My HSBC debit card was declined at ATMs and boutiques in Baku. I switched to a Citi Mastercard and it worked across bank ATMs and shops. Foreign debit...

My Mastercard was eaten by a non-bank terminal tucked into a motel lobby - no branch, no phone, nothing. After reporting to my issuing bank, I confirm...

I exchanged just a little at the arrival area - got a terrible rate. Then I withdrew ₼200 from a Pasha Bank ATM - much better value. Bank ATM in Azerb...

I budgeted US $110/day staying in private B&Bs, dining at mid-range restaurants, and taking guided tours in Quba. Azerbaijan trip cost depends on ...

Flagging a cab? It’s cash only - no meter, no card. But Bolt was a godsend. With my Revolut Visa wallet, I booked rides that charged my card automatic...

It’s a sneaky tactic - ATM tries to do your bank’s FX work for you, but charges a markup. Decline that “With Conversion” option and withdraw the local...

One time I asked for card in a taxi - driver said card machines are “not working.” I switched to Bahamas Ride app for pickups from the airport, which ...

Nassau’s commuter buses were old-fashioned - no card readers, only cash. Drivers take exact fare (B$1-2), and no change. Expect pay-in-cash only for p...

I booked three hostels in Nassau through Hostelworld - they all said they accepted card. Turns out, only one had a working POS machine. The rest wante...