My quest for a Visa

[gerefan2]

Someone suggested one of us writes about our experiences getting a Visa in these difficult times. Here goes!

Last month (October) there was seemingly no way of getting to Thailand for the UK winter. However things changed a few weeks ago when Thailand published numerous steps to qualify for a Visa, even from the UK. The first steps are:

1. Register on line.
2. Apply for a visa on line.

Item 1 appeared simple enough. But it wasn’t long before I realised I had a LOT to learn.

I failed at the first hurdle...enter your email address. Now I have an newish Air 2 Ipad and an old desk computer. It must be 10 years old. Naturally I used the IPad as I do virtually everything on it nowadays. Can’t remember when I last used the computer.
Would it take the email addy...would it fuk. It just wouldn’t take the @ symbol.

Having spent a full day sodding around eventually I logged on via the 10 year old machine! I then found the application form for the visa. It wanted numerous details and copies of my passport and a picture of me. Another day spent trying to get it to accept a picture of my passport and me resulted in rejection for no apparent reason.

I was getting nowhere with this when I read that there was a good visa agency in London who would do it all for you. I phoned them and a helpful girl said she would get the Thailand specialist to call me back. I waited two days. Nothing.

I rang again and the same girl said the same thing. I told her nothing happened last time and she apologised. Again Nothing.

I called again a third time (now nearly a week later) prepared to give them a mouthful (and an awful review) when a helpful guy answered. After a short discussion he sent me an email with the requirements listed, but did say they cannot apply for the COE. Grrrrr.

So after a full week I had achieved... Nothing .

To be continued...

[gerefan2]

I found a Facebook site with some really helpful people there prepared to offer advice on applying for Thai visas and COE’s. I mentioned my problems and got help so decided to try and register again.

I logged in via the 10 year old machine and started. Next date of birth. No chance just would t accept December. A full afternoon later I realised it was now November and my birth date (24) was both at the top and bottom of the page. Grrr, no idea why. Anyway hours later I realised I should have been using the bottom number.

Picture. Took My face pic on my IPad. But of course it wasn’t on the computer. After some thought I emailed it to myself and downloaded it to the old machine. Wow it worked and the form accepted it! Deep joy. Celebrate with a cup of coffee.

Passport. On a roll now so do the same. Click browse on the form and Nothing. Not even a reason why not. Zilch.

Eventually after umpteen goes it says NMD, or something similar. WTF does that mean? Eventually I Googled it and it meant No Magnetic Detection(or something similar). Turns out I need to scan it. Damn I don’t have a scanner.

Now what? Back to the agency....hmmm. This just isnt going to happen for me.

More googling tells me my IPad can scan. What?!! So after some self tuition I succeed.

Form completed but what visa to apply for?.......

[gerefan2]

Which visa?

After carefully reading the Thai website...a bit like practicing bleeding ...I see two choices. A new 60 day tourist visa or the usual Non immigrant over 50 single entry O visa.

Back to Facebook for some advice. Man says No Way they don’t issue those O visas any more. But it’s on the website says I. Never been issued recently says the man.

Now I’m keen on one of these because I get the full 90 days and don’t want to risk being turfed out after 60 days.

So I fire off an email to the Embassy and a few days later get a reply attaching a standard letter referring to the page I have already seen. No answer to the question.

Next day I write again and asking do you issue them? Yes, or No. few days later an answer comes back saying yes. Good.

So after nearly two weeks I finish the form, add the money ,and nervously hit Send.

Now to sort out Insurance ....

[gerefan2]

Insurance. Apply for some quotes on line from Thailand with some tentative dates. They reply quickly (Thailand always wants your money ASAP)!

Pick one and ask a few questions. Ask about changing submitted dates as I now realise I’m not going to make the dates specified. No problem says Broker. Right, Insurance solved. Phew. I will send him the money later....just in case.

Next day Email from the Embassy. Visa application on hold. WTF ? They want to see insurance. Now I used to be a civil servant a loooong time ago and I know about doing things exactly as per the instructions. There was NO request for the insurance on the form or on the instructions for my type of visa. Clearly says send it for the COE. BASTARDS.

RIght back to insurance man (who I had put on the back burner) obviously he won’t send it until I and go down to the bank in town and send the money by bank transfer. Which was when I got mugged.

[StevieWonders]

Thanks for taking up my suggestion. I’m particularly looking forward to your quest for a COVID-free certificate, especially in light of your suggestion in one post that the safest way would be to have a fresh test every day until you got on the plane. Then there’ll be the day-by-day diary of how you spend your days in quarantine.

BTW as I recall if you’ve specified your keyboard as “UK” on your iPad you’ll find the @ symbol is mapped to the “ key if I remember correctly.

[gerefan2]

I go into my bank, the Nat West (just so you all know), and ask them to send 7500 baht which is approx £187 to the Insurance Booker. Charges are an unbelievable £ 46 extra. Yes 46 fcuking quid., it’s not a mugging it’s Robbery with Violence.

Back home simmering and send proof of payment, with new dates in italics, to the broker.

Wait patiently for a few days, as it’s Songkran in Thailand, and the documents arrive this morning together with the
Certificate of Insurance. Excellent. I get them ready to send off to Embassy to get things moving again only to discover....he’s put the old dates on them. Even though I gave details of the new dates in BOLD ITALICS.

Why is it bureaucrats can only ever do one thing at a time??

I toy with the idea of sending this insurance document to the Embassy as it starts before I leave the UK but will expire before the 90 days is up. It’s Thailand so decide against it.

I now have only 18 days left to get this done or will have to delay again and of course start all over....

[gerefan2]

I’m particularly looking forward to your quest for a COVID-free certificate, especially in light of your suggestion in one post that the safest way would be to have a fresh test every day until you got on the plane.


