Either way you will then have peace of mind Josh!

Not at all likely. No requirement to possess travel or health insurance.

@Robert **********

Report 7 hours ago on DTV Facebook page.

@Robert **********

Mixed reports daily of failures and successes in opening Thai bank accounts. Richard is in a good position.

@CjandBrigitte *********

Richard has Thai wife with Thai passport, Thai ID card and no doubt friends and family in Thailand.

Absolutely doable! Bangkok Bank are most definitely ‘foreigner friendly’. They like to sell personal accident insurance as the staff get commission. If you have no other form of insurance it’s worth buying at around 5,000 baht. Fees are similar. You pay an annual account maintenance fee and fee for debit card if you request one.