Although it and all currencies fluctuate in value as the world markets rise and fall each day, the franc has held a value around 0.75CHF per euro, 0.65CHF per GBP, and 1CHF per USD in recent months.
All but a few consumer banks in the U.S. have done away with their courtesy foreign exchange practices for lack of profit. Banks now trade forex as a commodity, much as they do stocks or bonds. And although you can still purchase francs on a mass scale in this manner, there is no practical use for the traveler. In NYC, Chase Bank branches still perform this service for the public.
Every major airport throughout the U.S. with either direct or connecting flights to Europe will feature a Travelex currency exchange office. These offices exchange currencies for travelers at a fee, and offer Swiss Francs. Make sure when exchanging money for travel to calculate what your taxi and other basic needs will cost until you reach your destination, so you have exchanged enough cash in preparation.
