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Currency :
Tenge (T) = 100 tiyin.
Notes are in denominations of T5000, 2000, 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50,
20, 10, 5, 2 and 1, and 20, 10, 5, 3 and 1 tiyin. Coins are in
denominations of T100, 50, 20, 10 and 1.
Currency exchange :
The national currency,
the Tenge, may only be obtained within Kazakhstan. Conversion of the
Tenge back into hard currency may prove difficult. Foreign currency
should only be exchanged at official bureaux and all transactions must
be recorded on the currency declaration form which is issued on
arrival. It is wise to retain all exchange receipts, although they are
seldom inspected. Unless
travelling with a licensed
tourist company, in which case
accommodation, transport and meals are paid before departure,
money should be brought in US Dollars cash and exchanged when
necessary.
Credit & debit cards :
Major European and
international credit cards, including Visa and Diners Club, are
accepted in the larger hotels in Almaty and in major
shops and restaurants. Facilities exist for credit-card cash
withdrawals in Kazakhstan.
Travellers cheques :
To avoid additional exchange rate charges,
travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars.
Exchange rate indicators :
The following figures are
included as a guide to the movements of the Tenge against Sterling and
the US Dollar.
|
Date |
Feb ’03 |
May ’03 |
Aug ’03 |
Nov ’03 |
|
£1.00 = |
242.46 |
246.43 |
238.33 |
250.47 |
|
$1.00 = |
152.28 |
150.49 |
149.40 |
147.60 |
Currency restrictions : The
import and export of local currency and import of foreign currency is
unlimited provided declared on arrival. The export of foreign currency
is limited to the amount imported. Special bank permission is required
for all amounts exceeding this.
Banking hours :
Mon-Fri 0930-1730. Banks close for lunch
1300-1400. All banks are closed Sat-Sun. |
