where is the best place to change uk to euro for small cash amounts
say 500 ukp

is it in the uk or algarve

i would not want the option to reconvert back free or cheap

Steve, my brother-in-law always tops up his Portuguese account with GBP brought over from UK, because he gets much better exchange rates in Portugal. Looking at the rates posted by my bank, Millennium bcp, I think he's right, and I might start doing the same thing.

If you have a few weeks before you need the money then open a Nationwide flexaccount and use the debit card to get cash advances (Max £300 per day) in Portugal. You get a very good rate and no charges.

At Barclays in Lagoa we could only get 200 Euros in each transaction but could do 2 transactions a day.

Ask around in some of the bars. In Lagos there are at least two bar owners I know of who will change money without any commission - think its courtesy to stick around for a few beers though

You could try Global currency exchange www.gcen.co.uk they where quoting 146e to the GBP to-day.
I have used them in the past and find them a good company, no problems at all.
Best regards JB