how to take money whilst travelling

[christablla]

hi
can anyone help me with my querry, we are shortly travelling to south africa and also staying up in livingstone, what is the best way to take money with us, i have some south african rand but i know it is different currency in livinstone, some people have said take travellers cheques where as others have said that banks can be funny about changing them, yet i dont want to just take cash sterling as this seems risky,also in livingstone are things bought in us dollars or their own currency. if anyone can shed light on my situation it would be much appreciated
cheers
christabella

[ches]

In South Africa you can withdraw cash as you need it from ATMs and use a debit card/credit card most places. When I was in Victoria Falls/Livingstone a decade ago the US Dollar was the currency of choice and you'd pay the best price in US$ - better than Zim$ or the Zambian currency. Ask your hotel what they recommend. If you want to support the locals and buy from them on the streets, take dollar bills. You will likely get change in the local currency so don't take large denominations, and don't take coins. Have a great holiday!