Page 46 - Ancient Kingdoms: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam

Because of these limits, we recommend having a cash reserve to cover your basic expenses in
Burma, and only use the ATM as a backup or supplement.

Malaysia: ATMs are fairly common in Malaysia throughout large cities and small towns.

Credit & Debit Cards
Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring
one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning a large purchase (artwork, jewelry).
We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American
Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the
Discover card is accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other
brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.

Thailand: Credit cards are commonly accepted as payment.

Laos: Credit cards are rarely accepted.

Cambodia: Credit cards are somewhat accepted—you’ll be able to use them in nicer hotels,
shops, and restaurants but not at small businesses.

Vietnam: Credit cards are commonly accepted.

Burma: Credit card use is just starting to gain traction in Burma. Most businesses are still
“cash only”. And unfortunately, the places that do take credit cards can be very inconsistent.
They may only take one type of card (MasterCard only or Visa only)…they may or may not
charge you a fee…the fee may or may not be the same fee as yesterday…you get the idea.
Because of these inconsistencies, it is important that you don’t rely on your credit card alone.
It makes more sense to bring a card or two as a supplement to your cash reserve. Burma is
changing fast, but cash is still king.

Malaysia: Credit cards are commonly accepted.

Notify Card Providers
Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card
if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid
an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank
you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number
a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do
this online.

You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a
card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of
your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!

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