Things of huge interest to some

 From Martin's email:

A great scoop in Sat's Guardian revealed the RBS group of cards is giving a much worse rate abroad than previously thought. Horrendous exchange rates: Most cards add a hidden 3%ish 'load' abroad (so £100 worth of euros costs £103). Yet it's been discovered RBS, Natwest & Tesco credit cards don't base this on the usual 'perfect' Visa/Mastercard rate but their own exchange rate, often a further 2%ish worse on top. While its debit cards use the better exchange rate, they charge a nasty £1.25 fee every time you spend and 3% (min £3) at ATMs. Quite simply, avoid! Get a super-cheap 'overseas card': The cheapest way to spend oveseas is with a specialist credit card, always repaid IN FULL to minimise interest. Top Overall: Halifax Clarity is load free worldwide, so you get perfect exchange rates. Its only fee is 12.9% APR for cash withdrawals (c. £1/mth per £100), even if you repay in full. Top with perks: Nationwide's* Gold card (16.9% APR) is load-free, but only in Europe and charges a 2.5% ATM fee. However, it also gives a year's extra extended warranty on UK-bought electricals and a 0% for 15mths balance transfer deal (3% fee). FULL details in the Updated Guide: Cheap Travel Money Related: 0% for 13mth on Spending, 0% for 16mth Balance Transfers, Guardian Story