South-East Asia Destination

By: Dinesh Patairya

Baht is the currency of Thailand comprising of 100 Satangs. Coins are minted of 25 satang, 50 satang, 1 Baht, 5 Baht and 10 Baht pieces. However, coins of same value are of different sizes and this could create confusion. So you should use the coins carefully.

Paper Money

Paper money is easier to use than the coins. The paper notes have Arabic as well as Thai numerals and these are also color coded. Notes of different sizes are printed for different denominations.

Money Exchange

Money exchange is 24 hour service in upscale hotels. At other establishments it is 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Ask for a receipt of your exchange transaction, for it could be a useful evidence if you later ask for a repurchase of foreign currencies. Although the exchange rate varies everyday, it approximately remains at 1$ equaling to 37 Baht. Banks offer the best rates among the money changers.

Banks

Banks are open in Pattaya from 9.30 a.m. - 3.30 p.m. everyday except Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays.

Credit Cards

International Credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa and American Express card are widely accepted in Pattaya. You must find out with your card company whether your credit card is acceptable in Thailand. You must also take information about various facilities available with the credit cards.

Travellers’ Cheques

Travelers Cheques make your task easier. Additional exchange rates charges could be saved by using the travellers’ cheques. These cheques are readily accepted in all major establishments like banks, shops and hotels. It the travelers cheques are in major currencies like Euros, US Dollars or Pounds Sterling, it would be better.

Restrictions on Currency

The government has placed many restrictions on the import and export of currency in Thailand including Pattaya. A Thai citizen is barred from importing and exporting local currency more than 50,000 baht. For a family, the ceiling is 100,000 baht. However, there is no restriction on the import and export of foreign currency.

Dinesh Patairya is a seasoned traveler. He has been writing on travel and tourism for years for several online and offline publications. Currently he is working for YourAsianVacations.com