I am going to Morocco in a few weeks and wonder what is the safest and easiest way to get Moroccan currency. I was thinking of bringing dollars with me and exchanging them. Is this a good idea and where would you get the best exchange rates? I am going on a tour. Would the hotels be a good place to exchange money? I have been given conflicting advice about using a debit card. Any thoughts?
Thanks
Why would you not use an ATM to get cash?
I personally use a credit card if traveling vs debit card, I find it to work well and less dramatic should anything be disputed vs having my checking acct tied up in it
I will second the recommendation for using an ATM card - I've used them in every country in Europe and several in Asia and have never had a problem. I would suggest that you use an ATM that is located in a secure location. Banks are best, but I've used ATMs at the airport and train stations without any problem.
You could exchange dollars but don't count on a good exchange rate - you will definitely be better off using an ATM.
Hello,
I just posted on Morrocco, wondering if anyone has been there and which tour guide/group to use. Are you traveling with a group or independently, if you would be so kind as to share your trip planning info it would be greatly appreciated. We are just now looking into going there briefly.
Re: your question about currency there--we have a bank (Schwab) that refunds any foreign ATM fees so we pull cash out as needed. As already mentioned, use an ATM that is attached to a bank in case it eats your card. We also find we are using our CC more than before as in Europe anyway, they make it so easy by bringing the device directly to the table so you don't have to hand over your card to a server. Keep in mind that some European banks are now trying to charge horrendous transactions fees, upwards of 17%, so make sure you pay attention to that when pulling out cash.
In at least three of the world's four corners, plastic money (credit and debit/bank cards) work just fine.
Cards with chips are said to be safer. Generally fees are imposed by the issuing bank but there are possible local fees, another reason for sticking to ATMs run by banks. Exchange rates at bank machines are the best possible. Foreign currency fees can accumulate if you want to use plastic extensively; study what your bank will charge you beforehand. Don't use a credit card to extract cash; it can be very costly. Carry debit and credit cards issued by two banks and never all in one wallet.
There is my accumulated knowledge of travel economics, all learned the hard way.
