currency exchange
Nov. 27th, 2004 12:49 pmI don't know that any of you will have opinions on this -- but where is your preferred place to do currency exchange in NYC before a trip.
I don't want to just order everything i need from Amex online, because they charge too many fees. Iw ill probably have to go into an Amex office to get some travellers checks in $A, but I also want to have some actual $A on me for when I get off the plane (which can obviously be done at Amex or a different currency exchange place) -- offices with the least drama, waiting and fees are what I'm trying to figure out.
Also, travellers insurance recs? Just so like the hospital will treat me if a critter gets me in Oz. Yes, I've been reading the dangerous animal warnings again. Also, on the set last week, everyone was all, "dude, a shark just ate a model!", which might just be a stock response to "I'm going to Australia."
I don't want to just order everything i need from Amex online, because they charge too many fees. Iw ill probably have to go into an Amex office to get some travellers checks in $A, but I also want to have some actual $A on me for when I get off the plane (which can obviously be done at Amex or a different currency exchange place) -- offices with the least drama, waiting and fees are what I'm trying to figure out.
Also, travellers insurance recs? Just so like the hospital will treat me if a critter gets me in Oz. Yes, I've been reading the dangerous animal warnings again. Also, on the set last week, everyone was all, "dude, a shark just ate a model!", which might just be a stock response to "I'm going to Australia."
No problemo!
Date: 2004-11-27 02:56 pm (UTC)My wife also had a suggestion: (she's a much more seasoned traveler than me) don't change your money at airports. They have the absolute worst currency exchange rate and you'll get screwed. Likewise, be careful paying for things via credit card because there might be fees. Oh, and fees can be outrageous when withdrawing money at foreign ATMs. She took money out of a branch in London a number of years ago and was slapped with a $US7.50 fee. Something to keep in mind.
Re: No problemo!
Date: 2004-11-27 02:58 pm (UTC)That said, I just found out there is Citibank in Australia, so that might actually make things less of a clusterfuck for me (although I doubt it). I am calling and inquiring tonight. I want to buy Australian dollars before our dollar decides to plunge further.