That's a huge fee. OK I gather it is bureaucratic and very detailed. But with a Thai wife to help you understand, you could do it yourself. Take your time. Get hold of the forms from your IO. Ask them a million questions about exactly what they need from you. If you get it a bit wrong at first, the worse that will happen is they'll ask you to do it again, or provide another document, or whatever. It's doable. Good luck

@Bob ************

Thailand is doing all it can to boost tourism, and it's flagging economy. They'll deal with people who are obviously taking the p155, but seriously you will be welcomed

@Bob ************

No, just tell them you'll be extending your stay to 90 days

You have established that you are a tourist by returning home after each visit. That's fine. If you hold an appropriate passport, you could come without a visa and be stamped in for 60 days. You can then extend this for a further 30 days at the Immigration Office where you stay

1500 years ago is irrelevant to the sin sod issue and it's context is not religious at all. Today just 0.1% of the Thai population are Hindus. You need to do some more reading, this is not a subtle nuance like Protestants and Catholics

@Shaun **************

yes your country should endorse the IDP to show you have passed a motorcycle test too

@Peter *********

oh, it's on wiki. But the other way around! Do you know why it's the other way around in Thailand?

@Peter *********

Hindu tradition?

I suggest check with Thai embassy in your country a couple of weeks before you fly

Each family will be different, and their approach will be influenced by the bride. Have many long conversations with your lady about what she and you want, and agree it clearly before engaging in a negotiation with the parents!