Phuket Banks: Opening hours - 8.30am and 3.30pm (Monday to Friday) except public and bank holidays.

ATM Machines? Yes. Most major banks have ATM machines which accept major cards within the Cirrus/Maestro system.

Currency exchange centres. Operate from most banks. Also mobile currency exchange centres operate in the evening in major resorts like Patong and Karon from 7.00am to 9.00pm, 7 days a week including holidays.

Location: Most banks are located in Phuket Town and Patong, with some local branches inCherng Talay (Laguna area) and Karon Beach. (See list) Credit Cards: Visa/Mastercard accepted by all banks and local stores. AMEX is not acceptable in many places including banks.

Hotels: Most major hotels will exchange money but at a less favourable rate than the banks.