Directory A-Z - Thailand - page 1536

Aeon is the only bank that we know of in Thailand that doesn't charge the 150B usage fee on foreign accounts, but
their distribution of national ATMs is limited and often located in Big C stores.
Credit cards as well as debit cards can be used for purchases at some shops, hotels and restaurants. The most com-
monly accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. American Express is typically only accepted at high-end hotels and res-
taurants.
Contact your bank and your credit card company before you leave home and notify them of your upcoming trip so
that your accounts aren't suspended due to suspicious overseas activity.
To report a lost or stolen credit/debit card, call the following hotlines in Bangkok:

American Express ( 0 2273 5544)

MasterCard ( 001 800 11887 0663)

Visa ( 001 800 11 535 0660)

Changing Money
Banks or private moneychangers offer the best foreign-exchange rates. When buying baht , US dollars are the most ac-
cepted currency, followed by British pounds and euros. Most banks charge a commission and duty for each travellers
cheque cashed. Current exchange rates are posted at exchange counters.

Foreign Currency Regulations
There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Thailand, but people arriving or departing
with amounts over US$20,000 need to declare this to the customs officer. Foreigners need to demonstrate adequate
funds for their visit. Usually this is only required when applying in advance for a Tourist or other type of visa.
It's legal to open a foreign-currency account at any commercial bank in Thailand. If the funds originate from out of
the country there aren't any restrictions on maintenance or withdrawal.

Tipping
Tipping is not generally expected in Thailand, though it is appreciated. The exception is loose change from a large res-
taurant bill; if a meal costs 488B and you pay with a 500B note, some Thais will leave the 12B change. It's not so much
a tip as a way of saying 'I'm not so money grubbing as to grab every last baht'. At many hotel restaurants or other up-
market eateries, a 10% service charge will be added to your bill.

Opening Hours

The following are standard hours for businesses in Thailand. All government offices and banks are closed on public hol-
idays.

Banks 9.30am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday; ATMs accessible 24 hours.

Bars 6pm to midnight (officially); closing times vary due to local enforcement of curfew laws; bars close during elec-
tions and certain religious public holidays.
Clubs (discos) 8pm to 2am; closing times vary due to local enforcement of curfew laws; clubs close during elections
and certain religious public holidays.