Although Gingermeggs may write LAOWEI, the correct way is LAOWAI as Turnoi said. I think Turnoi is the one who should be listened to in regard to pinyin spelling ( not sure if I spelt pinyin correctly! )

Coppercat,I reckon this is your first post on this board.I'm sure almost all other board readers,including me,will welcome you to post again after reading said post.
You have noted that Turnoi is the one who should be listened to by louwai wishing to improve their Chinese.I agree with your opinion.