I know this discussion has been going on for awhile, but I want to confirm this before I leave Monday for Ireland.

1) The best exchange rate will be for changes to my credit card. (Around 1% for Capital One?)

2) European ATMS do not charge for their use by other bank members, but my bank does have a fee ($1.75 per transaction).

3) The exchange rate for dollars to euros at a hotel or bank, in cash, will likely be 8%-10% commission?

My plan is to bring some US cash for emergency conversion, plus my ATM card for cash. Bigger purchases will be on my credit card. Does this sound okay?

katya: You got all the answers on the other thread where you posted this question so I won't repeats everything - basically you got it pretty much all correct . . . . .

You might find out if your ATM bank has an affiliate or correspondent bank in Ireland. If so, perhaps there will be no charge for aTM use.

I know that Bank of America and Barclay's Bank have an agreement. My cash withdrawals at Barclay aTMs did not result in a fee.

Perhaps you can identify a similar connection.

janis: Thanks for your response. I actually re-posted this separately because when I posted in the other thread, it didn't come up on my computer. Of course, after I re-posted, up it popped!! Oh well.

brookwood: Thanks for your response. I did ask about sister banks, but unfortunately Citizens Bank doesn't have any. This is, at least according to the less-than-stellar CSRs I spoke with! (One actually told me "You should ask someone about that..." )

I think I have it under control now though... just nervous as the time passes so quickly...

If you go to the Earl of Desmond Hotel in Tralee, just remember, the toilet handle is in the shower.

wow... I'll have to keep that in mind!

<i> That could certainly surprise the most seasoned travelers...</i>