Just a general question to those in the know. My husband and I will be leaving for Europe in 3 weeks; going to Italy, Germany, Switzerland and ending in Paris...Length of trip is 14 days. We are not with a travel/tour group; have always preferred to go our own way. My question is regarding money; approximately how much(again, approximate) would be SAFE....of course, have plastic will travel <BR>Thanks; I have really enjoyed this forum.

I assume you mean, "safe to carry with you". We recently came back from those same countries, except for Germany. We got out the maximum allowed ($300) when we needed it, carried it around with us in a money belt if we felt threatened (Rome) and used plastic alot. Just be aware of your surroundings, and keep purse or wallet near your body. Have a great time!

It is really useful to have local currency with you prior to arrival; in your case Lire, Marks and Francs. <BR>I always obtain the currency before leaving home (our travel agents offer correct rates and minimal charges). <BR>I normally work on taking with me about $50 per day for each country, and use credit cards for the rest. I carry this with my passport in a cotton money belt next to my skin just above the waist. <BR>It saves an awful lot of time queueing at money change offices, and, I believe, also saves me running the risk of dodgy exchange rates. <BR>In your case you'd be carrying a maximum of $700, plus a few American <BR>dollars - hardly life threatening amounts these days.

I carry the minimum with me. I use ATM's to get money as I need it. They offer the best exchange rates and are just about everywhere. <BR>

Debbie, Use plastic whenever you can and ATM's for cash. Take maybe $100 in the local currency, for emergencies. We were in Paris in May when the drivers that deliver money to the ATM's went on strike. Use any left over currency when you check out of your hotel. Except for Italy, you can get travelers checks in the coin of the realm from AMEX or AAA.