Hello,

I've read clear instructions about changing money at the BA airport, but I'm wondering about Lima and Quito - 2 other cities we'll by flying into? Do you recommend changing money at the airports in these cities? Should we change some in the US before leaving for So America, change at banks, or other recommendations? Are ATMs are good choice and reasonably available? (I do know about all the extra fees.)

Also, I've also read on these wonderful forums about the need to carry small denominations. If we bring cash from the US in large denominations (like $100 or $500), will banks change into smaller denominations in the host country currency, or do they also get nervous about large denominations, i.e. shall we bring small denominations in US$?

Lastly, any advice about where/how to carry lots of cash? We'll be traveling for a month and will have a bunch of money.

Many thanks in advance for any and all advice!

As far as Lima, I would change a few day's worth at the airport, either the ATMs or the Cambios are open 24 hours. ATM's are widespread in the city, although some say to use the moneychangers for a better rate I don't think this is a wise choice from the point of view of safety (and getting bad notes). You can look for a reflective stripe on any Nuevo Sol bills that you recieve in change.

Do not bring large bills as I understand nothing larger than a $50, you will have trouble especially with the $100 which are commonly forged. Also be sure any bills US or otherwise are in perfect condition.

Ecuador's currency is the U.S. dollar, so currency exchange is a non-issue there if you're from the United States. No one in Ecuador will accept bills of $50 or $100 for any payment of any amount. There are so many counterfeits floating around. Bring nothing larger than $20 bills to Ecuador.

One thing I get a kick out of in Ecuador: You don't see a lot of $1 bills. Instead, the old dollar coins with the portrait of Sacagawea are widely used. Those never caught on in the United States. IMaybe they were all shipped to Ecuador.

Money belt. My husband bought his in REI in Portland Or.. it is silk and light and soft.. He carried a ton of money when we moved to Buenos Aires... all the apt deposits and all the money you figure a couple need when moving to another country .. he did fine and once in the apt we rented, we were able to put the money in the safe.
You don't want to carry money in your pockets or purse .. Just the amounts you will need on the trip before you get to your destination.

For Argentina, it's OK to bring one hundred dollar bills.

Have a great time in South America.