hi there

as they title says. have friends coming over for a few weeks in Karon Bay

Never been to Thailand before

I recommended using a card like the Halifax Clarity card which is almost free to use overseas

but they have said they have a US currency passport from earlier holidays in the us and want to know if they can use this while they are here

Never seen one so would ask anyone from this area if this is possible, if not what do they recommend ?

Also, any ideas on what to see or do down there ?

I,m gunna fly down from Issaan for as few days to catch up with them, so would appreciate any advice on places to see or go

Plus any advice on any scams, like no meter rip off taxis, best airport transfers, good bars, etc

Whats the weather like the last 2 weeks in November ? besides hot and sticky, lol

 

thanks guys 

Let's wait whether someone with specific experience can tell about the cards.

Otherwise you could start a separate thread in the banking forum.

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This "Halifax Clarity card" looks like a normal Mastercard (credit card) which should work without problems at all ATMs. Direct use at shops/restaurants etc. is not the norm and could end with an added fee or decline.

Always best to withdraw Thai Baht cash from the ATM (PIN needed).

 

Maybe good to inform the home bank that they want to use it in Thailand/South East Asia (at least check whether this would raise an alarm).

 

This "US currency passport" seems to be something like a prepaid debit card that is "loaded" with money ("cash passport"?).

Can't remember reading about such in the forum.

So no idea.

 

Never rely on a single source/plastic.

They should bring as much cash as they feel comfortable.

Canadian Dollars accepted at all major changers.

US Dollars everywhere.

(just don't change much at the airport)

Are they flying via Bangkok?

Edited May 18, 20188 yr by KhunBENQ

You might find this interesting (from 2014):

https://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/701043-cash-passport-preloaded-currency-cards-advice-please/?do=findComment&comment=7376055

 

Halifax Clarity card recommended.

 

In the same thread some comments that the prepaid "cash passport" would give a crap exchange rate. (?)

Wow.... I just googled this. The card is a major ripoff - 5.5% forex fee, inactivity fee, reload fee..... bthere is a $20 withrawl fee. I'd take my money and run.

 

Thing is, card terminals in Thailand can be very picky, so I am not sure if this card would work.

1 minute ago, theguyfromanotherforum said:

Wow.... I just googled this. The card is a major ripoff - 5.5% forex fee, inactivity fee, reload fee..... bthere is a $20 withrawl fee. I'd take my money and run.

 

Thing is, card terminals in Thailand can be very picky, so I am not sure if this card would work.

Good search.

So really stay away from this crap.

 

You mixed this up with the touristic questions.

I will leave this to the locals.

Only so much:

Still one of the most scenic places in Thailand, tons of things to see.

Scams as many as you can count.

Taxi mafia is infamous. Prices are exorbitant.

Weather end of November: glass bowl.

Still a risk of frequent rain. The later in the month the better.

But really, weather patterns are changing in Thailand too.

So who knows.

 

Thanks for the replies guys

i know about the Halifax fax card, have had one for a few years and it's what I use here and abroad instead of my Kasikorn debit card

but siunds like they would be better off emptying the card in the uk and just bringing the cash, which is normally a better rate at the exchange booths than cards

sounds a bit like Pattaya , full of scams, rip offs and expensive

been to Kho Samui , taxis a minimum of 200baht 

hired a bike for the same price as one short taxi ride