@Wyn *********

I do that frequently. Usually the fine is only 500baht so I don't bother learning my mistakes.

I think my agent charges about 4500 (they cover the 1900). For a border run to Cambodia, 3500. I suspect the the 4500 is because the Pattaya immigration office is a pain and everybody gets a piece of the pie. You can do it yourself for 1900 baht... However, DIY will likely result in a couple of day trips to immigration.

Maybe you can renounce your US citizenship, I don't really know... But then what citizen would you be? Who would issue a passport? Would you show up at the airports and tell them "I dont have a passport because I don't like them, muh"?

@Giorgio *****

Last time I shopped for onward travel tickets 12go.asia had the best deals, Hat Yai to Penang, Malaysia, Looking now those tickets cost $13 so $12 is a good deal. $12 for international travel is a very good price.

I have a buddy that says its better to get the retirement visa in-country, due to insurance reasons. I don't think you have time to get the visa all squared away before you leave, hence if you did get a retirement visa, it would likely expire in 3 months and you will have to do it all over again (you won't have time to get the extension).

I recommend, enjoy your last week in Pattaya. Go home, come back, then worry about the retirement visa.

It's "Onward Travel" not necessary "Onward Flight". That makes a difference if you are buy tickets for the sole purpose of show proof of "Onward Travel" and you have no intention of actually travelling (bus tickets are cheaper than plane tickets).

You didn't ask but I will say any way...

Places you'll want to see if you are considering moving to Pattaya

Wongmat Beach (Naklua)

Soi Siam Country Club (the darkside, Nong Prue)

Central Pattaya/Pattaya Beach

Soi Bakhao (night time, dinner)

Pratumnak Hill

Jomtien/Jomtien Beach

Approximentally North to South with various degree of Farang/Thai mix.

I suspect you will get many recommendations for a driver but if you don't find one I can recommend my transfer service, also I know a girl whose English is perfect, she drives and often looking for extra work.

You go girl!

Most people in Thailand use Line.

When I bought mine, I bought from a company/person that rented motorcycles short time and long term. I paid them a couple of baht to change the paperwork to my name. You never know when you will need to prove it's your motorcycle.