Getting foreign money
 

Should we get some foreign money - we live nowhere near a major city, so I'd have to do it online - any recs?

Well, Nancy, that depends. Are you going on a trip to a foreign country? Is it one where there are no ATM's?

Most big airports have ATM's in the developed countries. In the third world, maybe not! <BR>(However, we pulled into JFK Sept. 28th from Europe, and the ATM's in that terminal were dead because of communication difficulties - seems that bank's central network was in the WTC. Some other terminals' ATMs were working.

It's been years since I've been to Europe, but do the ATM's offer a good exchange rate - I always heard the worst place to exchange your money was the airport - wrong? Thanks.

I've had excellent luck buying foreign currency ahead of time online. I usually go through the American Express website for that, although I think banks like Chase Manhattan, in particular offer services too.

What country or countries? Your own local bank can probably do it for you, though they might need 3-5 days to actually get an order filled. <BR> <BR>More details about your trip would help provide a better answer. <BR> <BR>Best wishes, <BR> <BR>Rex <BR>

In a major city, the bank can, indeed, order this for you and it usually only takes a few days (though they will ask you to give them a 7-10). However, my sister, who lived in Idaho, was never able to get her bank to do it, so you might be better going through Amex on line OR try AAA. I know they'll do it, but usually only in large bundles (I believe last year they had a 600 lb minimum purchase for the UK, for example.) <BR> <BR>It's always a good idea to get a little before going so you have coffee, cab and tip money when you arrive at the airport without having to stand in the lines at the ATMs with all the other arriving passengers who DIDN'T get any money ahead of time. Also, lots of times the ATMs at the airport don't work. <BR> <BR>Have a great trip!

Hi Nancy: <BR> <BR>In my opinion, ATM's are the best way to go. Have used them widely in Europe and also Hong Kong and Thailand. Usually find one working in the airport, otherwise at a bank near your hotel. Exchange rate is very favorable; better than most commercial exchange offices. You need to be aware of you bank's or financial institution policy with respect to foreign ATM transactions, Some charge several dollars per transaction , regardless of amount withdrawn. If so, don't use an ATM for a $20 or $50 withdrawal; estimate how much local currency you will need for your stay and take it all at one or two times.