Secure chat consultants and card division not communicating

About 2 to 3 months ago, I contacted FNB via the secure chat, advising them of my intent to travel internationally. I requested for my cards (virtual and physical) to be activated so that I can use them overseas for my purchases. I do not make use of forex and cash and I prefer making purchases using my card when I am travelling. I was told everything is fine and my cards are ready to be used during these dates at the relevant countries.

I went shopping in Santorini and had goods in my possession to pay for, only for my cards to be blocked and my transaction to be declined.

Thereafter, I had further issues when my other purchases could not be paid for.

This was a really embarrassing situation that FNB put me in, even though I made them aware that I was travelling.

I could not make any purchases as my purchases were declined at POS.

What is the purpose of notifying FNB that you are travelling and your travel dates when they still block your transactions?

I am seriously not happy with this and I certainly hope this will never occur again.