When we travel we only use the ATM at a bank that is OPEN. Once a traveling companion had her card “eaten” by the ATM machine at a bank that was closed for the night. Fortunately we were staying the next day in the same city so she could go to the bank the next morning to retrieve it.
My husband and I have just retired and have been watching you for months and months and can’t wait to go on our first trip to Portugal. Just love watching you guys.❤
Love your videos we lived in Spain for 10 years but always used our credit card but made sure it was paid in Euros and not English pounds because we got a better rate of exchange by our Nationwide credit card.❤️❤️
Excellent tips. We took a first trip to Portugal a few months ago. We did struggle with banking charges and appreciate this video for future reference. 💸
All good information. I would stress that pickpockets are far, far! more common in Europe than in North America . Keep your cards and cash and passports in your moneybelt, even in "safe" areas, because yes, you do indeed look like a tourist (easy mark) even if you don't think you do. Nothing like reaching into your pocket to find another hand already there to learn that lesson. A couple of euro in your purse or wallet, no harm done if lifted, a much different story if it's your passport or credit card.
I learnt my lesson about keeping my wallet in my back pocket, after it slipped out in a cinema, it had my rent money in, this was years ago. Ever since I have kept it in the front, but I see that there are really good anti theft bags, for valuable’s now.
Albufeira is THE place in the Algarve to get scammed in many different ways....I would advise you not to take bills with you higher than 20 euros. I'm happy for you that you are finally able to travel to Portugal again. I'm curious how you'll experience it now.
Having spent two years living in Portugal, my husband and I, your tips are great! I have an account with a credit union here in Toronto that is a no fee bank. I was asked however while in Portugal not to use my debit card for all those small coffee type purchases or a glass of wine at our favourite spot on the beach (in Areia Branca). So we did get into what the two of you do. Pull out money once a week or so, and use our credit card for grocery shopping at Lidl. Although we lived there for two years, we of course made sure to fly back regularly to keep our OHIP current. Thanks for all the great tips. Hubby now carries a cross over body bag (small one) to keep his wallet and cell phone safe and within easy reach. This small bag is also safe from any scanners. Thanks again for the great content.
My husband was Portuguese, but he still got pick-pocketed. Very upsetting. This was many years ago after a football match in Lisbon. Should have known better. However, we each bought from the then Canadian company called Tilley, their pocket vest. They are all over the place nowadays. I called them fishermen's vests, but we even saw them in various markets. Forever after we wore them at the airport and travelling around Europe. They had plenty of pockets and thus freed up myself from ever carrying a handbag. Inside pockets were aplenty too. We could stroll around just carrying a local supermarket bag, and perhaps we looked like locals !!! Never ever got anything removed from us again.
@@ThisIsOurRetirement Hi. I mean most restaurants and grocery stores take a credit card. You definitely should not use a credit card at an atm. I made so many mistakes my first trips to Europe. Many credit cards do not charge a foreign transaction fee now. But not all. Check before you go on your trip. Hopefully, I have learned from them. I was ripped off so very much for so many years when I started my vacations to Europe.
Don't forget BOLT (another ride share) in Europe. We used them for getting around Lisbon in July. I think they are a bit cheaper than Uber. In the UK nothing is cheap but the train and bus.
Thanks for the tips Tina/Norm, when we went to Portugal earlier this year, we used a combination of cash and credit card. We don’t use ATM anywhere except for quick cash at home. I have all my credit cards within my Apple digital wallet and love the convenience, also used it in Portugal as well.
Hi there, Tina and Norm. I was intrigued to hear that you travel carry on only. I am traveling to Portugal and Morocco in November and plan to go COO as well. Would you consider doing a video that outlines what you pack for a winter visit to Portugal? ❤ Love your channel, take care, A
Another great video Norm & Tina; we got burned on the currency conversion fees so learned that lesson the hard way. We also like to use credit cards for groceries, primarily for expense tracking purposes. It really helps to be able to add up the total trip expense for budgeting purposes. Can’t wait to get back to Portugal!
Thanks for sharing your experiences on travels. Very interesting and genuine presentation. This will be our second winter break in Portugal and Azores and Algarve is our plans for 2024. So I will review your videos which you mentioned which no doubt will be helpful based on your more extensive travels to Portugal and the Algarve area. Your presentation on currency handling was great and we more or less use similar processes. We use our main Visa CDN credit card like both of you for air and accommodations and all other major expenditures that our Travel insurances on the credit card would provide coverage for. We also have a secondary Visa from a Canadian banking source for all groceries and other day to day expenses. This card does not have any additional bank fee for foreign currency. So the posted currency exhange on the day of transaction is what is charged (albeit any Credit Card has a small fractional fee added by Visa or Mastercard, etc.). And like both of you we also bring a small amount of cash. All seemed to work well this last winter in Maderia, Porto and Lisbon. Happy travels in 2024 Tina and Norm.
