Currency The local currency is the Kip. The US dollar and the Thai baht are very popular alternatives that are widely accepted, especially for bigger purchases. It is not unusual to be quoted a price in kip, pay in US dollars and receive Thai baht as change. US dollars and Thai baht can be changed at hotels, banks or any foreign exchange shop licensed by the Bank of Lao PDR. Credit cards are accepted at more and more shops and restaurants in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. All major banks, even in provincial towns, accept travellers cheques and currencies other than US dollars or Thai baht. It is best to carry US dollar bills in small denominations. The exchange rate in December 2008 was 8,500 Kip to US$1.

Travellers Cheques All major banks throughout Laos, as well as the bigger hotels in Vientiane, will change travellers cheques for US dollars or kip. Credit Cards Visa, Master Card and American Express payment facilities are increasingly being set up throughout the country. A surcharge is usually added. It is possible to get cash US dollars at the bank, for which a surcharge of 3-5% applies.