Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.
What are forum guidelines?Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.
What are forum guidelines?Hi Chris, Cash is king in TG. There were problems getting travellers cheques accepted last season, and when/if you did it was at a lower rate than for cash, around 8 dalasi less! There was an announcement from MasterCard that they were going to set up in TG but I don't know if they have actually done it but the existing ATM's ( when they are working and aren't empty ) only take VISA
I take cash, but with a visa debit card for backup and Dalasi cash goes into bank in TG. You'll get around 70D to the pound on the Strip and about 65D after charges on a card.
Master card started in gambia with GT BANK, and more banks
Sterling cash is best option , and visa for ATM
This post has been removed at the author's request.
To read more about editing your posts, please follow this link: http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_postsI don't trust the safes either so opened a bank account as I'm a regular visitor.
Hi Paul, we have never had a problem with safes but maybe we have been lucky. Advice please, do you need a residents permit or other documents to open an account? Do you transfer from a UK bank before you go or do you take cash and deposit it when you get there, If so in dalasi or sterling? Is there a big difference in how much you end up with as against taking sterling and changing it at the local money changers?
Ralph
You need passport, 2 photos and a TIN number. I take cash and change it there then deposit. Bank rate isn't wonderful.
I have one of these http://www.samsonite.co.uk/travel-acc-essential-safe-money-belt-grey/product-en.htm?or=6669075305 Seriously good quality.
Hi Ralph,
To open account you first need a TIN number from the revenue offices (There is one just past the turntable on the Brufut road virtually opposite Kunte Kinte bar) which costs about 50D and takes a couple of days. Then go to a bank (Access Bank is best in my opinion) with TIN no, passport, two passport photos and a utility bill/flight receipt with your name and UK address on it.
There are no charges on the account as long as you keep the minimum amount (not much!) and you'll get around 4% interest.
I take my cash, exchange on the Strip for best rate and then pay into bank and withdraw as and when I need it.
Be careful with the moneychangers though if you have a large amount. I have my own 'foolproof' method of counting their cash in smaller wedges which one particular one would not agree to, so I drew my own conclusions and moved to a different one.
Rgds,
Paul
Edited: 9 years ago