eljuwa

Thanks to all Forum Members for their suggestions. Specially, junglechef. I will follow your thoughts and will drop my plans to visit King Roman Casino in Lao. I support free wild life. Not the consumption. Thanks again, junglechef.

Hello Chiang Mai Forum

I wish to do the Golden Triangle Tour. I prefer to go through a Travel Company - not try do it on my own.

I also wish to visit the King Roman Casino in Lao.

Hopefully one tour will cover both of my requests.

I am a US Passport holder. Do I need visas for any part of this tour ?

Do you folks any recommendations ??

Thanks very much

James

I am the originator of this topic.

I wish to thank every one who gave great replies.

Thanks

James

Hello Chiang Mai Forum members

You have helped me many times before.

By early February 2015, I need to renew my Retirement Visa in Chiang Mai. This is my 6th time to renew. Last time, i did this in January 2014 in Chiang Mai

Please tell me the following:

What are the Forms that I need to take ?

Are you able to give me the copies that I can fill out. How many copies of the Passport picture and do I need a medical certificate. And, any other requirements.

I also need a multi-entry visa form since I leave Thailand quite often.

What is the total cost for the one yeaR RETIREMENT VISA AND FOR THE MULTI-ENTRY VISA FEE?

Any other requirement that I may have missed.

Thanks so much for your kind assistance.

James

How can I find out the written question test for a drivers license ?

Please help.

James

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I can't speak for the OP, but I've had fillings replaced by the dentist on Nimman Soi 17 (?) and I think that is Grace. The fillings didn't last two years. Whatever that place is called I won't be going back.

First, JulieM, thanks very much for your input. In fact I go past the Nimman Dental building quite often. This place was recommended to you by your friend and it will be a place that I will visit as I search for a new Dentist and it also happens to be in the Nimman area where I live. Another place that I am considering is Payon Dental Clinic recommended via past input of other Forum Members. Your experience at Nimman Soi 17 (it is Grace and is understandable) is sad but true.

Now, please let me explain the reason WHY I want to change and this is in answer to the "lexilis" comment also.

I am a customer of Grace Dental since January 2012. I have no problems with Grace Dental until about one year ago. My dental needs were confined to "cleaning only". First they, recommended additional X'rays (often and run up the bill) and stated there are other problems with a receding gum. Which may need " surgery". My gums look pretty healthy to me and I would like to have a 2nd professional opinion. The cleaning charge (in January 2012) was about 900 baht for light plaque and 1,000 baht for moderate plaque. Then they increased their rates to 1,000 baht for light plaque and 1,100 baht for moderate plaque. Normally I have moderate plaque and I did not complain about charges. Then about 9 months ago they introduced an "additional service charge for the clinic of 100 baht." This time I complained to my dentist and she spoke to the Front Desk. Bottom line, she reduced my all inclusive fee to 1,100 baht. The Front Desk reluctantly agreed. The latter however when the payment time comes tried to sneak in the 100 baht extra. I refused in July 2014 and the Front Desk made my fee only 1,100 baht. Lastly I went on 2 November and the Front Desk charged me 1,200 baht. They sneaked in the 100 baht service charge. I complained vehemently. The November 2014 cleaning was marked as "Moderate Plaque" and same procedure as the previous cleaning in July 2014.

I believe that Grace Dental is following the Western Model of setting goals for their dentists to increase, collect billing. The Farangs who can afford will pay. I can not afford this cost.

Thanks again, JulieM.

Regards

James

A small correction to my comments.

Grace Dental is on Soi 11. Not on Soi 17. Sorry for my incorrect agreement that you went to Grace Dental

I can't speak for the OP, but I've had fillings replaced by the dentist on Nimman Soi 17 (?) and I think that is Grace. The fillings didn't last two years. Whatever that place is called I won't be going back.

First, JulieM, thanks very much for your input. In fact I go past the Nimman Dental building quite often. This place was recommended to you by your friend and it will be a place that I will visit as I search for a new Dentist and it also happens to be in the Nimman area where I live. Another place that I am considering is Payon Dental Clinic recommended via past input of other Forum Members. Your experience at Nimman Soi 17 (it is Grace and is understandable) is sad but true.

Now, please let me explain the reason WHY I want to change and this is in answer to the "lexilis" comment also.

