VISA debit? What are the exchange rates like when using ATMs to get Czech Korunas out? Any idea if banks in the UK charge commision when you do this? I'm just wondering whats the best way to get money? From travelex in the airpoty or just get a small amount and then use ATM/cashpoint when I get there?
You're definitely better off using your ATM card. Visa and MC are widely accepted here, both for purchases and at ATMs.
Debit cards work fine in Prague - just be sure to notify your bank/credit card companies about your trip (may not be as much of a problem in the EU, but banks here tend to put a hold on purchases or withdrawals in another country if not notified). Don't know about your bank or if policies have changed but, the only extra charge I had on my account was a 2USD charge for each ATM transaction (for a non-system ATM). I didn't notice any charges from Czech banks for ATM usage (unless it was built into the exchange rate). Credit cards generally charged a 3% foreign transaction fee - not too bad but I almost always used cash to avoid it. Exchange rates varied day by day and were usually the best available rate for the day - much better than money exchange places. Hope this info helps
I took enough korunas for the first day or so and after that i used my british building society card in the czech atm, no problems and no charges, my building society don,t charge at all regardless of country, but you are best to phone your bank.
My bank doesn't charge for withdrawals from Czech ATMs; the credit card company charges £5.00 Sheila
I was allways so envy when people was travelling all around europe and withdrawing money from any ATM free of charge and my bank charges 1%, at least 100 CZK :roll: for each withdraw from ATMs abroad. Fortunately there is new bank in our market which is virtually clear of charges, so now I can withdraw anywhere in the world free of charge which is awesome . Sorry for off-topic.
I don,t like the way some banks charge for withdrawing your own money, people should be able to access to their own money free of charge regardless of country. Some banks here now provide free life long travel insurance as long as you remain a customer. .
