Credit card question....is anyone only bringing one of each type of credit card and ATM card? Or are say both couples each bringing the same cards? I have spent all morning getting the money situation together and I think I may still be short some Euros!!
I would recommend that you bring several cards of different types - and keep them separate.
Different types because you might find, for example, that some places take Visa but not Mastercard; or vice versa. Don't rely on Amex, as it is not universally accepted in Europe (because it charges merchants higher fees). As for Discoverycard, Diners and other such cards, you should leave these at home - you probably won't find anyone who would accept them.
Obviously Disney will accept Visa, Mastercard and Amex. The acceptance issue is for local merchants.
I think its wise to carry multiple cards too in case you are pick pocketed/robbed. It's always safer to have another card in you stateroom safe, just in case.
We are not taking our ATM Cards. We are only bringing one credit card with the same account number for both of us.
As above re only taking one credit card.
The best fx conversion rate you will get to Euros should be from using a Visa or Mastercard to withdraw funds from your checking a/c via an ATM. Exact charges will depend upon your individual banks, but Visa and Mastercard will do the conversion at very close to the inter-bank market rate. Because of the commission charges from the bank whose ATM you use, and from your own bank, its not cost effective though for small amounts - rather withdraw $200-$300 equivalent each transaction.
... The exchange rate is the same for the whole cruise.....
I would be very surprised if this is the case - unless the spread they charge is so ridiculously high that they are not bothered with normal market variations.
Changing $ for on board is simple and convenient, like doing it at any hotel; but you will pay for the convenience as the rate will be awful.
Also, when using your credit cards in merchants, many will offer you the choice to pay in your local currency ($, C$, A$ whatever) rather than - you should always choose to pay in , as the exchange rate your bank will use will always be better than the one the merchant's bank will use.
I hope this helps some of you.
I cannot wait to touch down in Barcelona, only then I can relax! Have a sleep/go to Spa in morning for swim/drink some wine/beer before heading to cruise terminal later that morning/afternoon!
