@Robert ******

but I AM on a Non-O my friend.

@Bob *********

never never never.

First, I doubt FedEx will ever demand you send your passport. Why not call FedEx after looking up the phone number independently.

Second, I have been asked to show my passport and visa to Thai customs officials once. This took all of 10 minutes and is good for the term of your visa, I believe.

@Neil *******

I got a credit card at K bank.

Last I checked, banks offer up to 2.5% interest, depending on term of commitment (6 months - 2 years) with substantial interest penalty for early withdrawal.

@Dave ********

I try to provide valuable advice, but there has to be something in it for me.

@Chris ********************

some people require lecturing.

First, your friend should have Facebook and ask his own questions.

Second, Wise easily is the most cost effective- so your “friend”should not discount it.

Third, always send USD and let the foreign country convert it. The exception is when paying by credit card- always choose payment in the local currency.

Fourth, for very large amounts of money- you can often negotiate the exchange rate slightly with the bank’s branch manager on a one off basis.

Fifth, you can leave the U.S. with any amount of USD, as long as you declare any amount over $10,000 USD. According to ChatGPT, you can bring up to 20,000 USD (or its equivalent) in foreign currency without declaring it. There is no limit on the amount of declared money you can bring into the country.

@Gerg *********

None of the 14 approved Thai health insurance companies will give me insurance because my BMI is too high.

@Wayne ******

First, if you’ve run your own business here for 40 years, why would you need to turn to Facebook for advice because you already have the knowledge, visa and work permits.

Second you accuse us of being ignorant, yet you know nothing about us.

Third, I don’t drink alcohol.

@David *********

invest in a Thai partner, or in a line of business you know nothing about.