Intel: In Thailand, Cash is King
You'll need old-fashioned paper currency in Bangkok.
Some tips, no pun intended, on paying for things in Thailand:
Your credit card will be happily accepted at most major hotels and tourist restaurants, fancy shops, and the like. But everywhere else, paper currency will be required – and you'll want to make sure you have a bit in your wallet for your trip.
1 USD = 33 Thai Bhat (THB)*, so:
100 Thai Bhat = 3 USD (approximately)
As always, we recommend using ATMs to withdraw your cash as opposed to the Currency Exchange joints at the airport, which charge hefty levies on the service. Start your trip by withdrawing some cash at the Airport ATMs, but wait until you get into town and withdraw more from a proper bank later (the airport ATMs charge more than those ATMs outside of it). The major banks include Bangkok Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, and Kasikorn Bank.
Tipping is customary but not expected. Suggested amounts:
Luggage Porters: 20 - 50 THB
Massage Therapists: 50 - 100 THB
Restaurant Servers: 50 - 200 THB, or up to 5-10% of the bill
*(as of publishing time)
Photo Credit: Leftover Currency
In each publication, Syllogi will share various tips, resources, and other odd bits of helpful information we have happened across in our research.
