Antonio, yes you are right, American Express does not charge commision....and that was my point. I had to go out of my way to go to the AM EX office (although the walk was fun). Next time, I will bring some travellers cheques but only to use as a back-up, not as a primary source.
Another tip that I remembered is to bring your "ear buds" head set. All the bus that I have taken have a radio jack that you can plug into and surf various stations. YOu will also need them to hear the movie. To make carrying them eazy, and avoid tangles, put them in a clear film case, you know the one that your film comes in. That way when you go to pull them out of your bag/fanny etc, they will not pull out everything else with them.
Also, you could bring a little battery powered fans (hand held). You can buy them at any "Dollar store" , it has those little foam blades. You will be very happy to have it as you are settling into your bus seat, or in a car, standing in line etc. Trust me!
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Vamonos pa'Cadiz!