It's always great to have the expenses in one place so to speak. Using the CC is handy to keep an eye on all expenses. A small amount of cash at the ready is handy for small stuff. Good advice. Have a great weekend. 👌🇳🇱🙋♀🇳🇿😎🍷
My husband and I absolutely love watching you. We so enjoy your tips, advice, and commentary. If you ever come to eastern Ontario (and you must - sooo beautiful) ….we’d love to show you around our beautiful town of Brockville. Also in our area, Merrickville and Perth are stunning.
Thanks so much for watching our channel we appreciate your support and glad you enjoy it , we used to live in Ottawa and yes those places are lovely Cheers 🍷🙂🌺
Hi! We enjoy your videos. We opened a Schwab checking account and use a Schwab Debit Visa card everywhere in Europe. The card can be used anywhere that accepts Visa. No foreign transaction fees. No ATM fees. The conversion rate is as good as it gets. The only downside is that it can’t be used to rent a car. We use another Visa Credit Card for that.
Hello Tina and Norm. It’s good to hear from you again… as always ❤ There’s just one thing I would like to clarify. When you said to always pick home country for exchange rate. Is this for all country or just in Portugal? We went to japan early this year. And when we exchange our currency in the ATM, we actually didn’t pick our home country for exchange rate cause the exchange rate in Japan is way better. I appreciate your input on this. I always learn a lot from you guys. Thank you.
We were just talking about Portugal 🇵🇹 it is always better to have our home bank do the exchange, sounds good though in Japan if it worked better the other way Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Regarding exchange rate manipulation by banks: its worth investigating Wise for transferring money between countries. They are very upfront about their fees and charges.
Hi Norm and Tina! Cash is king and we take most with us. We also split our money, use money belts, safes and other safety techniques. We only use bank machines associated with Scotia Bank. Great shirt Norm. Pink Floyd 3X, Roger Waters 1X Australian and British PF shows. Again this fall at CITS Kitchener. We look forward to Portugal soon! Be safe. Cheers!
We spent 3 months in Algarve in 2022 and used debit 90% of the time and carried very little cash. For the most part we only used cash at markets or small stores, taxis. Make sure you have right change or small bills for taxi, we got caught on that one and cost us double as driver said they had no change. Hope you have a great time in Portugal this year.
Be careful with taxi drivers, there are dishonest people who even take longer journeys when they know the person is from another country in order to charge more. If you feel deceived, file a complaint with the police (GNR or PSP). Always ask for a receipt, it is mandatory for all sales, even if it is just 1 coffee. Some don't want to give receipts to avoid paying taxes and they do this a lot with tourists. You can use Uber in many places
Thank you for a very informative video. Husband and I were very bored last winter and you make going to Portugal in January or February very enticing. So very much to figure out, so it is time for me to re-watch your Portugal videos. Can you share the names of any websites that you use to find an apartment in a hotel?
Just use Expedia, Tripadvisor and Google as a start then look at hotels direct there are so many available Air Transat does a deal with flights and an appartment for 21 or 28 days as a package Carolanne good luck we love visiting Portugal 🇵🇹 Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
When we were in Portugal we used very little cash. In fact when ever we travel outaide the country we charge wherever we can. You get the best exchange , and keeps things clean . We have also used Western Union . You get personal service and a competitive exchange. We avoid airport exchange. Truthfully, coming from the US, many places will take our dollars...
When I went to Germany or Australia, I got cash from the largest, most reputable national banks. Example Commonwealth Bank ATM in Australia, or Commerzbank ATM in Germany. Auto exhange rate was decent from Commerzbank machine ( Euro vs Canadian ). These big banks would have done business with my big Canadian bank - existing relationships for sure!
Hi Tina and Norm, thanks again for this video it is very good information. I have one question what about the restaurants ? when you pay the bill and the 'interact machin' is asking you if you want to pay in Euro or Cad ?
Hello Norm & Tina from the US. I am a new subscriber. Love your shirts Norm- all my favorite classic bands! You are both too darn cute. I enjoy your videos and this one particularly resonated with me- Great advice on the ATM's and foreign exchange fee's. I am soon to be in the Algarve for several weeks and will follow your lead. My husband and I will be renting a car and I was told to be sure to take photos of the car and odometer to avoid scams where they try and secure more money once the car is returned. Question for you both, can you please elaborate more on the Mastercard that you use that contains travel insurance and car rental coverage- do you need to get supplemental travel insurance or does this card give you enough coverage? I have been looking at the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. Trying to make the best decision and get the best perks. Thank you for all the wonderful videos.
