I was in Amsterdam last weekend. On Sunday evening, I ran out of cash (Dutch Guilders), so I looked for ATMs. They were either out of order or 15-20 people waiting in line for it. Thomas Cook was closed! Then, I guess I had to exchange at the foreign exchange shop near the square of the Dutch Palace (??) right across from the Thomas Cook. Needless to say that they charged me hefty 12% fees, the lady over the counter, without asking, passed me a tourist map with the guilders and my receipt. Of course, I said "Thank You!" After I walked out and check my receipt, the stupid map cost me NGD5.0!! It is like USD$2! When I went back to argue withe the dutch lady, she said she will not refund the map and told me if I had problem withit, I could call the police!!!
It was not much really, but the way the Dutch do business there was very tricky and sneaky!!
PS I was having Fish & Chip in Kuenkenhof cafeteria in Holland, each packet of ketchup and mayo cost me NGD1.00! Next trip, bring your own ketchup??!!