I didnt say every day! Did I? I suggested a few tests beforehand though...just so you know you’re OK!

I need two hospital checks and have to have a covid test each time. I’ve had one already and another one next week.

Unfortunately they don’t count for the flight!

Now waiting for correct insurance papers. Just hope he doesn’t try to charge for them....

[StevieWonders]

I didnt say every day! Did I? I suggested a few tests beforehand though...Given that your pre-flight test can’t be older than 72 hours suggesting as you did “a test or two” rather implies 72 hours, 48 hours, 24 hours doesn’t it? Anyway how much are you having to pay for these? Surely the NHS isn’t handing out “fit to fly” certificates at the taxpayer’s expense?

[Up2U]

Hang in there. A friend just exited quarantine in Bangkok a few days ago. He can now see his son and daughter here in Pattaya.

[gerefan2]

Given that your pre-flight test can’t be older than 72 hours suggesting as you did “a test or two” rather implies 72 hours, 48 hours, 24 hours doesn’t it? Anyway how much are you having to pay for these? Surely the NHS isn’t handing out “fit to fly” certificates at the taxpayer’s expense?

As I said, Ive already had one covid test which was a few weeks ago. The next one is in about 10 days. They are needed before hospital checks and are free as part of the treatment.

The final one, which I have to pay for, will be less than 72 hours before departure...got it?!

[StevieWonders]

As I said, Ive already had one covid test which was a few weeks ago. The next one is in about 10 days. They are needed before hospital checks and are free as part of the treatment.

The final one, which I have to pay for, will be less than 72 hours before departure...got it?!Quite. How much will that be? Are the hospital tests mandatory before the one you have to pay for or are you just adopting a “belt and braces” approach? If voluntary how did you justify getting hospital tests?

[arsenal]

gerefan2. Victory, total victory.

Never before in the history of gay whorenongering have so many owed so much to so few.

And gerefan2, when you get there. You will have them on the beaches, you will have them in the hotels, you will have them in the bars and you will have them in the clubs. You will never surrender.

[gerefan2]

And gerefan2, when you get there. You will have them on the beaches, you will have them in the hotels, you will have them in the bars and you will have them in the clubs. You will never surrender.

If I get to walk down Boyztown this winter it will be my finest hour!

[gerefan2]

Quite. How much will that be? Are the hospital tests mandatory before the one you have to pay for or are you just adopting a “belt and braces” approach? If voluntary how did you justify getting hospital tests?

Final test £275 with 24 hour result. Hospital tests mandatory for each of my check ups.

[StevieWonders]

Final test £275 with 24 hour result. Hospital tests mandatory for each of my check ups.What I’m driving at is that, as you’re the Forum trailblazer, others may want to use your endeavours as a template they can follow so are the hospital visits essential for everyone? To date taking the insurance and the certificate together you’ve almost spent what you would spend on the airfare in previous years.

[Manforallseasons]

geregan2, I applaud your tenacity however, I wonder if all your efforts will be worth finally coming to Pattaya as it is today?.

[goji]

My tourist visa application was submitted last week.
Other countries, such as Austria have a paper form, but in London, they refer us to a web based application, with a Thai domain name. It's a very unfriendly site, as Gerefan2 reports.

For applications via this website, we have to attach a flight booking. ie The flight has to be booked without knowing we will be allowed into Thailand. [The paper form for Austria does not seem to require a flight booking]

All of the documents have to be under 500mb, which requires a lot of fiddling around, when confirmation of booking pdfs come out at over 500 mb, as did my bank statement. There are websites that downsize pdf files for free, but I didn't want to send my bank statement to one of those.
Fortunately I have a scanner, but a digital camera should be capable of getting an adequate result, after a few attempts.

After all that and payment, I had to send the passport to the embassy. I used "Special Delivery" and enclosed a pre-paid "Specical Delivery" envelope for the return.
In 2020, one would think they could e-mail the visa, since the immigration people in Bangkok get to see my passport and can presumably cross check the visa electronically ? Digital process has a long way to go.

Cambodia was e-mailing visas over a decade ago.

[francois]

If I get to walk down Boyztown this winter it will be my finest hour!

You will likely be disappointed! Most nights are dead; only Friday and Saturday are things lively.

[pong]

General: entertaining and instructive. A kind if explanation: the Thai in their infinite wisdom of cours think that anyone on this globe has the very same passport etc. statistics as their own. So the procedureis set to that. And as always: the Brits delight in having it all just a tiny bit different, as we are so independent island etc.
From other Thaivisit fora here on the continent I gather that its as for now all fruitless if you hail from a country that has too many covid-infected people. Hence only the Chinese are exempt. It also seems the procedure was/is mainly meant for Thai wanting to return home-for which TG=THAi air has had some chartered flites recently, incl. from LONdon.
Unless you actually own a home in TH or have some tight family relationship there, it is as for now said to be a useless venture to gain entry.
But Iĺl thumb it for you to get a final approval and being able to report in person the delights of a tourist-less Land of Smiles. Keep on!

[Brad the Impala]

Thanks Gerefan(and goji) for sharing your experiences of trying to get back to Thailand. Keep posting the news as it comes, and wishing you luck. If successful others will follow in your tracks!

[aot871]

Im just going to wait untill Ive had my jab later in the year , and then just wait untill the boarder opens , ,, hopefuly around this time next year But god knows how we prove we have had the vacine ?

[christianpfc]

Thank you very much for sharing. That's exactly what I had in mind when I thought: The TV looks okay, something worth to ponder about (14 days quarantine and then only 60+30 is not an attractive deal), but there must hooks or bumps, and I won't be the first one to apply. After the spectacular failure of the STV I mentally resigned that I'm not going to be back in Thailand this winter.

