Hello everyone,
My name is Jonathan, a tour leader for Imaginative Traveller. I am just posting a word of advice about money issues here in South America. Basically, when you bring US Dollars, please make sure they are absolutly brand new bills. The slightest rip or tear, and they will not be accepted, even by the banks. This is especially important for those traveling from the states, as most bills in circulation are in such bad shape that they wont be accepted by any bank or money changer. When paying the local payment, the tour leader will have to inspect the bills very carefully and wont be allowed to accept any old bills. On the positive side, if any of your bills cant be taken, most of the ATM{s here will give out US dollars as well! Hope this makes your future travels in South America a little easier!
Happy Travels
Jonathan
Important money advice for anyone traveling to South America
Thanks Jonathan!
Thanks so much for your post Jonathan - this is really invaluable info for those of us yet to travel from someone who really knows.
I am sure this will be really helpful for all the travellers out there still in the planning stages.
Cheers!
Kelly
Having just come back from Peru can I reiterate how important it is to make sure your bills are brand new - I know of several people in the group who had notes refused even though they looked reasonably ok, they really can be very picky!