Cellphones and Money Exchange

Yes. You can use your cellphone in Europe. The satellites have gotten better and stronger each time I’ve gone to Europe.

I have an international plan on my phone. It’s a extra monthly charge. If you don’t want to pay for it monthly. You can talk to your service provider about getting a plan for the time you are in globe trotting.

I also have WhatsApp. It’s an app that works on WiFi. It’s free and you can communicate with anyone you need or want to. The only cost I can see happening is an uptick in your data.

I have brought my iPad but Netflix doesn’t always work the way I like it. It will attach to the local network… meaning Italy or wherever you are traveling to. Or I don’t know what I am doing. You pick.

VPN is a “tunnel” that allows for virtual security. I have tried it and did not see a use for myself. However. If you need your laptop for work oversees, I believe there is a value for this service.

Money Exchange.

As of May 2024, 0.92 Euro to $1.00 USD. Unfortunately, you lose money on this deal.

I exchange at least $150/200 per day. This will buy you everything from your espresso to trinkets to lunch. I only use my credit card on larger purchases and hotel bills.

I recommend finding a credit card that does not have foreign exchange fees. I use my Chase Sapphire. I also have my AMEX but it is not always excepted.

I exchange my money at the local exchange place, for some it is your bank. Keep in mind, you lose money and when exchanging, you will get a fee charged, usually 1% or so. If you want 2000 Euro, you need to have at least $2500 USD to exchange.

If you need to exchange for more money, keep in mind, you will be charged bank fee and exchange fees and whatever else.