Inside Thailand: Banks & Money
The currency of Thailand is the "Baht" (sounds like Bat).
One Baht is divided into 100 Satang, although the smallest coin now in
circulation is 25 Satang.
Travelers Checks are generally accepted only at exchanges, and not
elsewhere. Automated Teller Machines (ATM) are plentiful
throughout Thailand, and most accept cards of the major international
networks (Plus, Cirrus, etc.)
Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express, are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and major shops.
Travellers
staying over a month in the country might find it convenient to open a
'SAVINGS' bank account in one of the major Thai banks (Bangkok Bank,
Kasikorn Bank, Siam Commercial Bank). All you need is your passport and
200 baht to pay for the debit card that will be issued within minutes
(you can also choose your pin code). You'll be able to take money at
any ATM of your bank for no fee. There will be a small charge (20 baht)
when you withdraw from other banks. In addition some cards allow you to
pay directly in hotels, restaurants, shops... As it is a Visa card,
you'll even be able to withdraw money at ATMs back in your home country
or anywhere worldwide.
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