PREPARING TO GO - SU Abroad - Syracuse University
PREPARING TO GO - SU Abroad - Syracuse University
PREPARING TO GO - SU Abroad - Syracuse University
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An ATM card with an international PIN is the best way to get cash in France. Check with<br />
your bank to be sure your ATM card can be used in foreign countries. ATMs are widely<br />
accessible in France. Talk to your bank representative to get information on your bank’s<br />
service fees for international ATM withdrawals.<br />
If your ATM card is actually also a debit card linked to the international Visa or<br />
MasterCard network, you will get the best exchange rate and not be charged interest.<br />
Note that cash advances against a Visa or MasterCard credit card incur interest charges<br />
immediately, so deposit funds into your account before going abroad so you are accessing<br />
your balance. Another advantage of the Visa or MasterCard debit card is that family<br />
members can deposit money into your account in the U.S, and you can access the funds<br />
almost immediately through ATMs.<br />
Bank locations<br />
There are several HSBC branches located near the Strasbourg center. Check with your<br />
own bank to see if they have branches located in Strasbourg or have relationships with<br />
other banking institutions in Strasbourg.<br />
Transferring funds<br />
If parents or family members need to send you money during the semester, they can<br />
deposit money in a U.S. bank account you can access through ATMs. Parents can also<br />
wire money from an American Express office in the United States to the local American<br />
Express Bureau for pickup. For complete advice on transferring money overseas, check<br />
with your bank before you leave.<br />
Credit cards<br />
It's a good idea to have a credit card in your name. It can come in handy in an emergency.<br />
Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted all over Europe. Cash advances against a<br />
regular Visa or MasterCard incur interest charges immediately. American Express is not<br />
as widely accepted in local shops, but you have access to the network of American<br />
Express offices located in many European cities.<br />
Important note: Let your bank and credit card companies know you will be living<br />
abroad for the semester so they do not suspect fraudulent activity when you access your<br />
accounts.<br />
Preparing to Go: Strasbourg – Fall 2011<br />
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