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Simple Hacks to Make the Holidays Merrier (and Cheaper)John Braun: It's time to give thanks -- and to restore our state
By Jennifer Forbes Vanguard Renewables Recent discussions in the community and in a Dec. 22 Reading Eagle article have raised questions about Vanguard Renewables and its compliance with regulations during our more than a decade-long history as Caernarvon Township officials consider a proposed Vanguard facility there. As a company committed to transparency, sustainability and ethical operations, I want to provide clarity and context regarding these matters. Since our founding in 2014, Vanguard Renewables has prioritized compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. While it is true that we have been cited for violations in the past, it’s important to note that these instances represent a small fraction of our overall operations, and they were self-reported to the regulatory agency as required by law. Most importantly, we consistently have taken corrective actions to address the concerns raised. For example: Exceedance of H2S Levels: The H2S rich biogas was not emitted into the atmosphere but was recorded in the headspace of the closed digester. Since the time of reporting, we have not exceeded limits. That is due to the implementation of a technical solution that includes an automated system that not only notifies the local operator but also our biological engineering team and our health, safety and environment team when H2S levels are nearing permit limits. The team will then take action and continue to collect additional samples to ensure permitted compliance. This same automated system is included in all current Vanguard Renewables systems and will be included on Kurtland Farms. Spilled Digestate: The spilled digestate incident was due to a frozen pipe that burst and was dealt with immediately. It took two hours to repair the pipe in below-freezing temperatures. Digestate is the liquid byproduct of the anaerobic digestion process that is used as an alternative to fertilizer on cropland. It is comprised of water, minerals (which are already found in the soil) and naturally occurring microorganisms. The spill noted had no ill effect on environmental habitats or property. Odor: Vanguard Renewables has never received an odor complaint. We believe that responsible business practices include learning from mistakes, improving processes and ensuring that similar issues do not recur. Over the years, we have invested in training programs, safety improvements, state-of-the-art technological automation safety systems and additional compliance officers to ensure ongoing adherence to regulatory standards and safety. The health and safety of the communities in which we operate, the environment, our farm partners and their herd, and our staff are paramount. Our dedication to safety, the community, sustainability and promoting regenerative agriculture processes remains unwavering, and we are proud of the trust our partners and the community have placed in us. We appreciate the opportunity to set the record straight and welcome any questions or concerns directly. To that end, we are hosting a community learning session and open house on Monday, Jan. 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the French Creek Golf Club, located at 4500 Conestoga Road near Elverson. In addition, we have asked for a postponement of our scheduled Caernarvon Township zoning hearing from Jan. 7 to a date in February so that we can spend more time with the community to answer their questions and concerns. Thank you for allowing us to share our perspective and reaffirm our commitment to ethical and responsible operations. Forbes is vice president for marketing & strategic initiatives at Vanguard Renewables, which has proposed a facility to convert food waste and manure into renewable resources on a farm near Morgantown.
Researchers launch “moonshot” to cure blindness through eye transplantsGeneral Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday questioned the Alliance For Change’s (AFC) ability to be accountable in Government given the party leaders’ refusal to answer questions relating to 2015 to 2020 when they served as ministers in the Coalition government. Jagdeo was at the time referring to a restriction placed on media practitioners during a recent AFC media conference where Executive Member Cathy Hughes narrowed questions to specific topics. She further stated that questions relating to five years ago –when her party was in Government –will not be addressed. “I really want you to pose questions that are topical to the issues we are discussing today. We are not prepared to entertain questions that go back four or five years,” Hughes told reporters in the presence of the AFC’s Leader Nigel Hughes, Chairman David Patterson and Executive Member Khemraj Ramjattan. The audio was replayed by Jagdeo at Thursday’s press conference where he pointed out that clarifications for decisions made five years ago is a form of showing accountability. “If they can’t be accountable now, how would they be accountable if they have political power?” he questioned adding that “it’s a kind of arrogance they had when they had political power, they brought it back out into the opposition.” The PPP General Secretary outlined that there are several