When paying by credit card in a foreign country, especially in the UK and some other European countries, you may be asked if you would like to be charged directly in US dollars (or Canadian, as the case may be). You should always refuse because this “service” comes with a hefty fee: about 3% of the transaction amount, in my experience.

If you pay with the local country’s currency (e.g., euros), your card will be charged based on the exchange rate for the day on which the transaction...

In his letter titled “Apartment Rental Scam” (Sept. ’14, pg. 25), in which a subscriber described trying to rent an apartment abroad for his wife and himself, he said he ended up going with Airbnb (www.airbnb.com). I would like to suggest that when you’re looking for a room, apartment or house, Airbnb should be your first stop.

I’ve used this service for several years for rentals both in the US and abroad. My wife and I have rented a flat in London, a studio in Paris and a great...

My husband, Jim, and I have been accumulating miles with the British Airways Chase Visa card for several years. Recently, I spent time trying to obtain business- or first-class seats to London using my miles plus one companion voucher for Jim (who has bad knees). 

We had been able to use miles in 2013 to fly to South Africa, but it was difficult. A very kind British Airways representative helped me find and book the flights. 

We thoroughly enjoyed the high quality of service...