Cambridge - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
ATM machines and credit cards are easy to use, although it is necessary to have a British bank account to pay rent and bills, buy a car, and make other transactions. - Mar 2013
Check a currency converter online to see the current rate and then call your bank before you leave the U.S. to see if its better to get British pounds before you travel. Most places on mainland Europe accept the Euro. Estimate spending 1.5-2x what you would assume, just because traveling, food and activities are not only in another currency, but a little more expensive than at home in most places in Europe and the UK. The exchange rate was constantly changing, but never in favor of the USD while I lived there. My co-worker followed it online, and when the GBP rates went down (favoring the USD), he bought pounds in large amounts. The ATM fees are pricey for withdrawals, and your bank may charge ridiculous fees for converting currency as well, so consider getting a local checking acct. - Sep 2012
