Changing US$ to Euros
 

Where should I change dollars for Euros in the US so I have some cash when I get off my plane in Paris to buy train/bus tickets or taxis. In Paris, should I use my debit card, credit card, Citibank, etc. or some other way to acquire more Euros for the duration of my trip

Some people wait until they arrive in Europe and they find an atm or exchange desk and trade some dollars there. I prefer to get ON the plane with some Euros, just because it's one less thing for me to worry about when I arrive. I contact my bank at home; some small banks need advance notice, but most will simply debit your checking account over the phone for the amount you choose, and tell you to come in within a day or two to pick up your currency.

An Amerian Express off ice works, if there is one near you. Otherwise, your own local bank - - but give them a week's lead time.

In Europe, use the same card(s) you use for ATM withdrawals here in the US.

Best wishes,

Rex

We usually get some to take with us or use whatever was left from the previous trip. We then use our debt card while there.

One note, most European banks require at least a 4 digit pin code so make sure yours will work.

Brian

Just do a search of this forum using the following terms : ATM currency exchange.
You'll have at least hundreds of posts with the info you need. But the consensus seems to be
1-use ATMs while there for walking cash
2-use Credit Cards whenever you can for purchases
3-perhaps bring 50-100 euro on arrival
obtained prior to departure from either your hometown bank or at the departure airport.

Just one thing to add. If you have more than one credit card you may consider calling them prior to leaving the US to inquire about currency conversion fees which are built into the conersion rate. Visa and Mastercard charge 1 percent over the interbank rate at the time of the transaction. However many banks add additional percentage points built into the conversion rate so it would be best to use the card that charges the lowest percentage.

We get euros at our bank. My bank is much cheaper than my husband's bank so check around a little. I think American Express charges $7.50 but you should check because we don't use them and could be wrong. It seems a bit excessive.

We use a debit card in the European ATMs. The exchange rate is better and there are no strange charges as from the credit card companies.

Note: Be sure you know your PIN in numbers because the ATMs in Europe do not have letters on them.

Have a great trip.

Hi fabsam,

You will only need about 100E upon arrival.

The most convenient place to exchange your dollars is at the departure airport.

You'll only pay about $3 or so extra.

I am surprised to continue to read this from you, ira -- I see spreads more like giving up $15 at "Bureaux de change" in American airports.