Have traveler’s checks or currency to exchange for Indian Rupees? I took a chance on using their services after seeing signs and reading about them in my guide books. Multiple offices exist in Delhi apparently offering only specific services in each. For money exchange I was redirected 3 times to a final destination of Connaught Place.
Admittedly I failed asking what the exchange rate was until after my traveler’s checks were signed and the TC agent was processing my form. The average rate received through ATM’s the past 3 weeks of my travels was Rs 48 so I was shocked when she quoted me Rs 44 + fees. Losing nearly $100 by exchanging $1000 worth of checks was hard to swallow. During the final count, my clerk was unable to correctly count back my total. It took multiple tries, the help of another clerk plus a manager and a calculator to finally get a consistent and accurate stack of cash.
Had I not spent nearly two hours searching for the right TC office, a smarter, less tired me would have left. TIP: Ask what the exchange rate is up front. Ask the advice of local drivers and/or hotel employees. Most 5 star hotels offer money exchange at very good rates. Use ATM’s for consistently good rates.
at 3:16 pm
I had a similar experience with Thomas Cook, they were giving me a terrible rate.. like around 43, instead of what I got outside in Delhi, around CP area – 47 (at that time).
I checked the rate with them upfront, and clearly took a u-turn when they said 43. I could see guilt in their eyes, but oh well.
Sometimes, In India – people think they have all the brains.
at 11:01 am
I knew better, I knew better, I knew better. Still kicking myself over that experience