Originally Posted by isi
I worked someplace that used the U.S. Federal (DOS) per diem rates, which for some overseas locations can be ridiculous, and you just put in for the $$ -- they didn't want a receipt or even want to hear that you spent less than the per diem. Silly? A waste? I think so, but yes it is much easier for expense report prep and accounting. I guess if you can convince yourself that the hassle/savings are worth it than OK.
I know that London can be an expensive city, but do you really need $142 for Meals and incidentals every day?
Not every city is that generous for US Government per diems. My mom is a government worker and her per diems are usually quite modest. Also I don't think the Original Poster has much international business. Check out the following link for domestic
US per diems. Note that Manhattan meals & incendentals per diems
is only $51. To me that seems hard to do in NYC.