Changing Aussie Dollars to LKR?

I am trying to get away from having to change twice (AUD to USD or EUR and then to LKR)

One should never do this.

and also avoid international ATM fees

ATMs will generally be your best value. And honestly, you really aren't going to be there that long.

I'd almost be willing to bet that ATM will beat the street at this point - AUD-LKR is way too close to 1 for 1 today.

I am trying to get away from having to change twice (AUD to USD or EUR and then to LKR)

One should never do this.

and also avoid international ATM fees

ATMs will generally be your best value. And honestly, you really aren't going to be there that long.

I'd almost be willing to bet that ATM will beat the street at this point - AUD-LKR is way too close to 1 for 1 today.

I normally go that way when travelling...but when I spoke with my bank the other day they said they will charge AUD$5.00 per transaction and that in their experience ATM's in Sri Lanka will charge between AUD$15.00 - AUD$30.00 per transaction for an Australian Debit/Credit Card.

Thanks for the information but you haven't really answered my question, which is: Are AUD recognised and easily changeable in Sri Lanka?

Sure, most have heard of Australia.

How isolated do Ozzies feel? Now in more distant areas maybe. One of the first things one sees on arrival these days is a currency exchange rate card at bureaus. Major "hard" currencies are always there. If you know how to securely carry cash that might save some expense. Consider shopping for a better card. Some of mine have modest fees and some charge a punitive rate..

If you are happy carrying all that cash, then go for it. All major moneychangers will do Aussie dollars, but you could have problems in out of the way places, which you probably won't be visiting anyway.

There are plenty of ATMs in SL that don't charge for withdrawal, despite what your bank says. The biggest scam is when they ask if you want to pay in your currency. SAY NO! They will use a horrible exchange rate. If you use the normal Visa/MasterCard rate it is excellent and even with your bank charges, probably works out better than cash.

If carrying all that cash check your travel insurance and be careful about leaving money in your hotel room.

Enjoy.

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