I am a customer of Grace Dental since January 2012. I have no problems with Grace Dental until about one year ago. My dental needs were confined to "cleaning only". First they, recommended additional X'rays (often and run up the bill) and stated there are other problems with a receding gum. Which may need " surgery". My gums look pretty healthy to me and I would like to have a 2nd professional opinion. The cleaning charge (in January 2012) was about 900 baht for light plaque and 1,000 baht for moderate plaque. Then they increased their rates to 1,000 baht for light plaque and 1,100 baht for moderate plaque. Normally I have moderate plaque and I did not complain about charges. Then about 9 months ago they introduced an "additional service charge for the clinic of 100 baht." This time I complained to my dentist and she spoke to the Front Desk. Bottom line, she reduced my all inclusive fee to 1,100 baht. The Front Desk reluctantly agreed. The latter however when the payment time comes tried to sneak in the 100 baht extra. I refused in July 2014 and the Front Desk made my fee only 1,100 baht. Lastly I went on 2 November and the Front Desk charged me 1,200 baht. They sneaked in the 100 baht service charge. I complained vehemently. The November 2014 cleaning was marked as "Moderate Plaque" and same procedure as the previous cleaning in July 2014.

I believe that Grace Dental is following the Western Model of setting goals for their dentists to increase, collect billing. The Farangs who can afford will pay. I can not afford this cost.

Thanks again, JulieM.

Regards

James

Hello Forum members

I wish to go from Swampy to the Param Saam area.

What is my most economical way of transport?

By Taxi - I used to take the Taxi from the area on Departures where taxis drop off their customers. Now it is more difficult with the barricade gates. I do not want to pay the 50 baht from the Public taxi stand.

By train - Is the City Line operational ?? or the Express to Makasan and take a taxi from there. Is it not cheaper to take a taxi from Swampy and not depend on the train and taxi? Your input please.

I know that most of you are regular travelers from Swampy to Town. So, I am sure that you will have updated information.

Thanks very much.

James

Hello Forum Members

I live in the Nimmanhemin area. Presently I am with Grace Dental.

I wish to find a new dentist preferably in the Nimman area.

I like to have a Western trained dentist, preferably, or an English speaking dentist.

Any of you folks willing to recommend a dentist (except Grace Dental).

Thanks a lot.

James

Hello Forum Members

I wish to visit Cambodia and Myanmar in December 2014. I am a US citizen, presently living in Chiang Mai.

A few years ago, I visited both countries. I believe that Terms and Conditions may have changed.

Please enumerate for me the latest requirements to enter both countries.

Thanks very much.

James Peiris

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If I'm not carrying luggage, it's the Airport Rail Link to Makkasan Station. The city line (35 baht) runs more often, but the Express line (90 baht) is faster, less crowded and a lot more comfortable. At Makkassan, follow the signs, walk downstairs to the MRT (subway) and get on a train headed toward Hua Lamphong (not toward Bang Sue). First stop is Sukhumvit (exchange station with Asoke BTS). Get off and follow the signs and go upstairs to the BTS (elevated train). Get on a train headed toward Mor Chit (not toward Bearing). First stop is Nana.

Probably takes longer than a taxi, but not as white knuckle as a ride with a bad driver (most are pretty good, but occasionally...)

With luggage, suck it up and just take a taxi. Too many flights of stairs and way too much walking between stations by rail. Taxi will be about 300 baht including tolls and airport's 50 baht.

Just made the trip last night- though I'm only close to Nana. Took rail to the airport to meet someone, and a taxi back with my friend who had luggage. No issues in either direction.

Edit: After about 11:00 PM, the rail option dries up. You may get to Makkassan, then not get down to the MRT in time to catch the last run around midnight.

Thanks very much, Impulse. James

I heard that Phaya Thai is closed for renovations. Is gettting a taxi less problematic.

Thanks

James

Hello Members

Please advise me as to how I can get from Suwarnaphoon to the Sukhumvit area (near Nana BTS) by train.

You have helped me before. I heard that I can not go through Pheu Thai. OR, is a taxi better and less problematic.

Thanks

James

Thanks, Thainess.

Excellent advice.

Best regards

James

This is James and I started this topic.

Digitalbanana posted a response that says " $25 for VOA and also a web-site." Thanks

Showbags posting says " VOA for 6 days " Cost of this was not included. Thanks

My query now is " Is this VOA for 6 days still allowed and permitted by the Indonesian authorities ? If so, what is the cost.

Thanks very much

James

Hello Forum members

I am an American citizen, presently living in Thailand.

I wish to know the visa requirements for me to enter Indonesia for 6 days.

The cost and whether it is Visa on arrival.

Thanks very much

James

This is James and I posted this query.

I wish to thank everyone who generously stated their opinions. Much appreciated.

My present i-mac with monitor is all in one unit. So, I can not purchase a monitor separately.

I could always state that this is a gift to a student and then use the Student Discount.

The price difference between USA and Apple Store is not that much.

Any differing comments, please let me know.

Once again - THANKS

James

The Imac price from the Apple Online Store is nearly the same as US if you use the education store discount. VAT and DHL shipping is included in the price, and it's delivered right to your door.

