Spending money
Explorica recommends that each participant budget $30 to $50 each day for souvenirs and any transportation and meals that are not included in the tour fee.
Participants will also need to budget an additional amount for tipping Tour Directors, bus drivers, and cruise ship staff. Visit the Tipping on Tour page for more information.
Personal debit and prepaid debit, ATM, and gift cards
Personal debit cards and prepaid debit, ATM, and gift cards are safe and convenient ways to access money while abroad. Using these cards will allow you to make purchases and/or withdraw local money at a fair rate and with a minimal charge compared to the high fees often charged by money changers. Nonetheless, please note the differences between these cards before selecting which type you would like to take on tour.
Specifically for Greek Cruises: Please note that you can only use cash or a credit card to add money to or pay the balance of your personal cruise account card. When using a credit card, purser regulations require that the cardholder name match the passport name of the traveller. If cash is your preferred method of payment, be sure to withdraw the necessary amount before boarding the ship as there are no ATMs on board. Debit cards and gift cards will not be accepted.
Credit Cards
Credit cards can also be used abroad but it is important to note that some foreign countries require that credit cards have a PIN number. Speak to your credit provider about the possibility of needing a PIN number, to make sure your credit card will be accepted abroad, and also to inform them of your travel plans to avoid security flags and frozen accounts.
Cash
Explorica recommends that you limit the amount of cash that you carry and instead carry your ATM card or prepaid cash card. Before you leave, exchange enough money to get you through your first day abroad, and after that just withdraw money from the ATM as you need it. This will also help you avoid exchange rate fees if you travel to countries that use different currencies.
Currency Conversions
Because most European countries have joined the European Union and have converted to the Euro, participants of many of our European tours will not have to worry about currency conversions. However, if you would like to find out more information on current exchange rates, visit the XE currency converter site.