Job Discussion Forums

hlamb · Joined: 09 Dec 2003 Posts: 431 Location: Canada

When in Mexico I usually used my debit card, until I started working and had access to my own local money. BUT I always carry a stash of traveller's cheques, and a few American dollars, as a backup. I once had my bank card stop working on a Friday afternoon, when I was down to my last few pesos. I hadn't started working yet, so needed access to cash. Luckily I was able to cash a few cheques and get through the weekend. On the Monday I was able to sort out the bank card (it had gotten bent and wasn't contacting inside the machine....since it wasn't working anyway, I just bent it back on the advice of a local Mexican bank, and it started to work again. I got a new card next time I was in Canada!)

NinaNina · Joined: 10 Jan 2007 Posts: 78 Location: Oaxaca

As much as I dislike Bank of America, I must second wildchild's experience. I withdraw from Scotia and incur no fees on either end, and the exchange rate I get is better than those advertised at the banks and comparable with those I receive on charges on my Capital One card. I can withdraw 5,000 pesos per day, but must do so in two transactions. For back up cash, I'd be more likely to bring down some 20s then traveler's checks.