[rjn5656]

Booked the GrandEuropean Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest.

Are euros good for the whole trip or do I need other foreign currency?

[Carla B]

You will need HUF (Hungarian Forint). Today's exchange rate is 1 USD = 284.86 HUF.

[springfield]

I just returned from a Viking ocean cruise. Euros were good everywhere. Although Croatia has its own currency, shop owners were happy to take Euros because they are hoping to join the European Union and their currency would be of no use to them. We used our Capital One cc for most purchases. Enjoy your cruise, Viking really knows how to do it right.

[simpkinp]

I didn't have any Hufs in Budapest, but they took American Dollars and Euros. No problem. Some folks were stuck with Hufs and were not too happy.

[valuemkt]

Apologize if I'm hijacking this thread.. we are beginning to research river cruises, as we have taken many ocean cruises in Europe and US. What made you choose Viking ? What time of year are you going ? Does Viking offer a good air (economy or business class) option ? What about pre / post cruise land options ? (Also from Upstate NY .. Syracuse/Endicott)

[salpal]

We took a small amount of Hufs in Budapest, any leftover, we gave to our guide, as they are virtually unwanted anywhere. If possible, pay with credit card for everything.
To answer valuemkt -- we have gone on four Viking trips. We like them because ships are smaller, food is excellent, staterooms are larger and all have balconies. Viking costs a bit more than most, but you get what you pay for IMHO.

[rjn5656]

Viking had a sale with free airfare. Price seemed reasonable. Pretty good list of standard excursions with a few optional ones if you want. Pre and post trip prices high. We booked pre and post hotels ourselves and will do our own touring in Amsterdam. Then a side trip to Prague.