[gerefan2]

Today is Sunday so nothing heard from the Insurance company about the wrong dates on the policy. Will have to wait until at least tomorrow. Another few days wasted.

Amazing Thailand...they have a problem for every solution.

The reason I’m going through all this is well known to anyone based in the UK. For those who are not:
To Escape the long dark days. It’s now dark here at 4.30. Another few weeks and it will be dark before 4 o’clock.
To escape the cold and rain. Today is not too bad but just wait until the snow starts.
Escape the Corona threat.
Leave the lockdown behind.
Find bars which are actually open
Meet old friends (if they haven’t returned to the farm)

MFAS . Yes, I know Pattaya will be different. I actually prefer low season...and you were telling us that overall it’s now better anyway, weren’t you? No matter what it’s got to be better than the alternative!

[gerefan2]

What I’m driving at is that, as you’re the Forum trailblazer, others may want to use your endeavours as a template they can follow so are the hospital visits essential for everyone? To date taking the insurance and the certificate together you’ve almost spent what you would spend on the airfare in previous years.

In answer to your two questions:
1. I go to the hospital for check ups following cancer. Unrelated to going to Thailand. They give me a covid test each time.
2. Yes it’s expensive. But I wasn’t able to do my summer visit so I’m still ahead!

[goji]

Next day Email from the Embassy. Visa application on hold. WTF ? They want to see insurance. Now I used to be a civil servant a loooong time ago and I know about doing things exactly as per the instructions. There was NO request for the insurance on the form or on the instructions for my type of visa. Clearly says send it for the COE. BASTARDS.

This is shocking. As you say, there is no request for insurance on the visa application AND they catch that at the later COE stage anyway.
Incidentally, I've not heard of anyone else with that issue.

For the Visa we need: Passport, bank statement, hotel booking (for after ASQ), flight booking and proof of residence
For COE phase 1, we need passport, visa, and travel insurance.
For COE phase 2, we need flights and ASQ booking.

If they decide to ask for travel insurance at the visa timing, then the COE phase 1 has nothing new. I believe the whole idea of COE phase 1&2 is that we can wait until they've pre-approved entry before booking flight booking and ASQ. However, we already have to book flights to apply for the visa.

[gerefan2]

I applied for the Non Immigration, 90 day, retirement, O visa rather than the 60 day tourist visa. I’m beginning to think I might have been better off applying for the tourist visa and taking the risk that they will renew it after 60 days.

I suspect that’s why they have asked for the insurance now but, as I said before, it wasn’t on the application form or any of the instructions I saw.

TiT.

[StevieWonders]

Thanks Gerefan(and goji) for sharing your experiences of trying to get back to Thailand. Keep posting the news as it comes, and wishing you luck. If successful others will follow in your tracks!Not only is this my favourite current thread by far, but almost every new post adds to my pleasure.

[gerefan2]

I have now had a reply from the broker about the wrong dates on my Insurance Certificate. He is sending it back to the insurance company to be rectified...No doubt another few days to get it back with the right date.

I’ve decided to take the risk and send off the incorrect dates (it’s only six days early) to the Embassy for issue of the visa for two reasons:
1. There are only 12 working days before my hoped for departure date and
2. I can send the corrected certificate when I apply for the COE if necessary.

Whilst sitting on the bog this morning, thinking about going to the post office to get my International Driving Permit renewed, I realised, to my horror, that my UK Driving Licence expires next month.

Every bloody twist and turn.....

[goji]

My Tourist Visa application is showing as "Print Sticker", which I think means the visa is approved. They haven't posted it back yet, but this is quick so far.

Further hurdles include a COE, RT-PCR test, fit to fly certificate and dodging domestic hazards, such as being grounded by the UK track and trace team.

[gerefan2]

Tentatively pleased to say that my visa and passport are on their way back to me! At least that’s what my status reads on the Embassy website.
Total 13 days since submission. I know others have been a lot quicker but it was delayed by a request for insurance.

As I reported above I realised my UK Driving Licence is due to expire next month so I have applied on line to renew it.

This week I went to the Post Office to renew my International Driving Permit. The prat wouldn’t do it as my licence had a validity period of less than a year. Yes a fcuking year! No amount of arguing would change his mind. Even the fact that all UK licences have automatically been extended 11 months ...thus meaning mines valid for a year. If he was right it means I will have to renew it every 2 years, as the validity period for me is now only 3 years.

What have I done to deserve all this?? If it’s not one thing it’s another!

So I went to a smaller post office and guess what? They did it on the spot. Didn’t even look at the expiry date. Nice English lady!

Now I have to re-sort my ASQ. The place I booked aren’t answering my emails. I’ve sent at least 5. I need their bank details.

I even phoned them the other day and the guy said he would email details right away. Nothing. TiT

Think I’ve got to find somewhere else...in short order.

Anyone know what’s wrong with my Karma? What on earth have I done to deserve all this crap? I’m usually a half full guy.

Actually, preferably full if it’s Beer Singh!

[Manforallseasons]

List of ASQ approved hotels in Thailand including Pattaya: https://asq.wanderthai.com/properties/

[christianpfc]

Thank you very much for your report and good luck with your visa and trip!

Anyone know what’s wrong with my Karma? What on earth have I done to deserve all this crap? I’m usually a half full guy.
If it's a consolation, a lot of things have not been going as expected (meaning: more trouble, more time, higher expenses than I thought) for me as well.

[gerefan2]

At last!

