Currency Exchange

[pokerAngel]

Hello all,

I would like to exchange some currency before I leave on my trip so that I have local currency. I used to go to my bank but have since moved and 3 local banks have informed me that banks no longer provide such services. Where does one go? Anyone know?

Thanks in advance.
Angel

[pokerAngel]

Hello all,

I would like to exchange some currency before I leave on my trip so that I have local currency. I used to go to my bank but have since moved and 3 local banks have informed me that banks no longer provide such services. Where does one go? Anyone know?

Thanks in advance.
Angel

[tazee]

hi angel. mexico welcomes american currency!

[pokerAngel]

tazee,

Though it is true that Mexico accepts US money, the merchant exchange vs spot exchange is usually off by about 5-10% in my experience. Was trying to save that money. Appreciate you responding though. Let's see - last time I was living out your way it was just outside Elk City.

[tazee]

well Angel, right now i wish iwas in sunny california!!! BRRRRRRR!!! have a great cruise!!! Taz

[David]

It is depending where you are. One thing is sure, never change your currency at Hotel or restaurant, unless exchange ratio (cost to you) is not a problem and convert no more than 75% of cash you think you need. Otherwise at the end of trip, may have large sum of foreign currency leftover, and you want to convert back to $, you will pay again for conversion. Other is use CC, let merchants pay for the conversion fee.

[pokerAngel]

Well, I know what you mean about hotels and resteraunts - but I may be forced to because I can't seem to find out where to exchange money at. I am a throw back to a time before credit cards and don't have them.

My handle actually explains alot: I'm a professional poker player and have been all my life. Ever tried to get a credit card after listing 'poker player' on a form. There have been ways around it of course but by the time those came about I held enough contempt toward the credit card companies to refuse them the business. Not to mention that I had figured out a way around just about everything by then. There is no doubt though, it keeps getting more challenging to 'do life' without one.