Cash or Cashless: Surviving LA with Greenbacks
So, you're planning a trip to the City of Angels, huh? Good for you! You're about to experience a whirlwind of sunshine, celebrities, and overpriced avocado toast. But before you pack your sunglasses and your dreams of meeting Brad Pitt, let's talk about something a little less glamorous: cash.
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| Can You Use Cash In Los Angeles |
Is Cash King in LA?
You might think that in a city as forward-thinking as LA, everyone would be swiping their cards or tapping their phones for everything. Well, you'd be half-right. While it's true that plastic is pretty much accepted everywhere, cash still has its place in the City of Dreams.
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The Great Cashless Debate
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There was a time when it seemed like the world was going completely cashless. Businesses were ditching those pesky coin-counting machines in favor of sleek card readers. But then, LA decided to throw a wrench in the works. The city council, in a move that surprised absolutely no one who's ever struggled to find an ATM in a trendy neighborhood, banned cashless businesses. So, while you can definitely get by with plastic most of the time, it's good to have a little green in your wallet just in case.
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When to Break Out the Benjamins
So when do you actually need cash in LA? Well, let's break it down:
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- Street Vendors and Food Trucks: These guys are often cash-only, especially the ones with the most delicious-looking food. So, if you're craving those tacos or that freshly squeezed lemonade, make sure you've got some bills ready.
- Tipping: While many places add a gratuity to your bill, it's always nice to have some extra cash for exceptional service. Think about it: would you rather dig through your wallet for a few dollars or just hand over a crisp bill?
- Emergencies: Let's face it, stuff happens. Your card could get declined, your phone could die, or you might find yourself in a situation where cash is just easier. It's always good to have a backup plan.
- Feeling Old School: Sometimes, there's just something satisfying about paying with cold, hard cash. It's like you're living in a real-life action movie or something.
How Much Cash Should You Bring?
The amount of cash you bring to LA depends on your personal spending habits and how often you plan to use it. A good rule of thumb is to bring enough for a few days' worth of expenses, plus some extra for emergencies. But remember, ATMs are everywhere, so you can always withdraw more if you need to.
How to...
- How to find an ATM in LA: They're literally on every corner. Seriously, you won't have a problem finding one.
- How to avoid ATM fees: Use your bank's ATM network if possible. Some credit unions even reimburse ATM fees.
- How to stay safe with cash: Don't flash your money around, and be aware of your surroundings.
- How to convert currency: Most major airports and banks offer currency exchange services.
- How to tip in LA: The standard tip for good service is 15-20%. For exceptional service, you can tip more.
So there you have it. Cash or cashless? The choice is yours. But remember, a little bit of green can go a long way in the City of Angels. Happy travels!
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