dthomasss

From previous reporting I believe you are using the BOI one stop center? Most people do not have access to that facility so it is not as easy to perform the multi functions required.

Still looking for the easiest way to leave and return with a non-immigrant B. Hard to believe that living and working here for 8 years, paying taxes, owning cars etc, basically accounts for nothing just because I am changing jobs!

Actually, they have given you good advice, it is easier to leave the country and come back with a new Non-imm B

In theroy WP etc can be changed over, but if not a the same labour office and pre-planned its a pain in the ar*e...

Its less hassle getting on a plane and getting a new non-imm b

So where would be the quickest and easiest place to go do this, and what documentation do I need?

I imagine the same-day visa run to Cambodia would not work.

I have lived in Thailand for eight years, working for the same company. I have decided to change jobs and thought it would be a simple procedure.

I have been informed by the new company that I have to cancel my work permit and visa extension, and leave the country to apply for a new non-immigrant B visa and then return.

Surely there must be an easier way than having to leave Thailand and start everything over again??

In addition you have been advised to go with DTAC/HAPPY for a Net SIM, unless HAPPY DTAC have no coverage in her area. You should take note of the advice that you have been given.

In her village she has AIS for her phone. I use DTAC and when I was there I could almost never get a signal from her house.

When she calls me in Bangkok she sometimes has to move around in the house to find a signal, but perhaps AIS might be better. I guess I will buy one of each as a starter and let her try them out.

By the way... Telephone 085 335 4898 for info at Total Aircard is a dead number!

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

Sorry, I read it your post, but didn't note any any useful information within, other than perhaps you may have a suitable aircard for the OP. Now that is useful.

Thank goodness you redeemed yourself at the last minute, as obviously you were unable to recommend an Android mobile for a suitable price despite your insistent rambling.

Only you know why you would insist that the OP should purchase such an expensive item when even you infer that 3G access is sporadic. So why spend so much just to get access to EDGE.

You say that your Android phone "has those capabilities". Which capabilities would that be? Perhaps you can link to the model and specification and also the price.

Your access to 3G will depend on the SIM card that you are using.

As to your suggestion that I have misquoted you.... let's take a look at what you wrote:

The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

So let us understand what you were writing.... is it that you are saying that the Android phone will work in precisely the same way as a USB modem, but is just much more expensive??

Please, elaborate.

Yours was and is a silly recommendation, but I understand that some people take on the concept of 'face saving' once they have resided in Thailand for an extended time.

I would have let it pass were it not for someone potentially wasting their money.

I am sorry this turned into a private war. I was simply trying to get some advice. I will purchase an Aircard (nothing fancy as it will only be Edge in the village) and then look for a plan that gets around 200 hours a month.

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

I sent you private message about your aircards.

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

I gave the OP an option since he seemed familiar with using a cellphone for internet connectivity. The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

Don't get me wrong, USB air cards and Nokia PC Suite was my choice for a long time... then I discovered android.

We have an OP who is apparently challenged in the IT department so... laptop + USB aircard + phone versus for separate voice/sms and data or laptop + phone for all-in-one ease that still handily keeps voice/sms & data usage separate on the same SIM?

As the young wife said the other night, 'Up to you.'

This is for use in the village where 3G will never be present. She has a knockoff cheap phone already. It seems that my choices are to buy a used Nokia for use as a modem, or invest in a android phone to use as a modem, or buy an aircard. I will want to pay for the monthly netsim fee from Bangkok so she doesnt have to worry about it.

What I am asking for is the easiest way for her to connect the netbook to the internet. I realize the connection will be slow no matter which way we go.

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

A bit confused.. so I buy an aircard and a netsim that goes into the card or into a phone?

How is the connection made and how do I recharge the sim every month?

This sim will only be used for internet, not for phone calls.

^ Meaning....?

Going the OP's route using a second hand Android phone with a netSIM. Then she can tether the netbook to the phones hot-spot. That will be a one button operation on the phone and an automatic connection on the laptop (if set up correctly) which beats the faffing around with installing modem drivers and Nokia's arcane PC Suite.

