Euro Acceptance throughout Europe
 

We will be visiting Germany, Austria, Switzerland and France at the end of Sept. Is the Euro accepted throughout Europe or will I need to get currency in each country? <BR> <BR>Thanks for any help....

Steve, <BR>The Euro is not in general circulation and will not be until the year 2003. It is used now only in major international financial transactions between commercial banks. Although you can purchase travelers' checks in Euro denominations, I'd advise against it simply because you may receive less than enthusiastic responses when you attempt to cash them. Check the numerous postings here that deal with currency, travelers' checks and ATMs. You'll find that the vast majority of experienced travelers are almost totally dependent upon ATMS and credit cards for cash outlays.

Euro is a 'virtual' currency until shortly before 2002. Now used for settling international debts (including debit card and credit card transactions) and some folks (mainly in Europe) do have euro-denominated checking accounts. <BR> <BR>Switzerland, by the way, is not part of the 'eurozone'. Elsewhere you'll see prices often in euros as well as the local currency which may help you get an idea of what is and is not a good buy. <BR> <BR>A primer on the euro for travelers at www.twenj.com/euro.htm and you'll also find there a link to our thoughts on handling money while on your trip to Europe.

<BR>steve, <BR> <BR>the Euro will come into circulation on January 1, 2002. It will be valid in Belgium, Germany, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, The Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, and Finland, but NOT in Switzerland. Until then you will indeed have to get the local currencies. See <BR> <BR>http://europa.eu.int/euro/html/home5.html?lang=5 <BR> <BR>for detailed information about the Euro. <BR> <BR>Regards, Jochen

thanks for the help.......