Exchanging rubles for baht in Phuket: where to change money, what money to take with you

Where to change money in Phuket?

Phuket offers a variety of places to exchange currency, including banks, specialized exchange offices, and even some hotels. However, not all places are equally favorable for exchanging rubles for baht.

1. Online exchange. For tourists from Russia, an increasingly popular form of exchange is your online transfer of rubles from a Russian bank to the details of the most popular Russian banks, such as Sber, T-bank, Alfa, followed by cash either from a Thai ATM or in cash with a courier. It is the simplest and most profitable solution, but the risks of fraud are very high.
2. Exchange offices in banks : This is the most reliable way to exchange currency, as banks offer official rates. However, the rate may not be the most favorable, and the commissions may be higher than in exchange offices.
3. Specialized exchange offices : These offices offer a better exchange rate than banks. They often offer the best rate for exchanging rubles to baht. They can be found throughout the major shopping centers and on popular tourist streets.
4. Hotels and tourist areas : Although exchange offices in hotels are convenient, the exchange rate is usually less favorable. In addition, hotels may charge additional fees for currency exchange.
5. Exchange offices at the airport : At Phuket airport, you can exchange rubles for baht, but the rate here is usually less favorable. It is better to exchange a small amount for the first time, and exchange the main amount in the city.

Profitable exchangers in Phuket

If you want to get the most out of exchanging rubles for baht in Phuket, please pay attention to the following recommendations:

• Avoid exchanging at the airport : The exchange rate at Phuket airport is usually lower than in the city. It is better to exchange a minimum amount for the first time, and then use the exchangers in the center of Phuket or in popular tourist areas.
• Use street exchangers : We recommend finding 3-5 exchangers near you, finding the best rate among them and exchanging there.
• Follow rates online : Before traveling or exchanging currency, check rates online. This will help you choose the most favorable time to exchange.

What currency should I bring to Thailand?

Before traveling to Phuket, it is important to decide what currency is best to take with you for exchange. The question of what money to take to Phuket worries many tourists.

1. Rubles : Phuket is one of the few places in Thailand where you can easily exchange rubles for baht. However, the exchange rate of rubles to baht may be less favorable compared to other currencies. If you still decide to travel with rubles, then do not bring cash under any circumstances. It will be much more profitable to exchange by transfer.
2. US Dollars : Dollars remain the most universal currency for exchange in Thailand. The dollar to baht exchange rate is stable, and you can easily exchange them at any exchange office in Phuket. In addition, the dollar to baht exchange rate is often more favorable than the ruble exchange rate. Do not take small bills with you, the rate will be much worse. The best rate is for reg, hs 50 and 100 dollars.
3. Euro : Euro is also a popular currency to exchange in Thailand. If you plan to bring Euros with you, rest assured that you will be able to exchange them at any exchange office in Phuket at a favorable rate.

Exchange rate: how to get the best rate?

To get the best currency exchange rate in Phuket, follow these tips:

• Follow the rates : Check the rates of Phuket exchange offices regularly. The rates may vary significantly between exchange offices.
• Avoid exchanging at the airport : As mentioned, the rate at the airport is often less favorable. It is better to exchange a small amount for the first time and change the rest of the money in the city.
• Choose specialized exchangers : They are located in popular tourist places, which makes them convenient for exchange.
• Be aware of fees : Some exchangers may charge fees for exchanging currencies. Before exchanging, check what fees will be charged to avoid unexpected costs.

How to exchange rubles for baht in Phuket?

The procedure for exchanging rubles for baht in Phuket is quite simple and will not take much time.

1. Choosing an exchanger : Choose an online exchanger with the most favorable rate. Make sure you trust the site you are going to transfer money to. Read reviews. Find out how long this company has been operating in Phuket.
2. Exchange procedure : You transfer rubles to the details sent to you, after which they either send you baht to a Thai card (if available), or issue baht through a local ATM, or send a courier with the required amount in baht.
3. Receiving money : Be sure to recalculate the amount to make sure everything is correct.

Tips for tourists

• Mir cards do not work in Phuket (as of September 2024)

• UnionPay cards of some Russian banks are still working, but the situation can change at any moment. At the moment, the following remain: Asian-Pacific Bank (ATB), Gazprom Bank, Primsotsbank. But these cards work through conversion in yuan, you need to compare the rate carefully.

• Use cards (non-Russian, if available) for large purchases : Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in Thailand, especially in hotels, large stores and restaurants. This can be a convenient way to pay without having to carry large amounts of cash.
• Keep small bills : It is best to carry small bills for paying for small purchases and taxi or tuk-tuk rides. Small bills are also handy for tipping.
• Be careful with street exchange : Avoid exchanging currency on the streets from private individuals, on unknown websites and telegram channels. This can be dangerous and involve the risk of fraud.
• Compare rates : Before exchanging a large amount, compare rates at several exchangers. This will help you choose the most profitable option.

Conclusion

Exchanging rubles for baht in Phuket is not difficult if you follow simple rules. Choose trusted exchangers with a favorable rate, monitor exchange rate changes and do not forget about safety when exchanging money. We hope that our advice will help you avoid unnecessary expenses and make your holiday in Phuket comfortable and enjoyable.