@John *******

no she did not. This is the bribe to get the bank account. Of you turn it down….sorry Charlie.

You will have to visit several offices in person.

Treat it like a job interview and present yourself well.

@Ruth ******

I have used the Air Asia app several times recently without much difficulty

Getting a bank account

Don’t expect to get something for nothing. Each office is an independent business. Each office makes their own criteria.

You certainly will pay a fee for transferring USD from USA to Thailand. The amount depends on the bank and the transfer service.

Banking is an essential service if you plan to spend time here. It’s not FREE.

I prepared ahead of time by getting a bank account set up 6 months ago.

I treated this as an important business transaction, not just a casual activity.

My Thai friend made an appointment for me at the Bangkok Bank branch across from Astra in CM. He also translated for me.

I am a middle aged physician and dressed as such. Yes I did do the whole business card ceremony.

I told the banker that I plan to retire soon and buy a condominium at Astra.

I was asked to purchase a life insurance policy for about $100. Presumably the banker gets a commission. Whatever, it’s the price of doing business at the bank.

They wanted to copy my passport and see my credit card from Wells Fargo. I think I showed them how much was in my account also to make the point that I’m a serious customer.

I also showed them $500 in perfect $100 bills that was to be the initial deposit.

Nothing else was required.

Act like a serious customer and you will be treated as such.

Present yourself properly and you should be fine.

If not, thank them for their time and visit another office.

Best wishes on your adventure to Thailand!

Me, no. You…..probably. Get a better attitude.

Use the app and keep it updated

Thank you for your services

@Ian *******

take a screenshot

Bring your cash. Why risk disaster?

You can spend it during your trip and save on ATM fees.

1-3 are small charming cities with hardly any Farang. You will see lots of mountains and small farms and basically how Thai people live. These areas will be chilly in December so be prepared.

4 is the second largest city in the country but still much smaller than Bangkok metropolis.

You can find all sorts of things to do there but again not hordes of visitors.

Will you be renting a car or going by bus?

The roads are small and winding through the mountains so take your time.

Have a great adventure!