issues during the APNU+AFC’s tenure which the party members can shed light on including the negotiation of the current Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with ExxonMobil and the issuance of contracts from Cathy Hughes former Ministry of Telecommunications to a company she owned. “How could you take the political party like this seriously when the entire leadership...says we will tell you what you can ask and we will not take questions from the past?” Jagdeo emphasised. In contrast, Jagdeo, who is also the country’s Vice President, noted that he can answer any question posed to him about his party, even if it predates his presidency. “If you ask me about a question from the 1950s when the party was formed, I will take your questions and give you an answer,” he told reporters.McClain added six assists for the Tigers (2-5). Grayson Carter scored 13 points, shooting 6 of 7 from the field. Kenny Hunter and Alex Anderson both added 12. The Javelinas were led by Isaiah Payne, who recorded 18 points and four assists. Texas A&M-Kingsville also got 16 points from Allen Singleton. Nate Lacewell also had 13 points and seven rebounds. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
A guitar company touting an endorsement by Donald Trump has become embroiled in a trademark dispute, accused of imitating an iconic instrument, U.S. media reported Tuesday. Trump Guitars, whose website boasts a picture of the U.S. president-elect holding a six-string, has received a "cease and desist" letter from Gibson, whose guitars have been favorites of musicians including Bob Dylan and Chuck Berry. The letter warns Trump Guitars owner 16 Creative that the design of their product "infringes upon Gibson's exclusive trademarks, particularly the iconic Les Paul body shape," U.S. outlets said. Trump Guitars, which says on its website it has "the ONLY guitar endorsed" by the incoming commander-in-chief has already sold out of its Trump-autographed American Eagle electric guitar, which had a price tag of $11,500. The company is also offering a "Presidential Series" in red, gold or black, whose shape bears a striking resemblance to the Les Paul, but which has "DONALD J. TRUMP" inlaid on the fretboard. However, the site notes: "The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the product." The website also offers a disclaimer that it is not in any way affiliated to Gibson Brands Inc. The guitars, the site notes, are "manufactured by multiple providers and include parts/features that are both domestic and international." It was not immediately clear if they would be affected by a proposed 25 percent blanket tariff the incoming president says he intends to impose on products shipped from Mexico or Canada. Trump is not shy about putting his name to an array of products unrelated to his core real estate empire. The businessman-turned-politician has sold his supporters everything from $100,000 watches to limited edition coins, to gold sneakers, to digital trading cards and signed bibles.3 Americans held for years in China have been released, the White House saysLebanon is closing all its land border crossings with Syria except for a main one that links Beirut with the Syrian capital Damascus, the General Security Directorate said Friday. The decision came hours after an Israeli airstrike damaged a border crossing in northern Lebanon just days after it was reopened. Separately, Jordan’s interior minister said the Naseeb border crossing with Syria had been closed because of the security situation on the Syrian side. He spoke after Syrian opposition activists said insurgents had captured the main border crossing with Jordan, forcing the Syrian authorities to leave. Israel’s military said it planned to reinforce its positions in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights and near the border with Syria. Israel said it was “monitoring developments and is prepared for all scenarios, offensive and defensive alike.” Meanwhile, Syrian insurgents entered the central towns of Rastan and Talbiseh early Friday just north of the central city of Homs, bringing them closer Syria’s third largest city, an opposition war monitor and pro-government media both reported. The breakthrough came a day after jihiadi-led opposition fighters captured the central city of Hama , Syria’s fourth largest. In other developments, a Hamas official said international mediators have resumed negotiations with the Palestinian militant group and Israel over a ceasefire in Gaza, and he was hopeful a deal to end the 14-month war is within reach. Israel's war against Hamas has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced 90% of the population of 2.3 million, often multiple times. The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel in October 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 people hostage . Israel’s blistering retaliatory offensive has killed at least 44,600 Palestinians , more than half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were combatants. