Where is the best place to exchange euros ( no banks) in Chiang Rai , similar to VASU in Bangkok

I usually compare the place opposite Thai Airways in the old town with the one on the other side heading South. Not a lot in it.

I changed Aussie dollars at Swampy last week only to come back to Chiang Rai and find the rate was a one whole baht better there the next day. I prefer to think this was an overnight rise rather than poor judgement on my part.

I think that you have banks only to choose from here. I have not heard of any independent currency exchanges or money exchangers in CR.

I usually compare the place opposite Thai Airways in the old town with the one on the other side heading South. Not a lot in it.

I changed Aussie dollars at Swampy last week only to come back to Chiang Rai and find the rate was a one whole baht better there the next day. I prefer to think this was an overnight rise rather than poor judgement on my part.

No, poor judgement on your part .Airports are not nice places to change money,.I always used to make sure I took out of T'Land enough Baht, to get me through my first night and morning back here. So, I would not get ripped off at airport exchange. Much better rate in town, always.

I usually rely on ATMs so pay a fixed rate.

My personal experience with Swampy in the past was that the rate wasn't bad compared to the changers in town, and I speak from many years money changing experience in Thailand.

However it is a while since I brought cash into Thailand so I have to agree with you here.

Edit: the rip off is still a light one compared with having to change money at Australian airports though.

Edited July 11, 201114 yr by sceadugenga

I usually rely on ATMs so pay a fixed rate.

My personal experience with Swampy in the past was that the rate wasn't bad compared to the changers in town, and I speak from many years money changing experience in Thailand.

However it is a while since I brought cash into Thailand so I have to agree with you here.

Edit: the rip off is still a light one compared with having to change money at Australian airports though.

ATM's pay a fixed rate?. I am not sure what you mean. I draw my pension via ATMs and the rate varies enormously. Right now, it is very good. 2 to 3 months ago ,not nearly so good. 2 years back -dreadful.I am changing Au $ into Thai Baht. , through the ATM. Re.: airports ,I was coming through Don Muang regularly, en route to India. Break the journey , have a few days in Thailand.Always, the rate at the airport was worse than in town. Only changed once at Don Muang. Never at Swampy.