Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in British Virgin Islands: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
The smart way in the BVIs is to use ATMs in town for most of your cash and keep the airport exchange for emergencies only. Budget at least $100-200 daily, since ferries, island tours, and meals add up quickly. Bring small bills for taxis and beach bars. Visa and Mastercard work well with ATMs, but Amex isn’t reliable. Always withdraw in larger chunks to avoid paying multiple fees. This way you maximize your spending money on the islands.
Airport exchange counters in the BVIs are a rip-off. I exchanged $150 when I landed, then later realized I got significantly less than I would’ve from an ATM. That’s basically two rounds of rum punches or a taxi ride I lost. Since everything in the BVIs is already expensive, the poor rate made me feel cheated. ATMs do charge fees, but even with those, you’re better off than using the airport counters. Don’t repeat my mistake.
I made the mistake of converting cash at Terrance B. Lettsome Airport, and the rate was awful. Later, I withdrew from a First Caribbean ATM in Road Town and got much more value. Meals in Cane Garden Bay were around $20, and ferries cost $30-40, so having the extra made a difference. I’d suggest bringing a Visa card and withdrawing what you need in bulk. Amex didn’t work at the ATMs for me.
In the British Virgin Islands, ATMs generally give better rates than airport exchange counters, though fees can be high. Since the islands use USD, most travellers withdraw directly from machines operated by banks like First Caribbean. The airport counter rates are poor and not worth using except for emergencies. If you’re budgeting $100-150 daily for taxis, meals, and island hopping ferries, go with ATM withdrawals. Exchange at the airport only if you need a little cash right away.