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MONEY
The denomination used in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB/Bht/B). There are 100 sàtàang in one baht; coins include 25-sàtàang, 50-sàtàang, 1-baht, 5-baht & 10-baht. Cash is necessary for eating & shopping in the markets & small retail shops. You would require some small change if you are travelling by tuk-tuks & other forms of public transport. When changing money, head to a bank or a legal moneychanger with your traveller's cheques. US Dollars are most readily accepted for exchange, but traveller's cheques get better rates. Of course when you are in Bangkok, you can easily depend on your credit, Plus & Cirrus cards to get some baht from the ATMs. Many money changers accept cash advances on your credit card as well. Credit cards are becoming increasingly
acceptable in quality shops, hotels & restaurants. Visa is the
most useful, followed by MasterCard. Expect a surcharge between
3-5% in some outlets, especially with travel agents. When it comes
to tipping, it is not compulsory in Thailand, because service charge
is already added to most bills from fancy restaurants catered for
foreigners & in hotels. But a 10 – 15% tip is very much
appreciated in ordinary restaurants outside of tourist zones &
it is becoming a common practice in many international upmarket
hotels. There is no tipping for taxis or tuk-tuks but the drivers
would usually round the fare to the nearest 5 or 10 Baht.
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Travel
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