Holiday Money..exchanging Currency

[MustangLady]

Has anyone bought their currency in the country they are actually going to rather than getting it changed up before they go abroad? Is the rate of exchange any better doing it this way or would it be best to change it all here? thanks

[TWR]

We get our's changed at the P.O. before we go Mustang. where you off to?

[EcclesCake]

I just go to the cash point in the destination airport and withdraw what I want.

I don't fret about the saving as it is usually minimal and the convenience compensates.

[rockyracoon]

We usually take a bit before we go and then get it there. Baht rates in Thailand were better than here, when we went to the States, OH negotiated quite good rates for the dollar down in Commercial Rd, London.

[boxtops]

same as eccles, we don't take any with us (unless we have some left over from a previous trip) and we get it out of the hole in the wall at the airport when we arrive (enough for the taxi etc) then just top up from local ATMs as and when we need it.

[flitty]

Having recently been to Spain I found it best to use a post office credit card as there is no charge for using it and everywhere took it. Also when it is changed to sterling on your statement then you get the wholesale rate which is usually better. Just make sure before you go you tell them where you are going and the dates or it will be declined when you try to use it. Just take cash for everyday things.

[flitty]

If you are in Santander bank you can use your debit card for cash withdrawls free in Spain.

[boxtops]

Nationwide only charges you 1% in Europe, much less than the major banks (it does depend where you are going, though!)

[MustangLady]

Thank you all... going to Hong Kong and Thailand, holiday of a lifetime :)