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Abdel

ATMs

The easiest and best way to get cash away from home is from an ATM (automated teller machine), sometimes referred to as a "cash machine" or a "cashpoint." The Cirrus (tel. 800/424-7787; Welcome to MasterCard Worldwide) and PLUS (tel. 800/843-7587; Visa USA | More People Go with Visa) networks span the globe. Go to your bank card's website to find ATM locations at your destination. Be sure you know your daily withdrawal limit before you depart.

Some ATMs in Morocco only accept a four-digit personal identification number (PIN); change your five- and six-digit PIN before you're in Morocco. Without the PIN, you can't use the card at an ATM or within a branch, unless it is a credit card, where you can make a cash advance within some banks and bureaux de change. Note: Many banks impose a fee every time you use a card at another bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions (up to $5 or more) than for domestic ones (where they're rarely more than $2). In addition, the bank from which you withdraw cash may charge its own fee. For international withdrawal fees, ask your bank.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are another safe way to carry money. They also provide a convenient record of all your expenses, and they generally offer relatively good exchange rates. You can withdraw cash advances from your credit cards at banks or ATMs, but high fees make credit card cash advances a pricey way to get cash. Keep in mind that you'll pay interest from the moment of your withdrawal, even if you pay your monthly bills on time. Also, note that many banks now assess a 1 to 3% "transaction fee" on all charges you incur abroad (whether you're using the local currency or your native currency).

It's best not to rely on being able to use your credit card when shopping in Morocco. Some large, tourist-friendly shops, especially the carpet emporiums, will have the necessary equipment, but when paying for smaller purchases, cash will be the only form of payment accepted. If you are using your credit card, be aware of the full amount being charged to your card prior to signing off the transaction. The transaction should be in dirham, so be aware of the current exchange rates. Make sure the amount on the transaction slip is clear and concise, and on no occasion agree to signing multiple slips for monthly payments, as there's every chance the slips will be banked all at once, and the door is also left open for those slips to be doctored.

When it's possible to pay for goods and services by credit card, MasterCard and Visa are accepted, but rarely American Express. Diner's Club cards are not accepted in Morocco.

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solace2

Thanks for the Info! I was having trouble with the money conversion thing so credit cards is up for the rescue of the money wreck that is me

Abdel

You are welcome, Credit cards are a good option so you don't have to worry about conversion rates. I usually use ATM cards to get cash instead of converting the money, you get the best rates and for free.
Good luck and welcome to GoMorocco.com

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Sweetheart

i don t like to carry cash with me all the time
Credit Cards are bettter to be in your wallet
at least you will have a controle on your cash