I am in the process of trying this and it has become much less simple. Certainly for HSBC a remote account opening is considered "next to impossible" - it requires above branch level sponsorship from the bank which in practise means turnover 1m+. I am told US anti terror laws have made a big impact on opening non resident accounts in past few months
I am hoping I can workaround the problems but my bank managers expectations are low - I may be visitin the states sooner than planned.
What trouble are you having with HSBC? I've just spent about an hour on the phone with them to open an account in Australia and all I'm required to do now is go to a Local Branch near me with my ID / documents - the account will be ready in a week, two weeks max.
I am hoping I can workaround the problems but my bank managers expectations are low - I may be visitin the states sooner than planned.