Will be travelling to Bangkok in mid October, staying at the Royal Orchid Hotel. Interested in shopping, boat cruise, local sites and having suit made while there. Any suggestions. Is US dollar accepted easliy or should I get local currency.

Unlike countries like Cambodia and Burma US $$ are not used in Thailand. Everything is paid for in Baht.

However, do NOT change money before you arrive. The exchange rate is much better within Thailand and you can easily exchange your dollars for local currency when you arrive at the airport ....or get money out of an ATM if you prefer. There are zillions of ATMs in Thailand.

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“Not all those who wander are lost.” Tolkien.
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

I would get Thai Bhat. Just use the aTM's they are pleantiful.
Remember to barter.
Stayed at the ROS upgraded to exec room it was worth the money.
Free drinks between 5.30 and 7, nibbles, some free laundry, seperate lounge, fab views from the river and lovely beds.
Boat from hotel will take you one stop down the river to get all the boats etc and the sky train think it is thaskin not totaly sure..
You will be able to go to the Grand palace by boat and all the sights down there. Make sure that you are dresed correctly covered legs and shoulders.
Jump on a boat next door, this is a shopping mall as well, and you can go across the river for something ridiculous like 6 bhat. There is a market on there at night geared more to Thais
MBK for shopping unless you want the real stuff.
Can't recommend a tailor maybe others will. There are zillions to chose from, personally they do my head in.
There are some decent places to eat near by you are not far from China town if you are interested in jewellry.
You wil love the hotel I am sure nice place to eat there but is more expensive than outside. We used it on our last night.

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Kiss
God laughs at people who make plans.

I must apologise for all the spelling mistakes. I think that my key board is posessed or I am just losing it.

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Kiss
God laughs at people who make plans.