OK, ...a few golden rules about Foreign Exchange.
1/ Never change money up at any airport or a hotel unless it's absolutly unavoidable.
2/ Never change more than you need for the first day of your visit, in your own country.... (there are very few exceptions, and none that would probably affect you) I normally never exceed 50 GB Pounds
I can assure you, ...you will kick yourself, if you change up the bulk of your money in your own country!!!
3/ Always take good quality notes to China (very important). They, like many other countries will not take notes in a bad condition...
4/ Bank cards, ...Always inform your bank that you will be in the country your visiting, or you could find the card being stopped by your bank!! You can also request a period of time that you want to have a higher withdrawal limit. They will generally agree to this request if you tell them the country and city you will be staying in.
5/ There are other outlets where you can change your money in China, but it will be highly unlikely that you will find them on your own. Many are illegal, and offer better rates than you will get at the Bank of China. Best to ask your lady if she knows of any in her area. They are well worth seeking out, if you have the time. They are not scammers, or crooks, they are just dealing under the table so to speak. The rates for US dollars are not that much better than the banks, They tend to deal more in Euros, Sterling, Aussie Dollar, Won, Yen, etc, where the rates can be significantly better.....
I hope that helps some of you, that are visiting China for the first time......
David.....
