Page 42 - Japan’s Cultural Treasures

During the trip, the easiest way to get local currency is to use a local ATM (your bank at home
will convert and charge you in U.S. dollars). You can also exchange cash at some hotels and
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condition (not worn, torn, or dirty). Never exchange money on the street.

All exchange methods involve fees, which may be built into the conversion rate; ask
beforehand.
Throughout the trip, your Trip Leader can advise you of ATM availability and warn you before
you enter areas where there are no ATMs, but will not be able to guarantee which ATM will
take your card.

ATMs

When using the ATM, keep in mind that it may only accept cards from local banks, and may
not allow cash advances on credit cards; you might need to try more than one ATM or more
than one card.

Many banks charge a fee of $1-$5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a
percentage of the amount you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before
you depart.

Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads at
foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)

Japan: ATMs are common, but not every ATM will take a U.S. card. Your best bet is to try a
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However, please note that using a credit card in an ATM for a cash advance may or may not
work—even if the ATM has credit card logos.

Vietnam: ATMs are fairly common in Vietnam.

Credit & Debit Cards

Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring
one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning a large purchase (artwork, jewelry).
We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American
Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the
Discover card is accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other
brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.

Japan: Credit cards can be used at department stores, hotels, and businesses that cater to
tourists, but most other shops and restaurants will want cash.

Vietnam: Credit cards are commonly accepted.

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