I'm not a big fan of carrying lots of cash when I travel (except in Japan) unless it's absolutely necessary. Usually I'll locate my bank's ATMs at my destination so I can withdraw cash as needed. Sometimes though, I'll be making a big purchase that requires a credit card (usually air tickets or hotels/hostels). Unfortunately, most US credit card issuers luuurve to double dip, charging "fees" (I mean "profit") for using your credit card overseas.
Here's a link to banks in the US and the foreign surcharges they levy. Good to know when you're going through the junk mail pile full of credit card offers.
UPDATE: Waaah! You can use your Discover Card on mainland China. No surcharge!
that's why i have my HSBC card! ha!
Yeah, I have one of those too, but have you seen the chart? Effective June, HSBC surcharge goes up to 3% unless ur one of those dai-lows that have the HSBC Premier card.
Allegedly no surcharge there.