I'm a convert. No, that is not the correct use of the word. I meant I am fairly used to converting units of measurement. Math is a complex language but even basic measurements take learning and familiarization. Let's think of temperature as my example. I'm pretty adept at thinking in either Fahrenheit or Celsius now. I no longer convert as either can be second nature. In fact, if you asked me to convert the current outside temperature of 11°C, I'm not sure I'd immediately know that means nearly 52° on the other scale. However, I know the feeling of eleven degrees and I'd agree that it is about as uncomfortable as 52°F.
How does this relate to money, you might wonder? Well, now that we're retired, we spend a lot of time in locations that do not use Canadian currency. Initially, there's a need to check to see what that a particular price really means.
Is an SR1800.00 bottle of arrack (distilled hard liquor made from the fermented sap of coconut flowers) in Sri Lanka only half to one-third the price of a bottle of booze at a BC liquor store? It takes practice using the new monetary units before one feels adept. The prices for necessities rapidly become ingrained. And yet, when looking to purchase an unusual item, conversion can often be required as local buying power enters the mix.
Luckily, I carry a phone now. So, a currency calculator is always in my pocket. I can input a specific amount in any of my saved currencies and have the exact, corresponding price in all of the others. It is like magic and works with the latest rates saved if one's offline.
The first few weeks being in a new location would be hard without access to a mobile currency app.