i typically bring a few hundred bucks on me to exchange to local currency at the airport or at the hotel. i know for sure that i'm getting screwed at the airport but if i didn't have any local currency i have no choice anyway. however, i'm beginning to wonder if ATM is better? has anyone compared?

 

http://travel2.nytimes.com/2006/06/2...el/25prac.html

it's a little dated but looks like ATM is the way to go. i will do that then.

 

i usually try to go to the local currency exchange at the place i'll be visiting. i try to the credit card as much as possible.

 

credit card actually charges you more fees than just the exchange rate. You should go to your local bank and get some cash in hand.

 

definitely skip on the credit card, they won't give you the most favorable rates.

 

I travel a fair bit internationally on business. I've had both experiences with credit cards -- I've gotten a better exchange than anticipated in some cases and worse in others. I don't change currencies at my local back (Wachovia) because they give a ridiculous exchange rate AND charge me a ridiculous fee to do it. Unfortunately, it's one of those situations where you're probably going to be hosed no matter what you do.

 

depends where you are going, i know in asia, you can usually bargain with those private booths, depending on how well you speak the language and the amount you want to change. it has worked for me in taiwan and in hong kong. the hotel and airport usually rape you because they know they "gotcha".

 

I've gotten some really good exchange rates with Credit cards. But beware of certain cards who charge fees. I think this is limited now based on the class action lawsuit that recently passed.

But I usually always change a few hundred at the airport as well.

 

American Express offers excellent rates, bank cards like VISA not so much. Banks usually hit you with a foreign exchange fee on top of the exchange rate. Best to call your bank manager and tell him to give you a great rate and no fees. Nothing to lose for asking.

 

Airports are renowed for having the WORST exchange rates anywhere. I believe the logic is, if you are exchanging at an airport, you are desperate.

I would advise travel checks, or get your currency at your bank.