Expert: Emoor - 3/9/2004

Question
In Ireland last year, we had problems changing U.S. $100 bills.  Only the biggest banks would touch them.  Will we have the same problem this spring in Scotland?
Also, we want to take the train from London to Edinburgh.  Where do we get the best fare?  

Thanks!

Answer
In England and Scotland I have never had a problem exchanging $100 bills, even in little streetside exchange booths.  The real problem can be the service charges, which can be too high and require checking before exchanging.  The best way to get cash of course is the ATM.  You get the best exchange rate (which is quite unfavorable these days for Americans), and need not carry large sums of cash with you.

You catch the Edinburgh train at Kings Cross Station in London.  There are many trains every day, and the trip is a little over 4 hours city centre to city centre.  I do not believe there is another train for a lower fare. You may want to explore a BritRail pass if you are planning a lot of train travel.