easy to use a non thai card to avoid tax.with wise u can keep several currencies on your card .yep there is a charge but prob cheaper than paying 30% tax.dont think the new tax has kicked in yet anyway as if u put cash in bank before it starts that aint taxable
update In July, Laos introduced visa exemptions for tourists from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, China, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Finland, and Greece to boost its tourism industry. Citizens of these countries can enjoy a 15-day visa-free entry into Laos.
u can fly to udon thanni then go nong khai and go over the friendship bridge to laos go and come back same day or stay a while .easy, laos visa is around 35$ .