WEB CR@WLING
EURO
(http://europa.eu.int/euro)
GET READY: Although the 11 participating nations won't issue euro notes and coins until Jan. 1, 2002, banking will be possible in Europe's unified currency as of the new year. Shops throughout the European Union already are displaying dual price tags and "We accept euros" signs. This official euro website explains how the phased introduction of the single monetary system will work and gives an overview of the historic changeover.
GLOBAL REFUND
(www.globalrefund.com/index0.html)
GET BACK: Travelers to Europe may also be perplexed about how to get refunds on the value added tax, or V.A.T., that they have paid on purchases during their stay. E.U. member states require varying minimum expenditures (from nothing in Ireland to $340 in Switzerland) for visitors to qualify for a rebate. Global Refund's website lists the conditions by country and, for a commission, will also try to chase down your rebate (although you can always simply file your receipts at the airport when you leave).
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November 23, 1998
WEB CR@WLING
The official euro website explains how the phased introduction of the single monetary system will work and gives an overview of the historic changeover
SHORT CUTS
Save your vacation for April 6-29, when an around-the-world tour leaves London on the Venice-Simplon Orient Express
DETOURS
There's something about Insadong, also known as Mary's Alley. The area is the heart of Seoul's arts scene
OFF THE SHELF
When 25-year-old Alec Le Sueur arrived in Lhasa in 1988 to manage the city's now defunct Holiday Inn, his goal was not as lofty as scaling Mt. Everest
MAIN FEATURE
Dog-owners are a breed apart. With owners so devoted, the travel industry increasingly is hustling to cater to animal needs
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