Similarly in Australia, the merchant usually pays the fee (although Australian stores now have the right to charge the fee if they wish. In practice, a handful

Similarly in Australia, the merchant usually pays the fee (although Australian stores now have the right to charge the fee if they wish. In practice, a handful of stores impose a partial surcharge only on AmEx & Diners cards). I try to use cards when I can because I earn Frequent Flyer points, something I wouldn't get using cash. I've already used those points once to fund a Round The World trip (strangely enough, including a trip to Germany).