I just went straight for the Tourist Visa, I didn't want to push my luck. I figure now I have 6 months that I can live in Thailand...aka Paradise, and during that time i'll figure out hwo to stay forever.

I just finished booking my flight. It was kind of complicated since I need to fly from Los Angeles to Bangkok to Koh Samui and take a ferry to Koh Tao. I used www.kayak.com which I love, and got a ton of different options.

I was almost going to do the Air China to Beijing to BKK then Thai Air to Koh Samui option for $866, but I would have had an 8 hour layover in China which I didn't really want...although I guess I could have taken a taxi somewhere to go eat and hang out for a few. But I ended up doing the Los Angeles to Taiwan to BKK through Eva Air route for $700 instead. And once I land in Bangkok I'll buy a ticket to Koh Samui.

I can't wait to go. In the last few days, i've sold half of my stuff, gave away a ton of clothes, and packed. I just have one final commitment on the weekend of November 15th, in which i'll make some more money and then i'm off to live happily in Thailand! I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITED. Thank you all for your help!

Turns out that it was perfect that I booked my flight only to Bangkok and not to Koh Samui yet! Turns out a friend of a friend is living in Bangkok right now and has invited me to come stay with him and show me around for a few days before I go to Koh Tao.

Everything is just working out so well. =)