Above is true...but more immediately, if it is a short stay.....visit your local US bank before you leave and get some Thai currency...2000 to 4000 Baht or bring some extra money to convert. You will need it for the taxi/bus from the airport to your destination. Also, an unlocked smartphone for a Thai sim card is also helpful. I never could get Bolt/Food Panda or any Thai apps to work quite right using US based carriers. Maybe it was just me. And remember...the best part of visiting Thailand is when you arrive and the worst part of visiting Thailand is when you depart, so enjoy! Just be smart, respectful, and use common sense....Youtube can be helpful. It's a magical place and chances are...you will return. Have fun.
From everyones advice, I will return to Bangkok for 3 days and visit immigration on the second day. Thanks very much for the advice and assistance everyone.
I never filed a TM 30 as I always have stayed in hotels, not condos or friends yet. As I understand it, this is the landlords responsibility...but, If I spend a week in Bangkok upon arrival and then go to Pattaya...from what you say, do you think the TM 30 would be filed in Bangkok? Thx in advance.
If she had money (7K to 14K US) in the bank and could show strong ties to Thailand (that she would return too), that goes a long way but as already stated, it's VERY difficult for a Thai citizen to get a US tourist visa. It's ridiculous really. You are better off visiting her in Thailand unless you marry her but marriage brings its own problems. Do your research and think carefully before you make any life changing decisions. Cultural differences can be a bitch.