Chiang Rai Business Travel Guide  Jump to: Chiang Rai Business Galleries
The Thai language makes up the official language of Thailand (and therefore Chiang Rai). However, many Thais do have connections to foreign business and tourism circles, and therefore they have learnt to speak enough English to communicate with foreigners. Various business circles within Thailand have also learnt to speak Chinese and Japanese. The Thailand approach to business consists of the utmost in politeness, and you should never raise your voice. [more]
Conducting international business affairs in Chiang Rai must not be a common occurrence, as a couple of business and conference facilities do exist in the area, but they do not make an abundant appearance in the area. A better reason to visit Chiang Rai exists in the sites and experiences of the area. Be in Chiang Rai for the enjoyment of the area, for its superb history, and to de-stress and let go of your everyday life.
Office, Government times
You will find general office hours open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am through to 5:00 pm in Chiang Rai. Government offices in the area open from 8:30 am to 12 noon, with a small break for lunch. They then reopen at 1:00 pm through to 4:30 pm, also on Monday to Friday.
Business Etiquette
Have you ever heard of the Thai Way? If not, you soon will! Respect and civility take the highest degree of importance in business in Thailand, above all else including conflict resolution. The only way resolve an uncomfortable situation lies in polite discussion. Thais place a high level of importance on trust in business relationships, and that means you may be subjected to direct personal questions from complete strangers. Do be aware that many foreigners view the Thai way of doing things as an inefficient and lengthy process.
Money
The Thailand currency consists of Satangs and Baht. 100 Satangs make up one Baht. Coins exist in 25 and 50 Satang denominations, plus 1, 5, and 10 Baht coins. Paper notes come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 Baht. Also be aware that 1000 or 500 Baht notes can be difficult to change, so smaller currency comes highly recommended.
Bank times
If you need to top up your wallet, visit the bank between the hours of 8:30 am through to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. This may not apply to every bank, however, so be sure to check locally upon your arrival to avoid any nasty surprises.
Credit card use
Credit cards have wide acceptance throughout Chiang Rai and Thailand. Visa and MasterCard come first in the level of acceptance, however, American Express and Japan Card Bureau (JCB) also gain acceptance in most places. In general, hotels and travel agencies will accept your credit card, but you will find that you need to carry enough cash at all times. Most entrance fees must be paid in cash, and most stalls, restaurants, and shops will only accept payment in the form of cash.
ATM prevalence
ATMs in Chiang Rai make for prolific company. Most ATMs in Thailand can be used to access your bank at home and get some local moola into your hands. For the most recent exchange rates without the excessive fees, ATMs truly make your best choice, although a higher rate may be found inside the bank. Be wary of your receipts and how you store/dispose of them. Some ATMs in Thailand print the entire card number on the receipt, and that's something you want to keep safe.
Key banks + international
Banks within the Chiang Rai area include the Bangkok Bank, Military Bank, Thai Farmers Bank, and the Siam Commercial Bank. To exchange travellers' cheques and other currency, do this at the bank or within your hotel - although the rates will be better at the bank than at the hotel. Carry travellers' cheques only in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling, or Euros, as these currencies do not carry additional fees in the bank. On Pahonyothin Street, you will find at least four bank exchange booths.
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"Everything you ever wanted to know about Chiang Rai business"