Thanks so much for subscribing, we bought the optional travel medical insurance from MasterCard through our bank a long time ago. It gives everything apart from repatriation. Have fun in Portugal!
Very informative, thank you for your insight. I have been to Portugal at least 20 + times and enjoy in every time. Norm you mentioned that hotel safes are not very safe, would you care to elaborate? Thank you.
You said the safes are not very safe.....can you do an episode on that? Do you carry your passport with you at all times? Do you use a money belt? Do you think its not safe to leave valueables in the room safe? Thanks!
A lot of safes aren’t screwed down so therefore the safe can be taken complete with contents , we usually carry passports most of the time with us and take a photocopy of them too Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Again, thank you, great suggestions! Someone was telling me about the Home Trust Visa card that has 0% transaction charge on foreign exchange , no annual fee and 1% cash back. Do you know anything about This?
We have known about this card but not the details, also Rogers Cable have a bank with a MasterCard with no foreign transaction fees and also Wealth Simple has a no transaction MasterCard too. Good luck.
I don't know how regulated an Uber is compared to a taxi (and how screened the drivers are). As a solo traveler I think I'll stick to taxis even though more expensive.
Hey guys. I really hope you see this. I just watched a report where two women bought travel insurance for their cruise for almost $700. The insurance company dragged their feet for months on paying their $9,000 medical bill. I was surprised when you said you rely on your credit card insurance. Please please look into the fine print. I don’t believe this insurance is adequate. My understanding is it’s only for airline cancellations, car rentals and luggage. It’s probably not going to cover you for the big things. If you are going overseas for months, you need to get some robust insurance. Not trying to be critical; just looking out for you guys.
If you want to slow em down even more, put the wallet into a zip lock bag, then put it into your fashionable yet utilitarian cargo pant pocket. They will not be expecting a ziplock baggie to gum up their artful dodger escapades as it snags on the fabric and you'll notice their actions with a quick "What's all this then?"
well people often buy meals while they prepare their presentations, they pay for gas, insurance, etc to drive to restaraunts to get their work done; these are normal expenditures to get preparation work done a portion of travel etc is therefore deductible; in the USA and Canada 50% of meals bought at a restaraunt can be deducted as long as prep work is done at the restaraunt
Why not do a piece on the correct set up on VPN’s. For instance when you go to Portugal. I find mine doesn’t work as it seems others do, no real advantage. I’m missing something.
Or ... just use a bank payment card (credit or Visa debit) and never visit an ATM. The last few times I've been to Europe, I never needed to use € cash anywhere. Ended up spending the cash I brought on the last day to pay off part of the accomodation expenses or part of a duty free purchase. Could've fully paid with a bank card in these cases too. Just didn't want to pay the F|X fee to convert cash back to $. Are bank card payments not ubiquitous in Portugal?
Perfect. Use cash in rural areas. Bank cards everywhere else. Visa and MasterCard debit cards work anywhere a Visa or MasterCard credit card is accepted (online or physical machines), but it removes $ directly from your bank account - hence debit, not credit card. Pretty much everyone's bank debit card in Canada should now have a Visa or MasterCard logo on it, indicating the capability to debit directly from your bank account online or internationally.
@@ThisIsOurRetirement My pleasure. My wife is keen on going to Portugal so your banking/scam info was very helpful. I haven’t set foot on a Portuguese beach in 45 years.
In another note... Sometimes you talk about investments and things related to it. I know you cannot provide, by law, recommendations relative to stocks, etc. Is it possible, if you have the knowledge, to make a video about metals such as gold, silver, etc. I am looking into the possibility of buying Maple Leaf coins. Things around the globe are becoming very unstable. 🤔 Thanks.
Tina/Norm... it might be tempting to look into providing insight into gold and silver. However, I suggest that you remain at what you're already very good, providing first hand knowledge about your retirement and your travels. The precious metals forum is a whole new arena for you, and your general audience. At the most, you may refer your audience to look into some specialized sites (Kitco, GoldVault and others). Sincerely !!@@ThisIsOurRetirement
Just wondering why although you you both advocate frugality and you use that basis for travelling you always seem travel in countries where our Canadian Dollar is very inferior. For example Portugal (Euro) and the US. I would think as promoters of the lower middle class you would pick countries where our currency is much more in our favour, such as Asia, Mexico, South America. Just Asking
We really aren't promoting anything, just filming our travels, that said there is more to travel than exchange rates against the Canadian dollar. We pay more attention to safety when traveling and Portugal ranks as one of the safest countries in the world for crime. South American countries are some of the most dangerous. Our passive income stream is U.S. dollars so exchange rates don't bother us as much.
