I'M LEGAL - IT'S OFFICIAL

Sssshhhh - don't tell anyone but I am finally allowed to work in Thailand. Yesterday afternoon I finally collected my work permit - a passport-style booklet that means I can legally work here. Having a work permit also means I can do lots of other things, like open a bank account. And I did just that a few minutes ago.
The whole process, including filling in the forms and the clerk entering the details on the computer, took no more than 20 minutes. I walked away with a passbook, a Visa Electron debit card and a free gift - a holdall with a football motif printed on the side. Sure, I am 800 baht lighter (500 baht opening deposit and 300 baht for the card) but it was just so easy and straightforward. That process would take weeks in the UK. What surprised me the most was that they were able to issue the Visa debit card there and then - I selected my PIN and the card was authenticated with all my details there and then.
I know that Thailand has recently been criticised by other countries, the US especially, for their slack approach to banking, and in some ways I can see why. I did have to provide my passport and work permit, together with all the usual personal details, but it really was a simple, easy and almost pleasurable experience.