MONEY $$$ to Start off With

credwings · Member

MONEY $$$ to Start off With

Michele Erdvig · Host

Chris,

You really don't have to buy euros at home before your trip. You will get an unfavorable exchange rate and may incur other charges by doing so. Instead, when you arrive in Ireland go to the ATM or bank at the airport and exchange your money. It is usually quick and easy. You will get a better exchange rate there.

Michele

Dude · Guru

And do it at your first opportunity. While you aren't arriving on Sunday, I wouldn't wait. When we arrived on Sunday morning, we passed up the exchange at the baggage return and went into the main concourse (at Shannon). The banks were closed and one of the ATM's was out of order. Fortunately, the only other ATM in the building was working and we got a few euros. The shops will not cash traveler's checks except for a purchase.

Have a wonderful trip!

China Cat · Veteran Member

Personally, I'm one of those paranoid people who hates arriving with no cash in pocket. Its silly, I know, but occasionally there are ATM hassles, or exchange offices are closed. I always change around $200 US to foreign currency before I leave. I don't get a great rate, but I'm willing to spend a few extra dollars for peace of mind. $200 is more than enough to pay the taxi, tip the bellman, buy breakfast, or whatever I might need before arrival.

Michele Erdvig · Host

China Cat,

I agree that everyone has their own comfort level. If purchasing euros ahead of time works for you then that's great. I just save my leftover money from one trip to another so I am always starting with at least 50 euro in my pocket.

Michele

credwings · Member

THANKS TO ALL for the help and advice. We probablly get a few bucks once we arrive in Dublin.

CHRIS

Michele Erdvig · Host

Chris,

Good plan. I don't forsee any problems with that plan. When are you leaving?

Michele

credwings · Member

Michele

We are leaving on Wednesday, June 21, 2006 from Charlotte, NC at 2:30 PM, then to Chicago and leave at about 7:30 PM to arrive in Dublin.

CHRIS

Michele Erdvig · Host

Chris,

You will be in Ireland when daylight is at its maximum. The sun sets around 10 pm and it stays twilight for another hour or so. Just think of all the sightseeing you can do.

Michele

credwings · Member

I know, we looked into that. We cannot wait. The time is ticking down 15 DAYS.

wojazz3 · Guru

Hi Chris:

One quick suggestion. I'm not sure what your travel plans are, but if you will be driving on the M50 the forst day, don't leave the airport without cash. There is a toll booth on the M50 which lies between the N4 and N3 exits. It's currently going at E1.80.

Bill

Creativitychick · Member

HELP!

I have gone to two banks already to try to get between 50-100 euro to have when we get there. Both said they don't have any. Wachovia said they would order some, and it would take a week! I leave early on Monday from my parents' house in Florida.

Anyone know of a bank that has euro on hand?? I don't want a lot. Bank of America, maybe? I am a member of a credit union, so I hope I can get another bank to convert for me as a non-customer.

Thanks for your help. (I live east of Atlanta in the 'burbs)

L

-- Edited by Creativitychick at 18:35, 2006-06-07

Michele Erdvig · Host

Creativitychick,

I live in the Atlanta burbs too. You can get euros at the airport but only after going through security and out to the international concourse. Since you are leaving from Florida that presents problems. You might be able to do it at the airport in Florida. Otherwise, just wait till arrival and get your euros at the airport in Ireland. There will really be no problem. Use the bank, ATM or bureau de change.

Michele

susan · Senior Member

Just an FYI

I asked my local bank about getting Euro..... 1.38 exchange rate plus a 17.50 fee.

100 euro would cost 155.50 USD-- OUCH.

The bank manager said " don't do it get it when you land,it won't be a problem".

Susan

Creativitychick · Member

Thanks, I'll just wait then. We leave the US on Monday, but land Tues. AM in Dublin, so everyone should be open for business. I did check, Michele, and the Orlando airport has Travelex, or something- at three locations to exchange currency. Good info to know.

Thanks again. I'm in the final stages of packing! (Looks like rain, but we'll still have a wonderful time!)

L

Michele Erdvig · Host

Creativitychick,

Bon Voyage! Have a safe journey. We will be hoping for some good weather for you. Do let us know how it goes.

Michele

Green Dragon · Guru

Probably too late now, but for future travelers -- AAA has Exchange services as well, and some local offices can change it. I got Euros for my trip in two weeks at 1.41, $2.00 shipping overnight to my house. Not the best rate, but enough for peace of mind. We're arriving on a Saturday, and may have to pay for a B&B with cash rather than credit card.

Bonniep · Member

Hello!

I just purchased Euros today from my HSBC bank for $1.32US, so 100Euros cost me $132. They will have them for me tomorrow. Every bank is probably different. I also got some from our AAA office. They have what you call "TipPak" which come in a sealed envelope. I just wanted some Euros in hand before we leave on June 22nd.

Have a good trip!