We did mention we use credit cards and cash 💰, we were last in Portugal 🇵🇹 in 2020 and lots of places wouldn’t take a Canadian debit card . Unhappy using cards in Taxis Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦🍷
![MAF Teeski - Whole Thing (feat. VonOff1700) [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/SHWEj-ndz6g/mqdefault.jpg)
Our Portugal video playlist is here, free to watch: ruclips.net/p/PLEBCFC61BCD28CADB
I am with you on the cargo pants/trousers. They are not high fashion, but are high function.
We totally agree There are lots of other projects
When we travel we only use the ATM at a bank that is OPEN. Once a traveling companion had her card “eaten” by the ATM machine at a bank that was closed for the night. Fortunately we were staying the next day in the same city so she could go to the bank the next morning to retrieve it.
That’s a great tip Dell didn’t think of that Cheers 🙂👍
😢😢
I like Norms humour...."were poor" yea right as the old saying goes..."He who claims poverty... is the richest of all"
😂😂
My husband and I have just retired and have been watching you for months and months and can’t wait to go on our first trip to Portugal. Just love watching you guys.❤
Thank you so much Nancy, we wish you a great trip!
Good morning sir, please I need financial help. Thank you
I don't have a job.
Love your videos we lived in Spain for 10 years but always used our credit card but made sure it was paid in Euros and not English pounds because we got a better rate of exchange by our Nationwide credit card.❤️❤️
Excellent tips. We took a first trip to Portugal a few months ago. We did struggle with banking charges and appreciate this video for future reference. 💸
cool t shirt yes sadly nowadays have to be constantly aware of scammers and thieves
*thumbs up👍Au💯full viewed😀*
It is a thing unfortunately 😀😀👍🇨🇦🇦🇺
All good information. I would stress that pickpockets are far, far! more common in Europe than in North America . Keep your cards and cash and passports in your moneybelt, even in "safe" areas, because yes, you do indeed look like a tourist (easy mark) even if you don't think you do. Nothing like reaching into your pocket to find another hand already there to learn that lesson. A couple of euro in your purse or wallet, no harm done if lifted, a much different story if it's your passport or credit card.
Thanks for the tips! glad you enjoyed it Debra Cheers 🇵🇹🇺🇸🍻🇨🇦🙂
I learnt my lesson about keeping my wallet in my back pocket, after it slipped out in a cinema, it had my rent money in, this was years ago. Ever since I have kept it in the front, but I see that there are really good anti theft bags, for valuable’s now.
Yes Tina’s bag has wire in the shoulder strap and locks on zippers.
Albufeira is THE place in the Algarve to get scammed in many different ways....I would advise you not to take bills with you higher than 20 euros.
I'm happy for you that you are finally able to travel to Portugal again. I'm curious how you'll experience it now.
Great tip we haven’t been there for 3 years so very excited thanks for watching Cheers 🇵🇹🍷🇨🇦🙂
Loving the multiple RUclips videos every week. Who would have thought your viewers would binge watching your videos. Lol.
Thanks Neil , we are trying it out on a Tuesday and Saturday to see what happens Cheers 🇵🇹🇨🇦🍷🙂
Having spent two years living in Portugal, my husband and I, your tips are great! I have an account with a credit union here in Toronto that is a no fee bank. I was asked however while in Portugal not to use my debit card for all those small coffee type purchases or a glass of wine at our favourite spot on the beach (in Areia Branca). So we did get into what the two of you do. Pull out money once a week or so, and use our credit card for grocery shopping at Lidl. Although we lived there for two years, we of course made sure to fly back regularly to keep our OHIP current. Thanks for all the great tips. Hubby now carries a cross over body bag (small one) to keep his wallet and cell phone safe and within easy reach. This small bag is also safe from any scanners. Thanks again for the great content.
Your very welcome glad you enjoy our videos Cheers 🇨🇦🙂🇵🇹🍷
My husband was Portuguese, but he still got pick-pocketed. Very upsetting. This was many years ago after a football match in Lisbon. Should have known better. However, we each bought from the then Canadian company called Tilley, their pocket vest. They are all over the place nowadays. I called them fishermen's vests, but we even saw them in various markets. Forever after we wore them at the airport and travelling around Europe. They had plenty of pockets and thus freed up myself from ever carrying a handbag. Inside pockets were aplenty too. We could stroll around just carrying a local supermarket bag, and perhaps we looked like locals !!! Never ever got anything removed from us again.
