Relying on Google for accurate information about the Iranian exchange rate can be misleading and problematic. If you’re planning a trip to Iran, it’s important to understand the significant discrepancies between the exchange rates shown on Google and the actual rates you will encounter in the country. Google might be your go-to for many things, but for currency exchange in Iran, it falls short, and here’s why.
In this blog post, you’ll discover why you should avoid using Google for exchange rates in Iran and where to find more reliable information.
The Reality of Iran’s Currency Exchange Rates on Google
One of the most critical things to know about the Iranian rial is that the exchange rate you see on Google does not reflect the reality on the ground. Google displays an official exchange rate used by the Iranian government primarily for importing essential goods. This rate is significantly lower than the market rate you will find within Iran.
The real exchange rate is higher than what Google shows. This vast difference can cause significant confusion and budgeting issues for tourists who plan their expenses based on the Google-provided rate. Imagine budgeting your trip with the expectation of getting a certain amount of local currency for your dollars, only to find out that your money goes much further – or not as far as you thought – because the rate you relied on was inaccurate.
For detailed information, take a look at our article: Iranian currency.
Why Use Reliable Exchange Rates Sources instead of Google?
You should look for trustworthy sources to gain accurate exchange rate information for several reasons.
No Fee Consideration
Reliable sources account for the fees or commissions that banks and money transfer companies charge for currency exchanges. These additional costs mean that the exchange rate you see from these sources is closer to the rate you will actually get when you exchange money. Without accounting for these fees, other sources provide a misleading picture of what you can expect when converting your currency.
Lack of Real-time Data
Moreover, these exchange rate sources take into account the fluctuations in the market. Exchange rates can change multiple times throughout the day based on a variety of factors, including economic news, political events, and market demand. Trustworthy websites provide real-time data that reflect these dynamic changes, making them more dependable for real-time currency conversion needs.
Delayed Rates
Firstly, reliable exchange rate sources update their data in real-time. They do not rely on rates from a few selected banks that may be delayed by up to 24 hours, like Google. This timely update ensures that the rates you see are current and reflective of the latest market conditions. This is particularly important in a country like Iran, where economic conditions and exchange rates can fluctuate rapidly.
Where to Find Accurate Exchange Rates
For accurate and up-to-date exchange rates, it’s better to use dedicated currency converter websites that use real-time data. One such reliable source is www.bonbast.com. Bonbast provides exchange rates based on the USD, which are more accurate for the market rates within Iran.
However, it’s important to note that while Bonbast offers a more realistic picture, there can still be slight discrepancies, especially for currencies other than the US dollar. For example, the exchange rate for the euro to the rial might be calculated based on the USD to EUR rate, which can introduce minor inaccuracies. Despite this, Bonbast is far more reliable than Google for getting a sense of what your money is truly worth in Iran.
Exchanging Money in Iran after Arrival
You can exchange money at authorized exchange offices, known as “Sarrafi,” located in major cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan. These offices are widely available in major cities such as Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan and typically offer more favorable rates compared to banks.
It’s important to avoid exchanging money with unauthorized individuals or on the street, as this can be risky and often results in unfavorable rates or scams. Stick to licensed exchange offices to ensure a secure and fair exchange process.
Load Your Own Tourist Debit Card
When traveling to Iran, you’ll find that international credit cards like MasterCard and Visa aren’t accepted due to sanctions. To manage your finances effectively, you should consider purchasing a tourist debit card authorized by local banks.
A reliable option is a tourist debit card specifically designed for visitors. This card is backed by Iranian banks and provides several benefits. It allows you to make purchases at shops, hotels, and restaurants throughout Iran. You can also use it for ATM withdrawals.
The card is delivered directly to your accommodation in Iran, which is convenient if you arrive late or have a tight schedule. If you’re using airport transfer services, you can even receive the card at the airport, though this may involve an extra fee.
The debit card is valid for one year, and you can renew it for an additional year if needed. It offers a daily cash withdrawal limit and a daily purchase limit, providing flexibility for your expenses. There is a small fee for purchasing the card, but there are no reload fees or hidden charges.
You can reload the card easily; any remaining balance can be converted to Euros or US Dollars. Excess funds can be managed by converting them at local exchange offices, transferring them to PayPal, or contacting customer support for assistance.
For more information, take a look at Visit Our Iran’s Tourist Debit Cards service page. If you have any questions, contact us.
Visit Our Iran’s Tourist Debit Cards
For a hassle-free financial experience during your trip to Iran, consider using Visit Our Iran’s Tourist Debit Cards. These cards are specifically designed for tourists, offering a convenient and secure way to handle your finances. Unlike international credit cards, which are not accepted in Iran due to sanctions, these debit cards are backed by the Central Bank of Iran and Pasargad Bank, ensuring reliability and ease of use. With competitive rates and no hidden fees, these cards provide an efficient solution for your financial needs while traveling.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us or comment below.
