Is it best to change money when I get to portugal?..........

[yonny]

...........and where would I do it? the airport or is it a better rate elsewhere?
Thanks for any tips
Yonny xx

[Canada]

Don't know where youare from - but we just use the instant teller machines at any of the banks. They should be one at least at the airport.

[Bruce Wallis]

The problem is, Canada, that all the UK banks except the Nationwide rip you off not only for crap exchange rates, but also a charge for each transaction.

The basic rule is that the closer you are to the airport, the worse deal you get on exchange.

The best place in the UK High Street, believe it or not, is M&S. Thos cook will price match M&S and is about the best Travel Agent to do the exchange without a charge.

Some places will offer you a better rate, but will make you a charge as well.

The best way, is to open a Nationwide current account, and use the debit card. (NO!! I dont work for the Nationwide!).

There are banks in Carvoeiro, and Travellers cheques are still quite a good idea.

Good luck....but most importantly....have a great holiday in Carvoeiro

[Graham]

I have come across a new 'pre-paid' charge card which seems to give the best exchange rates I have seen - has anyone got any experience of fairfx.com?

[Robbie]

Don't want to get political here but lose that charisma by-pass that you have for a prime minister (Tony Blair was a real decent bloke apart from the fake smile ) and get yourselves into the Euro. I remember with angst the hazzle of changing money for hols years ago. I used to change loads just to cover unforeseen problems (you tend to do that with young kids around) and if you still have it with only 3 days to go - what do you do. Yes you've guessed it, you blow it before you get back to the airport !!!!!! : Ahh we are on holidays and the lady down the street who looked after the dog could do with a wee pressy !! Oh and what about your young niece wasn't she looking for a summer dress Ah go on its only money Well does this ring any bells ?????

[Bruce Wallis]

Good rant Robbie.....but it doesnt help Yonny much does it?!

[Sharen Crane]

I have come across a new 'pre-paid' charge card which seems to give the best exchange rates I have seen - has anyone got any experience of fairfx.com?

I was in the Post Office last week when I saw details of a pre-paid charge card. The only thing I could see that I wouldn't be happy with is that you are still charged commission on any money that you withdraw.

Seriously folks if you have accounts in the UK and are looking to withdraw money abroad then get yourself a Nationwide Flex account, don't understand why other banks and consumers haven't seen the light yet!! Oh and I too do not work for Nationwide, but I am a loyal and very grateful customer as it saves me time and, ultimately, money having a Flex account!

[Robbie]

Yeah brucey boy I thought it might be useful alright. I think Yonny should take €3,000 with her and spend the whole holiday worrying about it being stolen