I've done a lot of reading on this subject. From what I've learned, it's important that the merchant charges the purchases in Euros. Does that sound about right? And should we pay the B&Bs with the credit card? Do you happen to know if they accept travelers checks?
Many B&Bs will accept credit cards but some will only take cash. I suggest you ask on arrival which form of payment they want. If it is cash, make a trip to the ATM and have enough at check-out. They will not take traveler's checks. Take a look at my "Money" page for more tips.
at least one b&b that we stayed at quoted their price, but did not tell us this was a cash price. When I wanted to pay by credit card it was a little bit more (not a big bump, maybe 3-4%?), so I decided to pay cash anyways because I could.
We had one merchant try the old dynamic currency conversion trick...on a particularly expensive purchase of course (our totally gorgeous Irish linen tablecloth). They charged me in US dollars at an exchange rate of $1.31/E1 when the going rate was $1.25. So when the saleslady handed me the charge slip, I refused to sign it. She told me it was not her fault, it was automatic. After a bit of a standoff, she gave me a refund in cash for part of the difference. It wasn't quite enough to make up for the exchange rate difference, but I decided it would do. I was still irritated.
Don't let them push you around! if they try to charge you in dollars, just say no!
"If the merchant declines to charge in the local currency, write 'Local currency not offered' above the signature and save a copy. Dispute when statement comes."
Wow! Is this really a problem? Will we find most want to charge in U.S?
well, I've heard from others that it is. But it wasn't really my experience. I had one or 2 places ask me which I prefered (our Dublin hotel, for example). In only one place was I presented a charge slip already rung up in dollars. It just happened to be the most expensive purchase I made, so it particularly annoyed me.
Before handing over your credit card tell the person you want it charged in euros. If it comes back in dollars protest it or speak with the manager. If they still will do nothing, then write on the receipt "local currency not offered". You must keep your receipt! Then call your credit card company to dispute the exchange rate when you get back.
It is mostly done by hotels, large gift shops and some restaurants.
Michele
P.S. I always travel with small manilla clasp envelopes and put all my receipts in them.