[Jellybean]

Brilliant! Congratulations gerefan2. But don’t forget, the eyes of the members not in Thailand are upon you and the hopes and prayers of sex tourists march with you. We expect much in the way of trip reports. :)

[gerefan2]

Thank you JB. It’s not over yet! I still need to finish the Certificate of Entry (Part 2) and do the various tests to be allowed to fly. Plus a mountain of paperwork to be sent to the hotel for the quarantine.

Will let you know how the rest of it goes...can’t be worse...can it?!

[Mancs]

Amazing. Congrats.

[arsenal]

Bloody best of British to you.

[goji]

Thank you JB. It’s not over yet! I still need to finish the Certificate of Entry (Part 2) and do the various tests to be allowed to fly. Plus a mountain of paperwork to be sent to the hotel for the quarantine.

Will let you know how the rest of it goes...can’t be worse...can it?!

I received my visa just before lunch. Applied for COE part 1 just after lunch. Part 1 was approved and I applied for part 2 later the same day, then received the COE at about 22:00 on the same day as getting the visa.

I think the RT-PCR test is slightly more risky, as it's relying on the service provider delivering and me passing the test.

[gerefan2]

Well done goji. We are running head to head!

[Brad the Impala]

Look forward to our intrepid explorers updates and wishing them bon voyage!

[Marc K]

i'm curious as to why either of you decided to jump through those hoops and expenses in order to get back there sooner than a vaccine arrives? do you have someone waiting there which is worth all this trouble? if so, then that is great. i don't mean to criticize you but really do you worry that when you get back there (hopefully you will succeed) you'll wonder why you went to all the additional fuss in order to get there and see what does/doesn't remain? and yes we will all be (somewhat jealously) waiting for your on-the-spot reports.

[StevieWonders]

i'm curious as to why either of you decided to jump through those hoops and expenses in order to get back there sooner than a vaccine arrives? do you have someone waiting there which is worth all this trouble? if so, then that is great. i don't mean to criticize you but really do you worry that when you get back there (hopefully you will succeed) you'll wonder why you went to all the additional fuss in order to get there and see what does/doesn't remain? and yes we will all be (somewhat jealously) waiting for your on-the-spot reports.Arrange the following words to make the framework of a well-known saying - parted, fool, money

[goji]

i'm curious as to why either of you decided to jump through those hoops and expenses in order to get back there sooner than a vaccine arrives?

So far, the expense isn't a problem. My flight has cost several hundred less than normal. Add in the cost of the visa, the insurance and a covid-19 test, then as I step of the plane in Bangkok, the cost will be similar to normal.
The hoops are not too bad, but if I fail that RT-PCR test or there are any other last minute problems, I might take a less positive view on matters.
Having to spend 2 weeks in quarantine is the main disadvantage in all this. However, if I stay in the UK, there will probably be 2 weeks worth of grim weather where I don't want to go out. It's just that in Thailand, the 2 weeks is concentrated together, rather than spread across a British winter.

Once I'm out of quarantine, it should be warm & sunny, with all the usual attractions and some pretty attractive hotel prices. Perhaps fewer Laos & Khmer lads, but less competition from Farang customers as well.

Note: Please note, the previous post was just intended to inform people about time scales, rather than look like I'm in a visa race. I don't care who's first, as long as everyone who tries to make the trip is successful.

[gerefan2]

i'm curious as to why either of you decided to jump through those hoops and expenses in order to get back there.

I see you live in Hawaii. Ever had to live through a UK winter?!

[Blueskytoday]

USD$100,000 Insurance Covin Policy.....Sounds expensive to say the least???

[Dodger]

......Having to spend 2 weeks in quarantine is the main disadvantage in all this.

First and foremost, good luck on your journey.

As much as I'd dislike quarantining myself, I'd chose that in a heartbeat over spending the same two weeks in Chicago during the Winter. Plus the fact, that after quarantine the world is your oyster.

Also, if it were me, I know that the money I would save from my holiday budget that first 14 days would certainly offset the extra costs of obtaining the visa, quarantining, etc., and I would have 14 days to just relax and chat with boys on the dating apps to help pass the time.

Sticking to a regimented fitness routine (daily) would be a must. Keeping the mind occupied by exploring and researching interesting topics on the internet, writing to family/ friends, keeping a journey, etc. would also be important. Not everybody can quarantine. It requires a concerted effort to keep the mind and the body active as much as possible.

If you consider the money being saved during the quarantine process, and add to that the money you could save on a discounted hotel for the remainder of your holiday, you could very well end up spending less money than your previous holidays.

Good luck...the Boys will appreciate your arrival.

[Marc K]

I see you live in Hawaii. Ever had to live through a UK winter?!

No, I can't say I have. Is it really all that dreadful? And when it is over you have the crocuses and tulips and wildflowers to look forward to in spring, no? And you guys might be the first to get vaccinated, no? (Trump is really pissed that the UK is winning the race, not that I give a shit that Trump is pissed!)

You know it is interesting, but those of us in the torrid climate often dream about the ski slopes and a cup of hot chocolate at the lodge. I guess the grass is always greener, right?

Oh the news today in Hawaii is that we have 30-40 foot waves on the North Shore with hundreds of the world's best (hunkiest) surfers (Hawaiian boys and Australian boys and Chilean boys and... well you get the pic) risking their lives on those waves to impress everybody watching. Well they are pretty impressive! (the waves that is :blush: )

I can't recommend tourism to Hawaii just yet though, as we have quarantines here also and a frightening increase in cases. So I can't offer you a boy-delight, warm winter here this year alas. And, like everybody else, the people are suffering from a bad economy.

But, back to the original topic, hopefully it won't be too many more months before all this starts turning around. I'm still surprised people would need to get to Thailand (or Hawaii or wherever) quite so urgently. If we were 20-something, even 40-something, then not much to worry about but I assume most of us on this board passed their "Romeo 39th birthday" some time ago. Our risks are high. So, to those making a long international trek in search of sun and fun, please be careful!

