Best way to pay for my Hotel in Euro's?

I_Heart_Mart

Hi,

Just wondered if anyone had any idea's on the best way to pay for my hotel for my holiday in August 2011 to try and get the best rate/lowest fees.

I booked directly with a hotel in Lanzarote for a 2 week all-inclusive accomodation in August, booked directly as it was the only way to get their 2 bed apartment, as the hotel only has one of these special family rooms.

I will need to pay 3,000 Euros on arrival at the hotel so just trying to suss out the best way to pay, I have a Nationwide Credit Card - but haven't used it for a couple of years so may no longer be active, my usual CC is a Tesco Mastercard. I have been watching the Euro rate as was maybe gong to load up a prepaid card? Rate just keeps getting lower though?

Any ideas greatly appreciated!

richardw

Have a browse http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/cheap-travel-money

dzug1

Your Nationwide CREDIT card is still the best way to pay if it's still active. No charges (it's the debit card there's been all the fuss about)

If you get a prepaid card double check its daily limit - some may not go as high as €3000. Caxton is €5000 I think - can't find any mention in Fairfx

antenna

The best way is in cash.
Search out the best deal for you,at the rate you are happy with on Travelmoneymaximiser on this site and if you can collect in person so much the better.

simongregson

It is unlikely the best way is cash unless the hotel does not accept any cards. The Visa rate you will get with the nationwide card is better than the best rate you will get even from a 'best buy' bureau de change

Also, the amount of cash will probably be above what is covered by your travel insurance.

I would suggest you buy something in the UK with your nationwide card as this will ensure it is active before you travel.

ManAtHome

Nationwide should be ok - make sure the hotel charges in Euro not a bodged Sterling rate (google DCC).

Prepaid cards are a a gamble - if you think exchange rates will spike in July and drop in August (in the quids favour) will obviously be a good move, but 50/50 chance of being wrong. I'd have guessed quid to euro over 1.25 now a couple of months ago, but apparently Greek/Irish/Portugese/Belgian/Spanish problems are a 'euro buy', or maybe it's down to Mervs year-after-year poncing 'inflation is temporary' (and really great for me, tough !!!!!! for the poor) stance.

Anyway - good advice from Simon - try the NW card before you go - if it doesn't work either call them or try for a Halifax Clarity (no loading, and you may get ATM withdrawals cheaper than most debit cards).

I_Heart_Mart

Thanks to everyone who responded. I have checked and my Nationwide Credit Card is still active so think I will just pay with that when we get there, I have a confirmation email from them stating exactly how much I owe and will of course pay in Euro's. You never know the euro rate may improve..................

micky606

Have you tried currencyfair?