What is the best option for Laos - USD or Euro?

May 24th, 2006

That is one of the messages posted by someone on the Thorntree Forum in http://www.lonelyplanet.com!

And here is our reply:
Of course - USD and Thai Baht is the MOST preferred currency in Laos.

Here the following tips:
* You do NOT need to change USD into local currency “Kip” that much. I normally suggest   people to change around US$ 10-20 for buying drinks, postcards, tip hotel porters etc. The reason is that you CANNOT change Kip back to USD when you leave the country.
* It will be useful to get the small denominational paper note of 1,5,10 and 20 as you can use it for paying hotel bills, restaurants etc.
The current rate is around US$ 1.00 = Kip 10,000. There is an unofficial black market with the rate much higher than of the bank.

Tags: travel to laos, laos, laos hotels, vientiane hotels, luang prabang hotels, useful tips for laos

Entry Filed under: Laos Destination