Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ATMs
Central Sydney is chock-full of banks with 24-hour ATMs that will accept debit and credit
cards linked to international network systems (Cirrus, Maestro, Visa, MasterCard etc).
Most banks place a $1000 limit on the amount you can withdraw daily. You'll also find
ATMs in pubs and clubs, although these usually charge slightly higher fees. Shops and re-
tail outlets usually have EFTPOS facilities, which allow you to pay for purchases with
your debit or credit card
.
Changing Money
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Exchange bureaux are dotted around the city centre, Kings Cross and Bondi.
»
Shop around, as rates vary and most charge some sort of commission.
»
The counters at the airport are open until the last flight comes in; rates here aren't quite
as good as they are in the city.
Credit Cards
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted at larger shops, restaurants and hotels, but not
necessarily at smaller shops or cafes. Diners Club and American Express are less widely
accepted. Lost-card contact numbers:
American Express
(
Diners Club
(
MasterCard
(
Visa
(
Tipping
In Sydney most service providers don't expect a tip, so you shouldn't feel pressured into
giving one, even at fancy restaurants. If the service is good, however, it is customary to tip
porters (gold coin), wait staff in restaurants (up to 10%, but only for good service) and
taxi drivers (round up to the nearest dollar).
