Western Union is the best place but the Lines are incredibly LONG sometimes.. I have walked out 2 x already. just not worth the wait. UNLESS, you are exchanging LARGE amounts, then YES, this is your best option.. you do NOT want to be exchaning that kind of dollar amount on the street ,
IMO.
We use the street guys to do like $100- 500 ? , maybe some guys do larger amounts, but I never go over that in one transaction.. My theory is if I get Pickpocketed, I can take the hit. but if you do all your $ at one time, you have to take percautions.
.. The Playero Super Mercado always had a great rate & treated me fair, almost = to Western Union, but very recently someone said they wont just straight up change $ any more ? . Not sure if thats true. I would buy a bottle of water and literally change $500 USD, and they never questioned it . I heard for large Dollar amounts they would take you off to the side, for more privacy.
.. I think in your case with 7K , the safest bet is western Union, and just deal with the wait.. there is always an armed security guard there also. Maybe break it down into 2- 3 transactions.. Eventhough its relatively Safe, thats a lot of money and may be just too tempting for someone. Obviously dont take out your $ til you are at the window.
I'm not an expert at this .. but i dont get cheated eather..
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