Currency Exchange

[bubble]

Do you think it is better to get some local currency before you set off for your holiday, or is it best to wait until you are there, and use the currency exchange services in that country?

[Florentin]

I think it depends a lot on where you are going.
If you are going to a third-world-country, the chances for theft and counterfeit currency is greater: in that case I would change the money here.

If you are going to Europe or something similar, you are fine changing the money there.

[alessadry]

I prefer to be prepared. Not too much fond of wasting my vacation looking for a place to exchange. Plus exchange places in touristic areas get a big chunck of commission at times. So for me, better get ready before leaving.

[Florentin]

also, you ought to check exchange rates!
these can be much higher if you do the exchange outside of the country you are about to visit.

[jhellie_baby]

I think it is best to exchange the money once you are already in your destination place, because the change rate there would be higher compared to other countries.

[Lissy]

I agree with Florentin that it depends a lot on where you are going. In Europe, legitimate currency exchange offices are easy to find, they are pretty much everywhere. I have never exchanged money prior to my trips.

[Florentin]

NEVER exchange money on the street!
Europe, Eastern Europe in general is quite infamous for this: people exchanging money, and you get counterfeit money in exchange