[arsenal]

Marc K wrote.
"No, I can't say I have. Is it really all that dreadful? And when it is over you have the crocuses and tulips and wildflowers to look forward to in spring, no?"

The British winter is gruesome, often dark at 4.00pm. Miserable.

Crocuses, tulips and wildflowers do not compare to the cherry picking season in Paradise upon Sea.

[christianpfc]

...in order to get back there sooner than a vaccine arrives?
I would not set my hopes for a vacation this winter on a vaccine.

[goji]

The British winter is gruesome, often dark at 4.00pm. Miserable.


Exactly. Here's the forecast where I am in the UK today.
Two weeks quarantine to escape that seems like a fair trade to me.

[gerefan2]

Exactly. Here's the forecast where I am in the UK today.
Two weeks quarantine to escape that seems like a fair trade to me.

And to put goji’s forecast into a picture taken today.... Fancy another 4 months of this?

[dinagam]

The falling leaves,
Drift by your window...

[Jellybean]

Exactly. Here's the forecast where I am in the UK today.
Two weeks quarantine to escape that seems like a fair trade to me.


And to put goji’s forecast into a picture taken today.... Fancy another 4 months of this?

To answer your question gerefan2, no, not really. This was the scene this morning up north; admittedly, just a light dusting of snow, the first of the winter, but it was bitter cold and more is to come. Of course I would prefer to be in Thailand for the winter and, as is my custom, return home in April after the UK switches from Greenwich Mean Time to British Summer Time, but not this year. :(

10520

[Brad the Impala]

Of course I would prefer to be in Thailand for the winter and, as is my custom

10520

Still, at least you've got that knob in the garden for pleasure. Looking at the overlooking it might be best after dark on those long, long nights. And hope the floodlights don't suddenly come on!

[Jellybean]

Still, at least you've got that knob in the garden for pleasure. Looking at the overlooking it might be best after dark on those long, long nights. And hope the floodlights don't suddenly come on!

You’re not the first to comment on the . . . er . . . phallic nature . . . of my garden water feature, Brad the Impala. Honestly, when I purchased it, it was the last thing on my mind. But, much to my chagrin, it’s the first thing almost everyone who has seen it comments on.

Hopefully, gerefan2 will be along soon to provide us with an update on his visa application, bring us back on topic and thereby spare my blushes. ;)

[latintopxxx]

...good lord...no privacy...all those windows overlooking youir garden...how u supposed to enjoy that knob

[gerefan2]

.

Hopefully, gerefan2 will be along soon to provide us with an update on his visa application, bring us back on topic and thereby spare my blushes. ;)

Not much to report, except I read on the Expats trying to get a Visa Facebook site this week that they are closed because, you guessed it, some of them have come down with Covid 19. You couldn’t make it up!

[Marc K]

And to put goji’s forecast into a picture taken today.... Fancy another 4 months of this?

Okay well if it is weather you want, then Hawaii can't be beat. Far better weather than Thailand frankly which is almost always beastly hot. Today is just another Shitty Day in Paradise, as we say:

10521

Me thinks it is not the warm weather you need.

[latintopxxx]

americans r so funny...miles and farenheit

[goji]

Weather forecast at home and for Bangkok:

[Jellybean]

Weather forecast at home and for Bangkok:

Yep, it’s a no brainer goji, but since I am not up to following in your and gerefan2’s footsteps, I’ll just have to brace myself for the awful British winter weather to come and bide my time.

Talking of the weather, in the early hours of the morning I was vaguely aware of far away loud banging noises - they sounded like explosions, but I didn’t get up to investigate. Later on, I found out the noises were caused by a rare phenomenon called thundersnow (see short video below). And, when I eventually got up and looked out my window, I saw that it had again snowed overnight (see photo below).


https://youtu.be/S0CE1n-R3OY

10529

And, not for the first time, my thoughts immediately turned to Thailand and the house I once owned in Hua Hin. It occurred to me, if I had not sold it, it would have made the perfect bolthole to ride out the pandemic. It had a beautiful garden, a swimming pool and, just a short drive away, several beautiful beaches. But alas, selling it seemed like the right decision at the time. But [long sigh] no point wishing for the impossible and, as the entirely apposite proverb reminds us, If ifs and ands were pots and pans (https://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/If+ifs+and+ands+were+pots+and+pans#:~:text=if%20if s%20and%20ands%20were%20pots%20and%20pans,pans%2C% 20there%27d%20be%20no%20work%20for%20tinkers%27%20 hands.%22) . . .

[latintopxxx]

must be a very local saying...have never heard of it...

[Captain Swing]

must be a very local saying...have never heard of it...

Nor I. I do know "If ifs and buts were fruits and nuts what a Merry Christmas this would be." Sort of apposite too.

[gerefan2]

I’m in quarantine and I need Beer of any sort. Fat chance!

[goji]

I’m in quarantine and I need Beer of any sort. Fat chance!

The way to get alcohol into quarantine is to bring it with you, safe in the knowledge that they are not going to want to search the farang luggage, in case lots of viruses escape.

I considered packing a bottle of rum, but decided it was a good chance to to abstain for a couple of weeks. Some have shown even more restraint.

[Brad the Impala]

To Gerefan and Goji, It sounds like you have both made it through the mounds of paperwork, check in, flights and procedures at Thai airports and are now in the waiting room prior to receiving your just rewards in Sodom.

While you are in the waiting room(five star I hope) and abstaining is surely a good time to update us on the final stages of the process that you have achieved to date. I think a medal of honour from SGT may await such intrepid explorers.

