We discourage exchanging currency at exchanges on the local street. If you need a currency exchange, speak to the Tour Leader and he/she will advise a reputable bank that charges minimal exchange fees. Be sure you check the day’s exchaneg rate, and have your Group Leader accompany you for the transaction.

American debit and credit cards can be used at all bancomat windows 24/7. When using the machines, be sure to keep your transaction private and do not give anyone access either to your card or your private numbers. NEVER use the machine by yourself.
You will require permission of your Group Leader and be escorted by other classmates. We recommend you do not make machine transactions at night – a safety precaution.

Normally, all clothing stores, supermarkets and others: bookstores, sports supplies, gift stores, will accept debit and credit cards. However, magazine and newstands, tabaccherie (for purchase of postage stamps) do not usually accept cards.
Suggestion: prior to making a purchase, ask the clerk what forms of payment are accepted. If the store does not accept cards, you will need to find a bancomat (debit card withdrawal machine) and withdraw the needed cash.
IMPORTANT: be sure to obtain a receipt for ANY and ALL purchases, for any forms of payment used.

If the hotel provides room safes, use them. However, conduct a trial codes change BEFORE placing valuables in the safe.
If no room safes are available, you can leave your money at the hotel desk safe where you will be provided a receipt with amount deposited. Speak to your Group Leader, who may choose to collect all the money and deposit with the hotel front desk as one sum, and one receipt.