limens

hi,
I'll be in bkk next week. Although I can use debit card to withdraw cash, Id prefer to use up some cash I won in vegas last week. If ibuy baht in a local exchang(travelex) they charge about $7 per $100.

Should I take the cash with me and exchange once in bkk?

Also will go to japan, is taking cash there a good idea?

Thx.

I'd prefer to

BillT

Yes take cash and exchange at the airport. You may also get better rates at some exchange places in BKK- others on this forum can tell you where (not hotels). I have always taken cash - just use a security wallet and room safe. With cash there are no fees such as there might be with debit and credit cards.

limens

Thanks, this sounds good.

So, when I arrive in KIX (Kyoto), I'll go looking for a currency exchange place. Does anyone know how much fee/premium does a place like that charge (compared to the current exchange rates)?

Will try the same in BKK airport.

I guess, on my way out of the country, I will exchange the remaining local currency to USD.

IF anybody has any more insights or tips, please do share.

thx!

MichaelBKK

Not sure about your question. Exchanging cash for LOCAL currency generally gets you the best rates and no fees.

simpsonc510

I exchange at Vasu on Sukhumvit road, near the Nana skytrain station. I really don't think I've ever paid a fee "per $100"... and Vasu gives me better rates for my US $100 dollar bills (new ones without writing or too much wear) than places such as the airport. I'd say to exchange some of your US$ at the airport but then wait until you get into the city to get more baht where the rate is better. I agree... don't exchange at your hotel!! Their rates are usually the worst.

You don't say where you are going to be staying, but if you are near a skytrain stop, I'd certainly consider exchanging at Vasu.

Enjoy your trip. Congrats on the win in Vegas!

Kathie

Wait until you are IN Bangkok to exchange your dollars for Baht. The airport exchange will give you a better rate than anything outside of Thailand, but it will be about 1 baht less per dollar than any exchange away from the airport. Use your ATM card to get some cash at the airport.

Gpanda

Congrats on the Vegas win. I just won a little from a Foxwoods poker tournament, but apparently it's disappearing in the black hole of our stock market losses.

What were you playing in Vegas?

I always just use ATM's in BKK. My bank does not charge a fee.

rhkkmk

don't exchange much at bkk airport...wait and us a bank or money exchange in the city---not at the hotel either..

gpanda won $4.19 and thinks he is rich

limens

thx for the replies.

won pretty good at texas holdem. was lucky.