Actually, my younger brother is going for 2 1/2 weeks. I want to give him some spending money. Is the US$ widely accepted? Can I convert US$ into Reals' in the US? or should I just tell him to charge it and give him the money when he gets back.

I've travelled extensively in Europe but an not familiar with travelling in Latin America. I recall currency restrictions for Brazil, Argentina and Chile but it was some time ago.

Thanks in advance.

 

you can change the money here, and the rate will be better than it would be at an airport.

I would only do a few hundred. It is advised to use a credit card; they will charge it in Reals...and the exchange rate is VERY competitive (as the CC company isn't in the sole business of making $ via currenty changes like a currency stand at the airport for example).

 

NEVER change money at the airport! You get ripped off. As soon as you get out of your cab at your hotel, there are 40 1100 money changing places offering much better rates of exchange. I wouldn't use a credit card overseas besides for the hotel if you can help it. Brazil would be a bad place to have your financial life ruined. Take US cash and change it in Brazil, you'll probably do better.

 

what's wrong with using a credit card?

the exchange rates are excellent as you really only pay the TRUE costs of exchange vs a pumped-up one like you would at a stand.

Is this a security issue or something? You can even use your ATM card overseas, too, with excellent exhange rates as well.

 

What's wrong with a credit card is if you experience fraud overseas, you are screwed and so is your vacation. Sure, with a credit card, you may get the money back, but after you get home and it all gets sorted out.

The exchange stands in Europe were way better than the airport or the credit card rates. Your credit card will only give you the exchange rate for the day. Money stands are into currency speculating and depending on their need of US currency, will almost always have a better rate in my personal experience (Germany, England, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, etc.).

 

Always use an ATM machine, you will get the best rates. Go in with a few real just for maybe a taxi or some snacks at the airport but that's it.


Sam