[goji]

Well, I got my RT-PCR test and fit to fly from Midland Health. Had to drive 60 miles to get there, but they have good reviews & reliability is the main thing at that late stage.

No checks on the additional documents in London. The documents were checked in Zurich and the boarding card was stamped. I estimate the 777 to Bangkok was about 30% full.
Upon arrival in Bangkok, there were several stages of document checking. However, I was through and collecting the luggage about 30 minutes after leaving the plane, which compares well with normal.
They did ask about where I was going after quarantine & I told them where I would be for the first 2 weeks or so after quarantine and said no plan after that.
Had to wait about 20 minutes outside the terminal, as one other passenger was going to the same hotel. There was no hurry, since this was a morning arrival and the quarantine clock doesn't start ticking until midnight.

I notice there are a lot of flights arriving between 22:00 and midnight. So perhaps the quarantine clock starts ticking from the moment the plane arrives ? I would want to know if having a late arrival.

Lots of other people are using the internet to whinge about the food in quarantine. I find it's perfectly OK & am surviving nicely so far. Those who like to sustain an excessive BMI might not be so content.

We had to take an indirect flight last week. However, I note my favoured EVA BR68 flight operated on 12th Dec. So that might be an option for anyone travelling from near London.
With all the entry paperwork, I'd want to see that the chosen airline is actually keeping to whatever revised schedule it publishes.

[arsenal]

Goji and gerefan2. Respect.

A few longish tv shows you might like to revisit with all that time on your hands. Especially if you begin to feel a bit pissed off at your incarceration.

The World at War. Narrated by Lawrence Olivier it's the best documentary series on WWII ever.

The Sopranos. 8 series of brutal, often senseless killing. Help you lose any pent up frustration.

The Pacific and Band of Brothers. Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks' twin masterpieces set in WWII.

Blake's 7. Forget the cheap sets and out of date 'technology'. The script bites and stabs like a pit bull with a rapier.

The West Wing. The one that lifted tv drama to a new level. Martin Sheen as the US president you always wanted but never get.

[gerefan2]

Goji has adequately covered the flight and arrival process at BKK, so I will just add a few tips.

For anyone contemplating it I suggest the three websites below. The first one helps with with the saga of getting a visa and the Certificate of Entry. A few knowledgable guys on there offer good advice. Just ask. Invaluable.

The second two review the numerous hotels which offer Quarantine. It seems you pay your money and take your choice. I’m more than happy with my place.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/272003337395576

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1859391754195276
https://www.facebook.com/groups/298606387906884

[Dodger]

Goji and gerefan,

Congratulations on your pioneering endeavors and successful landing in LOS. I'm so happy for you both.

Relax...do some exercises to get that tummy flat...and get ready to reap the rewards for all the hassle you've been through.


It would be interesting to get your perspectives about the changes you see here after you've been here a while.

Where are your final destinations?, e.g. Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, etc.

Cheers

[goji]

Thank you Dodger.
I walk several miles per day. The in room circuit is about 16 metres, so it's 100 laps per mile.
I also do some push ups and sit ups, however it would probably take some calorific restriction to end up with a completely flat tummy.
However, I'm not going to take calorific restriction to the level practised by another board member in quarantine: https://christianpfc.blogspot.com/2020/12/the-long-way-to-cambodia.html
I suspect prisoners in Tol Sleung ate more than that.

Once I get out, the plan is to spend a few days in Bangkok, then head on down to Pattaya. After that, there's no plan, but perhaps it's time to go back to the south of Thailand.

[bkkguy]

I walk several miles per day. The in room circuit is about 16 metres, so it's 100 laps per mile.
I also do some push ups and sit ups

an acquaintance of a friend of mine knew someone (a highly reliable source?) who said they did their quarantine at the Amara in Surawong - they took the rooftop penthouse that featured an exercise bike in the room and a private terrace and garden where you could enjoy your snacks, meals, coffee, etc and stroll in the garden to fresh air etc - very expensive but worth it they said!

[christianpfc]

Congratulations to both of you! After the STV (Special Tourist Visa) disaster, I would not have thought the Thai will manage to set up something with acceptable conditions, but here is the proof!


I notice there are a lot of flights arriving between 22:00 and midnight. So perhaps the quarantine clock starts ticking from the moment the plane arrives ? I would want to know if having a late arrival.
I can only tell for Cambodia. My scheduled arrival was 22:25, departure was delayed by half an hour and arrival was 23:00, and day of arrival is day 0 in count, even though my sample was taken on following day around 00:30.

Two weeks quarantine without any food or exercise had no or insignificant effect on me. Only days later, I did walks of 3 km in Phnom Penh and it didn't feel any different.

[goji]

From what I've heard from others who have tried 7 day fasts, it's recommended to start off with some bland and easy to digest food afterwards.

Going straight to Khmer food is probably not what they have in mind.

[StevieWonders]

Will goji and gerefan2 be released in time to welcome Santa coming down their chimneys?

[Uranus]

The British winter is gruesome, often dark at 4.00pm. Miserable.

Dark at 4 pm. Try Northern Norway, where the sun is below the horizon for months.

[gerefan2]

Will goji and gerefan2 be released in time to welcome Santa coming down their chimneys?

Not me.....

[goji]

Not me.....

Not me either, having arrived on the same plane.

Today is covid test day, so time to have a cotton swab rammed up my nose.
Back in the summer, someone on Test Match Special described this as like someone trying to take your eyeball out by ramming a snooker cue up the nostrils.

Despite allegedly having a nurse on site 24 hours a day, we were all called down for the tests in quick succession. Which means sharing the lift and so on. The instruction was to wear the hotel slippers (rather than virus laden farang footwear).

