We will be spending two weeks traveling in Italy the end of July and would like to know if it is advantageous to take any particular credit. American Express vs. Visa vs. ???<BR>Thanks!

VISA.

American Express is still not quite as widely accepted in Italy as are Visa and Mastercard. I still use AMEX when I can, but also carry a Visa, just in case.

raerose,<BR><BR>You might want to do a &quot;text search&quot; with the words &quot;credit card&quot;. You should get tons of posts as this topic is discussed often.<BR><BR>Regardless of which credit card you choose, make sure that the particular bank (ie. CitiBank, etc) don't add the additional 2% conversion fee for foreign exchange. Visa and MasterCard both charge a 1% conversion fee. Some banks then add the 2% for doing absolutely nothing.<BR><BR>Curious

This topic has been pulverized in months past. For a quick response, I use a Visa card from MBNA issued through AAA because so far I have NOT been charged the extra 2%. Wachovia and Bank of America, from which I also have cards, do charge the extra. So I use neither card once I leave the USA. <BR><BR>I do find it advantageous to carry both a Visa and a Master Charge just in case on of them for soom reason fails. That situation did happen!

When I was in Italy and France last year I have noticed that, many ATM machine do NOT ACCEPT American Express, as a matter of fact the Amex logos was not there.

Husband and I want airline miles so we each have our own AA mastercard. We take a back up card with us also....either Amex or United Visa.

Hi raerose<BR> Don't bring just one card. You ought to have a backup for when the computers aren't working.

Raerose-<BR><BR>I am like Eric- I BRING BOTH- I like to use AMEX best but I keep my VISA as a backup card....<BR><BR>Has ALWAYS worked out for me this way.

Thank you everyone! I will heed the advice. BTW I did do a text search before posting the question but did not find what I was looking for. Now I have all the information I need.<BR>Again, Grazie.

Definately Visa is most accepted however, we take Amex as an extra and keep it in a different spot in case of an emergency.

I agree with those who say to take at least two cards, and ideally two types of cards (I'd recommend Visa and Amex -- some places that take one do not take the other). Do check whether your Visa provider adds a surcharge (usually 1 or 2%) for foreign transactions. Also, you might want to call your credit card company in advance to let them know that you will be traveling overseas and possibly incurring higher charges than normal. This may save you from being overseas, charging something and having the charge rejected.<BR><BR>Happy travels.<BR><BR>John H.