My Experience Exchanging Money at Parkson Mall in Vientiane: Finding the Best Rates

If you're traveling to Vientiane, Laos, and need to exchange currency, Parkson Mall is one of the best places to do it. During my trip, I visited several money exchange booths inside the mall to find the best exchange rate, and I’m sharing my personal experience to help you get the most out of your exchange.

Parkson Mall is a large, modern shopping center in Vientiane, making it a convenient spot to not only exchange currency but also do some shopping or grab a bite to eat. Here’s what I discovered about exchanging money at Parkson Mall, along with some tips for you!

1. Parkson Mall: A Great Place for Currency Exchange

Parkson Mall is one of the newest and largest malls in Vientiane. It’s super convenient because there are several exchange booths inside, so you can compare rates all in one place.

The mall itself is modern and clean, with plenty of shops and restaurants, so you can take care of all your errands and have a meal after exchanging money. It’s a one-stop shop!

2. The Importance of Comparing Exchange Rates

One thing I learned quickly is that not all booths offer the same exchange rate. When I was there, the rates ranged from 2.2 million to 2.3 million LAK for $100. That may not sound like a big difference, but it adds up, especially if you’re exchanging a large amount. Since the exchange rate changes daily, it’s a good idea to do a little research and visit a few booths before deciding where to exchange.

3. Booth 129: The Best Rate in Parkson Mall

The booth with the best rate during my visit was Booth 129. They offered 2.33 million LAK for $100, which was higher than any of the other booths I checked out.
It was a great deal! Keep in mind, though, that rates can change from day to day, so it’s always worth checking before you make a decision. But on that particular day, Booth 129 was definitely the best option.

4. Western Union Booth: Not What It Used to Be

I heard that the Western Union booth used to offer the best rates, but that’s not the case anymore. Nowadays, Booth 129 and the nearby Booths 138 and 139 tend to offer better rates. So, if you’ve been told to go to Western Union, I’d recommend checking out these other booths instead. You might get a better deal.

5. Booths 138 and 139: Another Good Option

If you want to compare rates even further, Booths 138 and 139 are good alternatives. These two booths are in direct competition with each other, and their rates fluctuate a bit each day. It’s worth checking both out before deciding where to exchange your money. Sometimes the difference is small, but it can still save you a bit of cash!

6. Be Careful When Exchanging Money

One thing to keep in mind when exchanging money at Parkson Mall is that the rates can change throughout the day. I recommend going in the morning and checking the rates at multiple booths to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Also, since you’ll be dealing with large sums of cash, make sure to be mindful of your surroundings and keep your money safe.

7. Is It Better to Exchange Dollars in Laos or Beforehand?

I found that it’s usually better to exchange your money for US dollars in your home country first and then exchange it for Lao kip once you’re in Laos. The local booths tend to offer better rates for dollars compared to other currencies. And if you’re carrying $100 bills, you might get an even better rate!

8. Private Exchange Booths vs. Banks

The private exchange booths in Parkson Mall typically offer better rates than banks or airport exchanges. However, keep in mind that the Lao government has been tightening regulations on private exchange booths, so if you’re concerned about safety or just want peace of mind, banks and official exchange points are still a good option.

9. Stay Safe While Exchanging Money

Even though security in Southeast Asia has improved, it’s always a good idea to be cautious when dealing with large amounts of cash. Make sure you keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings, especially when you’re in crowded places like Parkson Mall.

10. Parkson Mall: The Best Place to Exchange Money in Vientiane

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best exchange rates in Vientiane, Parkson Mall is the place to go. I recommend focusing on Booth 129 and Booths 138 and 139 for the best rates. Plus, it’s a great spot to relax, shop, and grab some food while you’re there. It’s convenient and easy to find the best deal without wandering all over the city.

So, if you're planning to exchange money in Vientiane, definitely make a stop at Parkson Mall. Remember to compare rates at a few different booths to get the best deal, and you’ll be all set to make the most of your travel budget!