andres

Where is the best place to exchange money (dollars to pesetas)in Madrid (i.e., best rate, lowest commission, etc). What about on Sundays? Thanks everyone!

Carol

The banks give the best exchange rates. They are usually open till 1 p.m. on Sat and closed Sun. We just tried to plan our exchanging around when the banks were open when we were in Madrid. They have places that say CAMBIO all over but the exchange rates aren't as good as at the bank. As a last resort, the hotels will always exchange money for you but you won't get a good rate for it. Always have your passport when you exchange money at the banks. <BR>Have fun, it's a wonderful city! <BR>Carol <BR>

sue

Whenever we have traveled throughout Europe we rely on our ATM card. It never closes, you get a very decent rate, and there are usually plenty of machines. Check with your bank.

nevado

I always go to the American Express office (across from the Palace hotel). I find they have the best rates and don't charge commission. They now have one in the airport. If you have a card, you can write a personal check from your US account and receive pesetas. Also, ATM card is easy-if the machine will not accept your card, try another. Be persistant- they can and do work but sometimes the connection is down or something. Banks are everywhere.

BOB THE NAVIGATOR

The only GOOD place to get cash in Europe is at the nearest ATM. Everyone <BR>else takes their cut. It is my first <BR>stop at the airport after I get my bags. <BR>In Madrid, Munich, Rome--all the same.

Maribel

Andres, <BR>Concur with BOB and Nevado (also about Am Ex)-you'll get the very best rate with at an ATM, and Spain has more of them (according to the Sp. press) than any other country in Western Europe. Have been using them since they were introduced 8 yrs. ago, and since then, I've never needed to cash a trav. check. You'll even find them in small towns-if there's a bank, there will be an ATM. As you exit customs in Barajas, you'll find one near the rental car counters. <BR>Maribel

andres

You folks never disappoint! Thank you so much for the terrific information! Andres.