You're right. In order, the cheapest options are: 1) an account in the local currency with a debit card; 2) credit cards without foreign transaction fees and

You're right. In order, the cheapest options are: 1) an account in the local currency with a debit card; 2) credit cards without foreign transaction fees and cash- back 3) ATM withdrawal with a no-fee debit card Changing USD in cash to get local currency is almost always the worst option. They charge 5%-10% on the exchange rate plus whatever fees.