Re various points raised in this thread:
1. I have called BoA at its 1-800 number many times from Israel with no problem. The same is true for TDAmeritrade.
2. TDAmeritrade has cancelled all debit cards and checking account unless you have a U.S. mailing address (although you can keep your foreign physical address). I use my sister's mailing address.
3. TDAmeritrade's Visa debit card does not charge forex fees. It also does not charge for use at any ATM in the US. It does, however, charge for ATM use overseas.
4. BoA'a Travel Rewards Card (Visa Signature) does not charge forex fees. All other BoA cards do, even if you buy something out of the country and are charged in U.S. dollars.
Now, my question: Does anyone here know how much Travel Rewards points are worth?