@Dennis ***********

If you are questioned on every re-entry. You must be setting off a red flag, for some reason. I've been coming for 12 years, may have been asked 3 or 4 questions total out of 20+ trips.

400 USD fee is not refundable if you are not approved.

In an aside if your applying for E-Visa in April, do it early. Embassy DC web page says 10 business days. April has Easter Break and Songkram Thai Holiday. Apply 30 days early.

I've done this before. Entered Visa Exempt, since E-Visa (Tourist) was not approved yet. Couple days in Thailand E-Visa was approved. Saved Single Entry E-Visa and used on the next trip. Memory says E-Visa was good 6 months. No problems both trips. At that time Visa Exempt was for 30 days, so I had to get a 30 extension. No problems getting extension.

Multi-Entry good for 5 years.

If this helps. I own a condo. When required proof of lodging. I provide the Thai document, which shows I own a condo. Never had this refused.

Like this post.

I've read Taiwan was one of the easiest and they don't charge the $400 until you're approved.

I lived and traveled in Thailand for 10+ years. Obviously, no major problems, or I wouldn't keep coming. There probably are some Thais who are racists toward Blacks, but it has not been a major issue. The very few problems I've had have been with non-Thais. I've experienced some extra scrutiny with security, police, immigration. But as soon as they see the US Passport, complete change in demeanor. "Oh! You're an American." Smiles and waived through. It's like the Mexican - American comedian Fluffy joked. "I had to travel 10,000 miles to be treated like an American."

The question is: Are you just trying to get a DTV visa? Or are you really going to train Muay Thai? If you are not really interested in training Muay Thai, find a cheaper solution. If you want to train in one best, World known Muay Thai gyms for six months, then 40,000 BAht is a bargain.