Drawing shekels from a US account and getting 3.46 instead of 3.54.
I tried my American ATM card in Leumi in Modiin Mall. There was no option for $ or EUR. It tried getting me to convert at a ripoff exchange rate. I found the option to be charged in ILS and then it went through on my end at a normal rate.
So there are two ways to be charged? Or it's just an extra step that is meaningless. Basically, can you get the ripoff rate if you are not careful?
I've traveled to Israel 3 times in the past few years and never had a problem with using my Amex with no Forex. Is Amex generally accepted there? Or should I get a Visa as backup just in case?
I think most merchants accept Amex but it's definitely a good idea to have Visa or MC.
Is there any free one I should be aware of?
CSP is a great card to have in Israel.
is TD still the best option to open in the US if going to israel for a year?
That's what i have. No issues.
What type of account do you have? Isn't there a fee for ATM withdraws?