Don't travel with cash or traveler's checks, advises Margaret Ferguson of Vista. “I use my ATM card worldwide. Since my bank (Charles Schwab) refunds ATM fees worldwide, it's much better than exchanging funds.
“I can get local currency almost anywhere money is used! Thailand, Russia, Ireland, Romania to name a few places where I've used it. Get local money before leaving the entry airport, at Western Union offices and at most places catering to tourists.
“When going to a money exchange, they often refuse U.S. dollars – Russia especially – if it has been folded, has a crumpled corner or just for no known reason. Using the ATM card eliminates that possibility, as well as the exchange fees. (Just don't lose the card!)”
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