Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ATMs
ATMs linked to international networks such as Cirrus, Plus, Star and Maestro are ubiquit-
ous, accessible 24/7 and the easiest and quickest way to obtain cash. Check with your
bank or credit-card company about fees.
Cash
Bavaria is still very much a cash culture and making sure you have ample supply of the
stuff will avoid embarrassing situations, such as trying to pay for a beer in a pub or a saus-
age at the railway station with your credit card. Even at the supermarket cashiers (and the
queue behind you) can get a bit huffy if you don't have readies.
Credit Cards
Despite its limited use in Germany to actually pay for anything, a piece of plastic can be
vital in emergencies and occasionally also useful for phone or internet bookings. Avoid
getting cash on your credit card via ATMs since fees are steep and you'll be charged in-
terest immediately (in other words, there's no grace period as with purchases). Report lost
or stolen cards to the following:
American Express
( 069-9797 1000)
MasterCard
( 0800-819 1040)
Visa
( 0800-814 9100)
Travellers Cheques
Travellers cheques are really not worth the hassle for the security they offer and have be-
come virtually obsolete in the age of network-linked ATMs. German businesses generally
don't accept them, even if denominated in euros, and banks charge exorbitant fees for
cashing them (currency exchange offices are usually better). American Express offices
cash Amex cheques free or for a very low commission rate.
Post
» The postal service in Germany is operated by Deutsche Post (
www.deutschepost.de
)
and
is very reliable.
» Main post offices are often near train stations.
» Busy offices often have a dedicated desk/window for letters and postcards, avoiding the
need to stand in lengthy queues with locals paying bills etc.
