How Can I Do It ?

[seacaptain]

I'm a British National aged 47, employed as a Ship's Captain with a British company, working six weeks 'on' followed by six weeks vacation. I wish to spend most of my vacation time in Thailand, and have been travelling frequently to Thailand for the last 3 - 4 years, entering on 30 day visas granted on arrival.

In 2003 I purchased a condo in Bangkok which I intend to decorate over the next few months. The purchase was conducted legally and I hold a Tor Tor 3 in respect of the funds used, and the property title documents.

Moving in to the condo has presented a number of obstacles which I am keen to resolve - and ask for any advice that can help me do so.

1) I wish to have a broardband internet connection. (I currently have a pre-paid dial-up account).

2) I wish to have a mobile phone account that will give me overseas roaming. (I currently have a pre-paid account that keeps getting cancelled if not used or topped up for a month).

3) I would like to have a bank current account, which allows credit cards and internet banking. (I currently have a deposit account and ATM card).

4) I would like to import some (duty free) personal effects to help furnish my condo.

5) I intend to hire a car for use during my periods 'in residence', and would need a Thai driving license.

I'm given to believe that the above are only available to Foriegners who have valid work permits. Does anyone know different?

I do not wish to work in Thailand - I do want to continue to work overseas but spend 5 -6 months each year living in the condo I own in BKK and spending money in the Kingdom. Being able to accomplish the above would make this goal so much more feasable.

If there is no way around the requirement for a work permit, does anyone have any suggestions about how I would be able to get one? (whilst still working overseas on my current (6 weeks 'on', 6 weeks 'off') rota).

All suggestions gratefully received.