canerandagio

8 minutes ago, chickenslegs said:

No. Wrapping can be in a plain colour or a pre-printed design. It's just a sheet of vinyl molded and glued to the plastic or metal panel.

If you want a painted design there will be no vinyl. The painter will just prime the surface and lay the paint.

I expect that neither will be cheap - but you will have something unique.

There are plenty of custom paint jobs and vinyl on scooters and bikes here. I suggest you have a chat with some owners and find out where they got their work done - maybe your Honda dealer can point you in the right direction.

Many thanks!

Surely it won't be my Honda dealer giving me directions, as when I got there there were only a couple of 18 year olds struggling to apply the number plate frame to the bike :)

Final question - do you think they'll need to dismantle the parts to apply the vinyl?

2 minutes ago, chickenslegs said:

Found this Bangkok company with Google. This PCX has been  wrapped...

http://www.wrap-a-car.com/index.php/facebook-gallery?id=642992465773041

 

Great, thanks... looks more professional than I expected, and I guess more pricey too :)

So, I guess that if I want some artist to do the landscape paining I would need to have the area wrapped first in a plain colour and painted afterwards?

19 minutes ago, Squeegee said:

 

This is just one of the little things in life that make the world a better place.

 

The successful recolouring of an annoying orangey bit is surely the best remedy for Brexit, Trump, immigrants, nagging wives, or spice in the not-spicy somtam. In fact, it's arguably one of the many answers to the question 'What is the meaning of life?'

 

Stay passionate, Mr straydog!

 

 

 

 

Er, what woz the question again?

I don't know if you know me, but you seem to have caught the spirit in full :)

Dismantling and repainting a brand new bike, why not, we live only once... :)

1 minute ago, DILLIGAD said:

Get the panels 'wrapped' then when you get bored it can be more easily changed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Sounds like a great idea, but what does 'wrapping' entail?

This may be a bit of retirement madness but - hopefully soon - I should be receiving my brand new PCX150 and I have a colour problem...

I chose the white version, as all my previous vespas, however there is not such a thing as full white for PCX nowadays, they all come with that horrible orangy part in the middle, which I just don't like.

I am still tempted to change it to red or blue, but maybe not... as I am still hoping to make something out of it...

Two options:

1 - Take the orangy bits out and spray them white - will that work? I fear not, and I may end up with two different types of white, which would be horrible. Does anyone know somewhere in Sukhumvit where I could do it if I chose to?

2 - Turn the orangy bits into a canvas and ask a tuk tuk artist to make the most of them, temples, sunsets, palmtrees, thai landscapes, whatever... Does it sound mad?

Would it make the bike more prone to theft, and would it be feasible anyway?

Can anyone suggest where and how I can go to have the artwork done? :)

Thanks in advance,

straydog

Thanks all for the valuable info, in particular the one that changed entirely my plan is Buick, as it seems to fit my bill perfectly.

I have transferred 860k THB today from UK and it should arrive tomorrow.

Now my three further questions, just to be absolutely sure.

This forum is so bloody helpful :) thanks guys.

1 - Funds must have been in my bank account for 2 months, right? This means I will have to wait two months before I apply?

2 -  Below is an excerpt from the list produced by Buick and UbonJoe (thanks both)

If I walk into Bangkok Branch and ask for a guarantee letter (5.1 below), would they know what I am talking about, and is there a standard template?

As for 5.2 - is that just a photocopy? Does it need to be stamped by the bank?

As for point 5.3 - I transferred with Transferwise, what sort of evidence would they want to see?

Quote

   5.1 A guarantee letter from the bank in Thailand in Thai language (Attention: Immigration Commissioner)*
      5.2 A copy  of all entries of the applicant’s passbook showing that the applicant has a savings or fixed deposit account  of not less than Baht 800,000* (all documents must be in the Applicant’s name).
      5.3 Evidence of foreign currency fund transferred to Thailand*
    *(Documents under 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 must be issued and updated to be the same date of the Application and all documents must be in the Applicant’s name.)

