Spending money

[lara26evo]

Hey everyone,

Im off to Peru Jan 2nd, very excited, but was wondering how money do you think would be sufficient? Obviously have meals to put in there, I dont drink overly and I will buy gifts but not overly loads. So I was thinking about 1000 GBP, have more for a backup as well. What does anyone think?

Thanks

Lara

[leahlovestravel]

I think that is more than enough. Most things (meals and souvenirs) are pretty inexpensive. In Canadian I think I spent 10 to 15 on average for meals. one or two dinners were a bit more. I picked up a couple "alpaca" sweaters for about 20 each. Then you'll want to tip guides. It's really not an expensive place once you get there. Not sure what stops you'll have but I didn't have trouble finding debit machines when I needed cash.
By the way, have fun! It's a great country to visit!

[lara26evo]

Ah ok thanks, I thought it would be enough, I really dont spend that much (Im an accountants daughter!) but thought it best take more than necessary, I can alway change it back. Im very excited!
Lara

[eric]

Hi,

Instead of taking all that in cash - and virtually brand new 20 US Dollar notes are recommended,
consider the modern plastic card replacement for the old travellers cheques.

There are a few on the market, and there are various charges.
Start looking at " fairfx " and then use UK comparison websites to compare
terms and conditions.
( watch out for any charges for months when a card is not used,
a left over amount can get eaten up!!!)

You can transfer money from a debit card to a fairfx card
( but note your debit card co might just block a transfer as "suspicious".

fairfx comes in 3 currencies Pounds, US Dollars & Euros.
Don't think you would be too disapointed getting a UK Pound Version.

It will take a week or so to organise - Christmas post etc - so start looking now.

If you are near Central London then " Thomas Exchange Global " Could be a good place
to get some Peru currency in advance - or change back left overs afterwards.

But Peru currency should be easy to get at Lima Airport.

Regards

Eric / London / England

[leahlovestravel]

most places you'll spend money will need cash of some sort, not many restaurants and market vendors not set up for plastic or travelers cheques
Haven't heard of a fairfx card, does it work in instatellers to get cash?

[eric]

Hi

Yes, I don't use the card in shops/restaurents etc.
Use it to draw cash from Cash Machines / ATMs etc.
Suggest equivalent of 50 UK pounds a time or so.
There are charges for
1 Use of machine
2 A foreign currency exchange - think 1.4%

BUT I've been happy with the exchange rate used

Kind Regards

Eric / London / England