Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
» Cards are also good for payment in most hotels, restaurants, shops, supermarkets and tollbooths.
» Check any charges with your bank. Most banks now build a fee of around 2.75% into every foreign transaction. In ad-
dition, ATM withdrawals can attract a further fee, usually around 1.5%.
» If your card is lost, stolen or swallowed by an ATM, you can telephone toll free to have an immediate stop put on its
use:
Amex (
800 928391)
Diners Club (
800 393939)
MasterCard (
800 870866)
Visa (
800 819014)
Moneychangers
You can change money in banks, at the post office or in a cambio (exchange office). Post offices and banks tend to offer
the best rates; exchange offices keep longer hours, but watch for high commissions and inferior rates.
Taxes & Refunds
A value-added tax of 22%, known as IVA (Imposta di Valore Aggiunto), is slapped onto just about everything in Italy. If
you are a non-EU resident and spend more than €155 (€154.94 to be more precise!) on a purchase, you can claim a re-
fund when you leave. The refund only applies to purchases from affiliated retail outlets that display a 'tax free for tour-
ists' (or similar) sign. You have to complete a form at the point of sale, then have it stamped by Italian customs as you
leave. At major airports you can then get an immediate cash refund; otherwise, it will be refunded to your credit card.
For information, visit Tax Refund for Tourists ( www.taxrefund.it ) or pick up a pamphlet on the scheme from particip-
ating stores.
Tipping
Tipping is not generally expected or demanded in Italy as it is in some other countries. This said, a discretionary tip for
good service is appreciated in some circumstances. Use the following table as a guide.
PLACE
SUGGESTED TIP
Restaurant
10-15%
Bar
Loose change if at the bar, 10% for table service
Porter, maid, room service
€2
Taxi
Round up to the nearest euro
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