Currency Rules and Regulations part 2

When traveling there are many options for transferring currency from one country to another.  One of the easiest and safest ways of traveling with currency is to use a prepaid debit card.  Prepaid debit cards can be used at ATM’s almost anywhere in the world and also help travelers to secure the most favorable exchange rate.

France

The Euro is now the official currency of France. France’s prior currency, the Franc, is no longer accepted.
It is illegal in France for retailers and hotels to accept foreign currency as payment.

Import/Export restrictions: The import and export of local and foreign currency is unrestricted. Amounts over €7600 must be declared.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong Dollars = 100 cents. Denominations: HKD1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10

Import/Export Restrictions: There is no fee for importing and exporting of local and foreign currencies.

Currency Exchange: Foreign currency and travelers checks can be exchanged at banks and major post offices, as well as many hotels and travel agents. A commission is charged at all hotels, banks and bureaus that provide exchange services.

Israel

Israel New Sheqel (Sheqalim) = 100 New agora (agorot). Denominations: ILS200, 100, 50, 20

Import/Export Restrictions: There are no fees for importing and exporting of currencies; however, you must declare amounts over ILS 80,000.

Currency Exchange: There are small exchange bureaus found on main streets and within some hotels and banks that will exchange money for you. ATM machines can also be used in areas throughout Israel to obtain local currency using a credit or debit card. However, commission is very high if you exchange money or travelers checks anywhere within Israel.

Mexico

Mexico Peso = 100 centavo(s) Denominations:  MXN1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20

Currency Import/Export Restrictions: It is free to import and export currencies; however, amounts exceeding USD10,000 or equivalent in cash or checks must be declared to customs.

Currency Exchange: Most exchange houses and banks do not charge additional fees to cash traveler’s checks or exchange foreign currency, but be careful as many will attempt to charge a commission. Many banks will only exchange money if you have a bank account in Mexico. Many of the bigger cities and towns and the ‘border’ towns will accept US dollars as a method of payment.

United States of America

US Dollar (US$) = 100 cents. Denominations: USD $100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1

The US Dollar is widely accepted in as alternative currency in many countries.

Import/Export Restrictions: The Import or export of US $ 10,000 or equivalent must be registered with customs on Form 4790. Failure to do so may result in civil and criminal prosecution, including seizure of the money. There is also a restriction on transactions with Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya and North Korea.

Before sending money to another country make sure you are dealing with a reputable company who does not charge hidden fees. It is also important to be aware of the rates charged on the recipient’s end.

Travel Cash

So, you’ve decided to go on a cruise and the departure date is fast approaching.  Double-checking everything, you make sure that you have all of your clothing packed, your cosmetics, and toiletries.  You’ve gone to the bank and gotten Traveler’s checks, you make sure you have your credit cards and/or debit card, and last but not least, you make sure your cash is secure.  Let’s face it; you have to have some cash, right?

Now, you’re on your cruise, having a wonderful time enjoying the activities and food and upon returning to your cabin, you realize someone has been in your room and taken not only your cash, but your credits cards and Traveler’s checks.  Well, how could that have happened?  You securely put them in your luggage.  Was it the maid service?  Did someone actually break in?  Whatever the reason, your cash, Traveler’s checks and credit cards are gone.  Now what – you call to report this and go through the hassle of reading off numbers, having checks reissued, and just the agony of it all could drop the anchor on your trip.

Is this a terrible scenario?  Of course it is – no money, no credit cards, and no cash.  That’s enough to make you want to say, “Turn the ship around,” but the trip could continue and you could continue having a wonderful time  if you had a “cash stash.”  Well, what is a “cash stash?”

A cash stash is a reserve – a backup – an in case of emergency fund.  In situations where you don’t have immediate access to cash for whatever reason, a “cash stash” will be your knight in shining armor, although this stash is not under your mattress or in an old shoe box.  This stash is something that you have with you and it is readily available anytime.  This is actually an ATMCASH Card.

What’s this and how do I get one?

It’s simple; you go to ATMCASH.com, sign-up for the service and load “x” amount of cash on your card.  ATMCASH will send you an ATM card.  You will be able to use it at any ATM machine displaying the MasterCard, Maestro, or Cirrus logos just like you would a regular bank ATM card.

ATMCASH can transfer money to over 1 million countries and you can retrieve money from ATM machines around the world.

Yes, there are a number of alternatives, but the most convenient and cost-effective way to transfer cash is through ATMCASH and in this case, while you are waiting for your bank and/or credit card companies to issue new cards, release funds, etc. you will still have access to cash and can continue enjoying your trip.

This is a good back-up plan for anyone, and not just when you’re traveling.   Just remember to always put your ATMCASH card in a safe place separate from your other cards.

Are you ready to sign up now?

Go to ATMCASH.com or call 1-888-ATM-CASH and be prepared for those unexpected events.