Accessing foreign currency

Plan to get local currency upon your arrival at the airport overseas before you have to tip anyone or hire a taxi.

I prefer an ATM direct to my debit card because it is cheapest. But if you have dollars or euros, it often is more cost effective to use airport money changers than search for an ATM later. Just verify what extra fees there might be.

Before leaving for home, I usually use most of my local currency to pay for part of my last hotel bill.

Also, I always carry ironed, unmarked one-dollar bills for quickie tips and have never had any refused.

KIT STEWART

Sequim, WA