A & S Foreign Exchange Inc — Local services in New York

Great experience! I was in New York as a tourist trying to find somewhere to change my GBP to USD. most banks would not change money unless you have an account and those places that would were way below the standard rate. Many banks that would not change my money recommended A&S which I also found here on Google.

The only down side with A&S was that he wasn't there the first few times I dropped by. Although under no obligation to, he made up for the slight inconvenience by giving me a much better rate than advertised. This was great since his advertised rate was already better than all the other vendors I had called on.

After changing my money we had a little chat and he told me how he was able to change money at much better rates. He has more than 20 years experience in the business so knows it very well. He started out working for a chain but since working for himself he is able to be more dynamic with his rates and give a more personal service since you are talking directly to the boss. There is no need for him to check with someone else when negotiating and you will never get a computer...

I would have never considered using this place (I prefer banks or known outlets), but I work around the corner so decided to give it a try. I also was concerned about some of the very negative reviews here. I called in advance. The place says it opens at 9:30, but when I called the guy said he'd be there at 11. I called back at 11 and he said he'd be there at 11:30. I asked him for the rate to buy Yen and he quoted 95 (same as noted on website). He asked how much I wanted and I said $140 worth. He then said he'd do it for 96. I did the math in advance to make sure he wasn't going to try to pull a fast one. Lo and behold, he was good for 96! I had also checked travelex and chase as backup plans. Chase came in 2nd at 91.74 and travelex was considerably less at 87.1345. Also there were no 'hidden' fees or surprises.

Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised. And yes, it is a booth in a small gift shop on 7th av.

The only reason I didn't give 5*s was because of the flaky opening time, but once aware, I know to...

Unfortunately this will be the last time I exchange currency at A&S.

I've been able to tolerate Omar's rudeness somewhat until today. The lack of courteous and polite service is chronic, and in the end, supporting a business owner that behaves this way doesn't make sense.

Rates are also all over the place and inaccurate- they don't always reflect what is listed on the website or even when called in to confirm directly. It's almost arbitrary, the way Omar lets you know what the rate is, maybe sizing the person up and then deciding it.

If you do catch him on a good day, and he actually greets you, he'll also ask for a good review at the end. So take the positive ones written here with a grain of salt.

I expect professionalism and honesty from a business, nothing more, nothing less. A&S Exchange...