Credit Cards

Krisann had some trouble using her Visa credit card when she traveled to Africa.  In Europe, there was a place where a credit card with a mag strip was not accepted.  Europe has been using the "chip and pin" credit cards for some time now.

I have done some research on this and it turns out they are not used much in the US.  The cards cost about $15 to make compared to $2 for a mag strip card so US banks are not excited about converting all there current cards.  I found a site that compares credit cards.

http://creditcardforum.com/blog/chip-and-pin-credit-cards-usa/

After reading this site I decided to get the Chase Marriot Premier Card.  It's the one that is number one on their list right now.  Here are some comments. 

• It's a chip and pin card.
• The first year is free and then $85/year. (which includes one free night at a Marriot each year) I may just get rid of it after we travel and not keep it after the first free year.
• The foreign exchange cost is 0%. Some cards charge for using other currencies.
• The site mentioned above talks about getting a free night for signing up now.  I did not see that when I signed up.  I'll let you know once I get the cards if that is part of the current deal

I don't think it's a huge issue.  The travel sites I have been reading say that for the most part a mag strip card will work in Europe.  There are just some kiosk locations that require it.  And Krisann's experience of not being able to use it at a coffee place she was at. 

Krisann and I would be glad to have our card available to use for all of us if others don't want to get a chip and pin card.  Just thought I would share this.

Dave