money

[rita]

Planning on being on the trail for at least 2 to 3 weeks. How easy is it to cash travelers cheques? My bank charges conversion rates plus 2 and a half % of the converted amount for foreign currency withdrawals. I would prefer to take travelers cheques . I would appreciate any advice anyone has to give me on this. How much money (euros) would be needed for 3 weeks? Rita

[amgirl5]

Hi Rita,

I don't know if you have already gone, if you have I hope it was a good experience. I found traveller's checks were good to have as a back-up, but very few places now are willing to cash them, usually only in the major cities, and then only certain banks...I wish I could remember which ones. (I was sent from one bank to another.)

Cash machines seem like a better option, most days you will run across a village that has one.

Liz

[Alpal]

Hi Rita
I tried to be frugal on my camino, and aimed to spend an average per day of around 25 euro. This was made up of [approx. figures only] 9 euro for an evening peregrino meal, 4 euro for fruit and chocolate for eating during the day, 3 euro for coffee, 6 euro for a bed, and 3 euro for a couple of drinks in the evening. This plan worked except where I had more than a couple of drinks.
I can't help you with the travellers cheques. I took a debit card with me from Australia, and found plenty of places I could withdraw money as I needed it. The keypads on the ATM'S have an Enghlish language option, so are easy to use. For some reason though they won't give you a balance of your account.
Have the greatest trip
Buen Camino
Alan

[Pat]

Hi Rita

Nothing much to add except that an option is to load your credit card...ie have it in credit.My bank do not charge for withdrawals when account is in credit...

You will find plenty of ATMS...

What you want to spend is completely ones choice but allowing 50 euro/day you will have no worries...transport,food,snacks,laundry,BEER for carbohydrate deficiency etc etc.

Buen Camino

Pat.