this post was submitted on 21 Aug 2023
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@ninjan @mod_pp Globally offline? In the US and maybe in some countries that don't have a stable currency on their own. Anywhere else you can't use it.
American in Spain here. Everybody declines USD. Literally got coffee for free this morning because it was the only shop I've seen out of like 100 in the week I've been here that wouldn't take card.
For a charge of €2.50, when I offered $5 he opted to take nothing instead.
Why not have local currency while you're in a foreign country where why would you assume they would accept your money they would have to go to the bank to exchange?
Hahahah, imagine going to another country and trying to pay in another currency and being shocked they wouldn't accept it.
I can't even spend Scottish notes in England when it's all Sterling, never mind trying to pay for a small shop coffee in dollars.
Not atypical for Americans, having worked in many industries that cater to tourists I've seen that very often...
"I tried putting my money the slot machine, how come it doesn't work?"
"It's USD sir, you'll need to change it for CAD..."
"😯"
I understand it's easier for you just to use a card, so you don't think it's necessary, but it's probably a good idea to carry a few euros at least
Agreed. We've tried. ATMs aren't working with our cards and every touristy exchange kiosk option charges a shitload in fees. Why not just pay with card when literally every store until our second to last day in the country has been happy to take card? Including bus stations, train stations, taxis, etc. We stopped trying about halfway in when we got to more rural areas and they still happily accepted visa. We wanted to exchange at home before the trip but found out too late that our banks require two weeks notice to exchange currency so they can get it in.
We just learned today to ask and not assume before ordering. We were asking in the beginning but got complacent after the 100th "of course" response lol.
yeah makes sense
You'd be hard pressed to not find an exchange shop in any major city which is were most people reside these days. And I've yet to encounter a currency exchange that doesn't take USD cash.
@ninjan So you first have to exchange it for real currency in order to use it?
I'm just saying you can bring a duffel bag of USD with you and in just about any large city world wide you'll be fine. Some you can transact directly but most you'll need to locate an exchange first. Still the most versatile currency there is, and more universally accepted than anything else. Sure your VISA card works just about everywhere too but it's traceable to the max and there are places where USD works far better than a card.