Don't get ripped off exchanging money in Benidorm

adyh_2

Recently I went with relatives to Benidorm they exchanged money at a Domo exchange kiosk on Gerona in the Ricon de loix area of Levante beach. The sign on the pavement had in large figures an exchange rate of 1.26 euros to the pound so they went in and asked if it was correct the lady in the booth confirmed that the rate was currently 1.26 and their was no comission to be paid. They promptly handed over 100 pound and were extremly suprised to recieve only 106 euros thinking she'd miss-counted they pointed out this fact and she promtly pointed to A small list of exchage rates where the pound was worth 106 euro when asked for a refund they pointed to another sign saying that they don't do refunds. An arguement started during which her English deteriated at an unbelieveable rate . My relatives sought advice from the tourist infomation and called the police who came out but said they weren't breaking any laws and they couldn't do anything. All that could be done was a complaint form filled in and left with the authorities but no refund and they ended up 20 euros down. I myself exchanged some sterling for euros just 1 street away on Avinguda L'Amentlla De Mar namer at a small kiosk inside a shop the lady there was English and I did get 1.25 to the pound paying no commision. After speaking to other holidaymakers who exchanged at the same 'DOMO' office they all got the same low rate one lady changed 300 pound lossing 60 euros on the deal. I don't know if their is any more of these DOMO kiosk but best bet is to steer clear of them at all cost.

Lynsey

This happens everywhere, not just Benidorm. It's surprising how many get caught out.
The answer is a Nationwide card, full rate, no commission and no rip off.

Lynsey

baby_bronagh

best place to exchange money in benidorm is at Sheila's booth in the indoor market which is on a corner near Rincon De Loix.you get the exact exchange rate that is displayed on the window and we have never had any commision charges.
bb

mad_rich

Sounds like a proper scam.

If the police won't help, the only option left to you is to stand in front of the shop warning off potential customers at the top of your voice. That should get you the extra €20 pretty sharpish.

Lynsey

It's gone on for years and no doubt will go on for many more years.
There is normally a disclaimer saying you have to change around £2000 to get the advertised rate, so it is available. It is a con, so be aware and as said happens all over the resorts and they prey on holidaymakers. A few have metal grilles in front of the kiosk window and is usually a telltale sign.

Lynsey

Inactive

Agreed Lynsey, it is only the old greed factor once again, people trying to squeeze the last cent, the gullible " Brits Abroad " syndrome.

All people need to do is watch where there are queues of ex-pats changing money.;)

mad_rich

I certainly wouldn't describe looking for the best exchange rate as 'greedy', any more than I would call looking for the best savings rate greedy.

But excellent tip about the ex-pats. They usually have their finger on the pulse.

I still think standing outside the shop and screaming your head off is the quickest route to a resolution though...

Lynsey

Looking for the best rate is not greedy and is sensible, but these sharks always advertise over and above the going rate and have small print.
The best and safest way to be "greedy" is to get a Nationwide card, it's win, win, win everytime.

Lynsey

Inactive

Lynsey wrote: »

Looking for the best rate is not greedy and is sensible, but these sharks always advertise over and above the going rate and have small print.
The best and safest way to be "greedy" is to get a Nationwide card, it's win, win, win everytime.

Lynsey

Agreed as long as it is the real " best rate ", which in this case it clearly wasn't at the end of the day.

Totally agree about Nationwide Card...win...win...win...:T

Coveredinbees!!!!

To be honest even if I didn't have a nationwide card ( which I do ) I would use a hole in the wall anyway.

chuckley

dont they always tell u how much ull get BEFORE u hand over??

i always have...