Great idea Cyndy we are familiar with Tilley , helps keep weight down in your suitcase as you are wearing some of it LOL 😂Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Hi. The reason they have a maximum of 200 is to charge you an atm fee each time. Most of the larger places take credit cards.
Thanks for the info , perhaps that’s true we take cash from an interact card not a credit card a lot cheaper Cheers 🇵🇹🍷🇨🇦🍻
@@ThisIsOurRetirement Hi. I mean most restaurants and grocery stores take a credit card. You definitely should not use a credit card at an atm. I made so many mistakes my first trips to Europe. Many credit cards do not charge a foreign transaction fee now. But not all. Check before you go on your trip. Hopefully, I have learned from them. I was ripped off so very much for so many years when I started my vacations to Europe.
Don't forget BOLT (another ride share) in Europe. We used them for getting around Lisbon in July. I think they are a bit cheaper than Uber. In the UK nothing is cheap but the train and bus.
Awesome thank you!
Thanks for the tips Tina/Norm, when we went to Portugal earlier this year, we used a combination of cash and credit card. We don’t use ATM anywhere except for quick cash at home. I have all my credit cards within my Apple digital wallet and love the convenience, also used it in Portugal as well.
Sounds great!
You guys are terrific...so down to earth for folks in our generation....
Thanks for the info. We are heading to Portugal this week then over to Spain.
Have fun!
Hi there, Tina and Norm. I was intrigued to hear that you travel carry on only. I am traveling to Portugal and Morocco in November and plan to go COO as well. Would you consider doing a video that outlines what you pack for a winter visit to Portugal? ❤
Love your channel, take care, A
We have done something about carry on in previous videos, thanks for the suggestion. Have fun in Morocco we enjoyed our time there.
You both look great! I keep looking at videos of Portugal, it seems so lovely. Thank you for the information. Cheers!
Our pleasure! 🙂🍷🇵🇹🇨🇦🇺🇸
Great information here ...especially regarding the ATMs. Thanks so much. And this was a surprise seeing you on Tuesday! 🙂
Our pleasure! we are experimenting Jo with a Tuesday as well as Saturday thanks for watching Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
These are a bunch of great Portugal tips, Tina and Norm. Thank you!
You are so welcome! Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦🌺
Great Tips, Norm & Tina. Thanks very much for these great information..!!!
Our pleasure! have a great evening Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Enjoyed another one of your videos & always learning in preparation for our upcoming vacation. Several more to watch too !
Awesome! Thank you! enjoy your trip 🇵🇹🌺🇨🇦
Another great video Norm & Tina; we got burned on the currency conversion fees so learned that lesson the hard way. We also like to use credit cards for groceries, primarily for expense tracking purposes. It really helps to be able to add up the total trip expense for budgeting purposes. Can’t wait to get back to Portugal!
We sound very similar Libbyann , we like cash and credit and we can’t wait to get back this Winter Cheers 🇨🇦🙂🇵🇹🍷
Enjoyed your Tuesday video!
Thanks so much! Cheers 🇵🇹🍷🙂🇨🇦
Thanks for sharing your experiences on travels. Very interesting and genuine presentation.
This will be our second winter break in Portugal and Azores and Algarve is our plans for 2024. So I will review your videos which you mentioned which no doubt will be helpful based on your more extensive travels to Portugal and the Algarve area.
Your presentation on currency handling was great and we more or less use similar processes. We use our main Visa CDN credit card like both of you for air and accommodations and all other major expenditures that our Travel insurances on the credit card would provide coverage for. We also have a secondary Visa from a Canadian banking source for all groceries and other day to day expenses. This card does not have any additional bank fee for foreign currency. So the posted currency exhange on the day of transaction is what is charged (albeit any Credit Card has a small fractional fee added by Visa or Mastercard, etc.). And like both of you we also bring a small amount of cash. All seemed to work well this last winter in Maderia, Porto and Lisbon.
Happy travels in 2024 Tina and Norm.
That’s awesome thanks for sharing we hope you have a great time in the Algarve too Cheers 🇵🇹🎄🙂🇨🇦
It's always great to have the expenses in one place so to speak. Using the CC is handy to keep an eye on all expenses. A small amount of cash at the ready is handy for small stuff. Good advice. Have a great weekend. 👌🇳🇱🙋♀🇳🇿😎🍷
Absolutely! and so many small restaurants and bars in Portugal 🇵🇹 only take cash 💰 have a wonderful weekend Anita Cheers 🇳🇱🍷🇵🇹🌺
Great information guys!
