Should I get Euros here or in Europe?

[JamesW]

I've never done this before.

Google searches (which lead to this site) suggest I go to

Berlin Company Exchange Limited

But perhaps it'd be better to exchange my HKD to Euros once I get to Europe? (I'm just going to Spain). Any opinions?

[drumbrake]

I usually use a ATM machine, but it does depend whether and how much your bank charges you to make overseas ATM withdrawals. If you are happy carrying around a large amount of cash during your stay in Spain, then exchange here.

[blueagles]

I'm with hsbc and usually check out if the place I'm traveling to has a local hsbc accessible. If there is, I just bring enough cash and withdraw at the ATM locally. If there is none, I just bring cash plus credit card.

[Morrison]

in HK at Berlin, I have been there, it's a reputable place, not like the small money stalls in TST.
You could also check the rates and forex withdrawal fees with your bank in HK, might save you time and MTR fees.

In Europe the spread is usually quite high and HK$ IS an exotic currency there

[pin]

I've used Berlin many times and their rates are great.

Whether they are "reputable" is a matter of opinion though.

I've always had my suspicion that they are a money laundering front, but then again that is just my own personal speculation based on my suspicious mind.

[Drunken Master]

Don't bring HKD to Europe, you will lose 10% even if you change at banks.

[HowardCoombs]

My default rules for travelling:
If going to UK/US/EU/China, get money here
For everywhere else, get USD here and change at the destination. Never take HKD anywhere.

There may be a few exceptions (eg: PPines) but for everywhere else, its a good rule of thumb.

HC

[MovingIn07]

I was in Spain last year - no problem getting money out of ATM's and there was even an HSBC branch there if I recall correctly. I'd never carry cash, I always just get it out of the ATM when I arrive. Much easier.

[reprazent]

Since the euro is quite high at this moment, I suggest not to exchange HK$ right now, when you're in Europe get money from the ATM.

[Morrison]

I've used Berlin many times and their rates are great.

Whether they are "reputable" is a matter of opinion though.

I've always had my suspicion that they are a money laundering front, but then again that is just my own personal speculation based on my suspicious mind.

haha. ok.

as to the rates, my experience is that for RMB they don't offer as good a rate as my bank. besides, I save the MTR costs.