falangUK

I recently had a very disappointing experience with AirAsia Thailand on a flight from Bangkok (Don Mueang) to Colombo. As a frequent traveler with over a decade of flights under my belt, I did not expect the level of unprofessionalism and obstruction I encountered at the boarding gate. The issue arose just before boarding, when a staff member suddenly insisted that I needed two blank passport pages to be allowed on the flight, despite my valid visa for Sri Lanka. I was puzzled, as I had researched entry requirements from both the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and Sri Lankan immigration ([https://www.immigration.gov.lk/index_e.php](https://www.immigration.gov.lk/index_e.php)) and found no mention of this supposed rule. Even AirAsia’s own travel guidance for Sri Lanka did not list such a requirement. Despite my polite explanations in both Thai and English, the staff member refused to listen, persistently asserting that I could not board without these blank pages. Adding to my frustration, the staff member was unwilling to provide official identification beyond a misspelled name. This lack of accountability was concerning, especially considering her unprofessional conduct. To make matters worse, she raised her voice and made a public scene, questioning my eligibility to fly in front of other passengers and causing me significant embarrassment. Two of her colleagues had previously confirmed my documents were in order, but this particular staff member appeared determined to obstruct my boarding process. The situation was even more distressing as I was traveling for a family emergency after a bereavement, which I explained to the staff member. Despite this, she showed no empathy and continued with her obstructive behavior. The ordeal escalated when she began photographing multiple pages of my passport, including visa stamps, without my consent—an unacceptable invasion of privacy. Although I was eventually allowed to board, the experience left me unsettled and with a serious lack of confidence in AirAsia’s handling of customer service. I have since filed a formal complaint with AirAsia (Case Reference Number: 174557816) and have yet to receive clarification on whether this “two blank pages” rule is a real requirement, as none of the official resources mention it. Given this experience, I feel compelled to warn other travelers about potential issues with AirAsia’s ground staff, especially when dealing with sensitive or urgent travel plans. Until AirAsia addresses these service concerns and clarifies their staff’s understanding of actual immigration guidelines, I would be very cautious about flying with them.

Hi everyone, I’m looking for recommendations for a reliable mechanic in Chiang Mai to check my Honda scooter. It was caught in some flooding, with water reaching up to the exhaust pipe. I’m not sure about the extent of the damage but would like to get it inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Any suggestions for trustworthy mechanics or service centres that have experience with water-damaged bikes would be appreciated! Thanks in advance.

Could someone clarify how long the 60-day visa exemption for nationals of 93 countries will be available? I haven't been able to find an official end date for this exemption. Thanks for any updates!

Hello everyone, I’ve done some research on visa runs from Chiang Mai and would appreciate some up-to-date advice from those who’ve done it recently, especially with the ongoing floods in Chiang Rai possibly affecting the Chiang Khong-Huay Xai border crossing. I’m planning to make this trip towards the end of the month, so any advice or updates would be really helpful! Here’s what I’ve found so far: 1. Chiang Khong-Huay Xai (Laos) Border Run: - I already know about the requirement to stay two nights in Laos before re-entering Thailand, with roundtrip costs around 2,500 THB and the Laos visa on arrival costing around 50 USD (~1,900-2,000 THB). - Has anyone recently traveled this route, given the flood situation in Chiang Rai? I’d appreciate any updates on how it’s affecting travel. 2. Flying to Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur/Penang): - I’ve also considered flying to Kuala Lumpur or Penang. If I fly to KL, do I need to stay two nights before re-entering Thailand, or is it more straightforward in terms of visa regulations? Any insights on whether this is a convenient alternative? 3. Laos Visa Online: - If I apply for a Laos visa online, will they still issue the old-style visa sticker at the border that uses a whole page of the passport, or is there a newer format? Trying to manage passport space. Thanks in advance:)

Sorry forgot to ask .. can the 30 day extension be done at Chiang Mai Immigration at Central festival Branch? TIA 🙂

Thank you very much for your help 🙏 😊 😀 👍

Thank you very much for your help 🙏 😊 😀 👍

Thank you very much for your help 🙏 😊 😀 👍

Hi all, I’m looking to extend my 60-day visa exemption at Chiang Mai Immigration and have a few quick questions: 1. Are there any upcoming immigration holidays that could affect office hours? 2. Do I need to show proof of a return flight for the extension? 3. Any other requirements? Thanks in advance for your help!

Hi everyone, I hope you all are doing well. I am in need of some advice and would greatly appreciate your input. My friend, Apple, is currently taking care of 14 rescued dogs in Thailand. These dogs have been saved from the streets or abandoned by their previous owners. Unfortunately, Apple is facing financial difficulties and is struggling to provide enough food for these dogs. I am considering reaching out to dog food manufacturers like SmartHeart and others to ask for assistance, such as donations or discounts on dog food. However, I am not sure how to approach this or if there are other better options available. Has anyone here had experience with a similar situation or have any advice on how to best proceed? Any tips on how to effectively communicate with these companies or alternative solutions would be incredibly helpful. Thank you in advance for your support and suggestions. Best regards, Jack

Thank you so much ????

Thank you so much ????

My 45-day visa exemption expires on April 15th. Today is the last day that the immigration office is open. Unfortunately, I am confined to bed due to the haze. Will I encounter any issues if I attempt to extend my visa on April 18th when they reopen?

800 THB every year for keeping my money in their bank and 10-15 THB every time I make a withdrawal from an ATM not in the "free withdrawals" area... perhaps time to contact the RTP?

Does Expedia still offer refundable tickets? For instance, is it possible to book a budget flight such as AirAsia on Expedia and obtain a refund, or are there specific airlines that provide refunds?