Of course it is up to individuals in charge; but even in Thailand,they have superiors,whom work for an organization that governs their actions. After all Thailand is very militaristic in many ways. Not dissimilar to my background in HMPS forces and prison service! They still have to obey rules and regulations! Having been married to a Thai( now divorced) for 12 years,and having a house in Udon Thani,and first visited Thailand in 1997,I do have a bit of experience with Thai life and culture!
As for tourism I suggest they're a bit concerned with the recent earthquake,and the possible affect on tourism. And it is the beginning of the low season.
But not wanting my disagreement with you to blur my opinion of Thailand and the Thais; I love both and them all! Plus the Thai tourism authority are concerned about potential opposition in neighbouring countries; they'd be foolish not to be.
I disagree! If there is no limit that suggests it is unlimited! Basic English I would suggest! And what is the definition of a tourist? I spent 10 months in Australia/Thailand in
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on a career(not working )break,hence I was a tourist! There is no time limit on people's time as a tourist,depending on time and money. I suggest to state there is may be rather presumptuous.I spent just over 8 months in Thailand in
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, obviously interspersed with a visit to Jomtien and three border runs to Cambodia! Thoroughly enjoyed it and contributed to the Thai economy generously! I love the country,and I'm sure the Thai tourism authority would rather I spend my money in Thailand,than their neighbours!?
I agree no one should be allowed to abuse the system; but surely when the rules state there is no limit to entry by air,that should be the case. No matter how many entries are through a visa exemption stamp; infact I have read there is no restriction on such.
So why should an immigration officer decide there is; they have regulations to follow,being a government employee.
I suggest we should all follow the rules; tourists, residents,locals,and of course by example the authorities!
Yes they do mate, tourism is vital to Thailand's economy! Self inflicted harm.. I wonder!? I love Thailand been many times,but think they are inducing self harm .. A crying shame..only time will tell..!
Some of the comments on this site re legality,are somewhat suspect.
Having visited Thailand many times,for months at a time,and married to a Thai national,( now divorced)I have a certain amount of knowledge on the country.
The difference between legal and illegal is a fine line in my opinion.
Examples are the frequent bribing,offers of financial inducement,riding motorcycles without a helmet, prostitution; and it is prostitution don't kid oneself!
Having said that,I love the country,was married to a Thai,( previously mentioned) have a gorgeous 22 years old mixed race daughter,and think the country is wonderful!
But yes shortcuts occur,often not legal,and possibly a lot more than many countries! Though maybe not Nigeria...? Yes I have been there many years ago when my dad worked there....
I am 66 years old,and have visited Thailand many times on a visa exemption stamp. Only returned in February this year. So could I apply for a 90 days Non O visa; or do I need a certain amount of money in the bank. My pensions are over the required amount of 65,000 baht per month.
I was married to a Thai for 12 years; the ' celebration' was in Udon Thani,her home area. But had to go to Bangkok to get the marriage authenticated. We both returned to the UK in April 2002,legally married. I did pursue authentication in the UK,but was informed not necessary.
A Magistrates court in Peterborough in 2012 dissolved the marriage in December of that year. If your marriage was registered in the UK no problem,contact the said office and they can advise. As a British national I would suggest your marriage would have to be registered, with the British Embassy in Bangkok.
Absolutely Bonnie! I would suggest the Thais need a lot of help; hence making it difficult for foreigners and the help they can offer,would be ludicrous! And don't forget the income Thailand relies on for tourism!