I agree with using credit cards/ATM cards for money exchange. However, I think it is a great idea to change $100-200 before you leave to get you out of the airport. The airport currency exchanges are a huge ripoff. $200 in local currency means you can get in a cab, get to your hotel, and have a meal before you need to find an ATM or whatever. If you're renting a car, then I guess this isn't really necessary. I like to have a couple hundred in cash as soon as I hit the ground though.

FWIW,

Jim