Thanks for watching! have a great evening Cheers 🇺🇸🌺🇨🇦🙂🇵🇹
My husband and I absolutely love watching you. We so enjoy your tips, advice, and commentary.
If you ever come to eastern Ontario (and you must - sooo beautiful) ….we’d love to show you around our beautiful town of Brockville. Also in our area, Merrickville and Perth are stunning.
Thanks so much for watching our channel we appreciate your support and glad you enjoy it , we used to live in Ottawa and yes those places are lovely Cheers 🍷🙂🌺
Great video guys, I’ve heard it best to ensure you have small bills in local currency ready for taxi in case they say they have no change!
Good tip thanks 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
A lot of scammers In Portugal. Beware!!!
Yes you do have to be careful when travelling anywhere Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Hi! We enjoy your videos. We opened a Schwab checking account and use a Schwab Debit Visa card everywhere in Europe. The card can be used anywhere that accepts Visa. No foreign transaction fees. No ATM fees. The conversion rate is as good as it gets. The only downside is that it can’t be used to rent a car. We use another Visa Credit Card for that.
Sounds great! don’t think that is available to us in Canada 🇨🇦 , thanks for sharing Jeff Cheers 🇺🇸🇵🇹🙂🍻🇨🇦
Hello Tina and Norm. It’s good to hear from you again… as always ❤
There’s just one thing I would like to clarify. When you said to always pick home country for exchange rate. Is this for all country or just in Portugal?
We went to japan early this year. And when we exchange our currency in the ATM, we actually didn’t pick our home country for exchange rate cause the exchange rate in Japan is way better. I appreciate your input on this. I always learn a lot from you guys. Thank you.
We were just talking about Portugal 🇵🇹 it is always better to have our home bank do the exchange, sounds good though in Japan if it worked better the other way Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Regarding exchange rate manipulation by banks: its worth investigating Wise for transferring money between countries. They are very upfront about their fees and charges.
We will look it to that Margaret thanks 🙂🇵🇹🌺
Hey Norm, love the shirt!!!
Thanks Frank!
Hi Norm and Tina! Cash is king and we take most with us. We also split our money, use money belts, safes and other safety techniques. We only use bank machines associated with Scotia Bank. Great shirt Norm. Pink Floyd 3X, Roger Waters 1X Australian and British PF shows. Again this fall at CITS Kitchener. We look forward to Portugal soon! Be safe. Cheers!
That is awesome! sounds like we think alike Paul when travelling, glad you like Norms shirt we can’t wait to be in Portugal 🇵🇹 again Cheers 🇵🇹🍷🇨🇦🙂
Wow tyvm
We spent 3 months in Algarve in 2022 and used debit 90% of the time and carried very little cash. For the most part we only used cash at markets or small stores, taxis. Make sure you have right change or small bills for taxi, we got caught on that one and cost us double as driver said they had no change. Hope you have a great time in Portugal this year.
Thanks so much!
Be careful with taxi drivers, there are dishonest people who even take longer journeys when they know the person is from another country in order to charge more. If you feel deceived, file a complaint with the police (GNR or PSP). Always ask for a receipt, it is mandatory for all sales, even if it is just 1 coffee. Some don't want to give receipts to avoid paying taxes and they do this a lot with tourists. You can use Uber in many places
Thank you for a very informative video. Husband and I were very bored last winter and you make going to Portugal in January or February very enticing. So very much to figure out, so it is time for me to re-watch your Portugal videos. Can you share the names of any websites that you use to find an apartment in a hotel?
Just use Expedia, Tripadvisor and Google as a start then look at hotels direct there are so many available Air Transat does a deal with flights and an appartment for 21 or 28 days as a package Carolanne good luck we love visiting Portugal 🇵🇹 Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Use bank ATMs if at all possible at local banks. We're headed to Palma Mallorca and I'm already scouting out safe ATMs in the area.
Awesome!
When we were in Portugal we used very little cash. In fact when ever we travel outaide the country we charge wherever we can. You get the best exchange , and keeps things clean .
We have also used Western Union . You get personal service and a competitive exchange.
We avoid airport exchange.
Truthfully, coming from the US, many places will take our dollars...