Thanks for the info.

I have not used Apple on-line store - is it out of USA or Thailand ??

How do I get the "education store discount " if I am not on an education visa ( I am on a retirement visa) ??

James

Hello Forum Member

I came to Thailand on a retirement visa in January 2010. I brought my personal effects including my Mac computer with no problems and no levy of taxes.

It is time for me to buy another Mac to replace my aging computer. I am going to USA in October 2014 and I wish to buy my new computer in the USA and not in Thailand.

I wish to know the following:

(1) Do I have to pay custom duties in the purchase of this replacement Mac in Thailand ?

(2) I have seen the prices of a Mac in Thailand and it is astronomical. Since I am only replacing my existing Mac and I am not trying to sell same in Thailand, do I get a break from Thai customs ?

(3) Are there any advantages of buying the Mac in Thailand over bringing same from USA ?

Thanks very much for your counsel.

James

TerraplaneGuy

2 entry tourist visa: My visa was issued on 11 March 2014. I need to enter China before 11 September 2014. Duration of each stay is 30 days after entry. I have to enter China on my 2nd entry before 11 September.

You can apply for the multi entry at the Chiang Mai Consulate.

Airline ticket: You need not BUY the airline ticket. You need proof that you have a BOOKING. You can do this with Air Asia.

Hotel: Again, you do not pay for your hotel reservation. Only a booking is needed.

I entered China in June 2012 after obtaining my Chinese Visa in Bangkok. I did not have to provide airline tickets/hotel bookings nor itineraries in June 2012 out of BKK. Things have changed and Chiang Mai Consulate requires all of this. If BKK wants the same, I do not know. Maybe the BKK Forum members may have the recent answers on that fact.

When you apply at the Chinese consulate in Chiang Mai, they send the passport and the package to BKK Embassy for the final approval and entry stamp is affixed in BKK.

Good luck with your travel to China

James

Marcelo

The ITINERARY you can make-up. They are not that picky about that.

The AIRLINE - On the Air Asia screen you proceed with your booking up to the point before the payment screen. At that time make a screen copy. The screen will say Booking and also have your name, airline itinerary and the cost. You take that copy to the Chinese consulate.

The HOTEL booking. In my case I went directly to my hotel's web-site and made the booking. For you, I propose you go the agoda.com web-site and make a reservation. You do not have to pay until a future date. Or go directly to one hotel in any city that you are visiting and get a hotel booking for them. You only have to cover one city for the consulate. If you can cover all the cities that would be better also. agoda.com let's you book and pay in the future..

Good luck

James

PS: The lady at the Visa counter is very nice and pretty also !!!

Hello Forum Members

I asked this question from the Forum before and got varying answers.

Today, 14 March, I got a 2 entry tourist visa to enter China.

I applied on 11 March and this what you need for documentation:

(1) There is a new form called V.2013. This replaces the old form called V.2011 A. Only 1 copy is needed - previously 2 copies.

(2) You only need to provide an airline booking, called a BOOKING CONFIRMATION BY AIR ASIA ( I used them). You do not need to physically buy your airline prior to receiving your approved tourist visa. This confirmation of booking that I got from Air Asia was deemed sufficient. ROUND TRIP TICKET.

(3) You need a hotel booking confirmation. Again, you do not have to pay for the hotel before you get the tourist visa. I am going to Shenzhen, China and I went directly to Century Plaza Hotel and they gave me a confirmed reservation.

(4) You need to provide the Chinese Consulate with a travel itinerary for the cities that you intend to visit.

That is all. My cost was Thai Baht 4,560. USA passport holders pay more than others.

Happy travels to all of you

James

Hello Folks

I entered China via visa obtained from the China Consulate in Bangkok. Since I live in Chiang mai, now, I wish to obtain a Chinese visa from their Chiang Mai consulate.

Please provide your input. Specifically:

(1) How do I get there - directions that I can give a tuk-tuk/taxi driver.

(2) How much time do they take and what is the cost.

(3) After getting the visa, what is the time limit to enter China.

(4) I am a USA citizen with a USA Passport - are there any other pertinent facts that I need to know.

Thanks very much

james

Thanks

Hello Members

I am visiting Kuala Lumpur on Friday, 14 February for 5 days. I am staying at the Eastin Hotel.

This visit is only for some R and R. I am not really interested in doing any tours except a visit to the Petronas Towers.

I am very interested in going to 5 good restaurants in the KL Center area.

I like Malaysian, Indian, French, Italian and Japanese food.

I like good places (not dumps) and am not interested in the price of food.

Please recommend 5 places with Malaysian, Indian, French, Italian and Japanese food.

Thanks very much.