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Screwed by VISA

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angelfj1

angelfj1

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As the dollar's value has varied with the economy, there have been times when it would seem advantageous to buy LBC parts from the U.K and have them shipped to the states. HOWEVER: I recommend caution when charging international purchases on a VISA card. I just had a rude awakening. I just charged $1000 as deposit on a vacation trip to Calgary, Canadian Rockies, etc. I just got hit with a $30 "international service fee", because the travel bureau is located in Vancouver. BC. I called the bank and they pointed the finger to VISA. I am sure that this was in my credit card agreement (the fine print notes), but I still think it sucks. What makes an electronic transaction between the US and any other country different and a justification for a flat 3 percent service charge. It must be that metric bump in the fiber optics cable! :madder: :crazyeyes: :madder: :crazyeyes: :madder:
 
The same thing happens with MasterCard. Every one of my credit card transactions when I visited Vancouver last fall had the service fee added. But, in the past, I would end up with foreign cash left in my wallet when I came home from a trip outside of the country, so I will still use the card when overseas, except when they accept US currency, or if I am gone long enough to have gotten the currency before I leave home. It is another factor in deciding how you want to handle your expenses on a trip.
 
Now you've got me worried, I just booked rooms in Banff, Jasper & Kamloops and, of course, had to use a credit card. Bills will be another couple weeks, but an added card fee sure could eat up some $$ fast.
 
Ya gotta keep up with the fee structures.

When overseas and when purchasing goods in foreign currencies I use a bank debit card, it withdraws cash right out of my checking account and charges a minimal fee for the transaction. Last time I used it (last year in Germany) the fee was 1%. I think it may be more now, banks have increased user fees since the meltdown/bailout.

Most major banks list their international ATM user agreements with foreign banks. You can learn where ATMs that will accept your debit card are located in key european cities on the bank websites.

I use Bank of America, it works in most western european countries except Austria, I've found.

It pays to shop when exchanging currency. :yesnod:
 
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