​Foreign currency exchange

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Best foreign currencies to bring with you for exchange are USD and Euro. Due to banking restrictions in Middle East, Asia and Russia, only USD notes printed after 1996 are accepted for exchange. Many banks and exchange offices also require banknotes to be clean (without big visible stamps or marks). Some places will still exchange slightly damaged notes, but the exchange rate won't be as good as for clean notes. In addition, banks offer better exchange rate for 50 and 100 dollars/euro bills, than for 10s and 20s. We recommend to bring USD or EUR - these currencies can be exchanged everywhere in the world. Bank in big cities also exchange AUD, UK Pounds and CAD.

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We recommend to check exchange rates online before you go, to estimate how much local money you can get. One of the best web sites to see exchange rates worldwide is www.xe.com

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Travellers Cheques

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It is very hard and time consuming to exchange Travellers Cheques in all countries we run trips in. Banks don't always accept them, and if they do, the process of exchanging might take hours. Of course, if you always travel with TC, bring them (most popular ones are Thomas Cook and American Express). They are the great way to secure your money. But keep in mind that you might have problems exchanging them, and have some cash with you as well.

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ATMs

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In CHINA, MONGOLIA, RUSSIA and ARMENIA all cities have ATMs, where you can withdraw local currency with your credit or debit card. We recommend to notify your bank about your travel plans, otherwise they might block your card for being used in unknown destination. Keep your bank contacts handy in case destination of your transactions is still questioned. It's worth checking with your bank what fees they charge for foreign transaction/withdrawl. And don't forget that local banks often charge transaction fees on the top of your bank's fees.

 

Due to political and economical restrictions from western banks, no credit/debit cards can be used in IRAN. Bring enough USD or EUR cash with you, to cover expenses not included in the cost of the trip. There are ATMs in Iran, but they work only with cards issued by local banks. Using western card in one of these ATMs will block not only the card, but also your account.

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Spending money

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Every person is different when it comes to spending money. Below are general recommendations and approximate prices for optional activities. Prices might change by the time you travel.

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TRANS-MONGOLIAN TRIPS: 11 Breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners are included in the tour cost. For the rest of the meals allow about 350-400 USD (or equivalent).

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Museum tickets: 5 to 15 USD per ticket.

Theatre peformances: from 17 USD in China and Mongolia, to 80-150 USD in Russian theatres.

Horseback riding in Mongolia: 10-15 USD

Boat on Lake Baikal: depends on the size of the group. 20-40 USD p/p in summer; 15-40 USD in winter.

 

ARMENIA-IRAN TRIPS: 19 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included in the tour cost. For the rest of the meals allow 400-450 USD (or equivalent).

 

Museum tickets: 2 to 10 USD per ticket

Theatre performances in State Yerevan Opera theatre vary between 2 to 30 USD per ticket (depends on the event and tickets available)

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Emergency Fund

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Have about 200 USD emergency fund in cash (and easily accessible) for situations out of your and our control: natural disasters,​ stolen posessions, etc.

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Tipping

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Tips are always welcomed by people who provide services: guides, drivers, waiters.

 

TRANS-MONGOLIAN TRIPS: It is customary in Russia to leave up to 10% tip for the services in the restaurants (only if customers were satisfied with the service). Before you tip, though, check your bill - some restaurants and cafes include service surcharge (tip) in the cost of the meal. In Mongolia and China there is no expected amount, but tips for good service are appreciated.

 

ARMENIA-IRAN TRIP: It is customary and expected in both countries to leave a tip in restaurants and cafes. Before tipping, though, always check the bill - many establishments include service charge in the cost of the meal.

 

During the trip your tour leader will suggest to tip local guides and drivers, if you feel that services were up to your standards and you wish to give them something extra. Generally recommended amount is 1-2 USD per day per person for local guides and drivers (depending on the length and quality of service). After your tour you can also tip your tour leader. Amount depends on your personal preferences. As a guideline you can base your tip on 20-25 USD per person per week.

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Unless tipping is included in the bill, it is never a compulsory, and depends only on your personal preferences and available cash.
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