Working abroad

gregthepirate

Hi all

In a few weeks I will be moving out to Singapore to work for 2 months, and also returning for one month's work in January.

Can anyone advise what the most efficient way for me to make use of my money is likely to be? I will be paid my monthly salary as normal into my UK current account and my accomodation in Singapore will be paid for. Therefore I won't have any significant monthly outgoings in S$ but will obviously need S$ to buy food and for other general living expenses.

I have a HSBC debit card and a Virgin MBNA credit card at my disposal.

Options I have considered thus far include:

- taking a lump of cash out with me (say S$400) and withdrawing further lumps of cash as required (is this likely to be cheaper on debit or credit card?)
- paying for most transactions on debit or credit card as required
- setting up another current account which might allow cheaper withdrawals (do Nationwide or any other banks/building societies offer free withdrawals outside of Europe?)

Any advice much appreciated.

Greg

benjus

If you can get down to central London to open an account, MetroBank debit cards give free overseas withdrawals. Don't bother with Nationwide as it's going to raise its charges for overseas use.

Halifax Clarity and Santander Zero credit cards are also good options, as they give free cash withdrawals as well as free overseas use. However, you will be charged interest on cash withdrawals so you should pay them off immediately if possible.