Money in Laos

Bales (LAK), to nominally equal 100 cents. In circulation there are banknotes face value in 5000, 2000, 1000, 500 and 100 bales. Coins in circulation are not present. Bales - unique legally lawful currency of the country, but Thai бат and US dollars are accepted for payment everywhere, especially - in cities. It is the most reasonable to use bales for cheap purchases, бат - for the goods of average price group and for payment of transport services in the country, and US dollars - for expensive acquisitions.

Banks work from Monday till Friday from 08.00 till, and from 13.30 till.

The currency can be exchanged in exchange offices, at the airport and in banks, but many banks work only with US dollars or Thai батами. In bank exchange offices a course usually a little more favourable, than in street points. Even more the exchange favourable rate can be found in exchange offices in the markets and in trading areas, but the risk of swindle in this case is great.

Credit cards of leading international systems accept for payment in large banks, at capital restaurants, hotels and shops. In a province to take advantage of them it is practically impossible. Trevel-checks can be cashed only at offices of the international banks. To avoid additional expenses on exchange rate fluctuations, it is recommended to take with itself checks in US dollars or батах Thailand.

It is necessary to mean, that bales - soft currency, and to exchange it outside of the country it is practically impossible.