@David *********

It does not matter how much you spend or where you live all that matters you are safe and happy.

This is an argument that has gone on for decades from expats. I am staying out of this battle. Because whenever I mention how cheaply and well I have lived here for over two decades. I am told I must be living in a broken down wood shack in Isan with no running water. If you are able to speak basic Thai you can save yourself a lot of $$$ and stress in the long run.

@Greg *******

My mistake Tourist/Expat slum banks.

The tourist slum banks example Koh Samui are famous for scams having said that most anywhere on the island.

You are about to enter The Twilight Zone. Just a reminder Logic as you and I know it does not exist here. Happy trails.

@Tamar **********

It is it took me a few tries but was able to open an account about six years ago with a tourist visa. Having said that I have a bad feeling by New Years some major changes coming with all visas.

@Richard *************

Agree. Dating or marrying a Thai woman it is never a bad idea to learn the language and perhaps understand what is going on around you.

@Richard *************

Getting married and living in Thailand learning to speak Thai is not related?

Did you learn to speak any Thai?

@Wylie ******

Chong Mek is much worse. I lost count how many types of transport I needed just to cross the border. Had Taxi Mafia written all over it. That was sadly the last straw for me and Laos. The government has managed to seriously screw up the country. The fast train as on example as just another boondoggle that displaced thousands. Nothing but a eyesore. Having said that Thailand is heading down that same dangerous path also.