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Here's the Latest: Israeli strike kills at least 12 people and wounds 46 more in central Gaza DEIR AL-Balah, Gaza Strip — An Israeli strike hit a residential building in central Gaza's Nuseirat refugee camp on Friday evening, killing at least 12 people, including six children and four women, according to officials at Awda Hospital. The strike wounded at least 46 others, including 13 children and 12 women, and damaged several neighboring houses, the hospital said. Israel’s offensive has killed over 44,600 Palestinians in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many were combatants. The Israeli military says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. Israel says ‘thousands’ of food packs were delivered to besieged northern Gaza CAIRO — Israel said Friday that “thousands of food packages and sacks of flour” were delivered to the isolated northernmost reaches of Gaza, where hunger experts warn famine could be underway. The delivery would mark one of the first successful convoys to the area, which is besieged by Israeli troops that have mounted a fierce offensive in Gaza’s north since early October. COGAT, the Israeli military agency that controls the border crossings into Gaza, said the aid was delivered to the town of Beit Hanoun. Israeli authorities did not publicly say who delivered the aid, and did not provide details on the exact amount of aid involved. COGAT released photos of flatbed trucks driving past rubble, some carrying what appeared to be 25-kilogram (55 pound) sacks of aid and others with cargo covered under tarps. The U.N. has struggled to deliver aid to the area in recent weeks. Alia Zaki, a spokesperson for the World Food Program, told The Associated Press that nearly no food has entered the area for two months, and that the agency’s daily requests to enter the area have been denied by Israel. Of two missions that have been approved since Oct. 6, Zaki said, only two trucks of aid were delivered to a shelter that Israeli soldiers ordered to evacuate soon after and then burned. The situation in northern Gaza has prompted hunger experts to warn that famine is either near or may already be underway. Kurdish-led force in Syria says it has taken positions along Iraq border BEIRUT — A Kurdish-led force in Syria that's backed by the United States says it has taken positions along the border with Iraq, replacing Syrian government forces. The move by the Syrian Democratic Forces to capture areas on the west bank of the Euphrates River is likely to cut the land line that links Iran with the Mediterranean coast. The SDF said in a statement that its fighters were deployed in the eastern city of Deir el-Zour and west of the Euphrates for the safety of civilians. “Our primary objective is to protect our security and the security of our people,” it said about the deployment. SDF spokesman Farhad Shami told The Associated Press that their fighters are not in control of the Boukamal border crossing with Iraq. Rami Abdurrahman of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said Iran-backed fighters have evacuated the border crossing point of Boukamal and the SDF is expected to control it later. The Boukamal border crossing has been a main supply line for Iran-backed fighters, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah, who had opened the corridor that links Iran with the Mediterranean in 2017. The developments come as jihadi-led insurgents in northwestern Syria have made stunning advances over the past week that have so far met little resistance from government troops. Many displaced Palestinians at an aid kitchen in southern Gaza leave empty-handed KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip — Crowds of displaced Palestinians, some carrying cooking pots and crying children, gathered at an aid kitchen in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis on Friday, but many left with nothing. “The food ran out,” said Adel Mohammad, who was hoping to get a meal of rice – the only food being served — for his children. “At night they wake up hungry.” After the kitchen shut down, children used their hands to scoop bits of rice left in large empty cooking pots. The World Food Program has warned that the humanitarian response in Gaza is “nearing collapse as famine looms.” The U.N. agency says Israeli restrictions on aid deliveries, along with the breakdown of law and order in Gaza, has made it difficult for aid convoys to reach displaced Palestinians. Concerns are growing with the onset of another winter of war. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, many displaced repeatedly by Israeli attacks, are living in tent camps, reliant on international aid. Experts have already warned of famine in northern Gaza, which Israeli forces have almost completely isolated since early October. Lebanon closes all its land border crossings with Syria except one BEIRUT -- Lebanon’s General Security Directorate said Friday the country is closing all land border crossing with Syria except for a main one that links Beirut with the Syrian capital Damascus. The decision by the security agency in charge of border crossings came hours after an Israeli airstrike damaged the Arida border crossing with Syria in north Lebanon, days after it was reopened. “Border crossings will be closed until further notice for the safety of travelers,” the agency said in a statement posted on X. It said that the only border crossing that will be kept open is Masnaa in Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley. Lebanon’s state news agency said Friday the airstrike on the Arida crossing caused heavy material damage and cut the road. The