Page 36 - Bhutan: Hidden Kingdom of the Himalayas

India: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in India for major purchases and in shops
associated with the tourist trade but may not be accepted by smaller shops or restaurants.

Bhutan: Credit and debit cards are rarely accepted—most vendors are still cash only. Be
forewarned that you might not be able to use any credit cards while in Bhutan. It is best to
bring a cash reserve to cover your basic expenses (in U.S. dollars and/or Indian rupees). Also
note that goods and services in Bhutan are substantially more expensive than in India.
Nepal: Credit and debit cards are somewhat accepted in larger cities such as Kathmandu for
major purchases but will be rarely accepted in the countryside.

Notify Card Providers

Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card
if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid
an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank
you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number
a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do
this online.

You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a
card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of
your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!

Tipping Guidelines

Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. Listed below are
our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price:

O.A.T. Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your O.A.T. Trip
Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual
service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 USD (or equivalent in local currency) per
person per day.

Housekeeping staff at hotels: $1-2 per room, per night

Waiters: Your Trip Leader will tip waiters for included meals. If you are dinning on your own
remember that it is common to tip anywhere from 5%-10% in restaurants.

Taxi drivers: If you are taking a taxi by yourself, keep in mind that tipping is not common
practice, but many people simply let the driver keep the change by rounding up the fare to the
next whole number.

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