Andy,

Both tables are in SQL Server 2005.. different servers. However I did find a way to fix the problem...

In SSIS I went to Tools > Database Tools > Table and Database Designers > Column Options

In the drop down "Default column type" change to "varchar".

That fixed SSIS's conversion of the data to nvarchar.

However if I ever have to go from a nvarchar to varchar.. I guess one of the ways you listed is the way to go.

Oh, I have made it down to Level 5... Very good article and easy to follow.