Not the answer to your question but here's my two bob's worth. Learn to read and write unless you have a brilliant "ear" for language and a great memory. Tone and vowel length are what makes Thai difficult for Westerners. Also the different sounds of some Thai letters. When you can read it you can pronounce it. If you want to know my strategy for getting your head round the alphabet and letter groups send me a message. Free of course.
Ah OK mate. Thought you meant out of the country. Just back to Northern Province after a funeral in BKK so don't see me going back there until spring when hopefully I can get out to make a quid. All the best.