Page 41 - Soul of India: The Colorful South

How to Exchange Money

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Please note torn, dirty, or taped U.S. bills may not be accepted for exchange. For more
information on what type of currency can be used on this trip, see the “Currency” section.

The easiest way to exchange money on this trip is using an ATM. Using a local ATM on an
international network will allow you to withdraw money from your U.S. account in local
currency; your bank at home will calculate the conversion rate and charge you in U.S. dollars.

ATMs

When using the ATM, keep in mind that it may only accept cards from local banks, and may
not allow cash advances on credit cards; you might need to try more than one ATM or more
than one card.

Many banks charge a fee of $1-$5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a
percentage of the amount you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before
you depart.

Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads at
foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)

India: ATMs are readily available in cities and large towns in India but are more limited in
small villages and the National Parks.

Sri Lanka: ATMs are somewhat available in Sri Lanka. Generally speaking, ATMs are common
in large cities and more limited in smaller towns and villages. Some ATMs will not accept U.S.
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one machine. Your trip leader will advise you on ATM availability and locations during the trip.

United Arab Emirates: ATMs are plentiful in Dubai.

Credit & Debit Cards

Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring
one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning a large purchase (artwork, jewelry).
We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American
Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the
Discover card is accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other
brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.

India: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in India for major purchases and in shops
associated with the tourist trade but may not be accepted by smaller shops or restaurants.

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