Obtaining Foreign Currency?????
 

I will be leaving for England and France shortly and would like to obtain some currency to take with me. Does anyone know of any websites to do this. I thought citibank did it but I can't seem to find it. Would appreciate any help

I use chase bank currency to go. <BR>www.chase.com <BR>Always have had good service.

AAA has foreign currency or if you have an American Express travel agency, they do also.

Here's a very good service: <BR> <BR>https://www.oanda.com/fxdelivery/ <BR> <BR>Remember that true "service" is not free; there is a delivery charge, along with getting nicked a bit on the rate compared to an ATM. That said, it is a cheaper and far more convenient way to obtain a couple of hundred dollars worth of "walking around" money in foreign currency than many exchange operations I've seen, including those horrendously costly airport booths. Regardless, I wouldn't advise you to get much more than the $200 minimum via this means, since ATMs are so much more cost-effective. Happy trails! :o)

By all means use an ATM, making sure that your card can be used internationally by checking with your bank. At the airport, stop to get your cash and you're set. I haven't carried travelers checks to England or France in years, because ATMs are simple to use and best rates. But you must find out where your card works, as a travelling companion didn't have the right card, he was turned down by 1 out of 10 ATMs, mine works every time.

If using an ATM just make sure you've left enough money in your account..I prefere credit cards when available as then you can get FF miles so you can return sooner

Here in Columbus, Ohio, there is essentially no competition for the American Express office. And ask about their buyback program! <BR> <BR>Best wishes, <BR> <BR>Rex <BR>

Almost any local should be able to help you. Our offers a cuurency survice for a nominal fee and takes a week or so. It's always nice to have at least a little local currency in your pocket when you get somewhere.

It's always a good idea to have a little foreign currency to "get started"after arriving. I would second the suggestion for Chase Bank program called "Currency to Go". It can be done by phone or internet....and they will deliver it to your house in one day. We've had good results with them and the exchange rate is not bad, considering the good service and convenience. After arriving in England and France you can then use travelers checks and/or ATMS.

Do not use Thomas Cook "My Travel Wallet"! I have been trying to get my Italian lira and have been waiting and waiting at home. They said delivery was attempt--I've been stuck at home for days!! Also LOUSY service when you try to follow up. From what I am reading, I wished I had just waited and hit an ATM first thing!

I use an ATM at the point of departure in US and have had NO difficulty finding ATM's all over Europe.

Most international airports have a cambio or bureau de change (open daytime only) and don't give you the best rate, but just change $100 for starters. Then the ATM upon arrival, although I saw none at Terminal 1, CDG. Does anyone know if US airport ATMs can give foreign currency? I've used them for dollars and don't recall that they do.

I've never seen an ATM anywhere in the world that gives anything but the local currency. International airports have currency exchange bureaux, but they aren't always open (example: your plane is supposed to land at 5pm - but doesn't land until 11pm; you have TCs and $US only, no ATM card, the currency window is closed - you're screwed). I like to have about $100 of local currency before I land; after a 10 hr flight, I don't want to go hunting for an ATM so I can buy a coffee or catch the train - I want to buy a to-go black and go right to the RER station or whatever. Worst case scenario - the ATMs are off-line at the airport; now whaddya do?

My bank advised me that it will cost me $2.50/transaction to use my ATM oversea.. Do you know of a bank that won't charge you any transaction fee to use your ATM card oversea?? <BR> <BR>I live in Canada so a Canadian bank with no transaction fee is needed otherwise I will purchase currency before I go and use my Visa as much as possible. <BR> <BR>Is it cheaper to buy the local currency in England or is it best to buy before I leave?

Some online banks provide "fee-free" ATM transactions, but usually just at banks in your own country. But, even with the transaction fees, the ATM exchange rate is better than many banks, and certainly most "bureau de change" locations. Remember, you pay a fee for each transaction, so fewer, larger transactions are more cost effective. Just be careful about carrying too much cash... <BR> <BR>Dave White <BR>http://www.KidsToLondon.com <BR>[email protected]

I used my local American Express travel agency, and because I'm an AmEx cardholder, the exchange fee was waived. I was very glad I brought a little currency with me, because my ATM card never did work in Germany, but since I had the DMs from home, I was fine.

I've been in several international US airports and they have foreign currency exchange desks. Check with your airport. For instance, the Denver airport has 3 foreign exchange desks and I found at least one in Philadelphia. Only buy what you need for a day or two as the rate is only so so. Marilyn

I third the use of Chase. I can't remember if there is a fee but I didn't have to pay any as I have an account with them. You can just call them up and place your order. If you live or work in New York City, Long Island or Westchester you can arrange to pick it up at a designated branch which should definitely save you and delivery charges. I got Australian pounds from last year and there were nice, clean, new bills.