It looks like I will need a side trip to get a visa, but I'm not sure how long you have to leave between applying and picking up your passport. Anyone have this info for the embassy in Hanoi? Vientiane would be another option if that's any quicker. Just need to figure out flights and accommodation.

Vientiane always used to be apply on the morning of day 1 and pick up on the afternoon of day 2. There is a superb 5 start hotel with low rates at the other end of the same road (literally 5 minutes walk from the consulate). I think I used to pay around $75 per night or thereabouts, which is great for the quality.

2 minutes ago, Badger18 said:

Anyone have this info for the embassy in Hanoi?

Generally (Saigon for example) drop in application AM and pick up PM next day.

Check if appointment is required.

Personally I would be going to Saigon. 

Good consulate close to tourist area of Bui Vien District 1. 

Bus 109 to district 1 quick and easy from airport door 1usd.

Apply the morning of one day and pickup the next afternoon.

Info here: https://rtehanoi.thaiembassy.org/th/page/26656-working-hours-visa-section?menu=5d7de15d15e39c3484001bb7

Tourist visa requirements are here. https://rtehanoi.thaiembassy.org/th/publicservice/25691-tourist-visa?page=5d7de15d15e39c3484001bb9&menu=5d7de15d15e39c3484001bba

3 hours ago, DrJack54 said:

Generally (Saigon for example) drop in application AM and pick up PM next day.

Check if appointment is required.

Personally I would be going to Saigon. 

Good consulate close to tourist area of Bui Vien District 1. 

Bus 109 to district 1 quick and easy from airport door 1usd.

Better than Ha-Noi actually!

Last time I applied in Hanoi it was a case of apply in the morning of day 1 and collect in the afternoon of day 2.

 

Be aware that the fee must be paid in US dollars, not Thai Baht or VND. And dollars and finding somewhere to change money in Hanoi is extremely challenging.