[Theatrenerd]

Just wondering for those who traveled to European countries for any in country fees where you brought cash or for that matter anything that you brought cash for did you get it all in Euros or all in the country you were ins main Currency (ie Rubles in russia) or did you use a combination of both?

[sak9645]

Originally Posted by Theatrenerd

Just wondering for those who traveled to European countries for any in country fees where you brought cash or for that matter anything that you brought cash for did you get it all in Euros or all in the country you were ins main Currency (ie Rubles in russia) or did you use a combination of both?

You generally bring U.S. dollars and change them there. It is easy to change dollars. There are kiosks at the airports, and all of the big hotels will do currency exchange. Of course, you should never try to exchange money on the black market in the countries.

If there are fees that need to be paid in U.S. dollars, you will have to take cash, as you can't get dollars overseas easily. Do be aware that, in some foreign countries, you need to be careful to bring American bills that are in pristine condition. There is a lot of fear that the banks will reject torn, ink-marked, creased, or very worn currency.

If there are fees to pay in a foreign currency, you can either exchange dollars while there or bring travelers' checks and change them at your hotel before heading out to wherever you will need them. In some countries, you may be able to use your ATM card, but check with your agency as to the availability of ATMS that take your card, as you don't want to be stuck if there is no place to use it.

All in all, it's really no big deal.

Sharon