Although I did not notice on arrival, the carpet in the corridor is covered in vinyl in order to comply with regulations. Thankfully my room has a tiled floor.

[Dodger]

.

Two weeks quarantine without any food ......

What was your reason for not eating food? Just curious.

[francois]

Today is covid test day, so time to have a cotton swab rammed up my nose.
Back in the summer, someone on Test Match Special described this as like someone trying to take your eyeball out by ramming a snooker cue up the nostrils.



My Covid test with a cotton swab in the nose was not at all unpleasant. How did you fare?

[goji]

My Covid test with a cotton swab in the nose was not at all unpleasant. How did you fare?

The swab test causes minor discomfort,but nothing to worry about. As the nurse said when I was having the UK test, when she sees your face screwed up, she knows it's gone in far enough.

[Oliver2]

I did it myself in front of a mirror as instructed, as part of a London NHS sample. Didn't encounter any discomfort at all. We Londoners endured the Blitz; we are tough cookies.

[gerefan2]

Unlike my test in the UK, today’s test was conducted by a nurse behind a complex screen with an opening,opposite which I was positioned.

Her contortions trying to get the swab stick through the hole and up my nostrils was unsuccessful and resulted in her lunging at me with force.

I hit the fcuking roof.

[Nirish guy]

Her contortions trying to get the swab stick through the hole and up my nostrils was unsuccessful .

Just consider yourself lucky things didn't end up the other way round and she went through your nostrils and UP your hole otherwise you really MIGHT have hit the roof ! :)

[latintopxxx]

oliver if you didint encounter any discomfort then you were doing it wrong...or are you the type that has dull senses as in no gsag reflex...not tickliish at all

[christianpfc]

What was your reason for not eating food? Just curious.
I wanted to try fasting for a long time, but there was never a good opportunity with all the travel and boys. I gained some weight (10 kg in 10 years) that I wanted to lose (even though fasting is not primarily for weight loss). And the hotel would have charged 10 USD per meal for food of uncertain taste and quality (others reported delays in delivery and cold food), means I saved 450 USD on food!

My two nose swabs (in addition to throat swabs) in Cambodia were no problem. In Germany only throat swabs, no problem either.

[goji]

Test result this morning. OK.
This is good, as a pass means I'm allowed out of my cell to the rooftop exercise yard for 45 minutes each day. A fail means being carted off to hospital.

Almost 4 hours later, the Bangkok Post website reports 20 new imported cases, including these:

From the UK, a British man, 60, British girl, 17, and a Thai woman, 36.
The three cases from Switzerland are a Dutchman, 75, and two Thai women, 50 and 73

If the information flow & reporting is particularly efficient, it's possible these were sharing our flights.

[Jellybean]

Test result this morning. OK. This is good, as a pass means I'm allowed out of my cell to the rooftop exercise yard for 45 minutes each day. A fail means being carted off to hospital . . .

On reading your comments quoted above, goji, the first image that popped into my head was that of you (and gerefan2) being dressed in prison issue uniforms (see photo below), being locked up in your ‘cells’ for 23 hours 15 minutes each day and, as a concession for good behaviour, being allowed out in the exercise yard for a short 45 minutes. Hopefully, your sentences will be commuted very soon. ;)

10555

[Dodger]

I wanted to try fasting for a long time, but there was never a good opportunity

Glad to hear you survived your endeavor - hopefully a few pounds lighter with plenty of energy in reserve for those Cambo Boys. Hope you can cross the border soon.

Cheers

[gerefan2]

My visa runs out soon, so like a good boy, I went to Immigrtaion in Jomtien last week in an attempt to extend it.

A helpful girl helped me with the forms , pictures and photocopies.

I had the choice of extending it for 30 (the normal 1 off extension) or 60 days (the covid extension). Both the same price.

It seemed logical to apply for the 60 days, even though I will probably only stay for an extra 30 days or so.

So after compiling something like10 pages of documents ( why the hell do they require a photocopy copy of the existing visa which they themselves issued??) pictures (why, when they take one themselves), a copy of the actual passport (when they scanned it at the airport) and a copy of the Condo owners passport....ffs.

Anyway with the help of the lady I presented all this and was told that it couldn’t be processed as the existing visa had more than a week to run. Come back next week.

So as instructed I returned today with all the documents and paid the money. After an hour I was called forward and guess what....they extended my visa for a whole fuc*ing 9 days. The logic (such as it is was) is a 15 day extension from today. The current visa has 6 days to run which I have now lost.

Why I asked? Same same for everyone the clerk said.

A helpful Farang told me you get this 15 days then another 45 when you go back. My passport was stamped “extension under consideration”...so nothing guaranteed.

Another visit (will be the third)...another day wasted ....6 lost visa days,...and more bureaucracy,

It seems that had I applied last week for the standard 30 days they would have granted it there and then and with no lost days.

TIT. How on Earth do expats put up with all this sh1t?

Rant over.

[cdnmatt]

TIT. How on Earth do expats put up with all this sh1t?

Well, there is a way around that...

[gerefan2]

Well, there is a way around that...

LOL...do tell!!

[cdnmatt]

LOL...do tell!!

Decide that immigration laws are just mere suggestions, not laws... and don't worry about a VISA.

[gerefan2]

Decide that immigration laws are just mere suggestions, not laws... and don't worry about a VISA.

That’s a relief, I thought for one moment you were going to suggest I just go home!

[Nirish guy]

Decide that immigration laws are just mere suggestions, not laws... and don't worry about a VISA.

Hows that working out for you there?

[Dodger]

How on Earth do expats put up with all this shit.

Most don't.

