Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
plug (such as “110-220”), it'll work in Europe. Otherwise, you can
buy a converter separately in the US (about $20).
News:
Americans keep in touch via the
International Herald
Tr i b u n e
(published almost daily throughout Europe). Every
Tuesday, the European editions of
Time
and
Newsweek
hit the
stands with articles of particular interest to European travelers.
Sports addicts can get their daily fix from
USA Today.
Good
websites include www.iht.com, http://news.bbc.co.uk, and www
.europeantimes.com. Many hotels have CNN or BBC television
channels available.
MonEY
Cash from ATMs
Throughout Europe, cash machines (ATMs) are the standard way
for travelers to get local currency. As an emergency backup, bring
several hundred US dollars in cash. Avoid using currency exchange
booths (lousy rates and/or outrageous fees); if you have currency to
exchange, take it to a bank. Also avoid traveler's checks, which are a
waste of time (long waits at banks) and a waste of money (in fees).
To use an ATM to withdraw money from your account,
you'll need a debit card (ideally with a Visa or MasterCard logo
for maximum usability), plus a PIN code. Know your PIN code in
numbers; there are only numbers—no letters—on European key-
pads. It's smart to bring two cards, in case one gets demagnetized
or eaten by a temperamental machine.
Before you go, verify with your bank that your cards will
work overseas, and alert them that you'll be making withdrawals
in Europe; otherwise, the bank may not approve transactions if it
perceives unusual spending patterns. Also ask about international
fees; see “Credit and Debit Cards,” below.
Try to take out large sums of money to reduce your per-
transaction bank fees. If the machine refuses your request, try
again and select a smaller amount (some cash machines limit the
amount you can withdraw—don't take it personally). If that doesn't
work, try a different machine.
Keep your cash safe. Use a money belt—a pouch with a strap
that you buckle around your waist like a belt and wear under your
clothes. Thieves target tourists. A money belt provides peace of
mind, allowing you to carry lots of cash safely. Don't waste time
every few days tracking down a cash machine—withdraw a week's
worth of money, stuff it in your money belt, and travel!
Credit and Debit Cards
For purchases, Visa and MasterCard are more commonly accepted
than American Express. Just like at home, credit or debit cards
