SkyTeller Destination Currency Exchange (SkyTeller) is launching an innovative, new currency exchange service now available in Denver, allowing international travelers to purchase currency before departure through a participating travel agent, via phone or through the Internet. Travelers can access SkyTeller through a participating travel agent when they purchase an airline ticket, book a hotel or reserve a car. SkyTeller services are also available through a secure Web site, www.SkyTeller.com, or by calling SkyTeller directly at 1-800-611-2122. The competitive exchange rate is locked in at the time of purchase, and exchange fees are not added. Currency is sent via United States Postal Service priority mail for a $10 shipping and handling charge or by overnight delivery for a $15 charge. "It's not only convenient, it's insured, it's a great value and it provides peace of mind," said Tom Norton, vice-president and general manager for SkyTeller's pre-flight services. "The SkyTeller service is long overdue. Now travelers can avoid unexpected hassles with guessing exchange rates or overpaying in commission rates."

International monetary exchange is an expanding industry; illustrated by the fact that international travelers departing from the United States exchange in excess of $30 billion annually. Through consumer research, SkyTeller found that international travelers often wait until they arrive at their destination before converting currency.

In the US, more than 90% of pax depart without fulfilling their currency exchange needs, meaning only 10% of international travelers exchange all of the currency they will need for their trip before departure.

SkyTeller recommends exchanging at least $450 prior to leaving the country to cover necessary expenses. Most travelers also should consider exchanging more currency because numerous exchanges and fees can add up in terms of time and money. "By converting their currency in advance, travelers can avoid expensive exchange charges, long lines at exchange counters, confusion about how much money to exchange and the possibility that banks and other financial facilities are closed," said Norton.

SkyTeller services are fully insured and provide more than 100 recognized major currencies, including the British pound, Canadian dollar, French franc, German mark, Greek drachma, Hong Kong dollar, Italian lira, Japanese yen, Mexican peso and Spanish peseta.

SkyTeller is a wholly owned subsidiary of First Data Corporation, a Fortune 500 company. SkyTeller is headquartered in Englewood, Colo. Atlanta-based First Data Corp. (NYSE: FDC) helps move the world's money. As a leader in the electronic commerce and payment services, First Data serves more than two million merchant locations, 1,400 card issuers and million of consumers, making it easier, faster and more secure for people and businesses to buy goods and services. For more information, please visit the company's web site at www.firstdatacorp.com .

Thanks, Doc. I used your info to order some CHF and DEM today. In the past I used to get the cash from AmEx foreign currency service, but I don't have AmEx account anymore. The SkyTeller web site was a little bit slow but it worked! I looked up the exchange rate in the WSJ today and compared it to the rate SkyTeller has offered. About 7% difference, plus $10 shipping. Although not a bargain,the convenience of having cash in my hand on arrival to Europe is worth it. Another plus: I charged it to my United Visa to get the miles ( according to SkyTeller people, the charge is not considered to be a cash advance, it is just a regular purchase ).
By the way, a clerk at SkyTeller asked me how did I learn about their services. When I mentioned FT, the lady had no clue what I am talking about. I guess, there was no point mentioning your name after that.
But thanks anyway !