We'll be in Thailand next week. We land in Bangkok and then fly almost directly to Ko Samui. Where would be the first and most inconvenient/best rate to change our money (USD, not ATM)?

Exchange at the airport- thats what I did and I felt it was a good rate.
I never use the ATMs- I just find the best exchange place and use that.

I presumed "incovenient" was a type, and you actually meant "convenient". In that case, the airport, no doubt. The f/x rates offered at Bangkok airport are very competitive; I'd say the next best thing to withdrawing money from ATMs.

Have fun!

i don't find that the rates vary all that much no matter where you exchange it, except at hotels where they take their share in a less generous exchange rate....for instance, i figure that i receive $25 more on a $300 exchange when i go to a local bank or exchange window than when i exchange it at my bkk hotel...hope this helps....many places quote not service charge, but in fact build it in in the exchange rate....you will not find rates that vary as much as in europe for instance..

There are also exchange machines in the the baggage claim area. I usually take 10s and 20s. Sometimes the machine won't take one particular amount and then you have to use a different bill. You just insert a bill into the machine and out pop Baht.Or you can wait until you exit the baggage claim area and then there are the exchange windows. Happy Travels!