My advice is to open a Nationwide Flex account and get a debit card. There are no fees when you withdraw money from an ATM in another country, or use it to buy goods and services, and they give the best exchange rates. I've used this method for several years now.....in fact, I don't bother to get currency or travellers cheques now........I just pole up to an ATM at the airport and get some ready cash, then use the card for most purchases. I only country i've ever had a problem is in China in some of the rural parts which don't have ATMs.

Hi there.

I currently live and work in London and am in the process of saving for a 6 month trip around Europe. I will be leaving in around April next year (2009) and will have around £20,000 for my travels.

The issue I have is knowing the best way to convert this money into EUR. Of course the issues are getting the best rate and not being charged any fees for the exchange?

Would it be best to exchange all the money at one time and keep the money either in a UK account or into a European account? (Hence not getting charged as I spend Euros around Europe)

Or best to exchange the money when I need it, say on a weekley basis, directly from my UK account?

Any help on this matter, especially personal experience, would be great. Cheers.