Wales is expensive for budget travellers, but nowhere near as expensive as England. Cardiff's prices are generally 5 to 10% lower than those in England. Wales' cities are generally more expensive than the countryside, but even outside the cities you'll still need at least US$25 a day, and if you stay in B&Bs, eat one sit-down meal a day and don't stint on entry fees, you'll need at least US$60 a day.

Cashpoints (ATMs) are very common in Britain: most are linked to major credit cards as well as the Cirrus, Maestro and Plus cash networks, but if a machine swallows your card it can be a nightmare. Most banks insist on chopping it in half and sending it back to your home branch - very helpful.

If you eat in a restaurant you should leave a tip of at least 10% unless the service was unsatisfactory. Waiting staff are often paid derisory wages on the assumption that the money will be supplemented by tips. Some restaurants include a service charge on the bill, in which case a gratuity is unnecessary. Taxi drivers expect to be tipped about 10%.

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