Travel Tips... How to Get The Best Exchange Rate

Recently, I was engaged in a conversation that centered around how to get the best exchange rate for your dollars while travelling overseas. Coincidentally, I came across an New York Times travel article that dealt with this exact issue. Here is the link to the article . In a nutshell, here are his tips:

• Withdraw cash from your debit or ATM card when you arrive.
• Stay clear of exchanging at hotels as they charge the highest fees and have the worst exchange rate.
• Credit card cash advances can be expensive.
• Capital One is the best credit card to make purchases with as they have no additional surcharge.

I have a passion for international travel. It has taken me on many great journeys so far and more yet to come. Always looking to get the most bang for your buck. Bon Voyage.

Look Who's Back

Well. After a long hiatus and much flack, the godfather of blogs is back in action. First, I recommend all of my loyal fans check out elliottintheatl.blogspot.com to follow Elliott's trip through Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador over the next six weeks.

After the long layoff, the difficult part is what to post on the blog today. So much has happened since the Kentucky Derby (the last post.) There have been trips to New York, Jimmy Buffett show, started boxing, signed up to take the GMAT. And on and on.

Over the past few days, the following people have celebrated birthdays. Julie Thomason, John Ready and my Mom. To all of you, I again wish you a Happy Birthday.

The World Cup is ongoing and I must admit that I have really enjoyed it. Even though I don't consider myself a soccer fan. The games have been interesting and fun to watch. Too bad the US was horrible. I was pulling hard for Australia today, who valiantly fell in the last minute of stoppage time to Italy on a penalty kick (Sorry cousin Debbie.)

I will do my best to update on a regular basis. For now, I leave you with some parting shots and some pictures:

• Congratulations to Greg and Sara Ryder on the birth of there new baby girl, Gabriella Marie Ryder. Greg and Sara are good friends of mine from my college days at OSU.
• The Brazilian cleaning ladies were worth every penny. The place looks like new. They do a much better job than Elliott, Jeff and I.
• Brazil is going to win the world cup.
• I love Brazil.
• Next trip is in October- Brazil and Argentina.
• Becky makes a mean Penne a la Vodka. Todd's chicken parmesan is pretty damn good too. And he selected a pretty good, inexpensive Italian Red Wine. Can you post the name on the message board so I remember it?
• Studying for the GMAT is going to be a bitch.
• Boxing is the most difficult workout. Johnny Gant at Art of Boxing doesn't mess around. Anybody want to head down there with me?
• Michelle is the first person to ever schedule dinner and drinks for an occassion to find out both had been closed.
• With father's day having just passed, I must say to my Dad, Thanks for everything. We miss you each and every day.
• Wo Hop is still the best chinese restaurant in the world.
• Avenue Q is an excellent broadway show.
• Book Recommendation- Tipping Point