Here are my answers to this week’s SYW from Di

1.  What currency is used in your country?
The currency in South Africa is the Rand. It looks good but not worth much!
R100 ≈ £4.61, $6.10, €5.35

2.  If you travel to a different country, do you rely on card payments, or get some local currency in cash?
I arrange with my bank to use my credit card abroad. I make sure there is a healthy balance on it as things are way more expensive overseas than here at home.

3.  Do you buy souvenirs for yourself or family?
I certainly don’t go out of my way to search for gifts and souvenirs. But if I see something I like, I get it. I do like getting fridge magnets, pens or key rings as gifts – useful stuff! But really my aim is to enjoy experiences not to buy stuff. Having said that there have been times that I have splashed out extravagantly!

4.  When using an unfamiliar currency, are you aware of how much you are spending in your own?
Well, the South African Rand does not go far overseas. I plan ahead and budget wisely knowing that I will be spending a lot more overseas than I do at home. Then I try not to calculate in my head what every pound/euro/ dollar is worth when I part with it. Some things are much more expensive overseas but other things are the same. Eating out, transport, and accommodation are more expensive. Food from super-markets is around the same.

Gratitude
I am truly grateful that I have had to opportunity to travel. Been there, done that, got the photos and the stories!