Money

France, and especially the Riviera, is one of the world's most expensive destinations. But, to compensate, it often offers top-value food and lodging. Part of the problem is the value-added tax (VAT -- called TVA in France), which tacks between 6% and 33% onto everything.

It's best to exchange currency or traveler's checks at a bank, not a currency exchange desk, hotel, or shop.

Currency

The euro, the single European currency, became the official currency of France and 11 other participating countries on January 1, 1999. The old currency, the French franc, disappeared into history on March 1, 2002, replaced by the euro, whose official abbreviation is EUR. Exchange rates of participating countries are locked into a common currency fluctuating against the dollar.

The euro is the official currency of France.

The Euro and the U.S. Dollar: At the time of this writing, 1€ was worth approximately US$1.30. Inversely stated, US$1 was worth approximately 76 eurocents.

The Euro and the British Pound: At the time of this writing 1€ was worth approximately 90 pence. Inversely stated, £1 was worth approximately 1.11€.

The Euro and the Canadian Dollar: At the time of this writing, 1€ was worth approximately C$1.60. Inversely stated, C$1 was worth approximately 63 eurocents.

The Euro and the Australian Dollar: At the time of this writing, 1€ was worth approximately Aus$1.90. Inversely stated, Aus$1 equaled approximately 52 eurocents.

The Euro and the New Zealand Dollar: At the time of this writing, 1€ was worth approximately NZ$2.50. Inversely stated, NZ$1 equaled approximately 39 eurocents.

Frommer's lists exact prices in the local currency. The currency conversions quoted above were correct at press time. However, rates fluctuate, so before departing consult a currency exchange website such as www.oanda.com/convert/classic to check up-to-the-minute rates.

ATMs

The easiest and best way to get cash away from home is from an ATM (automated teller machine), sometimes referred to as a "cash machine" or a "cashpoint." The Cirrus (tel. 800/424-7787; www.mastercard.com) and PLUS (tel. 800/843-7587; www.visa.com) networks span the globe. Go to your bank card's website to find ATM locations at your destination. Be sure you know your personal identification number (PIN) and your daily withdrawal limit before you depart. Note: Many banks impose a fee every time you use a card at another bank's ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions (up to $5 or more) than for domestic ones (where they're rarely more than $2). In addition, the bank from which you withdraw cash may charge its own fee. For international withdrawal fees, ask your bank.

Note: Banks that are members of the Global ATM Alliance charge no transaction fees for cash withdrawals at other Alliance member ATMs; these include Bank of America, Scotiabank (Canada, Caribbean, and Mexico), Barclays (U.K. and parts of Africa), and Deutsche Bank (Germany, Poland, Spain, and Italy), and BNP Paribas (France).

Credit Cards

Credit cards are another safe way to carry money and they generally offer relatively good exchange rates. You can withdraw cash advances from your credit cards at banks or ATMs but high fees make credit card cash advances a pricey way to get cash. Keep in mind that you'll pay interest from the moment of your withdrawal, even if you pay your monthly bills on time. Also, note that many banks now assess a 1% to 3% "transaction fee" on all charges you incur abroad (whether you're using the local currency or your native currency).

How to Get Your VAT Refund

French sales tax, or VAT (value-added tax), is now a hefty 19.6%, but you can get most of that back if you spend 175€ or more at any participating retailer. The name of the refund is détaxe, meaning exactly what it says. You never really get the full 19.6% back, but you can come close.

After you spend the required minimum amount, ask for your détaxe papers; fill out the forms before you arrive at the airport and allow at least half an hour for standing in line. All refunds are processed at the final point of departure from the E.U., so if you're going to another E.U. country, apply for the refund there.

If you're considering a major purchase, especially one that falls between 175€ and 304€, ask the store policy before you get too involved -- or be willing to waive your right to the refund.