[pierrem15]

Always pay local currency: my bank charges me a 3% exchange fee. If pay in dollars, the fees can be 10-15%.

ATMs are even worse, because there's an up front fee + an exchange fee. The airport ATMs are the worst. Go somewhere and try to withdraw local currency at a few different banks: the fees can differ wildly. One near me charges a $20-$40 fee + an outrageous exchange fee for a $250-$500 equivalent withdrawal. The one across the street is around $3 and 5%.

[Red Badger]

Find a Credit Union and Join it, typically one that caters to military personnel.........................