Okay, if you have been reading ANY of the conversations about currency, you know that exchanging your money here is one of the worst ways to get Euros for your trip. However, some of us need Euros as soon as we disembark from the plane. I have to have at least 60 Euro to pay the taxi guy to get to our hotel. So here is my question: will I find an ATM as soon as I get out of customs in Rome and before I reach the luggage claim area in Italy? Should I risk waiting until then to get my Euros? I have checked into AAA and the bank here, and I almost HATE to buy Euro here. The exchange rate is .10 higher on the dollar than the currently published WSJ rates. If I just want to get 200Euro to tide me over until I get to the hotel, I am going to pay almost 20.00 more here to get it before I leave. Should I wait until I reach Italy? And if you recommend getting it here, where do you get your Euros before you leave? Local bank? A company? AAA? Thanks!
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5537 posts
I almost always travel with some foreign currency to start my trip ... usually around 100 EUR. Most of the time, it is money left from my last trip. When I have needed to buy currency in the States, I have bought it from my bank. I consider it kind of like buying something from the 7-11 when I know it would be cheaper somewhere else. I pay more because I want the convenience. When I arrive at the airport, I just want to get going. If I see an ATM on my way out of the airport, great. If not, I don't go looking.
I've only ever had one occasion where I had a problem with an ATM. I arrived in Verona with some EUR. When I got to the city, I tried two different ATMs and neither worked. A little later in the day, I tried a third and it worked fine. Had no further problems. I was glad that I had some cash, as it caused me almost no stress when the first two ATMs failed. I still was able to go to lunch and go sightseeing until I worked things out.
I think the main thing is just to have a backup plan in case the ATM is not functioning; this is unlikely, but can happen.
Some people on this board will tell you they always wait and use ATM on arrival; others will tell you they always bring some with them. Really, you just have to decide what you are comfortable with. It is a trade-off.
Posted by
Portland, Oregon, USA
306 posts
There are ATMs at the airport. There is no reason to bring euros with you.
Posted by
Coraopolis, Pa, USA
1018 posts
I prefer to arrive with about 100 euro. I also have a few hundred dollars in cash, as well.
Do whatever makes you comfortable.
Buon viaggio,
RB
Posted by
Alta Loma, CA, USA
60 posts
I use an money exchange company I found in our nearby mall. Their service charge was much less than our bank's service charge. Do a google search for one near you and just compare the fees they charge.