Thanks, Diann. Interesting info. The Yen rate varied from 119 to 133 to
the dollar while we there and other currencies are even more volatile.
Whenever possible, the use of a credit card will generally get the best
exchange rate but not always. We just ran into a case where the fares are
quoted in dollars converted to Philippine Pisos for charging to a bank
card. By quoting in US$$ and using their own conversion rate for charging
to your credit card they jack up the amount charge before it goes through
the bank system.

Also, for foreign conversion of currency there are usually a number of
sources -- the Cambio or airport exchange desks (not a really good rate),
hotels desks (can be good or bad), banks (usually the best). Some
countries give better rates for traveller's checks then cash and $100's get
a better rate than $20's. Also, if you carry cash (that can generate other
problems!!) make sure the bills are pristine (a nick or a tear can render
the bill un-exchangeable!! In Indonesia, I tore a Rupiah note in half in a
bank and they taped it together and made change but they wouldn't accept a
bill with a 1/16th inch nick!!!)

Now, if someone can give a rule of thumb for not leaving a country with $50
US$$ equivalent (in case you need a cab, tips, another meal, etc) in
currency that is not convertible anywhere else, I would be truly
appreciative. Elaine has money for all the countries we just visited and
it would cost more in bank fees to exchange it then to start our barbeque!!


Bob and Elaine
Federal Way, WA
taylorrt at foxinternet.net

----------
> From: Diann MacRae <tvulture at halcyon.com; tweeters at u.washington.edu
> To: tweeters at u.washington.edu
> Subject: currency exchange
> Date: Thursday, April 16, 1998 11:18 AM
>
> Hello Tweets,
>
> This is not bird-related, but thought it might be a helpful site to some.
> I was in the process of ordering a book from South Africa and found a
great
> site that gives up-to-the-minute currency conversions from just about any
> currency to any other. It is: <http://www.xe.net/cgi-bin/ucc/convert>.
> Sure easier than calling banks, most of which don't know beans about
> international currencies.
>
> Cheers, Diann
>
> Diann MacRae
> Bothell
> tvulture at halcyon.com