Euro Help

Hi

We used to take enough euro for the first couple of days and take sterling with us to change as and when required because the exchange rate was generally better when we got there. That seemed to change a few years ago and now we tend to buy most of our currency in the UK.

We both have pre-loaded euro debit cards and try to load them whenever the rate goes up. They are from Fairfx (other providers are available) who email when the rate rises. With Fairfx there is no charge to load the card or to spend in retail/restaurants. There is a flat €1.50 charge to withdraw cash from an ATM.

Whilst we were on Corfu 21-25 June we say €1.10 euro the £ on offer in Kassiopi and €1.12 to the £ in Sidari. A few days before we went we got €1.13 to the £ from Fairfx.

Since we came back the Fairfx rate has been as low as €1.07 to the £. They emailed me this morning to advise their rate is €1.11 to the £ today. They also provide cash at the same rate and will send it by registered post which is chargeable or free depending how many £ you spend with them.

Deedee

To be honest, unless you are changing thousands, the difference is really negligible. Swings and roundabouts.