The most convenient way for "money" in many countries today is a combination of the good old fashion cash and the modern technology of credit cards! It is always a good idea to have a small amount of local currency in your pockets and a couple of major credit cards (or purchase a couple of prepaid credit cards by VISA or MASTERCARD) when you enter a foreign country. To avoid troubles during your travel, we highly suggest exchanging international currencies at your bank at home prior to your trip, especially if you are not familiar with local banking system of the country you are traveling to, or perhaps English is not widely spoken at your destination. Begin monitoring exchange rates fluctuation about 2 to 3 weeks before your trip, when you feel the rates are as good as ever, let your bank know of the currency type and the amount you wish to purchase, they will confirm exchange rates with you and a small fee may apply for currency exchange. Banks could take 5 to 7 days to process and ship from central vault to your local branch, especially if the amount of currency required is large or the currency type is less commonly used or circulated. Don't wait until last minute to get your money ready! Note: When traveling, always divide cash and keep in separate pockets or wallets to avoid a complete loss if you were ever pick-pocketed.

If you have an ATM Card contact your bank for a listing of their international locations and/or affiliated banks. You should be able to obtain cash easily overseas and usually at an exchange rate better than the currency exchange offices at the airport, but your bank may charge you atm fees. Please note most international ATM machines only support a 4 digit pin number. Be cautious when using your ATM Card in a foreign country; do not leave your printed receipts behind and avoid using ATM Card at small unknown businesses to avoid later disputes or fraudulent activities.

A reminder to also call your credit card companies before your trip, to inform them of your dates of travel and countries/locations you plan to visit during your travel. Many credit card companies have put into such security measures that if your cards were to be accessed in a foreign country without advance notice by you, the transaction will be denied and account suspended. Certainly this is in place to protect you as a consumer from international fraud, but you also don't want to be in a foreign country with a suspended credit card account! Simply call the customer service number listed on the back of your credit card, ask them to allow access for a specific period of dates and locations, you will have the peace of mind to shop for all your gifts and souvenirs any way you desire! Also remember to make a copy of your credit cards (both front and back) and keep with your important travel documentation. Should your cards be lost or stolen, call your bank to cancel cards immediately so you are no longer responsible for the charges! That's it for money matters.