Israeli military said fighter jets attacked the border crossing between Lebanon and Syria, adding that they were used to transfer munitions for Lebanon’s Hezbollah group. Syrian insurgents capture key crossing point on border with Jordan BEIRUT - Syrian opposition activists say insurgents have captured a main border crossing with Jordan forcing Syrian authorities to leave it. Shortly afterward, Jordan’s Interior Minister al-Frayeh said the Naseeb border crossing with Syria had been closed because of the security situation on the Syrian side. Opposition activists posted videos online showing people storming the border crossing with Jordan, which was in rebel hands until government forces regained control of it in 2018. Ahmad al-Masalmeh, an opposition activist based in France who covers events in southern Syria, told The Associated Press that local gunmen have captured the Naseeb crossing as well as several other areas in the southern province of Daraa where the uprising against President Bashar Assad began in March 2011. Syrian troops have evacuated checkpoints in several areas including the villages of Inkhil, Nawa and Jassem, he added. Israel reinforces troops in Golan Heights amid Syria tensions JERUSALEM — Israel’s military said on Friday that it planned to reinforce its forces stationed in the Golan Heights and near the border with Syria, where civil war has reignited between the government and rebel groups. The Israeli military said in a statement that it was “monitoring developments and is prepared for all scenarios, offensive and defensive alike.” After 13 years of civil war, Syrian insurgents are gaining ground, first taking cities in the country’s north and on Friday entering cities in central Syria. It comes as rebel groups mount new challenges to Russia- and Iran-backed Syrian forces, including in Aleppo, the country’s largest city. Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has intermittently struck areas in Syria seen as strongholds of Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group it is at war with in Lebanon. The advances of the Syrian insurgents adds new instability on Israel’s northern border, two months after it invaded neighboring Lebanon. Israel’s defense minister and military chief of staff met to discuss the situation Thursday. Israeli media reported there is concern in the country’s security establishment that the rebels would advance until they reached the Golan Heights, territory occupied by Israel, gaining control of Syrian weapons stockpiles along the way. Writing in the Israeli daily Yedioth Ahoronoth Friday, veteran military correspondent Ron Ben-Yishai wrote that Israel may “prefer” to destroy the weapons storehouses so they won’t fall into the hands of the rebels. Israel seized control of the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Mideast war. Syria has constantly accused Israel of launching attacks against it from territory it occupies in the Golan Heights. Israel has frequently struck Syria over the years. Syrian insurgents enter 2 central towns, bringing them close to the city of Homs BEIRUT — Syrian insurgents entered two central towns early Friday just north of the central city of Homs, bringing them closer Syria’s third largest city, an opposition war monitor and pro-government media both reported. The break into Rastan and Talbiseh came a day after opposition gunmen captured the central city of Hama , Syria’s fourth largest, after the Syrian army said it withdrew to avoid fighting inside the city and spare the lives of civilians. The insurgents, led by the jihadi Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, or HTS, have said that they will march to Homs and Damascus, President Bashar Assad’s seat of power. The city of Homs, parts of which were controlled by insurgents until 2014, is a major intersection point between the capital, Damascus, and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus where Assad enjoys wide support. Homs province is Syria’s largest in size and borders Lebanon, Iraq and Jordan. Insurgents are now 5 kilometers (3 miles) away from Homs, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor. “The battle of Homs is the mother of all battles and will decide who will rule Syria,” said Rami Abdurrahman, the Observatory’s chief. Iran says it conducted a successful space launch in a program long criticized by the West MANAMA, Bahrain — Iran said Friday it conducted a successful space launch, the latest for its program the West alleges improves Tehran’s ballistic missile technology. Iran conducted the launch using its Simorgh program , a satellite-carrying rocket that had had a series of failed launches, at Iran’s Imam Khomeini Spaceport in rural Semnan province. That’s the site of Iran’s civilian space program. The Simorgh carried what Iran described as an “orbital propulsion system,” as well as two research systems to a 400-kilometer (250-mile) orbit above the Earth. A system that could change the orbit of a spacecraft would allow Iran to geo-synchronize the orbits of its satellites. Tehran has long sought that ability. Iran also put the payload of the Simorgh at 300 kilograms (660 pounds), heavier than its previous successful launches. There was no immediate independent confirmation the launch was successful. The U.S. military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The