I used my US card in Dominica & the ATM just asked me Accept or Decline Conversion - I feel like I should choose Accept coz it seems more appealing but it had these super confusing numbers on the screen saying 8% markup so not sure. What should I do?
From my experience in Dominica, the conversion prompt is a trap. Decline it! I used Scotiabank ATMs with no issues withdrawing USD or EC Dollars after declining conversion. Carry cash as a backup for remote places.
Decline is simply safer in Dominica. You avoid that sneaky 8% markup and usually get better rates from Visa/Mastercard. If you accept, the ATM grabs a big chunk quietly. Be sure to use National Bank ATMs, they are more trustworthy.
I felt the same confusion at Dominica ATMs but learned quick-declining the conversion saves you solid cash in fees. Most places accept cards, but always have some East Caribbean dollars in cash.
Dominica’s ATMs also gave me that Accept or Decline conversion screen, and I declined every time. The 8% markup is too much, so better to let your bank’s card network handle the currency conversion.