- When trying to compare two money-changing facilities, forget about the advertised rates. Ask the question: “If I give you this many dollars, how many francs, marks, pounds, etc, will you give me after all of your fees and commissions?” That’s the bottom line.

- Money-changing facilities at airports and at borders almost always have very poor rates and/or high fees. If you have to use them, try co find one with low fees and only exchange enough money to get you through your first night, or to a bank.

- In general, for a small amount, like USD 20, look for low or no fees. For large amounts, look for a good exchange rate and a flat fee, not a percentage.

- Change bureaux are much more slippery and hard to pin down than banks. Beware of large minimum fees: a £2 minimum will cost you more than 30 percent of your money if you only change USD 10.

- Hotels and hostels almost always have the worst rates, but may not charge a fee at all, and can be good if you have only a small amount to change. Just don’t use them too much.