Note to self re: financial planning and travel

[scarlettina]

Don't believe the signs that say TravelEx: Worldwide Currency Exchange.

When traveling anywhere that isn't Europe, Canada, Japan or Mexico, be sure to order your currency at least three days ahead of when you need it. Anything that's not one of the above-mentioned countries is considered exotic and they don't keep it on hand. In fact, the young

Comments

[lyonessnyc]

Just remember -- any place that accepts credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, Amex, etc.) will be able to take your card, and your card carrier will give you an excellent exchange rate.

Doesn't do any good in the nifty native village markets, but it will certainly do the trick in London. You might even be able to do a credit card cash advance(or even a bank account withdrawal) through an ATM at the airport in Kenya and beat their brick-and-mortar exchange's rates.

Maybe call your card carrier and ask? They're open 24-7.

Have a WONDERFUL and safe trip!

[quarkwiz]

I have to add, though, that many credit cards these days tack on a 3% surcharge to every single non-North American transaction! It can really add up--especially in such a hideously expensive place as London. It's why, when we were in Iceland and Scotland two years ago, we used my debit card for a couple of the really big bills. The con hotel, ferinstance....that was a 4-figure bill. Wasn't about to fork over 3% to MasterCard or Mistress Visa. Mademoiselle Debit Card doesn't do the surcharge, so that's what I used.

[lyonessnyc]

Oh wow -- didn't realize that. I only have a debit card, and that's what I used when I was in London.

I know you're already gone, but I hope your trip goes well!

[miss_swamp]

A lot of the ATMs in China wouldn't take our cards, but there's gotta be something at the airport ... right?

Oh, I can't wait to hear all about th trip!

[skidspoppe]

And, if things are still holding like they were when I was there, the cost exchange rate is about 1 for 1, meaning that if you were to buy a book in the US for $7, in the the UK it would be £7 (roughly $14).

And you wonder why they love to come here to shop!

Oh yeah, and have I mentioned have a great trip?

[shadowdaddy]

yeah, that $1 : £1 thing still holds. It's obnoxious.

[skidspoppe]

And for me, I used to get music and British editions of books (which, let's face it, are mo' better than American editions - I think the binding on paperbacks isn't as tight or something) so having to shell out twice as much is just irksome.

And since this is scarlettina's blog, I should point out that I concur with all those saying use the ATM or Credit Card whenever you get the chance, since the banks get a better exchange rate and it fluctuates through-out the day.

[twilight2000]

oops! as for the british thing, i'm not overly shocked :>. Hope Kenyatta airport is "open" :>.

You'll have a great time -- no matter what stupid things the Universe throws in your way :>.

[neutronjockey]

Ack! You beat me to the Dark Continent! *scold*
Check out kjingkinga (sp) while you're there. Should be a meatie type thing covered in peanut flower and deep fried (on a stick of course!)

[a_muse_d]

i went to Australia in 2002 with my mom and we ordered currency from the bank when it was cheap.. when it comes to money like that, it's good to try to plan at least months ahead. uh, for future reference.