Get all your ducks in a row first if you’re concerned about losing money in the process. If they deny the visa make sure the flight and place you are staying are refundable.

Remember, all of us are guests. They make the rules. Not easy of course but it’s their country so the rules they make are fair.

Depending on the country you are coming from and where you are a citizen this may be very lax, or it could be scrutinized if you don’t have all the boxes checked. You are also at the descretion of the immigration officer you walk up to. Thats a toss up either way. Usually consistent but if they are having a bad day or for some reason don’t like the look of your face, they can signal to make it a longer process.

@Henk ********

the word “lucky” should never be in the same sentence when talking about immigration control unless you are completely willing to accept any outcome.

Siem Reap, Cambodia. Relatively small city with great cost of living and lots of Expats. Less desirable than other options since it’s far from any beach. Kampot in Cambodia is also a cool town, pretty small and near the water but not on it. Sihanouk is on the water but I don’t know anything about it other than there must be an appeal because a lot Expats live there.