Meraviglia: Western Med with US $

Hello all and thank you in advance for your answers.

We are seasoned US cruisers but haven't cruised or traveled abroad in quite some time.

We will be traveling on the Meraviglia in two months from Chitivechia. My question is about local $$. Am I better to convert my US dollars into Euros or use US dollars in ports?

If I need to convert where is the best place to convert?Before we leave the US or upon arrival into Italy? With that said, where will I get the best conversion rate?

What $$ do they use on board in the casino?

I will mostly use my Amex aboard for most shopping (all of my hotels and excursions are already paid in advance or on the card) but I usually cruise with some cash in my pocket for tips and smaller purchases. Suggestions please.

I look forward to your responses.

Bon Voyage

Djp

You would be better off converting your dollars to euros, as I doubt many places will accept dollars, and if they do the exchange rate will be bad. The currency on board (including the casino) is also euros.

Personally, I think cash machines are the cheapest way to convert money (as the exchange rate is much better than airport exchange offices).

If you get a good exchange rate on your credit card, you could always use the casino slots to get cash and have the amount debited to your onboard account.

Amex may not be accepted everywhere in Europe- just to make you aware. It's better than it used to be but you will still find places it's not accepted. Visa and Mastercard will be accepted everywhere, except small vendors who may not take cards. Cash is used more than in the US and you will need it for things like taxis, tours and small purchases. I have travelled a fair bit in Europe and have never seen anything priced in US$. Check each of your ports uses Euros as not all European countries do, depends where you are going.

You will find currency exchange places everywhere in tourist areas but the rates will vary. You should carefully check the transaction as unfortunately some places will seek to rip off the unsuspecting tourist.

If you can exchange beforehand then you know what you will be getting- you could also try ordering currency to pick up at your destination airport. The other option is using cash machines (ATMs to you, ask for cash machines if you are looking for one!) to withdraw Euros. Check your bank rates on this.

Prevailing wisdom says wait until you get to Europe and withdraw Euros at an ATM.

More detailed discussion here:

https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/cash-tips

Happy travels!

Have you been tracking the exchange rates lately? The US$ has dropping steadily against the Euro over the last few weeks.