What should I do with Travellers Cheques I have in the national currencies to be replaced?

Travellers Cheques are valid forever so you will not lose out in any way. If you are in Europe you will be able to change them for a short period at commercial banks and for a far longer period at central banks (see 'How long will the changeover period last?' for more details.)

However, for the sake of convenience it is strongly suggested that you change or use any Travellers Cheques or other money that you may have in the national currencies to be replaced as soon as possible. Changing them in third countries may well prove difficult and you would need to check with national banking authorities if it would be possible.

What should I do if I have cash in currencies that are going to change to the euro?

Unless you want to keep it as a souvenir it is strongly suggested that you change it into another currency before the end of the year. Banks in the region have different dates for when they will stop exchanging any of the old currencies. For example in Thailand many banks have indicated that they will stop buying these currencies on 31 December 2001 although a few will continue to exchange them into 2002.

What will happen to any bank accounts that I hold in any of the currencies that are going to change to the euro?

If you hold a bank account in Deutsh Marks, French Francs etc., your bank should have contacted you with regard to the change over. Generally, these accounts would be converted to euro but you should check with your bank.