Will there be any difficulty accessing ATM's in Australia or New Zealand - Should we take travelers checks. I assumed that our bank cards would work but now I think I better get some good advice.

We were in Australia last summer and frequently used ATM's with no problem. Found it very convenient - no need to carry large sums of money. The exchange rate we got from the bank was good. No worries!

Awe gee Brenda you have stolen my thunder, I was going to say that there is one ATM at Sydney airport and another in Perth!<BR>However they won't be able to use them unless they have Visa, Bankcard, M/C Amex. Some of the more obsecure cards from the USA won't be acceptable

one thing you might like to ask your bank, or maybe another poster may be able to advise is if you make an international eftpos transaction, depending on what country your bank is in, you may not receive a balance on your receipt. Not a major hasle but something to keep in mind. I am from Australia and had this problem when in Brittian. Someone told me that balance info is not sent between the two countries. Never had a problem in the United States or Canada.

Time to check out all those interesting symbols on the back of your cash-card(s). Most Australian ATMs seemed to be in the Cirrus network and took my UK current-account card. Check with your bank/card issuer what networks they are part of.

Patti:<BR>Have used my Mastercard at ATM's in Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain and France. Never a problem. However, I do notify my bankcard company of where I'm going and the dates of travel.<BR>They seem to appreciate it. <BR>John

Thank you all very much - I am sitting here red-faced and with pie on it too. But as long as I don't need to get travelers checks I'll be happy. I didn't know - our stateside system here could be much further behind the ATM system in Australia and New Zealand. You've clued me in and Liz, I'm still chuckling.

Have a great time Patti when you get here. With our $ value against the US$ you will think you are in 7th heaven. I think the days of traveller's cheques are long gone and when I get one I am never too sure what to do with it now. <BR>Cheers