Ayutthaya Business Travel Guide

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Thai people officially speak the language Thai. However, many Thais working in a business with foreign ties (or the tourism industry) speak English, at least to a rudimentary level. Some business circles in Thailand also speak Japanese and Chinese dialects. The best business approach in Thailand considers politeness, respect, and to never raise your voice. [more]

In Ayutthaya itself, business does not register high on the agenda. There exist a few hotels with business and conference facilities, but it's not a normal reason to visit Ayutthaya. Travel to Ayutthaya for enjoyment, for the magnificent history, and for a break from the rigours of your business life. Leave business to the rest of Thailand, and let the stress release from your body in the wonder of Ayutthaya.

Office, Government times

Business hours in Thailand run from 8:00 am through to 5:00 pm on Monday through Friday. Government offices open between 8:30 am and 12 noon, then 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm on Monday through to Friday.

Business Etiquette

Of the utmost importance in business lies courtesy and respect. Conflicts resolve only through civil discussions. The Thai Way will often be spoken about - Thais have a unique identity that places importance on personal trust and relationships. Therefore, it's normal to ask direct personal questions of business associates. Direct questions, though, do not seem to apply to the actual business dealings, and foreigners may see the Thai system as inefficient and slow.

Money

The currency in Thailand consists of the Baht, with 100 Satangs equal to one Baht. Paper currency come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 Baht. Coin currency consists of 25 and 50 Satang, plus 1, 5, and 10 Baht. Small change comes in more use than 1000 or 500 Baht notes which can be difficult to change.

Bank times

Official bank hours run from 8:30 am through to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Do check locally, though, as some banks may open for longer - or for less time!

Credit card use

Visa and MasterCard have wide acceptance throughout Thailand. American Express and Japan Card Bureau (JCB) also gain acceptance in a variety of places. Hotels, tour agencies, and some classier restaurants will accept credit card. However, it's highly important to carry enough cash at all times. The majority of places in Ayutthaya do not take credit card. Do not get caught out! Markets, street stalls, transport, and entrance fees must be paid in cash.

ATM prevalence

Most ATMs in Thailand can be used to obtain local currency from your own bank account. On Naresuan Road in Ayutthaya, there exist a number of banks, all with ATMs. ATMs offer the most up to date exchange rates, and exorbitant fees usually do not apply. However, you may find a higher exchange rate inside the bank itself. Do be careful with your receipts - some banks in Ayutthaya print your entire card number on the receipt. You don't want that information getting in the wrong hands!

Key banks + international

You're in luck, as many banks exist in the Ayutthaya area. They include the Bangkok Bank, the Bank of Ayudhya, Thai Farmers Bank, and the Siam Commercial Bank. Exchange of travellers' cheques and foreign currency can be easily achieved in the banks, or at your local hotel. Be aware that the bank rates will be better than the hotel rates. Additional fees may apply if your travellers' cheques do not come in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling, or Euros. If you get caught out on a Saturday and need to exchange money, there does exist an Exchange Van (facing Wilharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit) that opens from 8:30am - 2:00pm on Saturday. It tends to carry the same rate as the banks.