Great comment we do the same but cash sometimes is needed
When I went to Germany or Australia, I got cash from the largest, most reputable national banks. Example Commonwealth Bank ATM in Australia, or Commerzbank ATM in Germany. Auto exhange rate was decent from Commerzbank machine ( Euro vs Canadian ). These big banks would have done business with my big Canadian bank - existing relationships for sure!
Thanks for sharing Terry Cheers 🌺🙂🇵🇹
Hi Tina and Norm, thanks again for this video it is very good information. I have one question what about the restaurants ? when you pay the bill and the 'interact machin' is asking you if you want to pay in Euro or Cad ?
We pay in Euros Julie Cheers 🇵🇹
Another fact filled video .....We havent comment recently but we never miss Norm and Tina!
Glad you enjoyed it Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Hello Norm & Tina from the US. I am a new subscriber. Love your shirts Norm- all my favorite classic bands! You are both too darn cute. I enjoy your videos and this one particularly resonated with me- Great advice on the ATM's and foreign exchange fee's. I am soon to be in the Algarve for several weeks and will follow your lead. My husband and I will be renting a car and I was told to be sure to take photos of the car and odometer to avoid scams where they try and secure more money once the car is returned. Question for you both, can you please elaborate more on the Mastercard that you use that contains travel insurance and car rental coverage- do you need to get supplemental travel insurance or does this card give you enough coverage? I have been looking at the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. Trying to make the best decision and get the best perks. Thank you for all the wonderful videos.
Thanks so much for subscribing, we bought the optional travel medical insurance from MasterCard through our bank a long time ago. It gives everything apart from repatriation. Have fun in Portugal!
Very informative, thank you for your insight. I have been to Portugal at least 20 + times and enjoy in every time. Norm you mentioned that hotel safes are not very safe, would you care to elaborate? Thank you.
The hotel staff have the ability to open them
Hi great info on money ! Interesting topic . If you have money left do you exchange it back at a bank there when leaving ?
No we bring it home for the next trip , or if it’s a lot we pay it in to our bank here Cinde 🇺🇸🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
You said the safes are not very safe.....can you do an episode on that? Do you carry your passport with you at all times? Do you use a money belt? Do you think its not safe to leave valueables in the room safe? Thanks!
A lot of safes aren’t screwed down so therefore the safe can be taken complete with contents , we usually carry passports most of the time with us and take a photocopy of them too Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Again, thank you, great suggestions! Someone was telling me about the Home Trust Visa card that has 0% transaction charge on foreign exchange , no annual fee and 1% cash back. Do you know anything about This?
We have known about this card but not the details, also Rogers Cable have a bank with a MasterCard with no foreign transaction fees and also Wealth Simple has a no transaction MasterCard too. Good luck.
Thanks for the tips. One question, are you using a bank Debit card or your credit card at the ATM?
Bank debit card we never take cash 💰 on our credit card Ken Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🌺🇨🇦
I don't know how regulated an Uber is compared to a taxi (and how screened the drivers are). As a solo traveler I think I'll stick to taxis even though more expensive.
Safety when travelling is a big thing , so we understand your point of view Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Hey guys. I really hope you see this. I just watched a report where two women bought travel insurance for their cruise for almost $700. The insurance company dragged their feet for months on paying their $9,000 medical bill. I was surprised when you said you rely on your credit card insurance. Please please look into the fine print. I don’t believe this insurance is adequate. My understanding is it’s only for airline cancellations, car rentals and luggage. It’s probably not going to cover you for the big things. If you are going overseas for months, you need to get some robust insurance. Not trying to be critical; just looking out for you guys.
No we bought travel medical insurance and it’s very comprehensive from one of the world’s largest insurance companies.
If you want to slow em down even more, put the wallet into a zip lock bag, then put it into your fashionable yet utilitarian cargo pant pocket. They will not be expecting a ziplock baggie to gum up their artful dodger escapades as it snags on the fabric and you'll notice their actions with a quick "What's all this then?"
Good tips Mark Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦🌺🍻
If dealing with cash I hope you keep your receipts for deducting expenses on your canadian tax returns/
We do!
I've not heard of travelling tax deductions, can you elaborate
well people often buy meals while they prepare their presentations, they pay for gas, insurance, etc to drive to restaraunts to get their work done; these are normal expenditures to get preparation work done a portion of travel etc is therefore deductible; in the USA and Canada 50% of meals bought at a restaraunt can be deducted as long as prep work is done at the restaraunt
How do you deal with online banking when you are overseas? Do you log in to your bank website while staying at a hotel, or rental accommodation?
We use NordVPN on the hotel network, our last video has a link to a special offer.
How did you book your Accommodation’s?
