I heading to Norway, Denmark and France in a couple of days. I'm taking a Visa debit card and Mastercard credit card. Are these accepted most places in Europe and what sort of fees do they charge? Is there a better alternative than using plastic?
Excellent point for land based travelers.Problem I see with traveller's checks is having to have your passport with you when you cash them. Personally I prefer to not have my passport out the room unless I have to, as if you lose that you open up a new bundle of problems. ATM's are the way to go, along with a credit card for large purchases.
I heading to Norway, Denmark and France in a couple of days. I'm taking a Visa debit card and Mastercard credit card. Are these accepted most places in Europe and what sort of fees do they charge? Is there a better alternative than using plastic?
PS I've been to Denmark. Trying the smoked eel is a rite of passage and will make you major points with the locals. It was actually delicious once I got my mind off a violently wiggling eel I caught when fishing as a kid. Scared the bejeezus out of me when I reeled it in.
Anywhere that serves food, especially lunch.I don't think I'll be able to convince my wife to try it, but I might give it a shot. Any recommendations for a place that serves it in Copenhagen?
I will also be traveling to Europe in a few days. I usually take with me: 1) one or two credit cards (Mastercard and/or Amex) and 2) an ATM/debit card (VISA). The fees charged for currency exchanges depend on your bank in the US (1-3% seem standard), so give them a call before leaving (and also let them know that you will be using your cards abroad). I use the ATM card to get some cash out when I need it, but otherwise I pay for large purchases with plastic.
I second the ATM card recommendation. You should be able to find teller machines at every airport and train station and the exchange rate is about as good as you will find.
Absolutely correct, if I were on land. I will be at sea on a multi-country voyage.Freebird another consideration if you decide to use traveler checks is that besides a fee for using the TC, is you will likely get a "retail" exchange rate on the currency conversion. The one ATM advantage is you get the interbank wholesale rate on conversion. We used a Fidelity ATM card and the service charge was only 1% and we got the wholesale currency conversion rate. The card works off your core account as a fund source. There is no charge for the card.
Good luck on your travels.
Nwsteve