Western union payments

[Balls and chain]

I use WU on line - where they can't ask for my D/L - instead they charge me a very hefty fee to draw the money out of my bank account, on top of their other transfer fees.  
I always seem to have to add on an extra few dollars too, because their exchange rates don't match any one else's (always in WU's favour, of course).
However, them's the breaks. I use WU (often, but not always) to get the reading material that I require.
Experience has taught me that I might see a magazine with $1:50 printed on the cover, but by the time I allow for currency conversion + freight + WU fees.... $1:50 quickly becomes $2 or more.

Despite the fact that it means handing over more of my hard earned cash to WU, I tend to agree with James' 90 day reading rule too.
Although I must admit to feeling happier when I can see an extra 90 days worth sitting on the bookshelf waiting for me to get to them.
Is that hoarding? I don't think so. It's more a case of allowing for a rainy day!

A lot of people have problems with WU/MG online. They call you and ask a bunch of questions that most of us don't want to answer. I have found that if you attach your bank account info and create an account with the wire company, then it's much easier. It's just the initial wires where they are very suspicious..especially international transfers. And yeah, they charge you an arm, leg, and even a testicle or two for the transfer fees.