Money for excursion souveniers off the ship

[fhtpdw20]

When you leave the ship for an excursion, do you use credit card or take cash for souvenier purchases while in port? Does the money need to be exchanged? What about tips for drivers and guides?

 

[ACQUADUCK]

First question, what cruise, and where what port?

I typically take cards, and a small amount of cash, most places DCL goes to take cards.

Tips, post cards, stamps, use of restrooms where charges apply, yes, small notes.

 

[fhtpdw20]

Western: Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica.

 

[ACQUADUCK]

Western: Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica.

Yes, been there, used cards, small notes for ice cream, post cards stamps tips, then most places take cards, beware of some possibilities of fraud.

 

[fhtpdw20]

That's what I am afraid of, the fraud. I am thinking maybe getting a "stand alone" visa card and loading cash on it as a work-around so there won't be anymore access than to that card.

 

[ACQUADUCK]

That's what I am afraid of, the fraud. I am thinking maybe getting a "stand alone" visa card and loading cash on it as a work-around so there won't be anymore access than to that card.

Yes, that is an option, there is the possibility of card fraud.

 

[apathetic]

Take a credit card, not a debit or card that draws from your bank. If there is fraud, just report it to the credit card company and all will be fixed. A card that draws from your bank accounts is more of a pain because the money is gone and you have to get it back. Also, take 2 credit cards and use 1 for shore and 1 for ship. That way, if there is fraud, it doesn't affect your ability to pay on the cruise.

We usually carry dollars and try to pay in that. We avoid using credit card unless it is a reputable shop, mainly those listed by the shopping people or known brands. Most places, especially in the Caribbean, are happy to take dollars, but may give you change in another currency. So, bring small bills so you can pay exact amount and not get change you may never use again.

 

[Love2Cruise2015]

We just did the Western Cruise last week and I used strictly cash as it made things easier for us (Canadian and the exchange rate) and less fear of possible fraud but its your choice and do what feels comfortable for you Enjoy your cruise

 

[Cruising Engineer]

Good advice, take cash to avoid fraud. If I'm not looking for something special ($$$) and just looking for tourist gifts, I carry about $50 in small bills ( $1, $5, $10) in my wallet and "hide" the rest on me. Easy to dicker down a price and give the exact amount. Never know when someone is looking over your shoulder to see if you have a big wad of money in your wallet.