Just search the popular booking sites
Why not do a piece on the correct set up on VPN’s. For instance when you go to Portugal. I find mine doesn’t work as it seems others do, no real advantage. I’m missing something.
Thanks for the suggestion Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🌺🇨🇦
Or ... just use a bank payment card (credit or Visa debit) and never visit an ATM.
The last few times I've been to Europe, I never needed to use € cash anywhere. Ended up spending the cash I brought on the last day to pay off part of the accomodation expenses or part of a duty free purchase. Could've fully paid with a bank card in these cases too. Just didn't want to pay the F|X fee to convert cash back to $.
Are bank card payments not ubiquitous in Portugal?
In Portugal the main grocery stores would not accept Canadian debit cards. Small cafes and restaurants in Portugal are cash only in the rural areas.
Perfect. Use cash in rural areas. Bank cards everywhere else.
Visa and MasterCard debit cards work anywhere a Visa or MasterCard credit card is accepted (online or physical machines), but it removes $ directly from your bank account - hence debit, not credit card.
Pretty much everyone's bank debit card in Canada should now have a Visa or MasterCard logo on it, indicating the capability to debit directly from your bank account online or internationally.
Why not put everything on credit card? Why deal with cash at all? Especially if you have a rewards travel credit card.
Lots of smaller places shops and restaurants only take 💰 cash Cheers 🙂🌺
Hooray. I’m the 1st person to give you a like. 😂
That’s awesome Robert thank you 🇵🇹🍷🇨🇦
@@ThisIsOurRetirement My pleasure. My wife is keen on going to Portugal so your banking/scam info was very helpful. I haven’t set foot on a Portuguese beach in 45 years.
Credit cards charge will charge a foreign transaction fee
Get a card without that fee. For traveling abroad.
We need the travel insurance
Yes, better trade off
How do you deal with credit card car insurance for long trips if the cards cover 30 days per trip?
Multiple contracts will get over that Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
@@ThisIsOurRetirement Thank you
Are you guys in Portugal now?
No
How on earth are you using carry-ons for two or three months? Do you ship a box or two to your accommodations?
Very easy takes a bit of planning have been doing it for years , and you don’t loose your luggage LOL 😂😂 Cheers Cecilia 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦
Now that would be worth a video to see how you perform that magical trick! 😅
In another note... Sometimes you talk about investments and things related to it. I know you cannot provide, by law, recommendations relative to stocks, etc. Is it possible, if you have the knowledge, to make a video about metals such as gold, silver, etc. I am looking into the possibility of buying Maple Leaf coins. Things around the globe are becoming very unstable. 🤔 Thanks.
Funny Tony, we have been researching this for a while now, thanks for the suggestion, we will see what we can do. 😂😂🪙
Tina/Norm... it might be tempting to look into providing insight into gold and silver. However, I suggest that you remain at what you're already very good, providing first hand knowledge about your retirement and your travels. The precious metals forum is a whole new arena for you, and your general audience. At the most, you may refer your audience to look into some specialized sites (Kitco, GoldVault and others). Sincerely !!@@ThisIsOurRetirement
Do you need to speak Portuguese or is English used also
No English is wide spread, making the effort to lean a few words always shows respect.
What credit card do you have
Bank of Montreal 🌺🙂
@ThisIsOurRetirement World elite? Just trying to figure a good card to get
No just the ordinary one , we are grandfathered in for our travel insurance so for that reason we stay wit( them Cheers 🌺🙂🇵🇹
Just wondering why although you you both advocate frugality and you use that basis for travelling you always seem travel in countries where our Canadian Dollar is very inferior. For example Portugal (Euro) and the US. I would think as promoters of the lower middle class you would pick countries where our currency is much more in our favour, such as Asia, Mexico, South America.
Just Asking
We really aren't promoting anything, just filming our travels, that said there is more to travel than exchange rates against the Canadian dollar. We pay more attention to safety when traveling and Portugal ranks as one of the safest countries in the world for crime. South American countries are some of the most dangerous.
Our passive income stream is U.S. dollars so exchange rates don't bother us as much.
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Why dont you use credit/debit cards when going to stores, restaurants etc? No need to worry about cash. Great video btw!
He said he doesn't want people skimming his card.
We did mention we use credit cards and cash 💰, we were last in Portugal 🇵🇹 in 2020 and lots of places wouldn’t take a Canadian debit card . Unhappy using cards in Taxis Cheers 🇵🇹🙂🇨🇦🍷
Agree we learned a lesson in Denmark , don’t do that anymore 🌺
will be in thbe algarve in 2 weeks
Have fun!