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- MONEY / CURRENCY
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The official currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol. It is represented by the
symbol "S/." and is issued in
10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Nuevos Soles bills, in 1, 2 and 5 Nuevos
Soles (coins), and in 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents of Nuevo Sol (coins).
Most businesses accept dollars at the exchange rate of
the day while currency exchange services are available at many hotels.
As in most countries in South America,
the easiest currency to exchange in Peru is the US dollar.
Euros and dollars can be exchanged at banks but expect long lines.
Exchange booths and locales in Peru's main cities are common and so
are street vendors who exchange money at better rates, but, if you
decide to use their services, be very careful and count your money
very well. Hotels normally offer a slightly lower exchange rate but
they may be your best bet for some Peruvian cash when you need it.
The use of traveler's checks is
not very common in the country's commercial establishments. It may
even be a hassle to change them for cash in some banks. Expect a 2%
to 5% loss from the total when exchanging traveler's checks.
ATM cards
are widely excepted in most major cities and is probably the best
way to go when you need cash (US dollars or Soles).
When you receive cash, dollars or
soles, make sure the bills are in good condition, in their entirety,
and without any writing or marks on them. Also watch out for
counterfeit bills that could be circulating within Peru.
Credit cards are accepted in the
major cities throughout the country but it may be a problem using
them in the provinces. The most widely used cards in Peru are:
American Express, Visa, Diner's Club and Master Card.
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