Funny writing about CASH POINTS and ATM MACHINES just after writing about Vermeer and the restorations taking place at Hampton Court Palace, but this evening I have had 2 calls from our clients going to London about how to deal with “money” while they are visiting in London. I get this question at least once a week, so I decided that I needed to write about such mundane things as “money.” But let me make a few comments. Hopefully this will help.
First, clear your credit cards before you leave home. Contact the bank to tell them you are leaving the country and be sure to tell them where you will be traveling so the bank will not be surprised when charges from “London” hit your account.
Be sure you and your bank are in agreement concerning the amount you are able to withdraw on your debit card at the London ATM each 24-hour period. The bank will limit you, so you need to know what that amount is.
Your credit cards are a different matter. Again be sure the bank knows where you will be when charging. If you will be in England, France, and Spain on your trip, TELL THE BANK. Be sure your bank has your contact number while you are traveling. When I was in London a couple of weeks ago, I made several large charges which caused the bank to call me on my mobile, which I was carrying to confirm the charges. First, I made sure my mobile had the capability to be reached while I was in Europe. Second, I made sure that I had my bank’s phone number before I left the States. I do this so frequently the bank is used to my traveling style, but I have this conversation with the bank each time I leave. I feel good about working harmoniously with the man who is holding my money.
Be sure you and your bank are on the same page, and you have each other’s phone numbers before you depart on your trip. With some of my cards, I never remember the codes. So if you are forgetful as I am, write them down in some obscure place–not too obscure or you will forget where that is as well.
I felt so bad for a gentleman trying to get on a flight I was also taking. He had excess luggage, his debit card wouldn’t allow the charge, and the person’s charge cards were to the limit. Goodness, what a stressful moment. I went to another check-in agent, so I don’t know how it was resolved, but I realized how awful it would be to be crippled being in that position. Awful!
My advice: ORGANIZE YOUR CARDS AND YOUR SPENDING. Believe me, it helps.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
