My sister and I will be staying in Monterosso al Mare for 6 nights and plan to stay at Manuel's guesthouse. We have separate rooms, and the problem is they only accept cash and I'm not sure how to get that much cash by the time we check out. I understand that ATMs are the best option for traveling, but isn't there a limit to how much we can withdraw per day? Has anyone else stayed here, or another cash-only hotel, and can offer some advice?
Posted by
Land of La
8682 posts
Call the bank where your debit card is associated with before you travel and have them up your limit. Where are going before you travel Monterosso a Mare? Any larger city? Could easily get your money there and use a money belt to carry it with you.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
Eva, As you're going to be there for six nights, that shouldn't be a problem. As the previous reply mentioned, it would be a good idea to contact your financial institution and have your daily withdrawal limit increased. However, keep in mind that the daily limits imposed by European Banks may take precedence over those set by your Bank. Of course, be sure to notify them that you'll be travelling in Europe so they don't "freeze" the cards when they detect a change in spending patterns. I'd simply withdraw the maximum amount each day until you have the required amount to cover the room. That should easily cover not only your Hotel but also daily expenses. Another method would be to travel with two ATM cards on different accounts. If you withdraw the maximum amount from both, that should be more than adequate. I would highly recommend taking two ATM cards in any case. If there are any problems with the primary card, it's a REALLY good idea to have a "backup" (I know, as I've had that happen!). As I recall, there's at least one ATM at the bottom of the stairs at the train station, but my memory is a bit "foggy" on that point. If you'll be in Riomaggiore at any point, there are at least two ATM's in the station plaza, near the famous Mama Rosa Hostel. Happy travels!
Posted by
Kent, WA
18 posts
Eva -- When we stayed at Manuel's back in September, there were a couple different ATM's we used while in Monterosso. We just gathered the money over a period of a few days and had no problems. The ATM's there worked just as well as any others we encounterd while in Italy. If you are really worried, you could get some Euros before you go on your trip. While you might not want to keep a lot of cash with you while travelling, you have to do what you have to do. You will love Manuel's. In our 2 week trip around Italy in September, it was by far our favorite place to stay. Have fun.
Posted by
martinez, ca, usa
2304 posts
We rented a private apartment in venice that was cash only. when we made reservation, a deposit was made thru credit card. we decided to get the rest at our bank here in california in euros. was so much easier knowing that was one last thing to worry about. yes there are ATM's around, but how much to take out at one time and fees charged was more of a headache. upon arrival, the cash euros was given to owner. paying the fee at bank was not that much compared to taking money out everyday in italy. kept it in an envelope on our person plus some extra euros to have when we got there. kept our luggage since we arrived early and came back some hours later to our apartment. it was a wise decision for us. one last thing, make sure you have some small denominations in euros for your spending money.
good luck and enjoy