Euros and Pounds
Since we will only be in London a few days (we are flying to London a day early), is there a need to purchase British Pounds, or will credit cards suffice?
I am wondering about the need for Euros in France.
I know that credit cards are not often accepted at various little souvenir places.
I was thinking of bringing a small amount of both Euros and Pounds.
Is it better to get that money here in the states or in Europe? I hear conflicting things.
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only need a small amount of cash. You can either get it here or there depending on your personal preference. We usually get it here because there is no cost through our bank, it is just more convenient for me, and I just like to have cash when leaving the US. Primarily use it for street vendors, quick coffee and bakery goods and bathrooms.
Credit cards are good for purchases in the UK most places - including smaller items these days. Most shops/outlets use contactless payment or for purchases >£100 a PIN is needed. Plenty of ATMs for cash.
We took both £s and €s since we had pre-and-post tour days in London and Paris. I like to have local currency for incidentals. We always purchase them in the U. S. since we are not charged fees.
It’s a great tour. Enjoy. I look forward to your review.
I did the 2 week SW tour a couple of years ago and had no need for pounds. I keep a stash of a few hundred Euros cash that I take back and forth with me. ON the Adriatic Adventures trip I jusr returned from, I spent 10 Euros in cash. On Murano, I bought a small item and was given the option of paying Euros or USD cash (or credit card) in the same amount (meaning $20 or 20€, for example). That was a no brainer.
I just got back from ESW trip two weeks ago. I used my contactless credit card to pay for everything. From dinner at a Gordon Ramsey restaurant to buying strawberries at local market. I really got the impression even small vendors didn’t want to deal with cash. They were quick to offer up the card machine to pay. Ended up using the cash I did get out of the ATM on the TD tip. Unless you want a little for tips, wouldn’t bother with cash.
Did this trip 3 yrs. ago. Never got Pds. Already had some Euros. Just use your credit card but one that does not charge transaction fees. You will be fine. It is a great trip.
Thanks!!!
Your bank in the US might have a minimum purchase amount ($200-300). not really worth it unless you plan for purchases in markets as opposed to storefronts. I would suggest waiting until you get to the hotel, where the front desk can exchange currency in smaller denominations. Since the bulk of the trip is through France, I would suggest Euros, especially since the trip ends in Paris and you will want currency to tip the Tour Director(s).
Since this is a river cruise the tips should be included
Yes, all tips are included.
From a previous trip to Europe, we have about 200 euros. I think that should be enough to cover expenses where we can't use a credit card.
And since this is a river cruise in France, all dinners will be covered.
As far as Pounds..I will call my bank and see if there is a minimum amount we have to order.
Thanks again...all input is always appreciated.
England is pretty cashless these days.