I mentioned to Zhang on another thread that I had just returned from a 20 country trip in 5 months. I have tried over the years almost every conceivable money system.

I am now a dedicated Travelex fan. The costs are very much cheaper in almost every case (above references to bank surprise charges on credit/debit cards etc). The vast majority of ATM's around the world will work with them.

They are secure and people can not get at your bank account or financial identity (at least not as easily as credit cards). They can be topped up easily also.

Regardless of what system you use CASH is KING! Always keep sufficient for a getaway at least on hand.

Lang

Have two ATM cards!!!! I have had two occasions in two different countries where it meant a HUGE deal! In Brazil one of my ATM cards got the account info swiped (and over $3k stolen from me...but luckily I got it back!)--having a second ATM card meant I could get money out so I could get to the airport, pay my hostel, eat...a huge deal!

I have HSBC and it's nice not to have to pay a fee in a lot of places.