She will soon have all the geek boys chasing after her with that little set up!

I would like to know how to do an automatic connection on the netbook without having to install and use nokia pc suite every time.

She is already being chased. Life can be dull in the village for a teenager!

consider using an aircard

I have heard the aircards are actually a waste of money and much slower.

Bought a netbook for stepdaughter just starting high school but there is no phoneline for internet.

Looking for suggestions on the best netsim packages under 500 a month (AIS, DTAC?)Will I also need to install software on the netbook like nokia pc suite etc for her to use phone as a modem. She has an unbranded phone now so not sure how it would connect. Maybe best to buy a second-hand phone with dedicated netsim. I want the msot simple way for her to connect.

Also, with windows 7 is it simple for her to switch between Thai and English?

Copies of everything (perhaps more than one if upcountry) will include Kor Ror 2/3 signed by both, wife ID and home register signed by her, your passport data and visa/entry/exit stamp and arrival card (and bank book pages if using) signed by you. Be sure home number is visible in at least one photo.

If residence is not wife she should transfer her home register there or you could be told to extend where her name appears.

Why would I have to go to her province for the visa when we live together in Pattaya?

Thanks! All clear now.

Still be interesting to hear any stories from people who have traded in their visa status via work permits to being married.

I am in the same boat. My extension of stay is based on my work permit, but at the end of the year I am leaving my job and not sure if I will get a new job or retire, so I want to switch over now to marriage visa extension of stay. I meet all the criteria, and lawyer wants 15,000. Is it simple enough to do myself?

Yes it is simple. Many of us do it every year without paying someone to fill a form in.

Save your money.

Great. Is there a site that shows everything needed or will they tell me at Jomtien immigration if I just show up.

Thanks! All clear now.

Still be interesting to hear any stories from people who have traded in their visa status via work permits to being married.

I am in the same boat. My extension of stay is based on my work permit, but at the end of the year I am leaving my job and not sure if I will get a new job or retire, so I want to switch over now to marriage visa extension of stay. I meet all the criteria, and lawyer wants 15,000. Is it simple enough to do myself?

Not true. The salesman who spoke to me was American. Absolutely no negotiation. Just tried to get me to "save" by buying two-year membership.

well 98% of the time, the American guy is not there!!!!!! So speak to one of their sales reps who always so eager to talk to passers by. Why are you arguing with me - I told you this based on my own experince and two other friends who have joined on my recommendation. What other proof you need?

I am not arguing. I am sharing my experience of yesterday. Calm down...

There is nothing worse than walking into a place of business and being greeted with blank stares - lots here in Thailand

I joined Calif WOW for 10,000 baht - got a lifetime membership inclusive of ALL their branches (BKK, CM, etc), and Yoga Classes.

Sales people are well trained and friendly. Will show you the facility with great enthusiasm!! Comes negotiation time - be tough and tell them your budget is 10K. You must haggle a little bit - say "I'll think about it" and do a walk out..... they'll give it to you - trust me I'm speaking from experience here.

Not true. The salesman who spoke to me was American. Absolutely no negotiation. Just tried to get me to "save" by buying two-year membership.

I saw big signs outside Tony's Fitness offering promotion of one-year membership for 5,9999 baht yesterday, so I went it to join as I need to drop some kilos.

Inside there was nobody at the member desk to help. I was told to wait.

After 10 minutes a woman came over and asked what I wanted. I told her I wanted to see the facilities and join for one year.

She did not say one word to me (I can speak Thai fairly well). Not even a hello, nothing!

She just handed me a piece of paper to fill out - no information about the club or anything.

I filled it out and handed it to her. Again she did not say one word to me. She wrote something down in a book and then looked up at me and said, "7,999 baht." That was it, not another word. I told her that I thought there was a promotion. She said, "Are you member now?" I said that I wasn't, and she said, "Then you pay 7,999 baht."

