@Art ************

Do you know this for certain? I ask because I was recently married and plan to claim her as my spouse on my tax papers. It was my understanding I only had to get a certified copy of her passport at the US Embassy.

1500 USD / month bare necessities plus some comforts (AC, motorcycle, new phone every couple of years)

@Kaya ********

There is a lady I use to make transportation arrangements when I stay in Patong. She arranges the the taxi and rents me the motorcycle. I think I pay more for her to arrange taxi but it's good to go through people I know and trust. She delivers motorcycles so you could contact her pick you up at the airport with all your stuff and deliver a motorcycle (or no motorcycle). PM me if you want her Line ID

@Kaya ********

I think Bolt is the cheaper option. That seems to be popular with the Thai people. I believe the prices are pre determine when you make your reservation, and determined by the software. I don't think you need to worry about getting ripped off. You may even find a driver you like and be able to make side-arrangements, which is helpful to have people you trust.

I used to do back-to-back visas. Never had a problem. Twice I was pulled aside and yelled at about staying long time in Thailand. I kissed butt and they let me through. As indicated previously, no limits by air, there are limits by land. Advantage of cross by land, if you get denied entry you can go back to a different border fairly easily. If you get denied at the airport you have to fly away someplace. You may not get to choose where they fly you to, could be; home country, where you came from, nearest country.

It's a risk to do back-to-back but I found the rewards were worth it.

Thank you

@Caleb **************

I always bring everything. Half the time they ask for something I didn't bring.

I just did the marriage visa. It's a real pain in the neck. Probably worth it if you intend to stay for year or more. I hired someone to do it for me. It was probably expensive but having someone to navigate the paperwork who also has connections makes life easier.

You will need a bank account in your own name. Only a few banks can accept overseas transfers over 50,000THB. Plan to park 400,000K in the bank for a couple of months.

You will need a bunch of other paperwork, wife's address, tambon card (whatever it's called), original marriage certificate, photos of you and your wife, etc etc.

Looks like you went to school in Phuket, so I imagine you know your preferences. But if you were a friend asking for recommendations I would suggest get a motorcycle for everything near your parents home and Bolt/Grab for everything you need a car. You will be helping out the local people and saving a few bucks. Plus you'll save a lot of frustration trying to drive/park.

At Don Muang, less than an hour from deplane to luggage pick-up. I imagine 2 hours is worst case experience at BKK. I think you will be safe with the earlier flight.