suprising difference in cost of transfering money

[martin]

interesting article about the difference in transferring a pension form uk to here..almost another 50 euros a month in your pocket with some fx transfer firms
see here

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/money/ ... 094039.ece

[maccasa]

Although its not that convenient - if you can collect your pension as £ in a uk bank when you are there - changing £ at some Portugal banks where you hold an account can be at a much lower cost - I use Santander Totta and find them very competitive.

[steve]

I find paying in a sterling cheque at my bank (BPI) works best. There is no charge for this. The rate of exchange is good and the money is clear within a week. It can be drawn on in the meantime for a small charge.

[sam]

I have a monthly transfer with Foreign Currency Direct (FCD that they quoted in article?). No charge, reasonable rates, and I can vary it monthly when needed (easy with on-line banking). I found them very helpful. No worry, no hassle.