Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Smoking Bans:
Both Croatia and Slovenia have enacted smoking bans in most public
places, though patrons at outdoor tables can still smoke. Bosnia-Herzegovina and
Montenegro have no such bans, so be ready for lots of smoke, indoors and out, in those
countries.
This section offers advice on how to pay for purchases on your trip (including getting cash
from ATMs and paying with plastic), dealing with lost or stolen cards, VAT (sales tax) re-
funds, and tipping.
Bringbothacredit cardandadebit card.You'llusethedebit cardatcashmachines (ATMs)
to withdraw local cash for most purchases, and the credit card to pay for larger items. Some
travelers carry a third card, in case one gets demagnetized or eaten by a temperamental ma-
chine.
For an emergency stash, bring several hundred dollars in hard cash in $20 bills. If you
have to exchange the bills, go to a bank; avoid using currency exchange booths (lousy rates
and/or outrageous fees).
Cash is just as desirable in Europe as it is at home. Small businesses (hotels, restaurants,
shops, etc.) prefer that you pay your bills with cash. Some vendors will charge you extra for
usingacreditcard,andmanywon'ttakecreditcardsatall.Cashisthebest—andsometimes
only—way to pay for bus fare, taxis, and local guides.
