Originally Posted by
mrmikey32
I converted a grand in the states via my bank, at a much better rate.
but the best way is to use a conversion place at the mall
The "place at the mall" needs to make money, and that's coming straight out of your pocket every time you use them.
You can minimise it by shopping around, but the only way to eliminate is by using a card such as described here, with either no fees, or fees that are refunded.