That is odd, Keyser. I generally get pretty good exchange rate with atm's (within 1%). Cash exchange is probably better if you find the right exchangers, though (you might even get extra... people really like the $ ). That said, it's still faster to get money from an ATM than an exchanger, and atms are pretty widely available in the cities, so it is pretty convenient that way.

As for credit cards.. they aren't accepted everywhere obviously and you have to deal with minimum purchases as well as merchant surcharge for using a CC in many places. So, carrying enough cash is the way the go, IMO. I prefer using atms since they are widespread and you can get just enough cash, whereas with exchangers, they may want you to exchange a bulk amount to get a good rate.