Canadian Currency

• Summary: Canadian currency is primarily in polymer banknotes with denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
• Spotting Fakes:
  • Feel: Raised ink on the large number and words "Bank of Canada" / "Banque du Canada".
  • Tilt: Look for color changes in the metallic portrait in the large transparent window.
  • Look: Check for a transparent outline in the frosted maple leaf window.
• Cash vs. Credit Card: Credit cards are widely accepted. Cash is useful for smaller transactions and in some smaller establishments.

South African Currency

• Summary: South African currency is the Rand (ZAR). Banknotes feature the "Big Five" animals.
• Spotting Fakes:
  • Feel: Real notes have a unique feel due to their cotton composition.
  • Look: Check for color-changing ink in the bottom right corner.
  • Watermark: Each banknote has a watermark portrait of an animal.
  • Security Thread: Color-changing security thread with a dynamic movement effect.
• Cash vs. Credit Card: Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas. Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller towns and for smaller transactions.

Euro (EUR)

• Summary:
  • The Euro is used in 19 of the 27 EU member states.
  • Banknotes come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 (though the €500 is being phased out).
• Spotting Fakes:
  • Feel: Euro banknotes are made of pure cotton, giving them a distinct feel.
  • Watermark: Hold the banknote against the light to see a watermark image.
  • Security Thread: An embedded security thread appears as a dark line when held against the light.
  • Hologram: Tilt the banknote to see the hologram change.
  • Color-shifting Ink: Some denominations have color-shifting ink.
  • Microprinting: Tiny lettering visible with a magnifying glass.
• Cash vs. Credit Card: Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. Cash is still used for smaller purchases, especially in markets and smaller shops.

Japanese Yen (JPY)

• Summary:
  • The Japanese Yen is the official currency of Japan.
  • Banknotes come in denominations of ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000.
• Spotting Fakes:
  • Watermark: Visible when held up to the light.
  • Intaglio Printing: Raised ink, especially on the portrait.
  • Holographic Features: Advanced holographic strips and patches on higher denominations.
  • Microprinting: Very fine, detailed printing.
  • Luminescent Ink: Some areas glow under UV light.
• Cash vs. Credit Card: Although credit cards are becoming more accepted, Japan is still a cash-based society. Carrying cash is highly recommended, especially in smaller towns and for smaller purchases.

Indian Rupee (INR)

• Summary:
  • The Indian Rupee is the official currency of India.
  • Banknotes come in denominations of ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2,000.
• Spotting Fakes:
  • Watermark: Features Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Security Thread: Color-shifting security thread.
  • Intaglio Printing: Raised print, especially on the portrait and RBI seal.
  • Microprinting: Tiny, readable text.
  • Latent Image: A hidden image that becomes visible when held at an angle.
• Cash vs. Credit Card: Credit cards are increasingly accepted in urban areas and tourist destinations. However, cash is still essential, especially in rural areas, markets, and for smaller transactions.

Southeast Asian Currencies (General Overview)

• General Notes:
  • Southeast Asia is a diverse region with various currencies.
  • Common currencies include the Thai Baht (THB), Vietnamese Dong (VND), Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), and Singapore Dollar (SGD).
  • Cash is still widely used throughout the region, especially in markets, street food stalls, and smaller shops.
  • Credit cards are more common in major cities and tourist areas.
• Spotting Fakes (General):
  • Look for watermarks, security threads, and color-shifting ink.
  • Feel the paper for authenticity.
  • Be aware that counterfeit money can be more common in some parts of the region, so exercise caution.
• Cash vs. Credit Card: Cash is very important. Credit cards are more widely used in Singapore than in other south east asian countries. Plan on using both, but carry more cash than you would in the US or Europe.

General Tips for Using Cash vs. Credit Card While Traveling:

• Check Acceptance: Before your trip, research the acceptance of credit cards in your destination.
• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid card freezes.
• Carry a Mix: Have both cash and credit cards. Cash is essential for smaller purchases and in areas where cards aren't accepted.
• Withdraw Local Currency: Use ATMs to withdraw local currency for better exchange rates.
• Be Aware of Fees: Credit card foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal fees can add up.
• Security: Be cautious when carrying large amounts of cash. Use a money belt or secure wallet.
• Small Denominations: Carry smaller denominations of cash for easier transactions.
• Have a Backup: Keep a backup credit card or cash in a separate location.
• Use credit cards in secure locations: Only use credit cards in places where you feel they are not likely to steal your information.