announcement comes as heightened tensions grip the wider Middle East over Israel’s continued war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip and as an uneasy ceasefire holds in Lebanon. Australian leader blames antisemitism for arson that extensively damaged a Melbourne synagogue MELBOURNE, Australia — Arsonists extensively damaged a Melbourne synagogue on Friday in what Australia’s prime minister condemned as an antisemitic attack on Australian values. The blaze in the Adass Israel Synagogue is an escalation in targeted attacks in Australia since the war began between Israel and Hamas last year. Cars and buildings have been vandalized and torched around Australia in protests inspired by the war. A witness who had come to the synagogue to pray saw two masked men spreading a liquid accelerant with brooms inside the building at 4:10 a.m., officials said. About 60 firefighters with 17 fire trucks responded to the blaze, which police said caused extensive damage. Investigators have yet to identify a motive, but Prime Minister Anthony Albanese blamed antisemitism. “This was a shocking incident to be unequivocally condemned. There is no place in Australia for an outrage such as this,” Albanese told reporters. “To attack a place of worship is an attack on Australian values. To attack a synagogue is an act of antisemitism, is attacking the right that all Australians should have to practice their faith in peace and security,” he added. Hamas official says Gaza ceasefire talks have resumed after weekslong hiatus ISTANBUL — A Hamas official says international mediators have resumed negotiating with the militant group and Israel over a ceasefire in Gaza, and that he was hopeful a deal to end the 14-month war was within reach. Ceasefire negotiations were halted last month when Qatar suspended talks with mediators from Egypt and the United States because of frustration over a lack of progress between Israel and Hamas. But there has been a “reactivation” of efforts in recent days to end the fighting, release hostages from Gaza and free Palestinian prisoners in Israel, according to Bassem Naim, an official in Hamas’ political bureau who spoke with The Associated Press in Turkey on Thursday. Another official familiar with the talks confirmed the return of Qatari mediators. The official spoke Thursday on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the negotiations with the media. Since the talks broke down, there have been significant shifts in the global and regional landscape. Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, and a ceasefire was declared last week between Israel and Hamas ally Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump is a staunch supporter of Israel, but Naim said he believes the incoming administration could “affect the situation positively” given that Trump had made halting wars in the region part of his campaign platform. Trump this week called for the release of all hostages held in Gaza by the time he takes office on Jan. 20, saying there would be “hell to pay” if that doesn’t happen. Attack near US base in eastern Syria may have wounded 3 service members, Pentagon says WASHINGTON -- Three U.S. service members were being evaluated for potential traumatic brain injuries following an attack near a base in eastern Syria this week, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said Thursday. Ryder said U.S. Central Command is still evaluating who was behind the attack near Mission Support Site Euphrates, which prompted the U.S. to conduct counter strikes on Tuesday. At the time, the Pentagon said rockets and mortars had landed in the vicinity of the base. The U.S. has about 900 troops in Syria to conduct missions to counter the Islamic Stage group. By Lolita Baldor
Texas weighs social media bans for minors as schools and police face challenges
Ezra Mam will have to pay $120,000 in fines to Brisbane and the NRL, after the under-fire five-eighth accepted his nine-game ban for driving offences. The Broncos confirmed late on Friday evening that Mam would accept his NRL sanctions, which included a $30,000 fine. Brisbane have slapped the 22-year-old with an additional $90,000 fine for being caught drug driving while unlicensed after crashing his ute into an oncoming car in October. In a statement, the Broncos said Mam would also have to complete a safe-driving program, work or study placement and commit to ongoing wellbeing support. Mam was also fined $850 and had his license suspended for nine months in court last week , with a magistrate telling Mam he had a “cocktail of cocaine and other matters” in his system, and that he “could’ve injured or killed” someone. That punishment was widely been criticised as too lenient, after a woman and her young daughter were injured in the collision. Ezra Mam leaves Brisbane Magistrates Court after a hearing earlier this month. Credit: William Davis “Whilst we are extremely disappointed that we have been placed in this position, we believe both the NRL and club-imposed penalties adequately reflect the gravity of what’s transpired and should act as a deterrent from this type of risky and anti-social behaviour,” Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said in a statement. “Ezra clearly did the wrong thing, but he has taken responsibility for his actions and shown genuine remorse towards those involved.
