Portland: Where the Dollars Flow (and the Hipsters Roam)
So, you're planning a trip to Portland, huh? Good choice! It's a city where the coffee is strong, the beards are longer, and the obsession with sustainable living is almost as intense as the love for craft beer. But before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, let's clear up a burning question: What currency do they actually use in this quirky little corner of the Pacific Northwest?
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| What Currency Does Portland Use |
Dollars, Schmollas!
I know what you're thinking. "Portland is so weird, maybe they use puppuccino beans or something!" But fear not, fellow traveler. Portland, despite its reputation for eccentricity, is firmly rooted in the realm of capitalist reality. They use the good old-fashioned United States Dollar. Yep, those same green pieces of paper you're probably familiar with. No need to exchange your currency for any funky local tokens or barter with handmade artisanal goods (although that would be pretty cool).
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A Quick Note on Cash vs. Card
While you can definitely get by with cash in Portland, it's worth mentioning that the city has pretty much embraced the cashless society. Most places, from food carts to high-end boutiques, will happily accept your plastic. So, feel free to leave that bulging wallet at home and lighten your load.
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Don't Be a Penny-Pincher
Now, let's talk about tipping. Portlanders appreciate good service, and tipping is customary. Generally, 15-20% is standard for restaurants and bars, and a few bucks for your barista is always a nice gesture. Remember, a happy server or barista is more likely to hook you up with an extra shot of espresso or a free refill. It's a win-win situation, really.
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Portland: Where Your Money Goes on Adventures
With the currency question settled, you can now focus on the more important things, like which food cart to try first, which hiking trail to conquer, and whether to visit the quirky Powell's City of Books or the trendy boutiques on Hawthorne. Portland is a city where your money is best spent on experiences, not stuff. So go forth, explore, and enjoy everything this wonderful city has to offer!
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How to... Currency Questions
- How to exchange currency in Portland: While you can exchange currency at banks or currency exchange kiosks, it's often more convenient and cost-effective to use your debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs.
- How to pay for things without cash in Portland: Most places in Portland accept credit and debit cards. You can also use digital payment methods like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- How to tip in Portland: Generally, a tip of 15-20% is customary for restaurant and bar service. For coffee shops, a dollar or two is appreciated.
- How to avoid currency exchange fees: Use your debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs to avoid hefty exchange fees. Many banks also offer fee-free ATMs abroad.
- How to budget for a trip to Portland: Research average costs for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities to create a realistic budget. Consider using budgeting apps to track your spending.
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