Money, cards and tourist taxes
Cards, cash, tipping, tourist taxes and how to avoid payment surprises.
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Cards are normal
Card payments are widely accepted. Carry a small amount of cash for markets, lockers, tips or rare card-terminal failures, but you do not need large cash reserves.
Watch card type
Some smaller places can still be picky about card networks. A backup card is useful, especially if your main card is an overseas credit card.
Tourist taxes
Hotels and some short-stay rentals charge local tourist taxes. These may be included in the booking total or charged separately on arrival. Read the booking conditions before comparing rates.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but less aggressive than in the United States. Rounding up or adding 5 to 10 percent for good table service is common enough. Do not feel forced into high default prompts.
Best money habit
Use one card for OVpay transport taps and a separate backup for normal spending. That makes it easier to track transport charges and avoid accidental missed check-outs.