On the Money-go-round

Money — usually the lack of it — is a universal problem for travellers. Whatever the amount they take, there is a variety of ways to carry it. Since each has both advantages and disadvantages, a combination of two or three is advisable, the mixture depending on financial circumstances as well as destination.

Traveller's Cheques: will be replaced if lost or stolen, theoretically within 24 hours. You pay I to 1.5 percent of the value of the cheques (and maybe a fixed handling fee if you are buying in any of the 20 plus foreign currencies) but usually get a better rate when cashing them. In any of the Americas be sure to carry dollar cheques.

Foreign Currency: Carry a small amount (for taxis, porters, telephone calls, snacks) until you can get to a bank. Most UK banks need advance notice of your requirements, otherwise change sterling at the airport or port (though exchange rates are less favourable).

The commission and rate of exchange vary but shopping around (искать более выгодные условия) is rather impractical. Some countries (in particular, Greece) restrict the amount of their currency that you can import. You should also carry some sterling for necessary expenses when you return.

Postcheques: Each cheque, when accompanied by a Postcheque Card (included free with your first order of cheques) can now be used to draw up to £100 in local currency from 90,000 post offices in most of Europe and around the Mediterranean as well as Hong Kong, the Bahamas and Japan.

Credit Cards: Access (linked to Mastercard in the United States and Euro-card in Europe) and Barclaycard (linked to Visa) are accepted in nearly five million outlets each though they vary in their acceptability — Barclaycard, for example, is stronger in France, Spain and Italy, whereas Access is most useful in Germany and the United States. Their acceptance in Continental petrol stations, too, is not always certain.

They may also be used for cash advances and instead of a deposit on car hire.

Charge Cards: American Express and Diners Club are less widely accepted than credit cards and the interest-free settlement period is shorter but there is no pre-set spending limit. In addition to the initial starting and annual fee for the cards, both charge a one-percent processing fee for bills converted back into sterling.

Eurocheques: can be used to withdraw local currency as well as pay for hotels, restaurants, garages and other services in nearly five million, mostly European, outlets. The cheques, made out to the exact amount you require, are then debited to your account in the same way as a domestic cheque.

Individual Cheques: can be cashed for up to a maximum of £100 or the equivalent in local currency.

There is no limit to the number of cheques you can use to make a purchase. You pay around £3.50 for the card and there is also a commission of 1.25 percent on the value of the transaction, plus roughly a 30-pence handling fee per cheque.

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