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United Nations has called on Taliban authorities to protect journalists and media workers as well as ensure that media outlets can operate freely, without restrictions or censorship, in Afghanistan. In a joint report titled Media Freedom in Afghanistan, released on Tuesday, the UN Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the UN Human Rights Office documented the increasing challenges faced by journalists, media workers, and outlets under the Taliban rule between August 2021 and September 2024. “Journalists and media workers in Afghanistan work under unclear rules on what they can and cannot report, running the risk of intimidation and arbitrary detention for perceived criticism, said Roza Otunbayeza, head of UNAMA. “For any country, a free press is not a choice, but a necessity. What we’re witnessing in Afghanistan is the systematic dismantling of this necessity”. The report titled Media Freedom in Afghanistan outlined 256 instances of arbitrary arrest and detention, combined with 130 cases of torture and ill-treatment. An additional 75 documented cases of threats and intimidation have created a climate of fear. In response, the Afghan foreign ministry denied having arrested that number of journalists, saying that those detained had committed a crime. Meanwhile, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk emphasized the broader implications of these restrictions. “Journalists and media workers are not just observers – they are essential to ensuring transparency and accountability, fostering informed debate, he said, adding that they are crucial in helping communities access vital information about humanitarian and protection issues that directly affect their lives. The report’s findings reveal that female media professionals face severe restrictions. Those who continue to work face discriminatory regulations affecting everything from dress codes to which stories they can cover. During the daily media briefing at UN Headquarters, Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Aziz Haq highlighted this gender dimension: “Women journalists and media workers face particular discriminatory measures that limit their ability to do their work”. Ms. Otunbayeza also urged the de facto authorities to “fully recognize the importance of women working in the media sector”. The report also warns of the broader consequences of diminishing international support for Afghanistan’s media sector. “Technical and financial support for the media sector in Afghanistan, and thereby standing behind the importance of freedom of expression and public debate is instrumental for growth of the country,” Ms. Otunbayeza concluded. Looking forward, the UN is calling on the Taliban authorities to honour Afghanistan’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees freedom of expression without discrimination. The report emphasizes that free press is essential not just for transparency and accountability but for the country’s social and economic development.Courtney Frazer | (TNS) Bankrate.com Exchanging currency is vital to international travel, whether you’re visiting for leisure or business. Understanding the nuances of currency exchange can help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your travel budget. Before you exchange money, you should know how to choose the right place to exchange your money, time your transactions for the best rates and estimate the money exchange fee. Currency exchange involves converting one country’s money into another’s. Because currencies have different values from country to country, exchange rates fluctuate based on factors like political stability, economic performance and global market conditions. Without proper knowledge of currency exchange, travelers risk losing money on unfavorable exchange rates, excessive fees and even fraudulent practices. It’s important to know how currency exchange works and where to do money exchanges so you can get the best deal. Exchanging money abroad often comes with various fees, so it’s important to understand what you might encounter. Flat fees Some exchange providers charge a flat fee per transaction. These can make smaller exchanges expensive relative to the amount you’re converting. Always ask about any flat fees in advance, and consider exchanging larger sums to minimize the impact of this fee. Percentage fees Many currency exchange providers charge a percentage-based fee on the total amount exchanged. This fee structure can become costly if you’re exchanging large amounts of money, so compare percentage-based fees before making any decisions. ATM withdrawal fees If you’re withdrawing money from an ATM abroad, your home bank and the foreign bank may charge withdrawal fees. Some banks refund these fees, while others may partner with international banks to provide fee-free withdrawals. Before traveling, check with your bank to understand what ATM fees you might face and whether they offer any reimbursement options. Foreign transaction fees Foreign transaction fees are often charged when using credit or debit cards abroad. Depending on the card issuer and payment network, these fees can range from 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. Many travel-focused credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can help you save money when making purchases abroad. Check your card’s terms and conditions before you travel to avoid surprises. If your card charges foreign transaction fees, consider limiting its use and opting for other methods, like cash or prepaid travel cards. Not all currency exchange options are equal, especially for travelers. Some places offer better rates and lower money exchange fees, while others provide more convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the most common currency exchange options. Banks and credit unions Banks and credit unions are generally the best money exchange options, offering competitive exchange rates and transparent fees. Many banks provide foreign currency services for their account holders, and some even offer currency at a better rate when you order it in advance. If you have a major bank account, the bank may offer international ATM withdrawals with little to no fees. Banks tend to have the most secure exchange process, so you can avoid the high fees and markups that are common