Yes, each time the euro takes a dip vs. the dollar, I buy $50,000 or $60,000 worth. Keep the cash in a Miller Lite beer case in the basement.

My wife and I once ate in a restaurant whilst home, visiting my parents. When the bill came I placed my credit card on the plate and was told - no cards. Unlike Mercy in a previous post, I had no alternative - no cash and no cheque. It was a few years ago when deepest Wales only had ATM's in the major banks and so I couldn't just pop out and find one (besides, the restaurant was in a residential area). I had to phone my father who came and paid my bill. The wait for him to arrive (about 15 minutes) was the longest I have ever endured as the restaurant was a very intimate place - with no hiding place. I did enquire about doing the washing up!

When I last visited Greece Athens /Santorini / Crete It was A good thing There were alot of ATMs all over the place Everybody wants to be paid in Cash Not a lot of signs for Visa /Mastercard / Amex even some big name gas stations wanted euros (cash) they had signs for the major credit cards posted but wanted cash only .I know I was there in the off season but after speaking with a few locals this was common year Round also so Note with the Olympics alot will just take Visa due to some sponcership deals they haver made. Just because they have a sign for credit cards check fist you may get a big suprise. even the small hotels want cash .

"Keep the cash in a Miller Lite beer case in the basement."

You've now spoilt your hiding place dear, I'd be surprised to find anything but beer in your case, however, I prefer a more conventional safe.