 

 

 

3 - If I have to wait two months, then I am cutting it tight, please can someone validate my calculations: I entered the country on 19th March, and I will receive the funds in my thai account on 29th March.

Two months from the 29th March means 29 May. On 29th May I will be on my 30 days extension of my 60 days tourist visa, and I presume this doesn't change my ability to convert the visa. If my assumption is wrong someone please SHOUT!

On 29 May I will get the bank letters done, assume a day or so will go by, then I will go to Immigration and they will ask me to wait two weeks, which will take me to the 13 June - still within my 30 days extension.

So, all going well I will manage to do the conversion on time, with the risk of having to leave the country at short notice if - for some reason the process goes wrong, or some additional document is requested.

Am I making sense?

Hopefully the two months wait isn't required, so I will be able to apply immediately. 

Actually, I just read the above by wayned, and I think he answered my questions 1 and 3: I can apply immediately for the conversion, and so I don't have to bother with extending my tourist visa...

Quote

When you do the conversion you will have to have the 800000 baht in a Thai bank in your name only, but it doesn't have to be seasoned.  You will get 90 days permission to stay and during the last 30-45 days of that permission to stay you apply for the 1 year retirement extension,  The 800000 baht will have to be in your account for 2 months at that time (3 months for follow-on extensions). You do not have to leave the country to do this and after you get the extension you will only have to report your address every 90 days, not leave the country.

----

Thanks, all sorted. Ban Khae Honda dealer, paid 92,500 THB for a PCX, now waiting...

Thanks guys, will go down the route of the 'Certificate of Residence', if anyone knows how to call it in Thai it will help.

And even better... some guidance on which office in Chaeng Wattana I can get it from.

Cheers,

Straydog

Thanks guys.

I read the following here: http://www.siam-legal.com/thailand-visa/Thailand-Retirement-Visa.php

The foreigner on a visa exemption stamp or a tourist visa can still apply for a retirement visa given that the foreigner has already met the requirements for the non-immigrant O visa and for the one year extension visa applications. This can be done at the immigration office in Thailand.

Would it mean I don't have to go back to Europe?

Cheers,

Straydog

All,

I appreciate the information is certainly out there somewhere, but I hope I can find a kind soul to lay it out for me exactly as I need it, it won' t be much, so I thank you in advance.

I am on a 2 months tourist visa, used a week of it.

I qualify for retirement visa (am 52 and can transfer 800000 THB into my Thai account) 

I am in Thailand and do not wish to return to Europe to apply.

Questions:

1 - What steps do I have to go through to have my retirement visa?

2 - Where do I need to apply for each of the steps? Can I do it from BKK or need to go out of the country?

3 - If I need to do my conversion in BKK is it at Chaeng Wattana immigration? If out of the country, is there a recommended place to do it?

Thanks a lot

Straydog

Thanks. Went to the Honda dealer in Soi 71 Sukhumvit but the waiting list for a PCX was so long that I had to go elsewhere.

Useful info though, thanks all.

All, I thought I would post a follow-up to inform everyone of the situation on the ground here in Bangkok.

I have eventually decided for the PCX150, although it wasn't easy and I still turn my head around when I see a Grand Filano passing by.

The PCX just doesn't fit properly my day bag between my legs and this will make me think of the Filano for a while.

However, the good reviews, the more powerful engine, the good look especially front and back of the PCX, and most of all the idea I have that it will be comfortable to ride long distance made me go the PCX way quite easily.

Now, the latest: the 2017 model comes in four colours, and my idea of having a completely white one had to be abandoned as they only do blue, red, black and white with orange middle in it.

I went for the white with the orange middle, but one day I will see if there is any way to turn it completely white (advice anyone?).

It's virtually impossible to find one from a dealer in BKK now, the waiting list goes from 1 week to 3 months, and I believe that the one week ones are unrealistic.

