We use TC's all the time - no problem cashing them at the cambio in front of Times Square, at Hi-Lo or at other various cambios we've used. The biggest challenge is finding a local bank in the U.S. that still issues them!
Travelers checks are the only way to go in my opinion. I do bring cash in small bills for tips and taxis. My banks also no longer offer travelers checks but I am a member of AAA and they offer them at no charge.
Ras Walleye, when was the last time you got them from AAA?
We went to our local AAA last year and they no longer had them...
We didnt want to pay the fee from the bank so we just took some cash and our atm cards last time
marley9808, we did it this last April 2011. I just checked with our local office here in Minneapolis and they still offer them with no fee.
I got mine at AAA for free, a couple weeks ago. I feel safer with them, I got pick pocket once a long time ago at the gas station and they didn"t touch them, only the ja money.
Thanks Ras.....wonder why ours doesn't carry them, maybe will check another AAA office. thanks!