Less than one week to our trip and we are now trying to figure out the 'money issue'.

Many has recommended to do currency exchange in Bangkok versus in home country (Canada in our case). We are going to Phuket first then Bangkok (direct flight from Hong Kong to Phuket). Wonder if it's convenient to get currency exchange in Phuket or Phuket ariport? (We are staying at JW Marriott in Phuket)Or else, we will get exchange for some Baht in Hong Kong for our expense in Phuket, then do the rest once we get to the Bangkok. Also, anyone knows if it's better to exchange Baht from HKD or CAD?

It's easiest just to use ATM cards. Of course, you should check with your bank to see how much they will charge.

I've not used it, but I'm going to bet that there will be a currency exchange booth at the Phuket airport, since it is an international airport. I would not get currency in my home country! The rates are not nearly as good.
Carol

Wait until you get to Phuket and either exchange your CAD or use an ATM card.

There was a currency exchange at the airport at Phuket a few years ago, I don't expect that it has been removed.

I think the rate you get for changing your money over in Hong Kong would be even worse than what you would get from a hotel in Phuket.

Google search on "currency exchange, Phuket" says that there are 4 at the airport. My debit cards work in Thailand with Visa and MasterCard logos. Notify your bank you will be over in Thailand if you intend to use them. Better yet, notify your bank anyway - you don't know if something may come up and you need extra $$!

OK

there is a currency exchange bank at the airport and marriott will change money for you too, but at a much poorer rate...

ATM's are the best way to go....use your atm card from home...

Currency exchange at Phuket Airport plus ATM machines.

There are 4 currency exchange booths at Phuket airport. Each of the major Thai banks are represented so you can compare rates and get the best deal. Do not change any money at your hotel, the rate will be much worse

ATM's are the most convenient, but not necessarily the best way to go. BofA charges $5 + 3% to use the ATM overseas (now, they even charge me 3% for charges in US$ if the charging bank is outside the US). Check with your bank before you use your ATM.

If you go to the smaller banks or credit unions, you can find one that will not charge for transactions.

In the US many credit unions pay for your ATM fees when you use a non-credit union ATM.

My little credit union in my home town pays the first 5 ATM withdrawal charges even when overseas. After those first 5 are used up the fee is around $2. This is over 10,000 baht per day in withdrawals at cheap or free rates!

Many credit unions also sell you travelers checks without any fees if you are a member. This is one reason why I always pick up some before I leave on trips - no commission to purchase them!

I have friends retired in Thailand and they have their pensions in credit unions. They live off those withdrawals and they have been having fee free withdrawals for many years!