jaywalker2

According to Grok: Yes, tourists can open bank accounts in the United States, but the process and requirements vary by bank and account type. Here’s a concise overview: Eligibility: Many banks allow non-residents, including tourists, to open accounts, but some require a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Others accept alternative IDs like a passport or foreign driver’s license. Requirements: Identification: A valid passport is typically required. Some banks may also ask for a secondary ID, such as a driver’s license or a U.S. visa. Proof of Address: You may need to provide a U.S. address (e.g., a hotel or temporary residence) or, in some cases, a foreign address. Visa Status: While not always mandatory, some banks prefer customers with a valid U.S. visa (e.g., tourist visa like B-2). Minimum Deposit: Many banks require an initial deposit, ranging from $25 to $1,000, depending on the account type. Bank Options: Major banks like Bank of America, Chase, or Wells Fargo often allow non-residents to open accounts, but requirements can be stricter. Online banks or fintechs like Wise, Revolut, or international banks (e.g., HSBC) may offer accounts tailored for non-residents with fewer hurdles. Credit unions and smaller banks may have more flexible policies but could require local residency. Challenges: Some banks may restrict account types for non-residents (e.g., checking or savings only, no credit products). Without an SSN or ITIN, options are limited, and some banks may reject applications. Tourists on short-term visas might face additional scrutiny due to anti-money laundering regulations. Practical Tips: Research banks in advance and contact them to confirm non-resident policies. Consider online or international banks for easier access. Be prepared to provide documentation and possibly visit a branch in person. If you need specific bank recommendations or details for a particular state, let me know!

I wonder how all those wine drinking countries have survived for so long. They should have collapsed into chaos by now

Just visited Pattaya and I was surprised at the large number which I hadn't noticed last year. Even more surprised by the number of Indian restaurants, sometimes two or three right next to each other. Didn't seem busy either

Thailand's postal system used to be completely unreliable. Not anymore. Even better than the U.S., at least in Bangkok

The safest city among ASEAN countries!

No prostitute is going to sue you for defamation. She'll put a hit on you instead and over the balcony you go.

I was speaking about masking before Covid. It was common for Japanese who had a cold or the flu to wear a mask in an effort to avoid spreading their illness to others, although admittedly the tradition is adhered to less by the younger generation. The Japanese government mandated masks during Covid but the Japanese didn't complain, only foreigners. They were perfectly willing to cooperate instead of engaging in futile and hysterical arguments, which is probably why they did so much better during Covid than Western countries.

The Japanese culture of good manners stretches back almost 2,000 years. Wa or social harmony has always been an integral aspect of Japanese society.

Japanese wear masks when sick in order to display consideration to others. It lets others know that they are ill so they can take precautions if they choose and also indicates their concern for the health of their fellow citizens

I shower for social reasons but I don't know how effective rinsing yourself poolside with cold water actually is,

No, I meant your immune system doesn't seem up to par and that's exacerbating the illness.

Or maybe there's something wrong with you?

What's the point? Are they going to stipulate that only people with a certain net worth are allowed into the country? And given how hard they've been pushing the "cashless society", to demand that tourists arrive with 20,000 baht of cash in their pockets doesn't make sense.

Yeah, but you can't open an account online from Thailand. I couldn't even do it using a vpn. You have to mail in the application and then they'll send the confirmation to your US address. Then even if you manage to open an account, they won't let you trade online if they suspect you're in Thailand