A Simpler Way to Handle Money Abroad This December

December travel comes with its usual to-do list: book flights, pack sunscreen, and attempt to conquer the chaos of foreign currency. For years, managing money abroad has meant juggling multiple cards, paying inflated fees, or queueing to buy foreign notes like it’s a national sport. With international travel climbing again, the gaps in how South Africans transact globally have never been clearer.

Al Baraka Bank has stepped directly into that space with Vivere, introduced under the headline: “Six Currencies. One Card. The World Awaits.” It’s the country’s first multi-currency VISA card, and it’s designed for anyone who wants a simpler, safer way to manage money across borders.

Vivere allows customers to hold and transact in six major currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, TRY, AED, and SAR, all on a single card. It works anywhere VISA is accepted, supporting online shopping, in-store purchases, ATM withdrawals abroad, and international travel needs including pilgrimage journeys.

What makes it noteworthy is how directly it addresses everyday frustrations. Instead of dealing with the admin-heavy process of buying foreign notes or carrying multiple cards, travellers can now manage all their international funds from home. The annual fee is just $10, making it one of the most cost-effective cross-border spending solutions available locally.

“Vivere reflects our commitment to innovation that improves the everyday lives of our customers, locally and abroad,” says Mr Shabir Chohan, Chief Executive Officer at AL Baraka Bank.

Built around both digital convenience, Vivere streamlines cross-border payments without compromising on ethical values. Users can send, store, and spend global currencies with ease, which makes the product equally practical for holidaymakers, business travellers, and frequent online shoppers.

“We built Vivere to deliver financial freedom across borders, without complexity and without compromising our ethical values,” adds Mr Sumeshion Chetty, GM: Information Technology.

The product launched across Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town through a series of interactive activations and live demonstrations, signalling a strong consumer appetite for simpler global financial tools.

As South Africans gear up for their December travels, Vivere lands at the perfect time. It removes friction, reduces costs, and replaces the old forex hustle with a single, streamlined solution. In short: it’s one card, six currencies, and far less admin. Exactly what travellers have been waiting for.