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Not surprisingly, you always have the option to use cash in the casino. You can use it for table games, and slot machines are also configured to accept cash (USD). You can bring cash with you, or you can use the ATMs you will find conveniently located inside the casino.
Where You DON’T Need Cash During a Cruise
This can be particularly useful for those who prefer to have a clear understanding of their daily expenditure. That said if you do like to buy souvenirs and gifts it may be worth bringing some cash. Shops will almost always take credit/debit cards but you may want to buy something from a market stall or smaller trader which doesn’t have credit card functionality.
My Personas
Here are some guidelines to help you decide how much money to bring on a cruise. Many people suggest $100 per day, and this has generally worked well for me in my cruising experiences. Additionally, the type of cabin and amenities chosen can also impact spending. A higher-end cabin with a balcony or suite may come with additional perks and amenities that can lead to higher overall spending.
Eating at local restaurants
You will want to take cash in the local currency, which for most of Europe is the Euro. However, there may be some places where you do not feel comfortable using a credit card and you would prefer to use cash. You will also need a similar amount of cash at the end of your cruise if you want to use the services of a porter to get your luggage from the port to your car or taxi. If you take a Lyft or an Uber to the cruise port you can of course take care of the charge and the top on the phone app. If you are staying in a hotel at the port before your cruise you may need cash for bell services, concierge, and bar services. Yes, you most likely will want to have some cash with you and available the first day you cruise, and even before you arrive at the port to embark on your ship.
Overall, while you can use cash for some onboard expenses on a Carnival cruise, it’s most convenient and efficient to link your Sail & Sign account to a credit card or debit card. This allows you to easily track your expenses and settle your account at the end of the cruise. Use the safe to store cash, travel documents, credit cards, jewelry, and valuables when you’re not using them.
On one occasion in Cozumel, Mexico I used my ATM card and my account was hacked shortly after, so be careful with ATM machines in high tourism areas. Again, once you get off the ship it can be useful to have cash on hand. I enjoy taking various types of public transportation when in port, whether it be bus or light rail. It’s an affordable way to experience a city and meet with locals to really engage in the culture. Either way, it’s nice to be able to both pay and tip your driver in cash if you have it. Keep in mind this is not required, but if you were really happy with a certain crew member it’s a good idea to let them know with a good old-fashioned cash tip.
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But I’ve regretted not having cash on me for a few reasons I’ve listed below. Sabroso means delicious, which is synonymous with Mexico's cuisine. Known the world over for its originality when it comes to multilayered flavors that focus on spice, Mexican food boasts dishes like mole, cochinita pibil and tacos al pastor. When in Mexico, go where the locals are eating and enjoy the salsas, the spices and the crunch. Mexico’s wild west coast offers just as much natural beauty, vibrant culture and sun-kissed adventures as its eastern counterpart, the Riviera Maya.
Keep your money safe
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Many shopping, dining, and entertainment venues will take credit cards in your ports of call. All of your cruise expenses are taken care of with your onboard account. You will already have paid your cruise fare and may have added pre-paid gratuities, and such things as a drinks package and excursions to the amount prior to sailing. For example, if one person plans to put onshore meals and activities on a credit card, you may want to have cash ready to pay for your share immediately. That way, you won’t have to worry about owing your friend later on. You may also need to think about tipping at other points throughout your cruise.
It’s not just about discipline but also about ensuring each day is enjoyed without the shadow of financial worry. I have personally always paid off my cruise balance using a credit or debit card but it is possible to pay it off in cash too. Most cruise lines do have the option to pay in cash but this is usually a little more tricky. You may be required to load your cruise account with money at the start of the cruise which is returned to you at the end of the cruise. Before the Covid pandemic, it was reported most guests bring between $100-$120 in cash per day to be spent on transportation, tips, gifts, food, and shopping. If you’re planning a cruise you may be wondering how much cash you should bring.
Some of these local cafes and restaurants didn’t even have credit card processors, so having some cash on hand is a great idea if you want to try some local cuisine. While most of the major cruise lines already include gratuities in your final bill, you can always go the extra mile for exceptional service. While some cruise lines still offer free room service — not many do these days — you still should tip the person bringing you that delicious breakfast. When you travel to Mexico, one of the best ways to enjoy the country is by immersion. Try the local food, shop the local markets, and choose excursions that allow you to spend time getting to know a specific neighborhood, historic site or natural wonder.
Almost all cruise lines include food in the main dining room and buffet so it isn’t necessary to pay extra for any of these. When embarking on your cruise you’ll be asked to register a credit or debit card to your account. This allows you to spend whatever you’d like onboard and it’ll automatically be deducted from your card shortly after disembarkation. The majority of cruisers will pay off their onboard spend using a credit or debit card. It is not unusual to see only card payments accepted on some public transportation or shops. Also, if you are dealing with local currency, don’t assume that the bills you get out of the ATM are small bills.
Plus, many businesses accept credit cards, especially in popular port cities. Cash can come in handy if you plan to travel in more isolated areas, want to tip a server or don’t want to use a credit card for small purchases. Having cash on hand can offer several advantages during your cruise. Firstly, cash is widely accepted at ports of call, especially in local markets and smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards. Additionally, you may encounter situations where there are limited or no ATM facilities available.
Take sensible precautions when carrying cash and do not have it visible. For which is the best option always research your own particular destination as recommendations will vary according to whichever port you are visiting. Always watch out for ATM fees when using any cash machine as these can quickly add up. It is more than likely that you will be leaving the ship to explore at least one of the ports on your cruise. Also if you go on an organized tour you will most likely want to tip the driver and guide with cash so you will need to take extra cash for that. These are some of the expenses that you may incur when you are onboard the ship.
Many first-time cruisers make the mistake of overlooking the automatic gratuities. The automatic tips mean you don’t need to tip throughout the cruise. When planning a cruise, you must bring enough spending money to make purchases when you visit the cruise port.
If you’re planning a cruise for your anniversary or honeymoon, you can make the occasion extra special with a gift and service package. For example, Windstar Cruises offers a wedding vow renewal package, including cake, champagne and a ceremony performed by the ship’s captain. Let your cruise line know about any occasion you want to celebrate, and they may offer something to make it more memorable. Keeping a daily cash limit can also enhance your cash management on board. Before leaving, decide on a reasonable amount you'd likely spend each day and stick to it. This prevents overspending and ensures you have enough cash for the duration of your cruise.
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