Well, let me warn you about the "cost" of the B of A card.

1. Before you go you MUST call and tell them you are going to Europe, otherwise your card will not work. Having done this NUMEROUS times, plan on an hour on hold. I think they have ONE person who does this.

2. MAKE VERY SURE you get the international phone number. You may need it.

3. If in spite of an HOUR on hold, giving the phone guy your travel plans etc... you discover, as I did that, your account is blocked you will have to call them from Europe. Hopefully you have a cell phone with international coverage because while the international number is faster it's not free unless you call collect. (And honestly, I have no idea how to call collect from Paris)

B of A is GONE. I would recommend a credit union. They often don't charge for "non home" ATMs and have better service. Me, I moved my funds to USAA, same deal, but you do have to qualify for membership.

A warning on the Taxi suggestion. I did it the first time I went to Paris and it cost $100. Rush hour, an accident on the road etc. Now I take the RER. I have found it faster and easier on me. The line is generally about the same lenght as the taxi line at peak times and the cost is "fixed" Plus you are going to have to stand in a line SOMEPLACE to get your Navigo and these guys are actually used to "clueless" Americans. At other stations, they may not want to deal with you and tell you "American's can't buy this" which is not true!

My other suggestion.. it's not "free" but get 50 Euros someplace before you leave. Pay the outrageous fees at the airport. If you or your wife, get off the plane, dying for a cup of coffee, a coke etc. it's worth it!