Some use "Visa Agents". Rumor has it that this can save a lot of hassle, especially if there are compliance issues.

[goji]

I had the choice of extending it for 30 (the normal 1 off extension) or 60 days (the covid extension). Both the same price.
It seemed logical to apply for the 60 days, even though I will probably only stay for an extra 30 days or so.

With the benefit of hindsight and considering the other visa offers, it seems Thai immigration never apply the same basic rules for 2 slightly different visas or visa extensions.

There will be random illogical changes.

So 30 day extension is granted immediately, with 30 days added onto the original expiry date. As I received in both 2020 and 2021.
A 60 day extension has lots of pfaffing around and they count the 60 days from the date of issue, or date when they kick the can down the road.
There are inconsistencies in documents required for different visas as well.

Anyhow, overall, you've made better visa choices than me.


Most don't.
Some use "Visa Agents". Rumor has it that this can save a lot of hassle, especially if there are compliance issues.
How much are they paying for visa agents ?
I was speaking to one of my Lao "friends" in Pattaya and he uses a company in Bangkok to get his visa extended for 60 days at the cost of 4000 baht.
My 30 day extension direct with Jomtien immigration cost almost 2000, by the time I counted 1900 for immigration, plus photo, photocopying etc.
So my Lao friend has got 60 days via an agency, as almost the same price.
Of course, what I don't know is if that's some special privilege for ASEAN nationals. Should have asked more questions, but asking boys about their dodgy immigration status tends to result in evasive answers.

[Dodger]

How much are they paying for visa agents ?.

Honestly, the prices I've heard vary all over the map depending on the agent, and the type of visa service being requested.

I think if you ask some of the expats you run into at the bars, etc., they can provide much better information than I can.

Good luck.

[StevieWonders]

It’s impossible to generalise because expats who live here are not applying for extensions for the same sort of visa and for the same period of time as either of our intrepid explorers. 2G are simply short term sex tourists; we are longer term visitors although since the extension is only year-to-year we’re none of us “permanent” unless the ridiculous hoops have been jumped through. Again, some will be married (officially - to a woman); others may or may not have a catamite or three in tow. Those are two different visa sub-classes.

As Dodger said there’s a further subdivision of those who meet all the requirements and those who, for whatever reason, don’t or won’t (refusing to trust Thai banks for the 800K kept annually for example).

Without revealing my personal circumstances it costs me roughly double what I pay my maid annually to pay a visa agent in Bangkok to handle all the paperwork and make any problems that may arise “go away”.

In case you’re wondering if anyone pays bribes to Immigration officials - heaven forbid. Immigration officials above a certain rank have - legally - considerable discretion to ignore the formal requirements and grant an extension under “special circumstances” (supposedly defined but not supervised). What visa agents pay is not therefore a bribe to ignore the visa regulations - that would be corruption - but a facilitation fee direct to one of their Immigration contacts of an appropriate rank to exercise his or her legitimate discretion.

[Manforallseasons]

Directly next to Jomtien immigration where you make copies and photos they are also a visa agent, the extensions discussed above should be easy and affordable there......look for a young fellow working there he can be very helpful his name is Tim.

[StevieWonders]

Slightly more context - I don’t use maid services much. I checked with a friend who pays more for his maid than his visa agent

[Dodger]

goji and gerefan2:

If by chance either of you were to use the services of an Agent, I would suggest that you keep this "private".

[StevieWonders]

gogi and gerefan2:

If by chance either of you were to use the services of an Agent, I would suggest that you keep this "private".Absolutely Dodgems it’s not as if there’s an abundance of sites that argue the merits or otherwise of agents. That’s if you discount the existence of Whiners & Whingers AKA. ThaiVisa

[christianpfc]

Another visit (will be the third)...another day wasted ....6 lost visa days,...and more bureaucracy,...
Thank you very much for your report. It confirms my current opinion: I would submit to two weeks quarantine if I could stay in Thailand for 6 months or more afterwards, but not for 60+30+60 days with extensions.


Decide that immigration laws are just mere suggestions, not laws... and don't worry about a VISA.
You are the last person anyone should listen to for visa advice.
(cdnmatt got deported for overstay some years ago)

[gerefan2]

Another year another 90 day O visa application. Ah,I thought, same as last year. But No.

So that all you budding tourists know, you have to complete an online visa application, more or less the same as last year. However, instead of having to post off your passport, money and pics (with all the hassle and expense that involves) they now send you an email which you present at Immigration when you arrive. Seems a simple and good idea. Also a lot cheaper. No need for recorded delivery letters and tracking.

So after trying to read the instructions..yes all 44 bloody pages of them...I spent 6 hours on Monday evening downloading numerous documents and pics. The form is horrendous, written in Tinglish and the website chucks everything out it doesn’t like.

Anyway after downloading a pic of myself holding my passport (yes a requirement!!). I hit the send button at 11.30 pm and fucked off to bed with my head spinning worse than it would have from drinking10 bottles of Beer Singh.

The next evening an email appeared from the London Embassy. Ahhh SH1T what did I do wrong?? My heart was pounding. Damn bloody people.

So I opened the email ready for more drama until I read the first few words...Visa approved... Bloody Nora!

Eat your heart out Arsenal!

[Nirish guy]

Im guessing they dont even NEED the info on the 44 pages but just include just to see how much you REALLY want to go and if they see you bothered to make it to the end they know you just have been really keen so give you the visa as you're reward for persevering just ! :)

Congrats either way !

[arsenal]

A tired and emotional gerefan2 wrote.
"Eat your heart out Arsenal!"

Nope. Well yes in fact. But I hope that you and zillions go there and have a superb time with lots of boys. I hope that you write about it here and that you post endless photos of boys and sunsets and beaches.