Prices also vary, from THB91k to THB101k, cash, or more expensive finance options.

I added a topbox in the back (comes white or black) for THB4900 including the mount.

I paid THB92,500 + THB4,900 for topbox. Price includes: Honda jacket, one decent helmet, mandatory insurance and registration.

The shop I used was Yos Charoen in Bang Khae, details on request, very helpful.

Had problems as I am on a tourist visa, and my studio contract wasn't enough to convince them. They asked for a work permit.

So we attempted with a letter from my UK employer, and failing that my thai friend provided her ID card to register the bike in her name. Insurance would cover me.

I will now have to wait a month (was number 24 in the queue).

Ah, as I walked out I decided to purchase a little Domo 115cc as a gift for my friend: THB48000, including registration, insurance, No. 3 helmets and Honda jacket. Why not :)

Thanks all for the advice.

thanks Papa. You mean pay and go on the same day?

It's straydog but for some reasons fingers always type straygod... subconsciously I may have an unusually high self-esteem :) 

Thanks guys, very helpful info all round. Can I drop in another question.

Are prices fixed across models between retailers or they vary?

And is a negotiation for a discount within the norm or would it be wrongly perceived?

Finally, how long from the time I agree to buy to the time I can actually drive (I'll have an international driving permit with me).

Thanks,

straygod

Asavanant dental clinic  Thong Lo bts station 1blk.
good service fair prices.

2 hours ago, Lovethailandelite said:

Flying all around the world with no money in your pocket? Sure, you sound pretty astute. Still, at least you can go direct to Laos.

I think there is a lot of unfair criticism directed at the OP here.

Regardless of whether or not he took an unnecessary risk coming in with multiple visa exemptions, judging him on the basis of whether he is ready to pay '000s on an elite visa (regardless of the number of trillions he has stacked up), or whether he carries a stack of cash in his pocket when going to Laos seems to me like an overreaction to something.

I think behind all this is his statement 'my millions of baht in stock investment' which was unnecessary and may have aroused acrimony, but let's focus on the subject matter shall we.

It is now known that it's a good idea to have some cash on us when passing immigration, and that multiple exemptions are likely to be questioned.

It is also known that if you have a lot of money you shouldn't sport them like if you had a new shirt.

Long Live LOS :)

Hi All,

Looking for a reputable dental clinic around Sukhumvit Rd Bangkok. I don't need to do anything fancy, just checkup, cleaning, and maybe filling, no whitening, implants or God forbid extractions.

Can anyone recommend a place where they had a direct favourable experience (anywhere from Sukhumvit Soi 1 to Soi 109 will do).

I know Bumrumgrad, and I can go there if necessary, but I'd welcome cheaper (or better?) alternatives to broaden my options.

Thanks,

Straydog

Hi,

Am a mature European student, with basic knowledge of Thai language. Am interested in picking up courses to better understand Thai culture, society, philosophy, history.

I don't want a full blown BA, but a more relaxed and non-committal arrangement of courses for a few weeks per module (usually these are part of a Certificate or Diploma).

I know Chula university has something like that in place and I am looking to get more details about it (website is useless), but if anyone has any experience of alternatives, ideally in Bangkok, then please can you let me know.

Thanks,

Straydog

Yes... I know there are a million threads on 'which scooter to buy', and this is why I try to make my life a little easier and start a conversation on a simple topic: should I go for a Grand Filano or a PCX150.

After much research I have isolated these two models (but if anyone, after reading my criteria, wants to suggest an alternative please do so,  but I won't spend more than 80-90k).

Just to clear my head I share this with you, so perhaps someone can help me tip one or the other side.

My criteria:

- The cheaper the better, so the Filano has the edge but I can pay the PCX price if it's worthwhile.

- Mostly used in Bangkok, so it needs to be easily manoeuvrable. I think the Filano has the edge here too, am I right or are they equivalent?

