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Exchange Rates and Other Musings

March 15th, 2013 at 12:39 pm

Only a week until DD and DH arrive, so I'm doing all the London things that I love, but that he's less than enthusiastic about--antique shopping, theatre, etc. and saving all the things we all love like museums and history for after their arrival.

I'm still rather amazed at how expensive groceries have been. On Tuesday I spent 25pds on groceries, and all I have left is tangerines. I do eat almost every meal here or pack lunches, but still, it's expensive.
My new pleasure? Chili beet(root) for on top of salads.

But the good news for us is the exchange rate. The pound has fallen 8.5% against the dollar since January. I'm going to start putting almost everything on the American credit card (which we always pay off) to help take advantage of that.

The British economy seems a bit worse than the American at this point with a new budget coming out next week. Several friends are facing layoffs, and there are plenty of cuts in benefits.

Off to the British library!

4 Responses to “Exchange Rates and Other Musings”

  1. laura Says:
    1363352276


    I had a bout of insomnia last night, and actually perused property for sale in Scotland. It was nice to see that I could afford something small and remote (can you tell I'm trying to perpetuate my runaway fantasy after dealing with difficult folks in the volunteer arena?!)

    Anyhow, sounds like a lovely time and I bet you're ready to see your family. Enjoying reading about your sabbatical. Smile

  2. ceejay74 Says:
    1363360672

    OMG, I wonder if NT knows about chili beetroot. Sounds right up his alley, so I feel he would've mentioned it. We'll have to seek it out when we come over in May.

    That's exciting your family gets to come over! If your DH is anything like mine, he's constantly yearning for the motherland. Smile

  3. snafu Says:
    1363372094

    Does your CC charge a fee for currency exchange? This is a new fee on some cards. You should get a better rate on CC than straight cash exchange as they deal in huge sums.

  4. My English Castle Says:
    1363465952

    Hi Snafu--No, that was one of the reasons we switched cards. No currency or foreign transaction fees at all.
    Ceejay: My DH longs for England too, but then grouses about small roads, parking fees, high grocery prices, etc.

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