Seylan Traveller's card - a great success

The Seylan VISA Traveller's Card, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka has proved to be a great success.

This card is a simpler alternative to traveller's cheques and is ideal for those travelling abroad. It is basically a pre-paid VISA accredited card that provides a secure and convenient electronic payment option when travelling overseas and avoids the risk and hassle of handling cash or traveller's cheques, a media release said.

The Seylan Traveller's Card is denominated in three currencies, namely US Dollars, British Pounds and Euros, but can be converted to the local currency of any country one visits. There are no fixed denominations. (eg: you can even load Rs. 109.000). It facilitates ATM withdrawals from over one million VISA accredited ATMs in more than 150 countries and could be used to purchase goods and services at over 12 million merchant outlets.

Users of this card now consider it a safe and convenient facility when travelling overseas.

There are many benefits in having this card. There is no need to go to a foreign currency changer. Card transactions could be viewed through the web and the Card could also be activated through the Web.

Customers will also receive an additional card which could be given to their travel companion or used as a back-up in case the main card is lost or stolen. The card will be deactivated immediately after being informed of its loss/theft. Cardholders receive an SMS each time they carry out a transaction.

Regardless of the amount withdrawn, the withdrawal fee is 2 US Dollars, and there are no additional charges when the card is used for purchases of goods and services. As for the unutilised balance, the user could encash it over the counter or from any Seylan ATM or advise the bank to transfer the balance to his/her rupee account.

Another notable benefit is free travel and medical insurance every time one travels with the Seylan Traveller's Card. This card could be obtained over the counter at any Seylan Bank branch islandwide, or at travel agents authorised to release foreign exchange, the release said.