I just did Koh Lak. I dont recommend the day trip. I would recommend liveaboard. The day trip is a speed boat for 1.5 to 2 hours each way. The destination is great the journey leaves much to be desired.
I didn't really see much going on around Khao Lak when I was there 6 weeks ago. Much of the businesses were closed and the place seems kinda small. Meaning - I a few days is probably enough.
I dont know the deal with Canada, but there are no direct flights Thailand/USA. I have heard rumor US doesn't allow it for some stupid reason (safety or security or something).
However, I know a few people that have recently flown from US to Thailand (routed through somewhere else). You may want to look at that option? Vancouver -> LA -> Thailand via Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong, etc
Respectable question, thank you. I have no answers for you and I apologize on behalf of the group. We let everybody in, were good like that. But sometimes we probably could filter out some.
In Brisbane they turned around my passport with visa same day. I was a walk-in. Also there was only one other customer in the office. So to answer your question - yes it is possible. Did it happen in your case - obviously I don't know
First thing that comes to mind. If you listen to the message 20 times. Did it ever once change? Did you expect it to change?
I have no advice for your situation. However, I use a friend local to deal with the bank when I am away. Usually I leave the sim card but I guess phone banking is an option too. The local person - is, of course, Thai.