Extending My Tourist Visa?

[mark17022]

I have a tourist visa with with one entry left. I have almost used up the first 60+30 days. Just checking that all I need to do is cross the border and come back to get the next 60 days before it expires? I believe its ok to cross by land? And if so what is the closest place people go from Phuket? I have a car so can drive. Thanks

[lopburi3]

Yes but you must do this before the expiration date on your visa (not your current permitted to stay date). So two dates to watch. You must leave before the permitted to stay date but to use a visa for another entry it must be while the visa is valid.

[digitalchromakey]

Closet Land Border to Phuket is Ranong, Burma.

Ranong is a 4 hour drive from Phuket - journey length obviously varies with the time/day.

[mark17022]

Ok cool I'll be driving up to Ranong. I've noticed several different prices for the Burma fee. Anyone have current idea if its $5 or $10 or whatever. If I take my own note is there usually trouble with its 'crispness' or should I buy a note there?

Also do I need photos and passport photocopies for the Burma or Thailand entries?

And do people park anywhere in particular in Ranong that is safer than elsewhere?

[digitalchromakey]

Ok cool I'll be driving up to Ranong. I've noticed several different prices for the Burma fee. Anyone have current idea if its $5 or $10 or whatever. If I take my own note is there usually trouble with its 'crispness' or should I buy a note there?

Also do I need photos and passport photocopies for the Burma or Thailand entries?

And do people park anywhere in particular in Ranong that is safer than elsewhere?

Haven't done it now for two years, but it was a very crispy $10 bill and a photocopy of your passport ID page.

Have seen some recent posts saying that the Burmese are trying to push the THB payment with excuses like "the bank is closed today" (perhaps, with the US$ at 30 THB, it's quick and easy money for them, changing Baht into Dollars on the side).

As regards parking, I used to go to the long tail pier where there is now a 'one stop' immigration service. You used to be able to park by the 7-11, at the gas station on the right, just as you reach the port toll booth situated in the centre of the road.

You get hassled there a lot by touts for the long-tails - just ignore them and get on the pier to negotiate directly with the long tail pilot - you may well get a better price for return trip, I used to pay around 300 THB for a private return.