The rudeness and lack of any assistance was enough to make me just walk out.

This is no way to treat potential customers, especially in these economic times.

Unfortunately, California Wow is still double the price so Tony's may get my money after all, but what a lousy way to start.

I am looking for a reliable company to clean my new three-story townhouse once a month. I am only here three days a week and I keep it quite clean myself so there is no heavy work to be donw.

I tried a company here (I will hold off naming them right now) and the owner (farang) came around first time and said it would be most economical to have three women do it and he quoted me 900 baht for three hours. They did a decent job so I had them come back yesterday.

This time they were here nearly four hours, which included a half hour lunch break and they gave me a bill for 1,200.

I paid it (plus tip) but when they left I was upstairs and noticed my clock had stopped. Upon examination I noticed it has a large crack in it and it had stopped during the time they were cleaning. I had to throw it out. I contacted the owner and he responded that this is typical of Thais to not say anything when they had damaged something like that.

This morning I went out to my back porch to do laundry and I noticed the water to my washing machine was turned off. I know they had cleaned the area and they must have disconnected my washing machine hose. When I turned the water back on it gushed all over the place and I saw the connecting fixture had been snapped off, so now I have to go buy a new one.

Clearly I will not use this company again so I am looking for a recommendation.

Is there anything else available in Pattaya? I cant get True where I live (3rd Rd).

I ordered 3BB more than a month ago. They installed the line a week later and said it would take 3 days to be up and running.

A week later there was no connection but when I called they said it was working. They said they would send a technician the next day.

He called and said he would be here in the morning. At 4 p.m. he had still not arrived and said he was too busy and would come the next day.

He never arrived but the next day the connection was working.

It lasted 2 days and and then stopped again. I called again and they said they had to start with a new service order. Three days later it worked again for two days, but no service call. I returned to Bangkok for four days and when I arrived back in Pattaya this morning... no connection.

Called them again and they asked me if the technician did anything to my computer last time. When I told them I had never received a service call they acted surprised and said they had to put me back in the queue.

I have had it with them!

Waiting on photos

By the sound of it not just a non cat lover but maybe not a very nice person period.....................sorry I forgot the lol

Best ever internet service in Pattaya-Sophon Cable 999/month for 4mb and you always get 4 mb

You can contact them on 038423000

See other recent threads about internet and you will find a number of people praising the service and i am one of them.also worth mentioning is their customer service and response time-incredible for Thailand.

Technicians out to your house in case of problem within 1-3 hours same day.

I went with 3b Premier. Fifteen minutes polite signup at Carrefour, handed me the modem with username/password, and 24 hours later the tech called to come over and hook up the line!

Moving into a new place in Pattaya and made several calls to True for internet. Each time they said they would get back to me in a few days with installation date but they never called. Finally went to their office at Carrefour. First time 4:00 they were already closed. Second time I went at 9:30 and they said they didn't open for customers until 10:30. I returned at 10:15 and they were in full swing with already 6 people ahead of me!

Finally was able to talk to someone only to be informed there was no service in my area (3rd Rd South Pattaya).

So now it looks like 3BB which I had before. I know Premier was better than Indy for overseas surfing, downloads etc, but now they have a new service named "Pro." Anyone know the details? I asked about it and they said.. oh it is better than Indy but farang like Premier better (sure..a lot more expensive). When I asked for a technical description of the difference, the woman just shrugged her shoulders...

ooopsss sorry, just noticed you are in Bangkok, handyman I posted is in Pattaya! not much use Im afraid!

Note to self: engage brain before putting mouth in gear.

I am moving so I need the handyman in Pattaya

I need things like towel rack and toilet tissue holders mounted, washing machine hooked up, cabinet mounted etc. Small stuff really but I am all thumbs!

Call San on 086-003-8778 excellent service and reasonable prices, speaks perfect English.

Great thanks!

I can give you the name and mobile No of a handyman and wife, good work and not expensive. Her name Pon 0812697972. Keep trying the mobile.

Thanks a lot. Can she understand some English?