Since all members of the EU use only one currency, I expected that the Euro-$ exchange rate wouldn't vary as much from one country to another. But I assumed wrong. I also didn't expect it to vary that much.
In Paris, the best rest I've gotten was along Pigalle. If you scout around the money changers in the Moulin Rouge area, you get an average of 63Euros to 65Euros for $100. I was a bit disappointed because I was expecting to get around 80Euros. I don't know why.
In Rome, my heart sank when most Cambio stands offer 60Euros for $100. Some even offered 58, net of commission. But, if you happen to be in the Fountain of Trevi, one Cambio offers 65Euros to $100. The Vatican Money Changer, located inside the Vatican Post on the left side (Exit side) of the Basilica San Pietro, gives a good rate also ($100=63Euros). Unless you are a client, very few banks change currencies so better get your Euros from the Cambios.
In Amsterdam, banks are the money changers. I rarely see Money Changers along the streets. ABN-AMRO gives 62Euros for $100. The other bank (WLK?) offers $58. If you're planning to exchange more than $350, you wont be charged for commission.
Tips:
1. Look for money changers far from the tourist spots. They know you are not THAT desperate to change your money for shopping, entrance fees and souvenirs.
2. The bigger the amount, the better rate you'll get. Make sure to pool your money with your friends, so you can negotiate for a better exchange rate.
3. If your ATM allows you to withdraw internationally, use it to get Euros. The service fee depends on the bank.
With the fluctuating US$ rate due to the credit default, I am not sure if it's better to purchase Euros before leaving the Philippines.
In Paris, the best rest I've gotten was along Pigalle. If you scout around the money changers in the Moulin Rouge area, you get an average of 63Euros to 65Euros for $100. I was a bit disappointed because I was expecting to get around 80Euros. I don't know why.
In Rome, my heart sank when most Cambio stands offer 60Euros for $100. Some even offered 58, net of commission. But, if you happen to be in the Fountain of Trevi, one Cambio offers 65Euros to $100. The Vatican Money Changer, located inside the Vatican Post on the left side (Exit side) of the Basilica San Pietro, gives a good rate also ($100=63Euros). Unless you are a client, very few banks change currencies so better get your Euros from the Cambios.
In Amsterdam, banks are the money changers. I rarely see Money Changers along the streets. ABN-AMRO gives 62Euros for $100. The other bank (WLK?) offers $58. If you're planning to exchange more than $350, you wont be charged for commission.
Tips:
1. Look for money changers far from the tourist spots. They know you are not THAT desperate to change your money for shopping, entrance fees and souvenirs.
2. The bigger the amount, the better rate you'll get. Make sure to pool your money with your friends, so you can negotiate for a better exchange rate.
3. If your ATM allows you to withdraw internationally, use it to get Euros. The service fee depends on the bank.
With the fluctuating US$ rate due to the credit default, I am not sure if it's better to purchase Euros before leaving the Philippines.
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