Thanks for replies. I am 50+, and I talked directly with the embassy staff in their native tongue. Went through all possible avenues / options - Retirement. Medical / Therapy. Child. Although I could possibly meet certain criteria, I have no documentation with me to support any of these avenues, I came here on the assumption (after chatting with immigration but nevertheless perhaps foolishly) that I would qualify for at least one tourist visa - with options of overland travel open, I didn't submit any proof of an onward flight with my application - just proof of funds / accommodation. The transit visa was offered as my only option / recourse. There is no "emergency situation" visa type. I'm ok with the transit visa - just to get my car back home and prepare everything for my child. I have funds to travel on. If all applications are online now then perhaps it's all the same, wherever you apply from - your history is attached to your account. I will certainly apply again here in Laos for a transit visa shortly - I need to get to my child. If they refuse, even with a paid valid ticket to the UK and explanation, then perhaps I will try to fly in & get back to Mukdahan to retrieve my car - albeit a pain in the Khyber. The last time I got refused a visa, you queued up, your passport was checked and got a decision without paying / losing your money. Ironically the last refusal was at Savannakhet Years ago - I bussed upto Vientiane and got the same visa, without any incident atall. Seems like a bit of a faceless cash grab now, with no human element / interview / accountabilty offered. I'll update any developments. I would say to anyone - be prepared for refusal of Tourist Visa if you've used visa exempts this Year. Thanks again.
