extending entry permit for medical reasons

in Bangok you'll only get a 10 day extension (unless they make an exception because of the note from your doctor - no harm in asking - if you do, please post a report - TIA)

if you need a "no questions asked" 15 day extension, hop on a bus to Pattaya (100 Baht, takes about 2 hours) and apply in person there - but note that they may not process it same day (whereas it's "while you wait" in Bangkok)

price is 1900 Baht regardless of where you apply / how long an extension you get

-

if you're going to Angkor, see the relevant section of the FAQ resources :: Thailand scams & warnings thread

for a bit of variety, consider taking the train at least one way between Bangkok and Aranyaprathet - it now only takes about an hour longer than the bus (they upgraded the line from Bangkok to twin tracks as far as Chachoengsao), it costs peanuts (48 Baht), it goes from Hualamphong instead of Moh Chit (Northern Bus Terminal) so in most cases it's a much more convenient location to start/end your journey, and best of all it's a whole lot more fun if you like that kind of thing (if you want air-con, take the bus; if you like the idea of sticking your head out the windows and hanging out of the doors, take the train!)

pics: Aranyaprathet - Bangkok train

Bangkok (Hualamphong) to Aranyaprathet:
  - #275 - depart 05:55, arrive ~11:20 (5.5hrs)
  - #279 - depart 13:05, arrive ~18:05 (5hrs)

Aranyaprathet to Bangkok (Hualamphong):
  - #280 - depart 06:40, arrive ~11:50 (5.2hrs)
  - #276 - depart 13:40, arrive ~19:10 (5.5hrs)

those times/fares/numbers apply 7 days a week, including holidays

transport between the train station (or the bus station) and the border will set you back something like ~10 Baht by bus (if you don't mind the wait), ~20~40 Baht by motorbike, ~40~60 Baht by tuk-tuk

border opens at 07:00 and closes at 20:00; watch your gear/valuables very carefully indeed while negotiating the crossing - lots of pickpockets (especially pint-sized ones) and there have been reports of pack-slashing too

visa info: SEAFAQ