Korean Job Discussion Forums

aphong420 · Joined: 06 Feb 2007 Location: KOREAAAAAAH

What have you guys done, as far as changing money for a trip to Thailand? Traveler's checks? Korean Won? Did you change your money before or after arriving in Thailand?

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

Never, ever try to take Won to another country. No one wants it.

Exchange your money to US Dollars before you leave, then exchange those in Thailand.

Or get a true International ATM card from your bank that will work in Thailand. You'll have to ask them about this b/c some "international" cards don't work in all countries.

Rumor has it that banks quit issuing these true Intl. cards earlier this year. If they tell you that you can't have one, demand to see a law and start talking "discrimination." Then try another branch or another bank.

Zark · Posted: Sun Dec 02, 2007 6:37 pm Post subject:

It is quite easy to exchange won for baht here - no problem. BUT - you'll usually get a lousy exchange rate. The last time I did it I got probably US$125 less than if I had done the won to dollar to baht exchange (on about W2,200,00). Would have enjoyed spending that $125 for a nice dinner. Not a huge deal - but nice to have the money. If you can't get to the bank - or are saving more than you are earning Wink

just exchange your won here.

Always buy local currency in the country where you are going to use it. You'll never (or at least very rarely) get a good deal anywhere else. Every major airport here will have 24 hour exchange kiosks (or at least will always be open when int'l flights are arriving). Banks here pay the same rate of exchange in ALL their branches - so the rumors that you get bad deal at the airport are just that - rumors. Airport exchange kiosks are also quite good, if you ask them, at giving lots of small bills. Just tell them you need small money for taxis.

Cash is fine here - not as safe as Korea, but still safer than most Western countries.

mrsquirrel · Joined: 13 Dec 2006

There is a black market money changer around Pratunam. Can't remember the name off the top of my head.

Get good rates on most exchanges.

spliff · Joined: 19 Jan 2004 Location: Khon Kaen, Thailand

I just use my K-international ATM card.