cafegoddess

Michael,

I was able to use my debit card all over France.

toedtoes

Michel_Paris - there's a difference between Canadian debit cards and U.S. debit cards. There was a discussion about not too long ago - just search on: Can you "Debit" at stores in France (not just ATM's)?

The trick with ATM/debit cards is that if you lose it or have it stolen, you need to report it immediately. If you report it missing before any unauthorized usage has occurred, you're not liable for anything. Within 2 business days, you're only liable for up to $50.

adman1937

I agree that the Capital One card offers the best deals. However, if you plan to use a credit card for all your transactions be aware that some places accept NO cards, cash only. Also, be aware that the Capital One card may occasionally not be accepted. Not sure why, but did have that problem in UK and Italy. It would probably be wise to have at least two different cards with you and keep them in two different places for safety purposes.

ira

Hi bud,

>..since it's a USAA AmEx card, I'll probably be charged the 1%.<

It's 2 - 2.5%

Budman

Actually, my AmEx statement dropped yesterday. I only used it in Europe once to make one purchase -- that was gas at a manned petrol station. The station only took cash in the machine or the European CC with a chip/pin. Since I had neither at the time, the attendant told me that I could a AmEx card without a pin. Evidently it is the only card without a pin that can be used at the station.

My $63 charge added on an additional $.63 -- so it is 1% - plus I get 1.25% cash back at the end of the year, making it virtually a wash.