We've heard rumors that we may not be able to get money from the ATM's during the Olympics due to the huge demand. We're leaving tomorrow for a week in England - is this true? I'll get some pounds at a currency exchange in the US before we come if it's true (this is something I've never done on previous trips to London).
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9109 posts
It's not uncommon for ATMs to run out of cash in busy areas over a weekend. This shouldn't be an issue during the work week.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9369 posts
I also think it's unlikely that they would let ATMs get empty during this uncommon event.
Posted by
Fort Wayne, IN, USA
2349 posts
Think of it this way. All that money is getting pulled out of ATMs, but it's getting spent right away by the tourists, deposited by the businesses that took the money, and serviced back into the ATMs.
Posted by
Land of La
9126 posts
And the sky is falling.
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
My husband used to work for a bank. Occassionallly there will be a high demand on particular ATMs in certain locations. They may be out of cash for a short period of time, but the bank will quickly 'restock'- ie you might find one ATM that is out of cash for an hour or two. But they will be refilled soon. Just go to the next closest one if your need is urgent. Banks don't want them to sit empty. They knew this was coming and have made plans.
Posted by
Southern California
439 posts
Yahoo had an article about this a few days back. Apparently the U. K. Payment Council is recommending that people bring some cash to London, just in case, since demand will be high. So as long as you aren't paying too much for the exchange, it couldn't hurt.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32332 posts
Lisa, I'd suggest taking £100 or so to provide some expense money until you get settled and can find the local ATM's. It's certainly possible that some ATM's may be depleted at different times, but I suspect they'll be refilled on a more frequent basis than normal. Organizers want visitors to spend money, so they'll do their best to make sure money is available. Happy travels!