Originally Posted by
jbalmuth
Any advise re Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Austria, or Poland? We'll be travelling later in the summer, and are anxious to know where these loadable cards are sold. Thanks!
You will not need a chip and pin card in these countries. Any merchant that takes VISA or MASTERCARD will have a chip and swipe terminal.
What people dont understand is that there are merchants in some countries that only accept SOLO, SWITCH, ELECTRON, MAESTRO cards. These are similar to an ATM card. (not really but easiest way to explain).
The REAL problem you will have is that a majority of merchants do NOT accept credit cards to begin with in some of these countries. France and Italy will not be a problem. Spain and Portugal, just look for the logo or shop somewhere else. Austria and Poland, either shop at international chains or hit the bank up for cash.
Good luck on your trip. Those are some beautiful places.