[LivinLOS]

Depends on the card.. as has been pointed out some cards now offer free withdrawls, combine that with getting the interbank rate instead of the bid offer spread you are doing the best possible..

Trav cheques are something I havent used in years.. Dont think you will have a problem cashing then any where is Patong but dont know how easy up country etc would be..

I have also never heard of travellers cheques for 'free'.. I always paid a % to get them (then another bid offer when selling them).. How do they make money to cover the insurance otherwise ??

If I was travelling I would carry multiple different company issues credit / ATM cards.. and some cash..