Currency
Local banks has better rates of exchange than hotels, restaurants, or stores, avoid private currency transactions and the black market. Learn and obey the local currency laws.
Shopping
Mail Small Items
When you purchase small items, you could mail them to your home or carry them in your luggage. When you mail purchases, just ask about insurance.and write on the outside of the package that it contains goods for personal use.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Some European and Asian countries legalize a Value Added Tax (VAT) on the items that you buy. In some places, if you ship your purchases home, the VAT can be waived. It does not apply to food, hotel bills, or other services. Because the rules for VAT refunds vary from country to country.
Beware When Making the Following Purchases:
Wildlife Souvenirs
Be careful to buy souvenirs made from animals and plants Do not buy wildlife products, unless you could face other penalties for attempting to bring them into the United States.
Glazed Ceramics
Beware of purchasing glazed ceramic abroad. It is possible to suffer lead poisoning for served food unless made by a firm with an international reputation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that ceramic tableware purchased abroad be tested for lead release by a commercial laboratory.
Antiques
All countries consider antiques to be national treasures and the “inalienable property of the nation.” because a local authority believed the purchase was a national treasure. If you have questions about purchasing antiques, just askt to the tourist office. If it’s not enough, consult to the Consular Section. The.officer can inform you about the local laws and the correct procedures to follow.
Customs
It is important you keep all receipts for items you buy overseas. They will be helpful in making your U.S. Customs declaration.