at airport exchange booths. Currency exchange kiosks Currency exchange kiosks, often found at airports and tourist destinations, are convenient but have significant drawbacks. They frequently offer lower exchange rates and higher fees, taking advantage of travelers who need quick cash. If you need to use a currency exchange bureau, only exchange a small amount to cover immediate needs and seek out better rates at a local bank or through an ATM once you reach your destination. Always check the exchange rate and fees before completing any transaction at these kiosks to avoid unnecessary charges. ATMs abroad Using ATMs to withdraw local currency in your destination country is one of the most convenient ways to get cash while traveling. Many banks are part of global ATM networks, allowing you to withdraw money with minimal fees if you use ATMs associated with their partner banks. However, it’s important to check with your bank ahead of time to understand what fees may apply to international withdrawals. When using ATMs abroad, stick to machines from reputable banks and avoid independent ATMs found in tourist-heavy areas or small shops. These often have higher fees and less favorable exchange rates. It’s also a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid having your card frozen for suspicious activity. Prepaid travel cards Prepaid travel cards offer an excellent solution for travelers who want to manage currency exchange with ease. These cards allow you to load multiple currencies before you travel and lock in exchange rates to avoid rate fluctuations while abroad. Prepaid travel cards can be used like regular debit or credit cards but with the added benefit of lower foreign transaction fees. They also help limit spending, as you can only use the funds preloaded onto the card. However, be aware of hidden fees such as inactivity, ATM withdrawal or reloading fees. When exchanging currency for travel, it’s easy to fall into traps that result in unnecessary expenses. Here are some common mistakes travelers make and how to avoid them. 1. Exchanging money at airports and hotels While airports and hotels may be convenient places to exchange money, they often have the worst exchange rates and highest fees. Airport kiosks, in particular, are notorious for inflating rates, sometimes marking them up by as much as 10% compared to what you’d find at a local bank or ATM. To avoid these high costs, exchange a small amount of money before your trip to cover immediate expenses like transportation. Once you arrive at your destination, use ATMs or banks for more favorable rates. 2. Using dynamic currency conversion Dynamic currency conversion (DCC) allows you to pay in your home currency when using a credit or debit card abroad. While this may seem convenient, it usually comes with a much worse exchange rate and additional hidden fees. Whenever possible, always opt to pay in the local currency of your destination to avoid unfavorable rates. DCC also gives merchants more control over the exchange rate, meaning they could use a rate that benefits them more than you. When paying with a card abroad, always make sure you’re being charged in the local currency to get the most accurate rate. 3. Timing your exchange poorly Exchange rates fluctuate daily based on global market conditions. If you know you’ll need to exchange a large sum of money, it pays to keep an eye on exchange rates before your trip. Use tools to track exchange rates and exchange your money when the rate is in your favor. For travelers planning ahead, some banks and online services allow you to lock in exchange rates before traveling, helping you avoid losses due to unfavorable fluctuations during your trip. When traveling abroad, currency exchange fees can quickly eat into your budget. You can use certain strategies to help you save, avoid common fees and make the most of your money while exploring new destinations. 1. Plan ahead for international trips Before heading overseas, research your destination’s currency and exchange rate options. Many banks allow you to order foreign currency ahead of time, saving you from the poor exchange rates and high fees at airports or in tourist-heavy areas. If your bank offers international ATM withdrawal with low fees, consider using this option to access local currency while traveling. Financial institutions sometimes offer special travel accounts or debit cards with reduced fees for foreign transactions. Check with your bank to see if they offer international-friendly options that can help you save money while abroad. 2. Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees Credit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees can be a great asset when traveling internationally. These cards often offer competitive exchange rates, and some even provide travel rewards or cash back on purchases made abroad. Using a credit card for most of your international purchases can help protect you from currency exchange fees and fraud. 3. Limit currency exchange at high-fee locations When traveling, try to avoid exchanging currency at locations that charge high fees, like airports, hotels or currency exchange kiosks. These places often inflate exchange rates and charge large commissions, reducing the value of your money. Instead, stick to local banks or ATMs for better rates and lower fees. If you have to exchange currency at one of these places, try to exchange only what you need immediately and find a better location later. Currency exchange is an essential part of international travel, and getting it right can save you a lot of money. By planning ahead, avoiding high-fee locations and choosing the right method for exchanging money, you can stretch your travel budget further and minimize unnecessary costs. When traveling internationally, avoid airport kiosks and hotel exchange desks, opt for ATMs and reputable banks and consider using prepaid travel cards or credit cards with no foreign transaction fees to simplify your currency management. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to get the most out of your money while exploring the world. (Visit Bankrate online at bankrate.com.). ©2024 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.None
Simple Hacks to Make the Holidays Merrier (and Cheaper)
Middle East latest: Lebanon closes all its land border crossings with Syria except one