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It can be confusing for visitors to a new country, and unfortunately, there are a few who are all too keen to take advantage of this. Here are some suggestions to help you avoid the common pitfalls. Cash Machines / ATMS Probably the best option available, most of them offer services in English. Rates are generally fair, though your home bank will probably charge you a commission for each transaction. As in any major city, use the normal precautions when taking out money in a public place.
Credit Cards Don't assume that your Krakow Hotel will take cards, though things are steadily improving in this area. Cash is still king in Poland, so make sure you have discussed payment with your hosts before you dash for the plane. Most shops and upmarket restaurants are switching to plastic - look out for Visa/Mastercard stickers (or lack thereof) on restaurant doors. Cheques You might as well leave your chequebook at home - Poland is not a fan of this form of payment.
Bureaux de Change (Kantor) Bureaux de change in the city centre, particularly on Florianska Street and in the Market Square, are notorious for giving hopeless rates. The age old trick is to insert an extra zero on their list of rates. A rate of 5.0889, is easily read as 5.889. Visitors fall for this time and again. Once you are wise to this, have fun spotting all the scammers! In general, rates improve the further away from the centre you go. If there is sufficient demand for it, Cracow Life will introduce a daily list of the best rates around. Just contact us and let us know! | |
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