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...