When moving around Prague or other big Czech cities and touristy locations, follow a few simple precautions to avoid getting ripped off:
• Always change money in a bank or take cash out of ATM machines, which are plentiful in Prague and every larger town. ATM machines are a very convenient way to get Czech crowns.
• Be careful when using money exchange offices. Many of them target tourists, especially in Prague, and you may end up paying a high commission or getting a bad rate without even knowing about it.
• NEVER agree to changing money on the street. If you do, you may end up being robbed or receiving other than Czech currency in return for your cash.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you. Carry a credit card and take money out of a cash machine as you go. You can also use your card to make payments. Major credit cards are accepted in most locations.
• Always try to pay in Czech crowns. Even though euros are accepted at some stores and restaurants, the exchange rate is not always favorable. The change you receive will be in Czech crowns.
To find out more about what not to do and what to avoid in the Czech Republic, visit Travelscams.org, a community project that consolidates tourist targeted scams, crime and key safety issues globally.