Surat doesn't offer much for foreigners. It's dominated by it's close proximity to the islands. Wealth from the islands tends to inflate land prices. Mostly a transit town.
Nothing. Only if you have a minor child who has been registered at the US Embassy and is a US citizen. Then that child would receive approximately half of what your benefit was until the age of 18.
Sirineou gave you some good answers. Other possible trips could include Chaing Mai in the North. Nong Khai in the Northeast. And Hat Yai in the South. Definitely go to at least one of the islands. Which one could depend on the time of year and your interests. The ancient capitals of Sukothai and Ayutthaya are also worthwhile.
She could always just divorce the scumbag. But Thai laws won't leave her with much and she'd likely have to go to work. Between a rock and a hard place, she is.
You can tell he's been in Thailand for a long time. Already shirking responsibility, just like the Thais do. "Oh, I didn't actually kick her. I slipped." LOL
Check to see if there are any Warmshowers hosts in your area. These people will often store a bicycle for you. I'm a Warmshowers host in Trang, and I often keep bicycles here while people go out to visit the islands.