ATM, Theft and other Money Woes

I have been looking into necessary preparations for Vienna and I recently discovered another one. ATM cards. Before leaving for Vienna, I decided to check what kind of fees I could incur withdrawing money across the pond. With my card, I could expect a 4 euro charge from the international bank, and up to a 5% charge from my little withdrawal. I got to thinking that my reason for working this summer was to buy pretty things, not pay a banker for convenience.

I went on a search and found that there are a couple places that have no international fees and any ATM charges are reinbursed by the bank. In addition, the bank had a great rate at 4.5% for smaller accounts like myself, up to 6% APR for those huge depositors. I suggest switching to a bank that doesn't charge for every move you make on your semester trip, but that is just me.

Other tips were to make sure that your ATM pin is only 4 digits. You should call your Customer Service Office to let them know that you will be going abroad so that they don't freeze your account. You should request an additional ATM checkcard to store in case yours becomes stolen or lost. In addition, photocopy everything and leave a copy in the States. This means passport, credit cards, check cards, student discount card, driver's license the whole bit. Anything that you would be sad and worried if someone stole it from you, photocopy (front and back).

Now for the cash.

Tips from some say to purchase a money belt or pouch.

I looked at beltoutlet.com and the travel pouches are bulky and ugly, the money belts on the other hand have some hope. There are leather belts with hidden compartments in the leather for you to place your currency. They even have tooled western styled belts available. There are also leg belts and arm belts that can fit your passport.

The prices range from $15 to upwards of $60, but it seems like a good investment after hearing about a friend getting mugged while with 8 other friends in Spain.

However, I think if you are careful and don't carry enormous amounts of cash, there shouldn't be a problem.

The realization that I am actually going to Vienna hit me when I received Stella's "pre-departure" email. I started thinking about what I should pack and how many bags I can bring.

The result, I found out that British Air only allows one bag and it has to weigh less than 50 lbs. This was going to be a problem. I found a great website that outlines what people should think about bringing. It is a little too thorough, (baby powder and insect repellent are on the list) but it gives a good idea: http://www.ricksteves.biz/

I've been told to learn about the culture! Soo, on my quest I found this site that outlines it pretty well. There are some books on it too, but I don't think that is really a good spend.
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/austria-country-profile.html

www.Skype.com
For cheap international calls from the computer or to your mobile.

That is all I have so far and the fact that Pimsleur on the morning commute can sometimes be really annoying. :)