1. Is it better to convert money from USD to Euros here or in France? 2. Is it best to purchase the Eurorail metro pass here in the US or the carte l'orange in Paris? 3. Where is the best place to order the Museum Pass?
Thanks
Posted by
Downingtown, USA
2446 posts
Can only help with the money issue. We only convert a small amount of money here, say $200 to Euro so that when we get to our destination we have some money to start with for lunch, snacks etc. and then just withdraw from ATM as needed. Others will be sure to help with question 2 and 3. Enjoy.
Posted by
Honolulu/Seattle, HI/WA, USA
2787 posts
#1: You can convert money in the US to Euros if you chose to pay high conversion/exchange rate. Or, you can wait until you get to France and use a DEBIT card tied to a CHECKING ACCOUNT for a rate that is almost always a better rate. I go to Europe every summer and always wait until I land in the destination country to get their local currency from an ATM machine. I have never had a problem with finding and using an ATM machine at whatever airport I land at. I have never had to spend any local funds until after I have had the chance to use the ATM machine. This reduces my overall cost of getting the local currency saving money to spend on other things rather than supporting the banking systems.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15777 posts
Backwards - the Museum Pass can be purchased in so many places in Paris that it just isn't worth the hassle AND extra charges to buy it ahead. The official Pass website has a list of places where you can buy the pass. All the TI kiosks sell them, including the one at the (CDG) airport. That's where I bought mine, along with the RER ticket into the city. I don't know anything about a eurorail metro pass. In principle, nothing is a better deal in the US than in Paris. The carte l'orange was replaced some time ago by the Navigo pass. The weekly rate is advantageous BUT the week begins on Monday morning and runs through Sunday night, so it depends on your travel plans. There is also a one-time fee of €5 for the pass. It is usually a good deal if you can use it for 4 full days or more. Otherwise, just buy metro tickets in a carnet - a packet of 10. Conversion - as above, always better there (wherever there is). If you have time the time before your trip, open a Capital One money market account and get an ATM card. There are no fees for withdrawals and the exchange rate is good. Because there are no fees, you don't have to withdraw (and carry around) large amounts of cash.