- Want to travel up to 100-200-300km per day on some weekends. I think this point goes to the PCX, but how much of a difference would it make if I had a Filano instead?

- I will always be travelling with a small rucksack, so I think the Grand Filano has a huge advantage as I can put it on the footrest.

- Storage space is welcome for storing a brand new helmet and other things (which of the two wins here?) 

- Consumption relatively important but obviously it matters (which of the two wins here?)

At the moment I am set on the Filano as it has the space between legs (which seems to be a big drawback of the PCX, or am I missing something?) but I would like to be able to travel comfortably with a passenger, will that be much difference from the PCX?

Thanks for helping me decide.

Straydog

Hi,

I stay in On Nut and want to purchase a scooter, recommendation for a retailer somewhere in this part of town?

Since I am quite a newbie here is string of questions:

- Retailers cover different brands? I am after a Yamaha Grand Filano but may also want to check other models.

- From experience what documentation will I be required to provide (am on tourist visa but will have a 6 month contract)

- How is servicing and maintenance in Thailand and Bangkok in particular? If it's not terrible and not expensive I may decide to buy a second hand one instead.

- Tips on a helmets? Half-face with visor is my preference (tips on where to buy?)

- Theft is a problem everywhere I know, but is BKK worse than Europe or better?

- Will the retailer give me the scooter ready to drive with roadtax? Any other taxes to worry about?

- Do I need to get insurance myself or will the retailer provide it? If I have to do it, where and what should I be looking for?

- Is there such a thing as MOT? how does it work?

Thanks for the patience, please don't insult me for the number of questions :) I just ask questions because I don't know (yet).

Straydog

Hi,

I am looking for a room/studio/condo for 3 or 6 month rental possibly more in an area from soi 61 to soi 109.

I don't need a specific offer but just an indication of a good residence or condominium.

Budget is 8-10k month.

Criteria:

- Near shops

- Secure or semi-secure parking for motorbike

- Stores, streetfood and other facilities just below.

- No need for gym or pool

- Clean and not noisy.

Thanks.

Straydog

OK... here is an update.... I thought I get away at Suvarnabhuni without showing my visa, but at the last minute the immigration officer saw it and forced me to use it.

As explained by the replies above, I was able to get a reentry permit by asking the immigration officer when exiting the country 5 hours later at Don Muang...

One of the ladies took me to a room, took a picture of me (no charge), got a 1000 for single reentry and off I was to China.

I am flying back to LOS tonight, however it is very important to state here that the 60 days of my visa started running from the time I entered the country first time, and they did not halt when I was away...

Which means that - although I only stayed in LOS 5 hours, I have actually burned a week of my visa and will have to exit a week before originally planned...

Thanks all, very helpful. Have peace of mind.

Regarding the NO answer, I didn't register it, it must have been a mistake...

Thanks a lot, for both replies. I will attempt to keep my visa, but if it fails I will apply for re-entry permit.

Can I get a head start on the re-entry permit please?

- Where can I get it? Don Muang? Where is the office? Before or after immigration? and is it going to be open at 10 pm?

- Also, what documents/photos/other paperwork could I be asked?

Final question: if it all goes tits up... can I return to Thailand on 30 days exemption and extend if for another 30 days without having to leave the country?

Thanks,

canerandagio

Hi,

Simple question: EU passport.... going to Thailand for 12 hours, need to change airport from Suvarnabunhi to Don Muang.

Flying to China, stay there short time, no time to apply for visa.

Fly back to Bangkok and stay 2 months.

I just applied for a Tourist VIsa - single entry, and I plan - once I get to Bangkok the first time to enter on visa exemption, so that my visa remains valid for when I go back.

Can I do that? I don't want to invalidate my visa.

I know that I could have applied for a double-entry but I didn't realise that, so I am now looking for a way out of this.

I heard someone at the embassy recommending that one asks for a re-entry permit on the single entry visa.... never heard of that...

Thanks in advance for advice.

Cheers,

canerandagio