The Problem with Credit Card Payments
Christian LeBlanc, a seasoned full-time traveller and YouTuber, recently shared a video on his channel, urging his followers to rethink their credit card payment habits. With over 10 years of travel experience, LeBlanc has seen firsthand the benefits and drawbacks of using credit cards while abroad. In this article, we’ll delve into the issue he raised and explore the implications of his advice.
The Hidden Fees
One of the primary concerns LeBlanc highlighted is the hidden fees associated with credit card payments. These fees can range from 2% to 5% of the transaction amount, depending on the card issuer and the type of transaction.
Choosing Your Home Currency Can Save You Money and Reduce Confusion at ATMs.
This is a common practice in many countries, but it’s not a standard practice in the United States. In the United States, you can simply withdraw cash from an ATM using your card, and the amount will be displayed in your local currency.
Understanding the Difference Between Home Currency and Local Currency
In many countries, especially in Europe and Asia, it’s common for ATMs to display the amount in the local currency, and you might be asked to choose between your home currency and the local currency. This is because the local currency is often the dominant currency in the country, and the ATM operator wants to ensure that you’re aware of the exchange rate. The exchange rate is the rate at which one currency is exchanged for another. The exchange rate can vary depending on the country, the bank, and the time of day. In some countries, the exchange rate is fixed, while in others it’s floating.
The Benefits of Choosing Your Home Currency
Choosing your home currency can have several benefits, including:
Paying the transaction fee to your home bank can save you money and make your travels more convenient.
The Benefits of Paying the Transaction Fee
Paying the transaction fee to your home bank can be a cost-effective option for travellers. While it may seem counterintuitive to pay a fee to your home bank, there are several benefits to consider. No foreign transaction fees: By paying the fee to your home bank, you can avoid foreign transaction fees, which can range from 1-3% of the transaction amount. Lower fees overall: Your home bank may offer lower fees overall, making it a more cost-effective option. * Convenience: You can pay the fee at any time, and it’s often easier to manage your finances with your home bank.**
The Drawbacks of Paying the Transaction Fee
While paying the transaction fee to your home bank has its benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider.
ATMs in Foreign Countries: A Traveller’s Dilemma
Understanding the Risks
When travelling abroad, one of the most common concerns for many travellers is accessing their money. ATMs, or Automated Teller Machines, are a convenient way to withdraw cash while on the go. However, in some countries, the risks associated with using ATMs can be significant. In this article, we will explore the potential risks and provide guidance on how to stay safe while using ATMs abroad.
Common Countries with High-Risk ATMs
These countries have been identified by the Post Office as having a higher risk of ATM fraud. In these countries, travellers should be particularly cautious when using ATMs, as the risk of card skimming, identity theft, and other forms of fraud is higher.
How to Stay Safe at ATMs
Christian, a seasoned traveler, has been to over 100 countries and has a wealth of knowledge to share. In the video, he discussed the importance of flexibility and adaptability when traveling.
The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptability
Christian emphasized the need to be flexible and adaptable when traveling. He explained that things don’t always go as planned, and being able to adjust to unexpected situations is crucial. *Some examples of unexpected situations include:**
The Benefits of Flexibility and Adaptability
Being flexible and adaptable can have numerous benefits when traveling. *Some of these benefits include:**
Practical Tips for Flexibility and Adaptability
Christian shared several practical tips for incorporating flexibility and adaptability into your travel plans. *Some of these tips include:**
Conclusion
Christian’s top travel tips are a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their travel experience. By being flexible and adaptable, travelers can reduce stress and anxiety, increase enjoyment, and improve their relationships with locals and fellow travelers.
He suggests that the best restaurants are often hidden gems, and that the best way to find them is to look beyond the obvious top-rated spots.
The Art of Finding Hidden Gems
A Guide to Discovering Unconventional Eats
When it comes to dining out, many of us tend to follow the crowd and flock to the most popular restaurants in town. But what if I told you that the best restaurants are often hiding in plain sight? Christian, a seasoned foodie, swears by the power of Google reviews to uncover these hidden gems.
## The Power of Google Reviews
Christian’s approach is simple yet effective. He starts by clicking on “random pins” on the map, allowing the algorithm to suggest a mix of highly-rated and lesser-known establishments.
‘Carry a hoodie’ – Even if you’re travelling to a hot country, Christian says, ‘you never know’ when you’ll find yourself on a cold bus ride or when you might need it. Plus, he says the huge pocket can be used to hide extra luggage to sneak past airport staff at the gate. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk. Arrow MORE: I’m a pilot and this is what I always tell nervous flyers Arrow MORE: European holiday hotspot named as one of world’s most dangerous countries