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FINANCE MATTERS
The official currency in Ireland is now the Euro, as part of
the European Union. The rate fluctuates, but is usually about
.8 to one US dollar. Here
is a link to an exchange check.
Most credit cards are taken in Ireland, though American Express
is less popular than MC and Visa. Do be careful when using them,
especially with smaller establishments. There is a procedure called
Dynamic Currency Conversion that is gaining popularity (DCC).
It works like this: you go into an Irish shop, and purchase something,
using an American credit card. They offer to charge it in US dollars.
If you say yes, they will charge it in US dollars... which THEIR
bank changes to Euros (at an exchange rate favorable to them)
and then it gets converted again to US dollars by your bank --
taking their cut as well. Don't allow this! Insist that it is
charged in Euros! If they say they aren't set up that way, get
a manager. They cannot, by law, insist that it is charged in US
dollars.
ATM machines are in most towns and villages, and you should be
fine using them to get cash. However, make sure your card had
a 4-digit pin number, as many networks in Europe have only 4 digit
pin capability.
Traveler's checks are a good idea in case of emergencies, but
can be difficult to use in reality. They are more difficult for
business owners to cash, so they sometimes charge a surcharge
when you use them. They are losing their popularity and usefulness
in the days of rampant ATMs and credit card use.
I would also inform your credit card companies about your trip.
Due to such an increase in identity theft, let your credit card
companies know your itinerary so you are not turned down for purchases.
This has happened to me before, just going to Orlando!
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