2nd Visa Stamp

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 08:45:12 +0100

Much faster than the first after discovering the process. The only waiting I had to do was getting back into Thailand (20 minutes).

The bus ride was fine from Chiang Mai, and the return was equal. Green Bus is the bus line to take. Free bottled water and free snacks are provided, after the freebies you can purchase more. I suggest getting a seat in the middle or up front(VIP). The middle seats offer best views of the passing scenery and least noise from the rear window clatter and bathroom/service door use. The VIP seats offer more leg and sitting room if you plan on more napping and less observing.

The below sign is seen while crossing back into Thailand.

My Visa run to Myanmar from Mai Sai

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:12:24 +0100

Okay, so after the many post readings, here is my discover: It's really easy, it's less than 500THB from Chiang Mai by bus(round trip).After getting there a transfer jeep is always ready for just 15THB each way (too far to walk for saving that). Nothing to see on the other side, so just tell the Myanmar immigration you are making an immediate return (otherwise you have a photo taken and passport withheld plus the haggle of Myanmar for tours and prostitutes). The stamp is still 500THB and only good for 2 weeks. It's really a simple yet disturbing experience. So, hope you are an not easily offended individual. The pros (yet cons in certain eyes), I fed an elephant and got some deals at the markets (on Thailand side). NOTE. the process is two step, you must go into Myanmar and get an entry stamp. The Thai immigration gives you an exit, then you must get an entry and then the reverse process (NOTE..to get the immigration card... go to the left and ask the official, then get in line...on the right side). Just watch for the signs ( it's and x pattern when enter and leave). The bus station is actually nice and there are great deals for meals just beside it. I like it MUCH better than the Chiang Mai station.My general overview... It's your usual foreigner sights... vendors, transients, marketers, and such all concentrated in 200 yards with added taxing immigration (non of which Thailand gets, unless it's just transportation money or hidden in the immigration exchange cost). It's a headache that is only of two reasons as I see it,... detour foreigners from staying in Thailand or just how much time and money are you willing to spend and give to another country to be in ours...Thailand.

border-visa-run

2nd Visa Stamp

My Visa run to Myanmar from Mai Sai