euros exchanged in US?
 

Our bank can order euros for exchange for $10 for any amount above $200. What is the best advice? Thanks to all for advice on the other inquiries.

just use atms in europe with a debit card

Do a search for ATM, it's a common question.

Find out what your "bank" charges for overseas withdrawals as there is typically a minimum fixed charge for each withdrawal which would make ATM use for small amounts VERY expensive

The $10 charge really isn't the issue. Depending on the rate they are giving you for exchange, you may actually be paying another $10 or $25 for a couple of hundred dollars.

Read my lips: ATM

If you don't have an ATM card yet...GET ONE...using ATMs for local currency in Europe is the best possible option, bar NONE IMO.

For a very helpful article about changing money, including what to do BEFORE leaving home to be sure your credit cards and ATM cards will work in Europe, go here: http://tinyurl.com/k3vy6.

You need to know the rate of exchange they are giving, as well as the $10 fee.

Best value is to wait and withdraw euro direct from an ATM after you arrive Euruope.

If you were going to Florida, and you knew that you were going to want oranges and grapefruits once you got there, would you buy them here and take them with you? or wait until you got there to buy them?

Same with currency from other countries. If you can find any here, it's not because we made it here. Somebody had to pay to transport it here.

Buy your euros there.

Best wishes,

Rex

Before you go to the bank, google "200 euros to dollars" and you will get the day's official rate. Then you will be able to know what the bank is actually charging you.

Thank you for the information from everyone. We do have a debit card but really were exploring the mentioned option. I also read the web site info. Thanks again.

Well sure then, if you want to order euro from your bank at home, why not? I've done it before.

;-) but you did ask us for the "best advice".

We always get 800 to 1000 euro from our bank before leaving the states, and don't notice a whole lot difference in exchange rates. I'm sure we are in the minority,,,but hey..do what you want, it's a personal thing. (CONVENIENCE is a big reason, but others don't see it that way).
WE also use ATM's when overseas...to supplement and when we "run short", but would NEVER depend on ATM's only.
This question ALWAYS opens a "can of worms" on Fodors.......and I think it's kind of fun!
We always charge our hotels! and we don't walk in seedy areas after dark!

Have a great trip!

I suggest you read the this article from bankrate.com

20 tips for using plastic on vacation

http://tinyurl.com/pzhp4

There's a money exchange right at the airports in Shannon and Dublin and hole in the walls (atm machines) are in most of the larger towns, Ready.

Banks will make the exchange for you but sometimes you need to be a customer.

I agree with all the advice you've been given.

Slan,
Jim
www.tourclare.com