I am hesistant to use my credit card after being a victim of a scam. For this reason, I ask if it is required to pay with credit card for the shuttle service before trip? Can one pay shuttle driver in Euros? It will be my first trip out of the country so I would definately appreciate all the help I can get. Thanks!!

to the top!!!!

Most, if not all, shuttle services take cash--some also take credit card, and those usually require a c/c number to confirm a reservation.

I'm sure just about everybody will take cash.

I've never had a problem being scammed with my credit card in Europe. If so, the CC company would reverse the charges off my account. Additionally, I've paid for many a taxi with a CC throughout Europe.

What are you going to use as a means for money if you don't pay for things using your credit card? ATM Card?

To answer your question, I have gone to my bank and opened a free cking account they will provide me wiht a debit/atm card (never heard of those. It is a mastercard debit/atm card and has the cirrus logo on the back. Do you think this might work in atms in Paris????

TTT!!!!

You should be able to pay for things using a <b>debit/ATM</b>, <b>Visa/ATM</b> or <b>MasterCard/ATM</b> (really those are equal instruments).
You can get cash from an ATM using your PIN, or you can hand over your card for purchases (as if it were a credit card, which it is not, but the merchant handles it the same way).
All funds used come out of your checking account.
I also opened an account with a debit card, solely for the purpose of holding my travel funds.

Yes, you'll be just fine with that card. Don't know where you're heading, but have a nice trip!!

Of course, you're going to Paris.

Hi C,

The problem with an ATM/debit card is that a thief can use your number without a PIN to wipe out your account.

You will get your money back, but it causes more trouble than if a thief gets your CC number.

Also, sometimes a merchant will not take a debit card - auto rental for instance.

My suggestion is to use your CC whenever you can and your ATM card only for cash from an ATM.

Do not bring Traveler's Checks or US dollars. Do not change large amounts of dollars into euros.

Yes, Ira... we also carry a credit card for car rentals (which have been rare thus far) and as a backup for any problems with the debit card.

I prefer to make a valiant effort to fund my trip with 'cash', therefore the debit card is the first line of 'attack' (on expenses). But it isn't the -only- one.