Fore Man

Am looking for anyone out there who is a USAA member, maintains a checking account at USAA Federal Savings Bank (USA) and has successfully sent money to Bangkok Bank (or any other LOS bank). I used to have a BOA account in San Diego but grew weary of paying $5 plus 1% for every ATM use in Thailand. USAA is free as far as I can tell so far, but I need to move some large sums soon...building a new home.

Thanks to all respondents....I appreciate your advice and experiences, and I will probably go with the smaller, more nimble CRV, despite it costing THB 150K more than the Fortuner. I like the Toyota's looks and brand reputation, but just can't go with the truck-like suspension. We don't intend to do much off-roading here in Chiang Mai.

Thanks all for your thoughts...I too was impressed with the Fortuner, but is a tad big and unwieldy. I guess I could learn to live with the diesel noise. I'd also like to see an upscale version that has a better quality interior (replacing the cheap plastics and adding wood applique trim and steering wheel grip). And if there is sufficient power, I may go for the gas-operated mill.

Agree that the Rovers and Volvos are just 'paeng maak'. I also had a Thai friend tell me that when your Toyota or Honda breaks down somewhere out in the boonies, it will be far easier to get repaired in the nearest burg than the Volvo or some other import. Probably sage advice.

I live in Mae Rim (Chiang Mai). I am trying to decide on which SUV to buy in Thailand. Already drive a 2004 Camry and love it, but we need a second set of wheels and are inclined to go for a SUV. We have test driven all three SUVs and are a bit put off by the diesel racket and stiff suspension of the Toyota. But we respect the brand. I'd like to hear from owners of all three vehicles and get their thoughts and advice. Price is not a big discriminator, nor is resale value, but overall build quality, reliability, and getting good dealer service is important to us

I live in Mae Rim (Chiang Mai). I am trying to decide on which SUV to buy in Thailand. Already drive a 2004 Camry and love it, but we need a second set of wheels and are inclined to go for a SUV. We have ltest drove all three SUVs and are a bit put off by the diesel racket and stiff suspension of the Toyota. But we respect the brand. I'd like to hear from owners of all three vehicles and get their thoughts and advice. Price is not a big discriminator, nor is resale value, but overall build quality, reliability, and getting good dealer service is important to us.